Virus dell'epatite C e diabete mellito tipo 2

Aim. In literature there are many reports on hepatitis C virus (HCV) and type 2 diabetes mellitus association. However, many authors have proved this association in anti-HCV positive patients affected by cirrhosis. Thus, type 2 diabetes mellitus has been associated to cirrhosis rather than to HCV. Methods. We wanted to verify the type 2 diabetes mellitus prevalence in 3 606 anti-HCV positive patients both cirrhotic and noncirrhotic. The results obtained have been compared with those of 1 053 HBsAg positive patients. All the patients were hospitalised for the first time in our institute between January 1991 and December 2003. Results. Type 2 diabetes mellitus is more frequently associated to cirrhotic rather than to noncirrhotic patients, but between the 2 groups of patients (anti-HCV and HBsAg positive) HCV increases type 2 diabetes mellitus association significantly. Conclusion. Hepatic cirrhosis and HCV make easier the onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus.