As far as I know the Interferon Alpha that is/was used in treating Hep C has NOT been shown to cause MS. However, there is some good data showing a linkage between the treatment for Hep C and the later development of one of the more pure autoimmune diseases - specifically Rheumatoid Arthritis.
So I have not seen any connection. However, there is nothing that would prevent a person with the Hep C infection from developing MS merely out of bad luck.
What kind of symptoms have you been having?
Quix, MD
It is so difficult to 'put my finger on it' and when I say them out loud I'd send MYSELF to the mental ward! hahaha. Anyway here we go: as far as I've been able to determine, I began having trouble with my cognitive abilities about 2 yrs ago. I didnt think much about it but my boss did. (couldnt get words out, memory impaired and basically looking like an idiot) Then last July I began getting these extreme pains, like someone was just stabbing me over and over with a kinife. First in my left foot and now these pains have progressed to the right leg and the triceps of both arms. Sometimes the pain is like a cramp that never goies away other times I can be walking, sitting standing, whatever, and its like someone put a hot knife into me. The 'electric shocks' as I call them. My eyes (which they sent me to an opt 2 yrs ago and he said i was fine ) have become very bad. I want to mention I have fibro but this is NOT fibro pain. My husband feels and sees my muscles 'twich'.
Well I know this is probably 'over load' but its a start I guess. Nerve conduction and eegs showed 'slowed response' last Feb.