Rheumatologic Manifestations of Hepatitis C Virus Infection

International audienceHepatitis C (HCV) infection is associated with a morbidity and mortality due to liver complications. Hepatitis C 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 hepatitis C virus infection with interferon alpha (IFN) has been for long time contra-indicated in many rheumatologic autoimmune/inflammatory disorders. New oral IFN-free combinations offer an opportunity for HCV infected patients with extra-hepatic manifestations, including rheumatologic autoimmune/inflammatory disorders, to be cured with a short treatment duration and a low risk of side effects