Role of CYP2D6 polymorphism in predicting liver fibrosis progression rate in Caucasian patients with chronic hepatitis C.

Objective: Previous studies have demonstrated that CYP2D6 polymorphism is associated with liver cirrhosis. The aim of the present study was to find out whether CYP2D6*4, the poor metabolizer allele can predict fibrosis progression rate.

Methods: Seventy-five Caucasian patients with chronic hepatitis C infection were recruited.

Apolipoprotein-E genotype and the risk of developing cholelithiasis following bariatric surgery: a clue to prevention of routine prophylactic cholecystectomy.

Background: Obesity and especially rapid weight loss following bariatric surgery are known risk factors for cholelithiasis. Since the risk may be high, prophylactic cholecystectomy has been advocated. Apolipoprotein (Apo) E, an important carrier protein in cholesterol metabolism and trafficking, is believed to play a role in gallstone pathogenesis.