Polymyositis, cranial neuropathy, autoimmune hepatitis, and hepatitis C

Abstract

Other investigations, including thoracic computed tomography, echocardiography, and abdominal ultrasound, were within normal limits. Because of increased aminotransferases (AST and ALT) and positive HCV serology, polymerase chain reaction amplification of HCV RNA was performed on the patient's serum, which was positive. Steroid treatment, at an initial dose of 1 mg/kg/day, was started. Because of both PM and chronic active autoimmune hepatitis, treatment of hepatitis C with interferon α was not instituted.