Optimizing treatment for HCV genotype 4: PEG‐IFN alfa 2a vs. PEG‐IFN alfa 2b; the debate continues

Hepatitis C virus ( HCV ) remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Combined therapy with pegylated interferon ( PEG ‐ IFN ) and ribavirin is the current standard of care treatment for HCV genotype 4. Two types of PEG ‐ IFN are commercially available. The limited number of trials that were conducted for HCV genotype 4 and the few head to head comparisons make it impossible to know which is the best option? In this article we review all available PEG ‐ IFN trials performed worldwide for HCV genotype 4 since 2004. Unless another molecule is developed as a standalone for the treatment of HCV , PEG ‐ IFN will continue to be a source of debate.