Hearing Loss as a Complication of Peginterferon Alfa 2a Combination Therapy in a Patient with Hepatitis C Virus Infection

Abstract

Hearing loss has been reported on interferons therapy. Combination therapy of pegylated (PEG)-IFN alfa2a plus ribavirin is the current optimal therapy for hepatitis C infection. PEG-INF side effect profile is reported similar in different studies, but with the increasing long-term use of PEG-INF several new adverse effects have been recognized. However, hearing loss has only been recorded once. We report a case of sensorineural hearing loss occurring in a patient with chronic hepatitis C treated with PEG-IFN plus ribavirin and recovered partially one month after the discontinuation of PEG-INF. The ototoxicity would be more serious with the use of PEG-INF. Patients on therapy with this drug should be monitored for auditory disability. The ototoxicity is reversible with discontinuation of drug if the diagnosis is made early in the course.