Thanks to research from Duke University’s Institute for Genome Sciences & Policy, scientists have confirmed that some individuals have genetic protection against ribavirin-induced anemia. Since ribavirin is part of the standard Hepatitis C treatment protocol, this discovery will better enable physicians to foretell who can best withstand Hepatitis C therapy.
Enzyme Deficiency Protects Hepatitis C Patients from Treatment-Related Anemia
ScienceDaily (Feb. 24, 2010) — Many people who undergo treatment for hepatitis C develop hemolytic anemia, a disorder that destroys red blood cells. In some cases, it is so severe they have to reduce their medication or stop therapy altogether. But now, scientists in Duke University’s Institute for Genome Sciences & Policy (IGSP) have discovered two genetic alterations linked to a benign enzyme condition that keep some patients anemia-free.
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