Revolutionizing Pediatric Hepatitis C Treatment: Sofosbuvir's Triumph
A groundbreaking study has revealed the remarkable effectiveness and safety of sofosbuvir-based treatments in combating Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) in children aged 5 to 17. This real-world research highlights the potential for these therapies to become standard in pediatric care, offering hope to young patients and their families.
Study Design and Methodology:
The study involved 90 children, all receiving either sofosbuvir/velpatasvir (SOF/VEL) or sofosbuvir/ledipasvir (SOF/LDV) for 12 weeks. Treatment duration was extended to 24 weeks for patients with HCV genotype 1 and cirrhosis. Doses were tailored to each child's age and weight, ensuring personalized care.
Key Findings: Unparalleled Efficacy in Pediatric HCV Treatment:
The study's primary goal was to achieve sustained virologic response at 12 weeks (SVR12), meaning undetectable HCV RNA levels. Astonishingly, all 89 patients assessed met this criterion, resulting in a 100% success rate in the per-protocol analysis. Even the intention-to-treat analysis showed an impressive 99% efficacy.
Adverse Events and Safety Profile:
While some participants experienced mild to moderate side effects, these were generally manageable. Common symptoms included headaches, fatigue, and abdominal pain, with variations in symptom frequency between the two treatment regimens. Children treated with SOF/LDV reported fewer abdominal pain and asthenia cases.
Conclusion: A Breakthrough for Pediatric Hepatitis C Treatment
This study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting sofosbuvir-based regimens in pediatric HCV treatment. The 100% efficacy and favorable safety profile make a strong case for including these treatments in national pediatric HCV guidelines. By offering robust treatment options, healthcare providers can significantly improve outcomes for this vulnerable population.
Source: Pokorska-Śpiewak M et al. Efficacy and safety of sofosbuvir-based therapies for treating HCV in children: observations from a real-world setting. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis. 2025; doi: 10.1007/s10096-025-05320-4.
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