Interferon-Alpha Induced Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in a Patient with Hepatitis-C

Abstract

Interferon alpha (IFN- alpha) is commonly used in the treatment of viral hepatitis because of its stimulating effects on the immune response. While psychiatric adverse effects such as depression, mania or psychosis that arise during interferon alpha treatment have been well documented in the literature, the data regarding interferon-induced obsessive-compulsive disorder is rare. The case of a 59-year-old woman, who developed obsessive compulsive disorder and depression during interferon treatment for hepatitis C is presented here. This paper emphasizes the importance of regular monitoring and early treatment intervention for psychiatric symptoms and interdisciplinary collaboration during the course of interferon therapy in the early treatment period.