Changes in Blood Count Profile (CP) in Chronic Hepatitis-C Patients Receiving Standard Interferon Therapy

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) is a persistent infection caused by the Hepatitis C virus (HCV), which primarily targets the liver. Globally, it is estimated that over 70 million people suffer from CHC, making it one of the leading causes of liver-related morbidity and mortality.
Objective: The main objective of the study is to find the changes in blood CP in chronic hepatitis-C patients receiving standard interferon therapy.
Methodology: This prospective observational study was conducted at Civil Hospital Karachi during May 2024 to December 2024. Data were collected from 285 patients, diagnosed based on clinical, biochemical, and virological criteria, were included in the study.
Results: Data were collected from 285 patients with a mean age of 45.6±12.3 years, and most were between 31-45 years (36.8%). Mean hemoglobin levels decreased from 14.1 g/dL at baseline to 10.3 g/dL by week 48 (p < 0.01), indicating the development of anemia. Similarly, the mean white blood cell (WBC) count dropped from 6.5 × 10³/µL to 3.2 × 10³/µL by week 48 (p < 0.01), showing a trend toward neutropenia. Platelet counts also declined significantly, from 220 × 10³/µL at baseline to 130 × 10³/µL at week 48 (p < 0.01), highlighting the risk of thrombocytopenia during treatment.