Frequency of various cutaneous disorders in chronic hepatitis C virus infection

Background Silent chronic hepatitis C (HCV) infection is endemic in our society. Several different cutaneous manifestations have been studied with it. Understanding these may help in early diagnosis of HCV disease. Objective To determine the types and frequency of various cutaneous disorders in chronic hepatitis C virus infection. Patients and methods This cross sectional study was conducted at the medical department of Combined Military Hospital, Kharian cantonment, Pakistan. Patients of chronic hepatitis C confirmed by serological markers, ELISA, and positive PCR were enrolled from outpatient department. Detailed history taking and relevant systemic examination was carried out. All enrolled patients were specifically examined by a dermatologist to diagnose or rule out the presence of skin disease. Biochemical profile including complete blood count, platelet count, cryoglobulins, and antibodies against nucleus, neutrophil cytoplasm, cardiolipin, and smooth muscle were done. All this information was entered into a specially designed pro forma. All data was analyzed using SPSS Program 10.0. Descriptive statistics were calculated for the study variables. Results One hundred patients were enrolled during the study period. 47% patients with chronic HCV infection were found to have at least one dermatological disease. Cryoglobulinemia was the commonest finding followed by lichen planus and chronic urticaria. Manifestations with lesser frequency included vitiligo, xerostomia, and purpura. Conclusion Dermatological diseases are fairly common in patients with chronic HCV infection and can help to identify the silent cases.