[Hematopoietic growth factors. Biology and clinical applications].

The authors present an account of haematopoietic growth factors which include the stem cell factor (SCF), factors stimulating granulocytomacrophage colonies (GM-CSF), granulocyte (G-CSF), monocytomacrophage (M-CSF) factors, erythropoietin (EPO) and also interleukin (IL) 1 to 11. Their main action is described as well as the site of action in haematopoiesis. In many of them participation in the pathogenesis of some diseases, incl. malignant ones, is anticipated. The preparation of growth factors in a recombinant-form and knowledge of their effect made it possible to use them in clinical practice. The authors mention possible indications, although in many their administration still has the character of clinical studies.