Overwhelming Postsplenectomy Infection for Splenectomized HCV Patients

Pegylated-interferon (IFN) plus ribavirin remains the most effective therapeutic regimen for patients with chronic hepatitis C interferon. Thrombocytopenia is a common side effect of this treatment, often leading to discontinuation of a potentially curative therapy. Splenectomy was a clinically effective treatment for hepatitis C virus-associated thrombocytopenia. Splenectomy in patients with hepatitis C cirrhosis is now safer prelude to antiviral treatment. Overwhelming post splenectomy infection (OPSI) syndrome is a rare condition, but is associated with high mortality. However, recognition and clinical management of OPSI is not well established. We reviewed the literature characterizing the clinicopathological features of OPSI and assessed the most effective and feasible administration of the condition. Prevention strategies such as vaccination and education are also potentially important parts of the strategy for splenectomized HCV patients.