Summary: | 碩士 === 弘光科技大學 === 生物科技研究所 === 96 === Insulin resistance may play an important role in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes in patients infected with chronic hepatitis C (HCV). A combination therapy of interferon-□ plus ribavirin has been the mainstay of treatment for chronic hepatitis C infection. The changes of insulin resistance and adiponectin levels post such a combination therapy, especially in Asian populations, are rarely reported. Hence we performed this study to access these changes before, during, and post the combination therapy. The degree of HOMA-IR (homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance) and adiponectin levels were evaluated in nondiabetic patients affiliated with chronic HCV prior to treatment, and 3- /and 6 months respectively post the cessation of the combined therapy of interferon-□ plus ribavirin. Degree of HOMA-IR significantly changed over time with age-, sex-, and BMI (body mass index)-adjusted conditions. In contrast, adiponectin levels were insignificantly affected in this regard. Conclusively, the extent of insulin resistance can be improved by the interferon-□ plus ribavirin combination therapy. Despite the significant improvement in insulin resistance, the adiponectin levels remained unaffected.
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