[Growth factors in chronic hepatitis C].

Unlabelled: GROWTH FACTORS: HGF, PDGF, TNF-alpha, IL-6 have important role in liver regeneration. The aim of our study was the evaluation of serum growth factors concentration in chronic hepatitis C. Studied growth factors and cytokines levels were analyzed in relation to inflammatory and fibrotic changes in liver.

Material And Methods: Seventy-five chronic hepatitis C patients were enrolled in this study. All patients had liver biopsy performed and the microscopic examination of liver tissues were analized according to Scheuer's classification. Serum concentrations of growth factors in patients' serum were assessed by use of ELISA method. The control group consisted of 20 healthy individuals.

Results And Conclusions: Serum HGF, PDGF, TNF-alpha level showed significant elevation in the chronic hepatitis C compared to healthy controls. There was a statistically significant correlation between serum HGF and inflammatory activity and fibrosis stage. HGF seems to play an important function during chronic HCV infection.