Sintomas psicológicos em tratamento triplo da hepatite C

Abstract

Introduction: Hepatitis C is one of the leading causes of chronic liver disease, reaching 170 million people. The joint treatment of Alfapeginterferone and Ribavirin associated with Telaprevir can eradicate the virus in more than 50% of patients. Objective: This study aims to investigate psychological symptoms, quality of life, fatigue and confronting strategies or style in patients treated with alfapeginterferone, ribavirin and telaprevir: before, during and after treatment; Methods: Ten patients (6 men and 4 women) started the treatment and for four of them (3 men and 1 woman) it was suspended due to the effects. Results: According to data relating to the quality of life, the participants presented reduction in all domains, especially emotional, physical, social and vitality aspects. The main confronting strategy used was religious practice/fanciful thinking and the symptoms of fatigue, depression, and anxiety throughout the treatment increased with subsequent decline. Discussion: Data from this study in relation to gender and age are compatible with the literature. However, regarding fatigue symptoms, the levels do not corroborate with the manufacturer's information, which considers tiredness as an unusual reaction. Conclusion: the results indicate a decline in quality of life, a need for weekly psychological and psychiatric support, psychiatric medication aid and greater assistance from the team.