Coagulation and fibrinolysis in individuals with advanced liver disease.

An overview of normal coagulation and fibrinolysis is presented. The abnormalities of coagulation and fibrinolysis seen in individuals with advanced liver disease is reviewed. The necessary steps in the management of bleeding in patients with advanced liver disease is outlined.

Platelet sparing effect of COX II inhibition used with pegylated interferon alfa-2a for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C: a short term pilot study.

The role of a cyclooxygenase (COX) II inhibitor in reducing microvascular inflammation and the platelet count associated with interferon (IFN) plus ribavirin therapy of chronic hepatitis C (HCV) was assessed. Three plasma mediators (biomarkers) associated with platelet activation, inflammation and fibrosis were measured. Eighteen IFN naïve patients were studied.