Antiviral treatment of chronic hepatitis C and the effect on quality of life, cognitive function and cerebrospinal fluid markers of neuronal injury and inflammation

Patients with chronic hepatitis C typically describe cognitive dysfunction and fatigue. These symptoms generally decline after successful antiviral treatment and clearance of the infection. The pathogenetic background of these symtoms is unknown. Many viral infections involve the central nervous system and, for example in hiv infection, may lead to cognitive dysfunction and even overt dementia. In this study we investigate patients before and after treatment of hepatitis C using questionnaires, cognitive tests and analysis of cerebrospinal fluid for markers of neuronal injury and inflammation. We also study liver fibrosis decline during and after antiviral treatment and the impact of alcohol consumption and inflammation on noninvasive fibrosis assessment.