Mucocutaneous manifestations in hepatitis C patients

Objective: To determine the frequency and nature of mucocutaneous manifestations in hepatitis C virus (HCV) positive patients. Methods: Two hundred and five HCV positive patients presenting at the outpatient and inpatient departments of Services Hospital, Lahore were evaluated for mucocutaneous manifestations. Relevant data regarding history, clinical examination including cutaneous system and investigations were documented and analyzed. Results: Mean age of patients was 36.6±11.0 years. There were 84 (41%) males and 121 (59%) females. 73.7% cases were exposed to antiviral therapy. Dermatological manifestations were present in 88.3% patients with HCV infection. Pruritus was the most common finding seen in 39.5% followed by hyperpigmentation of skin 34.1%, lichen planus 18%, lingual/buccal pigmentation 13.2%, melanonychia 12.7% and urticaria 6.8%. Less frequent features were palmar erythema, photosensitivity and cutaneous vasculitis. Conclusion: Dermatological manifestations may appear as an earliest sign of hepatitis C infection. Therefore, vigilant detection and careful investigation can prevent the complications and further spread of this dreadful disease.