Safety and efficacy of anti-tumor necrosis factors α in patients with psoriasis and chronic hepatitis C.

Abstract

Up to date, in literature, it is still debated the role of anti-tumor necrosis factors (TNF)-α treatments in hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients. TNF-α performs a lot of functions, it is an important pro-inflammatory cytokine and it is involved in the host's immunity. Since TNF-α is implicated in the apoptotic signaling pathway of hepatocytes infected by HCV, anti TNF-α therapy may increase the risk of viral replication or their reactivation. However the treatment of anti TNF-α could have a healthful role because TNF-α appears to be engaged in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis, inducing apoptotic pathways. We describe the case of a patient with plaque-type psoriasis and concomitant chronic HCV, who was treated successfully with anti-TNF agents simultaneously to cyclosporine without sign of reactivation of HCV and increase of liver enzymes. Our personal experience shows that anti-TNF-α agents are not only effective but also safe. Furthermore the combination therapy of cyclosporine and anti-TNF-α appears to be well-tolerated and able to reduce the amount of liver enzymes as well as HCV-viral-load. However systematic, large-scale studies with long follow-ups will be needed to confirm our results, in association with close liver function monitoring.

• Authors: Monica Salvi, Laura Macaluso, Cecilia Luci, Carlo Mattozzi, Giovanni Paolino, Yvonne Aprea, Stefano Calvieri, Antonio Giovanni Richetta
• Journal: World journal of clinical cases (World J Clin Cases) Vol. 4 Issue 2 Pg. 49-55 (Feb 16 2016) ISSN: 2307-8960 [Print] United States
• PMID: 26881191 (Publication Type: Case Reports)