Final answer:
Interferon treatment for Hepatitis C can cause psychiatric symptoms, notably depression, due to its immune-modulating effects on the body.
Step-by-step explanation:
Treatment of Hepatitis C with interferon can cause various side effects, including psychiatric symptoms. One significant psychiatric symptom associated with interferon treatment is depression. Interferon alpha 2b, used to treat chronic infections of Hepatitis C, is known to have a range of side effects due to its immune-modulating effects. These can include fever, malaise, and potentially severe psychiatric symptoms like depression. Depression is a notable concern given the therapy's impact on cytokine levels and their influence on mood and behavior.
It's essential for patients undergoing treatment with interferon to be closely monitored for the development of neuropsychiatric symptoms, allowing for prompt management should they occur. For instance, Ribavirin, when used with interferon, may exacerbate these psychiatric effects. Therefore, understanding and identifying these side effects early in their manifestation is crucial for the well-being and safety of individuals treated for Hepatitis C with interferon-based therapies.