skin pigmentation & hepatits c

[David here]

I was just at H.F. last week and forgot to ask this question.  I have hep. C w/ cirr 4 and a loss of pigmentation that started 5/6 years ago. I was treated with interf. for 18 mth. 10 years ago and had a relapes, Just discoverd. Could this loss  have been when I changed stages?


This discussion is related to Loss of Skin Pigmentation.

[sunshines76]

I read several articles that suggested that vitiligo can be a sign of hep c.
Here's a link to one of them (Specific Extrahepatic Disorders Tied To Hepatitis C)

http://www.hcvets.com/data/hcv_liver/extra_hepatic_and_other_manifest.htm

[Bill1954]

Wow, good work detective Port; I'm impressed :)!

[portann]

Oops, here's the link:

http://www.medhelp.org/posts/Hepatitis-C/Loss-of-Skin-Pigmentation/show/891109

[portann]

Hi there,

By H.F., do you mean that the Henry Ford is your hospital?


If so, are you aware that there is an ancient post (1999) on the HCV expert side about this issue and that the doc who replied is or was from the Henry Ford?

I'll post it here for you to read:

Doctor's Answer by HFHSM.D.-D.M., Mar 17, 1999 12:00AM

"Dear Larry:
I was very intrigued by your question.  It is theoretically possible that your loss of pigment may be related to your hepatitis C.  Some individuals who have loss of pigment have a condition called vitiligo.  Vitiligo may be an autoimmnue condition and there is some evidence that people with hepatitis C are more predisposed to autoimmune conditions.  When I looked at the literature, I found one report of an individual with hepatitis C who also had vitiligo.  This actually isn�t a lot given that both conditions are relatively common.  I do know that loss of skin pigmentation has been associated with interferon therapy for hepatitis C though you do not mention that you are receiving treatment.  
I hope this information is helpful to you.  Good luck with your situation.  If you have additional information or questions, I would invite you to post the material to MEDHELP or to contact us directly at Henry Ford [phone]. We have an active group of liver specialists and we have a strong interest in and experience with hepatitis C and liver transplant.
This response is being provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation.  Always check with your personal physician when you have a question pertaining to your health."  

Sorry I can't help further tonight - must hit the sack.

Susan