Rheumatologic Manifestations of Hepatitis C Virus Infection.

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is associated with a morbidity and mortality due to liver complications. HCV infection is also frequently associated with rheumatic disorders, such as arthralgia, myalgia, cryoglobulinemia vasculitis, and sicca syndrome, as well as the production of autoantibodies. The treatment of HCV infection with interferon alpha (IFN) has been contraindicated for a long time in many rheumatologic autoimmune/inflammatory disorders. New oral IFN-free combinations offer an opportunity for HCV-infected patients with extrahepatic manifestations, including rheumatologic autoimmune/inflammatory disorders, to be cured with a short treatment duration and a low risk of side effects.