Chronic hepatitis C and skin diseases: a review.

OBJECTIVE

To emphasize the ongoing role of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in the cause or exacerbation of severe dermatologic disorders.

DESIGN

We present two case reports to outline the pertinent findings in hepatitis C-related cryoglobulinemia, leukocytoclastic vasculitis, and lichen planus and discuss the main disorders associated with chronic HCV infection.

RESULTS

Chronic HCV infection has recently been recognized in association with various skin disorders. The most commonly reported association is the triad of leukocytoclastic vasculitis, cryoglobulinemia, and chronic HCV infection. Other cutaneous disorders associated with HCV infection include porphyria cutanea tarda, lichen planus, erythema nodosum, urticaria, erythema multiforme, and polyarteritis nodosa.

CONCLUSION

Patients with onset or exacerbation of these disorders should undergo assessment for HCV infection.