Recombinant alpha-interferon treatment of non-A, and non-B (type C) hepatitis: review of studies and recommendations for treatment.

Non-A, non-B (type C) hepatitis is a serious world problem which typically results in chronic hepatitis and may lead to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. alpha-Interferon has recently been studied in a number of randomized controlled trials throughout the world. The results of those studies are reviewed here. ALT levels were normalized by 2-3 MU recombinant interferon alfa-2b, three times per week s.c. for 6 months (p less than 0.001 vs. control) in 36% of patients in five trials. Biopsy tests also demonstrated histological improvement in lobular and periportal inflammation. Unfortunately, relapse is a common problem in these studies, occurring in 49% of patients treated with 3 million units and 57% of those treated with 1 million units. Retreatment usually brings remission once again. In the future, long-term studies will further elucidate the natural history of the disease and documented guidelines for interferon dosage and duration of dosing in a wider range of patient subgroups will become available.