I had hepatitis in 1970, believed to be infectious at the time, not from drug usage or transfussion. At that time it was determined I had chronic active hepatitis. Thereafter, it was determined I had non a/non b heptatitis until 1987 when diagnosed with Hep c and cirrhosis. I have unsuccessfully been treated with Intron a - for ten months ending March 2001. During that time i developed hypothyroidism, change in taste buds, energy level. My viral load went from 4 mill to 37,000. Do not have current viral load. Currently, my enzyme levels remain high, my spleen is enlarged, nodules from cirrhosis appears to be regenerating. Current bilirubin is elevated -1.6 and protein level is slightly elevated. Recent tests show lesion which may be another nodule and is being watched. To be re ultrasound in three months.
 
My current doctor, who I think is excellent, believes I should try interferon again. What is your opinion? Are there any other options.
 

You should strongly consider referral to the HALT-C trial, an NIH sponsored trial that will offer PEGinteferon + ribavirin to all qualified subjects, then, should they fail, examine the merits of long term low doses of PEG interferon versus observation in slowing or halting further disease progression. YOu can consult the NIH website for further details of this trial. The alternative of course is to retry PEGIFN and ribavirin through your doctor.