Abstract

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a common global health problem. Special patient populations such as those with thalassemia, hemophilia and on hemodialysis are at higher risk for acquiring this infection. Although the incidence of HCV infection has decreased in developed countries, it remains high in developing countries including the Middle East and North Africa region. Management of HCV infection in thalassemia is complicated by severe anemia limiting the use of ribavirin and coexisting iron overload while HCV management in hemophilia patients is more problematic often due to co-infection with HIV. Similarly, chronic kidney disease patients on hemodialysis have special treatment considerations in the management of HCV infection and current guidelines and treatment strategies are largely based on limited data. This review discusses the management the HCV infection in these special populations with emphasis on regional data and considerations. © Springer Science+Business Media New York 2012.