Demographic and Clinical Factors Influencing the Peripheral Neuropathy in Anti-HCV Positive Patients

Peripheral Neuropathy in Anti-HCV Positive Patients

Abstract

Peripheral neuropathy is a common complication affecting individuals with various underlying conditions, often influenced by factors such as age, gender, and disease duration. Objectives: To assess the prevalence of peripheral neuropathy by age, gender, and disease duration. Methods: It was a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted at the Neurology Department of Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, from March 20, 2021, to September 19, 2021. The total number of patients was 164. The study enrolled patients aged 18-60 of either gender who had peripheral neuropathy. Patients with hepatitis other than hepatitis C, who received treatment for HCV, patients having diabetes mellitus, autoimmune disorder, kidney failure, vitamin B deficiency, thyroid disorders, hematological disorders, alcoholism, HIV infection, drug addiction or toxic agents were excluded. A questionnaire-based study was designed for the collection of data regarding demographics and clinical aspects. Results: The mean age of the study patients was 42.7 ± 18.2 years. Peripheral neuropathy was found in 98 (59.8%) participants. Among 164 patients, 94 (57.3%) were male, while 70 (46.4%) were female. Diabetes mellitus and hypertension were documented in 63 (38.4%) and 85 (51.8%), respectively. Conclusions: It was concluded that gender is statistically significantly associated with the prevalence of peripheral neuropathy in anti-HCV positive patients, while a higher body mass index and extended duration of infection were also associated with peripheral neuropathy, but were not statistically significant.