Microcirculation disorders in bulbar conjunctiva of patients with chronic viral hepatitis

Abstract

Aim. To study the features of microcirculation in bulbar conjunctiva of patients with chronic hepatitis C depending on the duration of the infection. Methods. 40 patients (80 eyes) with chronic hepatitis C were observed: the first group consisted of 11 patients, chronic hepatitis C duration up to 3 years, second group - 10 patients, chronic hepatitis C duration 5 to 3 years, third group - 19 patients, chronic hepatitis C duration over 5 years. The control group consisted of 20 healthy subjects (40 eyes). The microcirculation in bulbar conjunctiva was assessed using biomicroscopy. Arterioles, veins and capillaries were distinguished by the direction and speed of the blood flow, the vessel diameter, configuration and branching, observed changes were scored. Liver enzymes levels were assessed, as well as levels of immunoglobulins M and G to hepatitis C virus, polymerase chain reaction was performed to define the presence of viral RNA. Results. Microcirculation disorders (perivascular, vascular and intravascular changes) in bulbar conjunctiva were found in all of the patients with chronic hepatitis C compared to the control group. There was a link between total conjunctiva index and the duration of the infection as well as liver enzymes levels. In the first group total conjunctiva index was scored as 11,52±0,7, 14,0±1,18 - in the second group, 19,3±0,84 - in the third group. Conclusion. Microcirculation disorders are present in all patients with chronic hepatitis C, that should be considered while monitoring and choosing the optimal treatment.

Keywords

chronic viral hepatitis C / liver / microcirculation / bulbar conjunctiva

RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

Akberova G.E., Saifullina F.R., Khaertynova I.M.