HEPATITIS C AND NON-HODGKIN'S LYMPHOMA IN YOUNG WOMEN: ETIOPHYSIOPATHOGENESIS AND CLINICAL COMPLICATIONS

Abstract

Introduction: Hepatitis C, caused by the HCV virus, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), a group of malignant lymphoid neoplasms, have shown a complex relationship in young women. Chronic HCV infection can lead to significant complications, including predisposition to the development of lymphomas. Understanding the etiopathogenesis of these conditions is crucial to identify the mechanisms by which hepatitis C contributes to the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, as well as to explore associated clinical complications, which may include opportunistic infections and hematologic disorders. Objective: To explore the relationship between hepatitis C and non-Hodgkin lymphoma in young women, analyzing the etiopathogenesis and associated clinical complications. Methodology: The systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA checklist, using the PubMed, SciELO and Web of Science databases. Five main descriptors were used: "Hepatitis C", "Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma", "Young Women", "Etiopathogenesis" and "Clinical Complications". The inclusion criteria were: articles published in the last 10 years, studies focused on young women with hepatitis C and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and research that addressed the etiopathogenesis. Articles that did not focus on young women, studies outside the defined temporal scope and research that did not detail the clinical complications were excluded. Results: The results highlighted that chronic HCV infection can induce immunological and inflammatory alterations, predisposing patients to non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Frequent clinical complications included increased risk of secondary infections and hematological disorders, such as anemia and leukopenia. The analysis showed that the risk of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in young women with hepatitis C is significantly higher compared to the general population. Conclusion: The review revealed that hepatitis C may be a significant risk factor for the development of non-Hodgkin lymphoma in young women, with important implications for clinical management. Understanding the etiopathogenesis and associated clinical complications allows for more effective strategies for monitoring and treating these patients, highlighting the need for continued surveillance and specific interventions to reduce the impact of these conditions.