VIRAL HEPATITIS C - Alendronate in Combination with Calcium and Vitamin D Prevents Bone Loss After Orthotopic Liver Transplantation: A Prospective Single-Center Study
AUGUST 2005
Alendronate is efficacious in preventing the natural course of bone loss associated with liver transplantation. (Millonig et al., Liver Transpl., 11:960, 2005).

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION - A Randomized, Open-Label Study to Evaluate the Safety and Pharmacokinetics of Human Hepatitis C Immune Globulin (Civacir) in Liver Transplant Recipients
AUGUST 2005
Human Hepatitis C Immune Globulin, an anti-HCV enriched immune globulin product, appears to be safe in patients with chronic hepatitis C undergoing liver transplantation. Further studies are required to determine whether the drug has beneficial effects in this group of patients. (Davis et al., Liver Transpl;11,941, 2005)


LIVER TRANSPLANTATION - Positive Serum Cryoglobulin is Associated with Worse Outcome After Liver Transplantation for Chronic Hepatitis C.
AUGUST 2005
In the multivariate model, serum cryoglobulins presence was an independent predictor for severe activity-free, severe fibrosis-free, and HCV-specific graft survival (P<0.05 for all outcomes). (Rayhill et al., Transplantation, 80,448, 2005).

LIVER STEATOSIS - Endothelial Dysfunction and Cardiovascular Risk Profile in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
AUGUST 2005
Endothelial dysfunction and increased risk of cardiovascular events are observed in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. The risk of advanced liver disease is well recognized in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease patients, but the large majority of cases might experience cardiovascular disease in the long term, indirectly limiting the burden of liver failure. (Villanova et al., Hepatology, 42, 473-80, 2005.)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS - Circulatory Function and Hepatorenal Syndrome in Cirrhosis
AUGUST 2005
Hepatorenal syndrome is the result of a decrease in cardiac output in the setting of a severe arterial vasodilation. (Ruiz-del-Arbol et al., Hepatology, 42, 439, 2005.)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS - Predicting Cirrhosis in Patients with Hepatitis C Based on Standard Laboratory Tests: Results of the HALT-C Cohort
AUGUST 2005
A model based on standard laboratory test results can be used to predict histological cirrhosis with a high degree of accuracy in 50% of patients with CHC. (Lok et al., Hepatology, 42, 282, 2005.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C - Treatment of Advanced Hepatitis C With a Low Accelerating Dosage Regimen of Antiviral Therapy
AUGUST 2005
In a sizeable proportion of patients with advanced HCV, low accelerating dose regimen may render blood free of HCV RNA, stabilize clinical course, and prevent post-transplantation recurrence. (Everson et al., Hepatology, 42, 255, 2005.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C -International, Multicenter, Randomized, Controlled Study Comparing Dynamically Individualized Versus Standard Treatment in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
AUGUST 2005
An improvement in virologic efficacy was not achieved with the available individualized treatment options. (Zeuzem et al., J. Hepatol., 43, 250, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Peginterferon alfa-2b and Ribavirin for Treatment-refractory Chronic Hepatitis C
AUGUST 2005
The response to pegylated interferon and ribavirin in previous non-responders with genotypes 2 and 3 and in prior relapsers with chronic hepatitis C is comparable to overall sustained viral response rates seen in previously untreated patients. (Krawitt et al., J. Hepatol., 43, 243, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Viral Kinetics In Patients with Lamivudine-Resistant Hepatitis B During Adefovir√Lamivudine Combination Therapy
AUGUST 2005
Although a recent study did not show any differences in the reduction of HBV DNA comparing monotherapy with adefovir dipivoxil to adefovir√lamivudine combination therapy in patients with lamivudine-resistant chronic hepatitis B, mathematical analysis of early viral kinetics suggests an additional effect of lamivudine on the infected cell loss during adefovir√lamivudine combination therapy. (Mihm et al., J. Hepatol, 43, 217, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C - Non-Interferon-Based Therapy: an Option for Amelioration of Necro-Inflammation in Hepatitis C Patients who Cannot Afford Interferon Therapy
AUGUST 2005
Twenty-four weeks non-interferon-based therapy achieved a fourfold-higher whereas end of treatment virologic response and a tenfold-higher sustained biochemical response compared with silymarin therapy, which reflects an improvement of necroinflammatory activity as proven by repeat histopathology. (El-Zayadi et al., Liver Internat. 25, 746, 2005)

AUTOIMMUNE EPATITIS -Autoimmune Hepatitis Type 1: Safety and Efficacy of Prolonged Medical Therapy
AUGUST 2005
Autoimmune Hepatitis can be managed effectively over three to four decades with low-dose immunosuppression resulting in essentially normal lifestyles and minimal side effects. Liver transplantation with an increased risk of rejection and graft failure in this group can be avoided for long periods in most of these patients. (Seela et al., Liver Internat., 25, 734, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Successful Treatment of Hepatitis C Reinfection with Interferon-&#913;2b and Ribavirin After Liver Transplantation. A Long-Term Follow-Up.
AUGUST 2005
Combination therapy with IFN and RIBA in transplanted patients with chronic hepatitis C is an effective treatment that results in a high virological SR rate. It is well tolerated and leads to an improvement in histological outcome. (Yedibela et al., Liver Internat., 25, 717, 2005)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS - Long-Term Clinical Outcome of Large Volume Paracentesis with Intravenous Albumin in Patients with Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis: A Randomized Prospective Study
AUGUST 2005
Large volume paracentesis with intravenous albumin was as effective as diuretics with intravenous albumin for the treatment of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis with similar mortality. (Choi et al., J.Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 20, 1215, 2005)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS - Long-Term Clinical Outcome of Large Volume Paracentesis with Intravenous Albumin in Patients with Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis: A Randomized Prospective Study
AUGUST 2005
Large volume paracentesis with intravenous albumin was as effective as diuretics with intravenous albumin for the treatment of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis with similar mortality. (Choi et al., J.Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 20, 1215, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B - The Changing Pattern of Hepatitis B Virus Infection Over the Past Three Decades in Italy
AUGUST 2005
By the end of 1970s, Italy was a country at medium endemic level of hepatitis B virus infection; Nowadays, Italy is a country at very low endemic level of hepatitis B. These important changes may be due to improvement in socio-demographic features and specific preventive measures (such as vaccination program against hepatitis B). (Stroffolini, Digest.Liver Disease, 37, 622, 2005)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Assessment of the Agreement Between Wedge Hepatic Vein Pressure and Portal Vein Pressure in Cirrhotic Patients
AUGUST 2005
Wedged hepatic pressure measurement correlates well with direct portal pressure measurement and the agreement is sufficiently good to use this as a surrogate measurement. (Thalheimer et al., Digest Liver Disease, 37, 601, 2005)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS.- Psychological Status and Depression in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis
AUGUST 2005
Patients with cirrhosis have signs of psychological distress and depression, as assessed by Beck Depression Inventory and Psychological General Well-Being Index, in relation to the severity of liver disease. Accordingly, a non-negligible number of patients warrant treatment. (Bianchi et al., Dig. Liver Disease, 37, 593, 2005)

LIVER STEATOSIS- Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Insulin Resistance: Importance of Risk Factors and Histological Spectrum.
AUGUST 2005
Insulin resistance occurred in 33% of the Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease patients, being more frequent among those with metabolic conditions than among those with exposure to petrochemicals. The presence of Insulin reasistance in cases with advanced fibrosis suggests that it may influence the prognosis of Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. (Guidorizzi de Siqueira et al., Eur. J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 17, 837, 2005.)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Randomised Controlled Trial Comparing Percutaneous Radiofrequency Thermal Ablation, Percutaneous Ethanol Injection, and Percutaneous Acetic Acid Injection to Treat Hepatocellular Carcinoma of 3 Cm or Less
AUGUST 2005
Radiofrequency thermal ablation was superior to percutaneous ethanol injection and percutaneous acetic acid injection with respect to local recurrence, overall survival, and cancer free survival rates, but Radiofrequency thermal ablation also caused more major complications. (Lin et al., Gut; 54, 1151; 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- A 1-Year Trial of Telbivudine, Lamivudine, and the Combination in Patients With Hepatitis B e Antigen-Positive Chronic Hepatitis B
AUGUST 2005
Patients with chronic hepatitis B treated with telbivudine exhibited significantly greater virologic and biochemical responses compared with lamivudine. Results with the combination regimens were similar to those obtained with telbivudine alone. These data support the ongoing phase 3 evaluation of telbivudine for treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis B. (Lai et al., Gastroenterology, 129, 528, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C -Peginterferon-&#945;-2a (40KD) and Ribavirin for 16 or 24 Weeks in Patients With Genotype 2 or 3 Chronic Hepatitis C
AUGUST 2005
In HCV-2 and -3 (low viral load)-infected patients who have a rapid virologic response, treatment for 16 weeks with peginterferon-&#945;-2a and ribavirin is sufficient. In patients infected by HCV-3 (high viral load), longer treatment may be necessary. (Von Wagner et al., Gatroenterology, 129, 522, 2005)

Complementary Stimulation of Hepatobiliary Transport and Detoxification Systems by Rifampicin and Ursodeoxycholic Acid in Humans
AUGUST 2005
Rifampicin enhances bile acid detoxification as well as bilirubin conjugation and export systems, whereas Ursodeoxycholic Acid stimulates the expression of transporters for canalicular and basolateral bile acid export as well as the canalicular phospholipid flippase. These independent but complementary effects may justify a combination of both agents for the treatment of cholestatic liver diseases.(Marchall et al., Gastroenterology, 129, 476, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS D- Lamivudine Therapy in Chronic Delta Hepatitis: A Multicentre Randomized-Controlled Pilot Study
AUGUST 2005
A sustained complete response was achieved in 8% of hepatitis D virus-infected patients treated with lamivudine and a partial histological response in 26% of them. Hepatitis D virus viraemia was unaffected, even in patients when hepatitis B virus replication was lowered by lamivudine therapy. (Niro er al., Alim. Pharmacol.Therapeutics, 22, 227 , 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Is Interferon-Alpha Therapy Safe and Effective for Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C and Inflammatory Bowel Disease? A Case√Control Study
AUGUST 2005
The biochemical and virological response to a 12-month human leucocyte &#945;-interferon treatment in patients with chronic active hepatitis C are similar to that observed in matched controls with chronic hepatitis C virus without inflammatory bowel disease. Adverse effects are similar in both groups of patients and unrelated to the underlying inflammatory bowel condition. This provides hepatologists with evidence that &#945;-interferon can be safely administered to patients with chronic hepatitis C virus and inflammatory bowel disease provided that the inflammatory bowel condition is in clinical remission. (Bargiggia et al., Alim. Pharmacol.Therap., 22, 209, 2005)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Liver Transplantation for Chronic Hepatitis B with Lamivudine-Resistant YMDD Mutant Using Add-On Adefovir Dipivoxil plus Lamivudine
JULY 2005
A combination of add-on adefovir dipivoxil plus lamivudine therapy provides effective prophylaxis in patients with pretransplantation YMDD mutant that may be actively replicating. (Lo et al., Liver Transpl., 11,807,2005.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Outcome of Hepatitis B E Antigen-Negative Chronic Hepatitis B on Long-Term Nucleos(T)Ide Analog Therapy Starting with Lamivudine
JULY 2005
In HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B, long-term nucleos(t)ide analog therapy starting with lamivudine significantly improves survival and reduces the risk of major complications, compared with interferon non-sustained responders or untreated patients. In such patients with advanced fibrosis, close follow-up for lamivudine resistance and prompt onset of additional antiviral therapy is required or the ab initio use of agent(s) with low resistance rates should be considered (Papatheodoridis et al., Hepatology, 42, 121,2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Viral and Host Factors in Early Hepatitis C Virus Infection
JULY 2005
Host factors are more important determinants of acute HCV infection dynamics than virus-associated factors. (Mosley et al., Hepatology, 42, 86, 2005.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- A Viral Kinetic Study Using Pegylated Interferon Alfa-2b and/or Lamivudine in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B/HBeAg Negative
JULY 2005
The addition of pegylated interferon alfa-2b in lamivudine treatment was found to neither enhance the potency of blocking HBV production nor the decay rates of infected cells. (Sypsa et al., Hepatology, 42, 77, 2005).

AUTOIMMUNE HEPATITIS- Autoimmune Hepatitis: Effect of Symptoms and Cirrhosis on Natural History and Outcome
JULY 2005
Patients autoimmune hepatitis who are asymptomatic at presentation have a good prognosis and may not require immunosuppressive therapy. Cirrhosis on initial liver biopsy portends a poor prognosis in all patients with autoimmune hepatitis. (Feld et al., Hepatology, 42, 53, 2005.)

LIVER STEATOSIS- Prevalence of and Risk Factors for Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: The Dionysos Nutrition and Liver Study
JULY 2005
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is highly prevalent in the general population, is not associated with SLD, but is associated with many features of the metabolic syndrome.
(Bedogni et al., Hepatology, 42, 44, 2005.)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Characterization of Small Nodules in Cirrhosis by Assessment of Vascularity: The Problem of Hypovascular Hepatocellular Carcinoma
JULY 2005
The noninvasive EASL criteria for diagnosis of HCC are satisfied in only 61% of small nodules in cirrhosis; thus, biopsy frequently is required in this setting. Relying on imaging techniques in nodules of 1 to 2 cm would miss the diagnosis of HCC in up to 38% of cases. Any nodule larger than 2 cm should be regarded as highly suspicious for HCC. (Bolondi et al., Hepatology, 42, 27, 2005.)

LIVER STEATOSIS- Steatosis: Co-factor in Other Liver Diseases
JULY 2005
Active management of obesity and a reduction in steatosis may improve liver injury and decrease the progression of fibrosis. (Powell et al., Hepatology, 42, 5, 2005).

ALCOHOLIC HEPATITIS- Albumin Dialysis Reduces Portal Pressure Acutely in Patients with Severe Alcoholic Hepatitis
JULY 2005
Albumin dialysis produces clinically significant, acute reduction in portal pressure but the mechanism by which this effect is achieved is not clear. Our results suggest that Molecular Adsorbents Recirculating System (MARS) may be a useful adjunct in management of portal hypertension, particularly in patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis with associated organ failure. (Sen et al., J.Hepatol. , 43, 142, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Virus and transaminase levels determine the emergence of drug resistance during long-term lamivudine therapy in chronic hepatitis B
JULY 2005
HBeAg status, HBV-DNA, ALT levels and treatment duration are the major determinants for the YMDD mutation during lamivudine therapy, and should be considered in designing the therapeutic strategy. (Chang et al., J. Hepatol., 43, 72, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Safety And Antiviral Activity of Emtricitabine (FTC) for the Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis B Infection: A Two-Year Study
JULY 2005
Emtricitabine was well tolerated and demonstrated a potent antiviral response for up to 2 years in patients with chronic hepatitis B infection. Based on these data, 200mg emtricitabine once daily was chosen as the optimal dose for future hepatitis B studies. (Gish et al., J.Hepatol, 43, 60, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Combined Treatment with Pegylated Interferon (&#913;-2b) and Ribavirin in the Acute Phase of Hepatitis C Virus Recurrence
JULY 2005
Treatment with pegylated interferon alfa-2b plus ribavirin in the acute phase of HCV reinfection yielded an early virological response of 62.5% and a sustained virological response of 34.7%. The combination was safe, with a low rate of therapy withdrawal.(Castells et al., J.Hepatol, 43, 53, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B E C- Hepatic Steatosis in Chronic Hepatitis B and C: Predictors, Distribution and Effect on Fibrosis
JULY 2005
Hepatic steatosis is common in chronic hepatitis B and C, and is associated with waist circumference, glucose, C-peptide and chronic hepatitis C genotype 3. Steatosis grade appears to relate to hepatic fibrosis progression rate in chronic hepatitis C genotype non-3. (Gordon et al., J.Hepat. 43, 38, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C - Safety and Efficacy of Peginterferon plus Ribavirin in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C and Bridging Fibrosis or Cirrhosis
JULY 2005
Combination therapy with peginterferon plus ribavirin seems effective in this group of patients, except in those who had previously failed to respond to the combination of interferon and ribavirin. This therapy is safe with appropriate monitoring, but tolerance seems worse in patients with the most advanced liver disease. (Marrache et al., J.Viral Hepatitis, 12, 421, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Response to Long-Term Lamivudine Treatment (Up to 5 Years) in Patients With Severe Chronic Hepatitis B, Role of Genotype and Drug Resistance
JULY 2005
Data from up to 5 years on lamivudine indicated no difference in biochemical or virological response between genotypes. Cirrhosis was more prevalent with specific genotypes. We found no influence of HBV genotype on the development of resistance to lamivudine, however liver disease severity was influenced by genotype. (Moskovitz et al., J. Viral Hepatitis, 12, 398, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Efficacy of Lamivudine Re-Treatment for Relapsed Patients After an Initial Lamivudine Therapy in HBeAg-Positive Chronic Hepatitis B
JULY 2005
Lamivudine re-treatment in relapsed patients after initial lamivudine therapy had a higher response rate and shorter duration to HBeAg seroconversion than during the initial therapy. However, HBeAg seroconversion induced by lamivudine re-treatment was not durable. (Shin et al., J.Viral Hepatitis, 12, 393, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Impact of Occult Hepatitis B Virus Infection on Efficacy and Prognosis of Interferon-alpha Therapy for Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
JULY 2005
In spite of mild insignificant increase in ETR and SR with the pegylated form, the poor response of genotype 4 in Egypt (genotype 4a) to different forms of IFNs may be related to an intrinsic resistance to the direct antiviral effect of IFN (Derbala et al., J.Viral Hepatitis, 12, 380, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Selective Granulocyte and Monocyte Apheresis As A New Adjunct to Enhance the Efficacy of Interferon-Alpha + Ribavirin in Patients With High Plasma Hepatitis C Virus
JULY 2005
Granulocyte and monocyte apheresis appears to deplete extra-hepatic hepatitis C virus reservoirs and generate active complement opsonins, which contribute to hepatitis C virus killing. Additional mechanism(s) are also likely and need to be elucidated in future studies with larger cohort of patients. (Sawada et al., Dig. Liver Dis., 37, 515, 2005).

LIVER CIRRHOSIS - Effects of Somatostatin, Terlipressin and Somatostatin plus Terlipressin on Portal and Systemic Hemodynamics and Renal Sodium Excretion in Patients with Cirrhosis
JULY 2005
Combined treatment with somatostatin and terlipressin does not exert an additive portal hypotensive effect in cirrhotic patients as compared to terlipressin alone, whereas somatostatin alone may impair systemic hemodynamics. Compared with somatostatin, terlipressin exerts a more beneficial effect on renal sodium excretion in patients with or without ascites. (Kalambokis et al., J.Gastroenterol.Hepatol., 20, 1075, 2005)

ALCOHOLIC HEPATITIS - Bilirubin Response To Corticosteroids In Severe Alcoholic Hepatitis.
JULY 2005
Patients with a 25% fall in bilirubin after 6-9 days of corticosteroid therapy have a significant and sustained improvement in outcome. (Morris et al., Eur. J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 17, 759,2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Serum Hepatitis B Virus DNA Levels Differentiating Inactive Carriers from Patients With Chronic Hepatitis B.
JULY 2005
The measurement of serum HBV DNA more than twice is useful for assessing chronic hepatitis B surface antigen carriers and confirms that 105 copies/ml may be an appropriate level of HBV for characterizing the inactive carrier state. (Seo et al., Eur. J.Gastroenterol.Hepatol., 17,753, 2005).

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Causes of Portal Venous Thrombosis in Cirrhotic Patients: the Role of Genetic and Acquired Factors.
JULY 2005
In cirrhotic patients prothrombotic mutations by themselves are not causative of portal vein trombosis. Sclerotherapy and previous abdominal surgery favour the development of two-thirds of cases of portal vein trombosis; in the remaining cases the pathogenesis remains elusive. (Mangia et al., Eur. J.Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 17,745,2005).

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- A Randomized Controlled Trial of Radiofrequency Ablation With Ethanol Injection for Small Hepatocellular Carcinoma
JULY 2005
Judging from higher survival but similar adverse events, radiofrequency ablation is superior to ethanol injection for small hepatocellular carcinoma.(Shiina et al., Gastroenterology , 129, 122, 2005).

LIVER STEATOSIS- The Natural History of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Population-Based Cohort Study
JULY 2005
Mortality among community-diagnosed NAFLD patients is higher than the general population and is associated with older age, impaired fasting glucose, and cirrhosis. Liver-related death is a leading cause of mortality, although the absolute risk is low. (Adams et al., Gastroenterology, 129, 113,2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Suppression of Haematopoiesis During Therapy of Chronic Hepatitis C With Different Interferon &#61537;&#61472;Mono and Combination Therapy Regimens
JULY 2005
IFN-&#61537; based therapies are associated with a decrease in all three haematopoietic lineages, irrespective of the type of therapy used. The stronger suppressive effect of pegylated IFN-&#61537;2a on leucopoiesis could be due to a dose effect. Overall, concentrations of endogenous haematopoietic growth factors are increased but can only partially alleviate haematotoxicity. Potential uses of exogenous haematopoietic growth factors and their impact on the virological response need to be explored. (Schmidt et al.,Gut 54,1014, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Response To Interferon Alfa is Hepatitis B Virus Genotype Dependent: Genotype A is More Sensitive to Interferon Than Genotype D
JULY 2005
HBV genotypes A and D are important and independent predictors of IFN responsiveness in chronic hepatitis B. HBV genotype adapted treatment regimens may further improve treatment efficacy in chronic hepatitis B. (Erhardt et al ., Gut, 54,1009, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Insulin Resistance is a Cause of Steatosis and Fibrosis Progression in Chronic Hepatitis C
JULY 2005
Insulin resistance is the cause rather than the consequence of steatosis and fibrosis in genotype 1 patients and that increased circulating insulin is a risk factor for fibrosis through insulin resistance induced steatosis. (Fartoux et al., Gut, 54,1003,2005)

LIVER STEATOSIS- Immune Response Towards Lipid Peroxidation Products as a Predictor of Progression of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease to Advanced Fibrosis
JULY 2005
The presence of immune reactions triggered by oxidative stress can be an independent predictor of progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease to advanced fibrosis. (Albano et al., Gut ,54,987,2005)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Better Survival in Female Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Oral Contraceptive Pills Related?
JULY 2005
Gender is an independent variable for survival after curative treatment of HCC. A survival benefit was observed in females. History of using oral contraceptive is associated with a better long-term survival in female patients. (Lam et al., J.Clin. Gastroenterol., 39,533, 2005).

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Diagnosis of Liver Cirrhosis: A Comparison of Modified Ultrasound and Laparoscopy in 100 Consecutive Patients.
JULY 2005
Evaluating the transmission of heart pulsation on the liver surface improves the ability of ultrasound to diagnose liver cirrhosis; therefore, it should be an integral part of routine sonographic examination of the liver. (Weickert et al., J.Clin. Gastroenterol., 39,529, 2005).

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Solid-Organ Transplantation in HBsAg-Negative Patients with Antibodies to HBV Core Antigen: Low Risk of HBV Reactivation.
JUNE 2005
Subclinical reactivation of HBV infection was detected in a significant proportion of HBsAg-negative solid-organ-transplant recipients. (Knoll et al., Transplantation, 79,1631, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Virological Profiles in Hepatitis B Virus Inactive Carriers: Monthly Evaluation in 1-Year Follow-Up Study
JUNE 2005
The degree of suppression of HBV replication in inactive carriers is variable over time, and the entity and quality of HBV variability is comparable between active and inactive carriers. (Cacciola, et al., Liver International, 25, 555, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Hepatitis B Virus Infection In Lymphatic Tissues In Inactive Hepatitis B Carriers
JUNE 2005
Human lymphatic tissues cannot support viral replication in anti-HBc positive inactive HBV carriers, while retaining the viral genome as an integrated form (Umeda et al., J Hepatol., 42, 806, 2005)

LIVER DISEASES AND HIV-Liver Disease as A Major Cause Of Death Among HIV Infected Patients: Role of Hepatitis C and B Viruses and Alcohol
JUNE 2005
Liver disease is now a leading cause of death among HIV-HCV co-infected patients and is becoming an important cause of death among HIV-HBV co-infected patients. The risk of death from liver disease is highest in patients co-infected by both HCV and HBV. (Salmon-Ceron et al.,J. Hepatol., 42, 799,2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Prevention of Interferon-Alpha Associated Depression in Psychiatric Risk Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
JUNE 2005
IFN alpha induced depression in psychiatric risk patients can be ameliorated by both the use of antidepressants as well as by intensive psychiatric care. (Schaefer et al., J.Hepatol., 42, 788, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Long-Term Follow-Up of Peginterferon and Lamivudine Combination Treatment in HBeAg-Positive Chronic Hepatitis B
JUNE 2005
Combination treatment of peginterferon and lamivudine has a higher sustained virological response than lamivudine monotherapy up to 3 years after treatment. (Chan et al., Hepatology, 41, 1357, 2005.)

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS-A Randomized, Controlled Crossover Trial of Ondansetron in Patients with Primary Biliary Cirrhosis and Fatigue
JUNE 2005
Ondansetron administration did not confer clinically significant fatigue reduction when compared with placebo in our study population. (Theal et al., Hepatology; 41, 1305, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-A Randomized Controlled Trial of Pegylated Interferon &#913;-2a (40 KD) or Interferon &#913;-2a Plus Ribavirin and Amantadine Vs Interferon &#913;-2a and Ribavirin in Treatment-NaОve Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
JUNE 2005
In treatment-naОve patients with chronic hepatitis C, triple therapy with PEG-IFN &#945;-2a, RBV and AMA produces higher SVR than dual or triple therapy with conventional IFN &#945;-2a. (Mangia et al., J.Viral Hepatitis, 12, 292, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Lamivudine vs Lamivudine and Interferon Combination Treatment of HBeAg(&#8722;) Chronic Hepatitis B
JUNE 2005
Efficay of combination treatment is similar to lamivudine monotherapy. However, combination treatment decreases the development of YMDD mutant strains compared with lamivudine monotherapy. (Yurdaydin et al., J.Viral Hepatitis, 12, 262, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Possible Contribution of Prior Hepatitis B Virus Infection to the Development of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
JUNE 2005
A possible contribution of prior HBV infection to the development of HCC is indicated. (Tanaka et al., J.Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 20, 850, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Precore Stop Codon Mutation of Hepatitis B Virus is Associated with Low Breakthrough Rate Following Long-Term Lamivudine Therapy
JUNE 2005
The stop codon mutation at the precore region of HBV in addition to low serum HBV-DNA level may be associated with low breakthrough rate following lamivudine therapy. (Shin et al., J.Gastroenterol.Hepatol., 20, 844, 2005)

LIVER STEATOSIS-Sampling Variability of Liver Biopsy in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
JUNE 2005
Histologic lesions of NASH are unevenly distributed throughout the liver parenchyma; therefore, sampling error of liver biopsy can result in substantial misdiagnosis and staging inaccuracies. (Ratziu et al. Gastroenterology, 128, 1898, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Intrahepatic Hepatitis B Virus Covalently Closed Circular DNA Can Be a Predictor of Sustained Response to Therapy
JUNE 2005
Intrahepatic HBV covalently closed circular DNA and intrahepatic total HBV DNA levels at the end of therapy are superior to serum HBV DNA as surrogates of sustained virologic response. (Sung et al., Gastroenterology , 128, 1890, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Peginterferon &#61537;-2b and Ribavirin Therapy in Chronic Hepatitis C Genotype 4: Impact of Treatment Duration and Viral Kinetics on Sustained Virological Response
JUNE 2005
PEG-IFN-&#61537;-2b and ribavirin for 36 or 48 weeks was more effective in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C genotype 4 than treatment for 24 weeks. Thirty six week therapy was well tolerated and produced sustained virological and histological response rates similar to the 48 week regimen. (Kamal et al., Gut;54:858, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Clinical Course of Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B with Viral Breakthrough During Long-Term Lamivudine Treatment
JUNE 2005
After viral breakthrough, a few patients do not develop breakthrough hepatitis, some show normalization of the ALT level after the occurrence of breakthrough hepatitis, but in many patients, ALT continuously fluctuates. (Ide et al., J. Gastroenterol. , 40, 625,2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Genotypes in 373 Italian Children with HCV Infection: Changing Distribution and Correlation with Clinical Features and Outcome
JUNE 2005
HCV genotypes 1 and 2 are still prevalent among infected adolescents and young adults in Italy but rates of infection with genotypes 3 and 4 are rapidly increasing among children. These changes could modify the clinical pattern of hepatitis C in forthcoming years as children infected with genotype 3 have the best chance of spontaneous viraemia clearance early in life, and respond to interferon in a high proportion of cases. (Bortolotti et al., Gut; 54, 852, 2005)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Primary Prophylaxis of Variceal Bleeding in Cirrhotics Unable to Take &#946;-Blockers: A Randomized Trial of Ligation
JUNE 2005
This study suggests that ligation may be harmful when used as primary prophylaxis, similar to prophylactic sclerotherapy in the past. (Triantos et al., Alim. Pharmacol. Therap., 21, 1435, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Peginterferon Alfa-2a, Lamivudine, and the Combination for HBeAg-Positive Chronic Hepatitis B
JUNE 2005
In patients with HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B, peginterferon alfa-2a offers superior efficacy over lamivudine, on the basis of HBeAg seroconversion, HBV DNA suppression, and HBsAg seroconversion. (Lau et al., N.Engl.J.Med., 352,2682, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Long-Term Therapy with Adefovir Dipivoxil for HBeAg-Negative Chronic Hepatitis B
JUNE 2005
In patients with HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B, the benefits achieved from 48 weeks of adefovir dipivoxil were lost when treatment was discontinued. In patients treated for 144 weeks, benefits were maintained, with infrequent emergence of viral resistance. (Hadziyannis et al., N.Engl. J.Med, 352, 2673, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Digestive Endoscopy Is Not a Major Risk Factor for Transmitting Hepatitis C Virus
JUNE 2005
Properly performed digestive endoscopy is not a major risk factor for the transmission of HCV. (Ciancio et al., J Ann. Intern. Med., 142, 903,2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-An Outbreak of Hepatitis C Virus Infections among Outpatients at a Hematology/Oncology Clinic
JUNE 2005
A large health care√associated HCV outbreak was related to shared saline bags contaminated through syringe reuse is described. Effective infection-control programs are needed to ensure high standards of care in outpatient care facilities, such as hematology/oncology clinics. (Macedo de Oliveira et al., Ann.Intern.Med., 142, 898, 2005)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Percutaneous Radiofrequency Ablation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma as a Bridge to Liver Transplantation
MAY 2005
Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation is an effective bridge to Orthotopic liver transplantation for patients with compensated liver function and safely accessible tumors. (Lu et al., Hepatology, 41, 1130, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Peginterferon Alfa-2b plus Ribavirin Treatment in Children and Adolescents with Chronic Hepatitis C
MAY 2005
Combination treatment of peginterferon alfa-2b with ribavirin showed encouraging results and was well tolerated in children and adolescents with chronic hepatitis C. (Wirth et al., Hepatology, 41,1013, 2005)

VIRAL HPATITIS C- Diagnosis of Hepatitis C Virus Related Acute Hepatitis by Serial Determination of IgM Anti-HCV Titres
MAY 2005
The detection of high and variable titres of HCV IgM in the early phase of the illness may identify acute hepatitis C and allow early antiviral treatment. (Sagnelli et al, J Hepatol, 42, 646,2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Treatment with Peg-Interferon Alfa-2b and Ribavirin of Hepatitis C Virus-Associated Mixed Cryoglobulinemia: a Pilot Study
MAY 2005
Peg-interferon alfa-2b in combination with ribavirin seems safe and useful for patients affected by mixed cryoglobulinemia, but not as effective as in patients with HCV-positive chronic hepatitis without cryoglobulinemia.(Mazzaro et al., J.Hepatol., 42, 632, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C AND HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Risk Factors for the Development of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Among Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C who Achieved a Sustained Virological Response to Interferon Therapy
MAY 2005
Patients with hepatocellular carcinoma who had severe fibrosis, who had regularly taken moderate amounts of alcohol, or who were &#8805; 65 years at the start of IFN treatment should be carefully followed to detect small and controllable hepatocellular carcinoma, even after eradication of HCV.(Tokita et al., J.Gastroent. Hepatol. ,20, 752, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B AND C- Combination Therapy with Interferon-&#913; and Ribavirin In Patients with Dual Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C Virus Infection
MAY 2005
Combination therapy with IFN-&#945; and ribavirin was effective in achieving sustained HCV clearance in patients with dual HBV and HCV infection, comparable to those with hepatitis C infection alone. (Hung et al., J. Gastroent.Hepatol., 20,727, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C - Impact of Liver Steatosis on Virological Response in Elderly Italian Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Treated with Peg-Interferon Alpha-2b plus Ribavarin
MAY 2005
Only low-grade liver steatosis negatively affects the outcome of combination therapy, with peginterferon alpha-2b plus ribavirin, while severe steatosis (which is virus-related in most cases) has no impact on virological response. (Fabris et al., Alim.Pharmacol. Therap., 21, 1173, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- The Safety of Pegylated Interferon Alpha-2b in the Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis B: Predictive Factors for Dose Reduction and Treatment Discontinuation
MAY 2005
In patients with chronic hepatitis B and compensated liver disease prolonged pegylated interferon alpha-2b therapy is safe, and that pre-existent cirrhosis and neutropenia are the most important predictors of dose reduction or early treatment discontinuation. (van Zonneveld et al., Alim.Pharmacol.Therap., 21, 1163, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Prophylaxis of Hepatitis B Virus Recurrence After Liver Transplantation in Carriers of Lamivudine-Resistant Mutants
MAY 2005
In carriers of who selected lamivudine-resistant strains mutants, the risk of post-liver transplantation HBV recurrence is low, provided that preemptive and prophylactic adefovir dipivoxil (in addition to lamivudine and hepatitis B immunoglobulin) treatment is used in highly viremic patients and prophylactic Lamivudine (or adefovir dipivoxil) and hepatitis B immunoglobulin therapy is continued in low viremic patients (Marzano et al., Liver Transpl ., 11,532,2005).

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Analysis of Risk Factors for Tumor Recurrence After Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Key Role of Immunosuppression
MAY 2005
Cyclosporine exposure was the only independent prognostic determinant at multivariate analysis High Cyclosporine exposure favors tumor recurrence; Cyclosporine blood levels should be kept to the effective minimum in Hepatocellular carcinoma patients. (Vivarelli et a., Liver Transpl., 11, 497,2005)

VIRUS HEPATITIS C-Interferon Treatment in Children with Chronic Hepatitis C: Long-Lasting Remission in Responders, and Risk for Disease Progression in Non-Responders
MAY 2005
Response to interferon in children with hepatitis C is genotype-related and stable, agree with the results of large studies in adults. The outcome in non-responders was variable, including persistence of viremia and mild√moderate cytolysis (most cases), progression to cirrhosis, or eventual sustained viremia clearance. (Bortolotti et al., Dig Liver Dis., 37, 336, 2005).

VIRUS HEPATITIS C-Hepatitis C Virus Replicates in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells of Patients with Occult Hepatitis C Virus Infection
MAY 2005
HCV replicates in the Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells of patients with occult HCV infection and thus, although these patients do not have serum HCV-RNA, they could be potentially infectious (Castillo et al., Gut;54, 682, 2005)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt in Refractory Ascites: A Meta-Analysis
APRIL 2005
Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is a more effective treatment for refractory ascites than large volume paracentesis. However, TIPS increase encephalopathy and does not improve survival. (Deltenre et al., Liver International, 25, 349, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Impact of Occult Hepatitis B Virus Infection on Efficacy and Prognosis of Interferon-alpha Therapy for Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
APRIL 2005
Occult HBV infection may not have a significant impact on response to IFN therapy for chronic HCV and development of HCC after therapy. Occult HBV may be sensitive to IFN although HBV is not completely eradicated. (Hasegawa et al., Liver International, 25, 247, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Long-Term Outcome of Interferon-alpha-Induced Autoimmune Thyroid Disorders In Chronic Hepatitis C
APRIL 2005
All patients with IFN-alpha -induced thyroid disorders could be controlled with medication. However, the IFN-&#61472; alpha -induced thyroid disorders are not always reversible. One must be careful about not only the development of autoimmune thyroid disorders during IFN- alpha therapy but also the outcome of the thyroid disease. (Doi et al., Liver International, 25, 242, 2005

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Comparison of Recurrence After Hepatic Resection in Patients with Hepatitis B Vs. Hepatitis C-Related Small Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Hepatitis B Virus Endemic Area
APRIL 2005
HCV infection, as compared with HBV infection, had a higher cumulated recurrence after hepatic resection in patients with small HCC. Low serum albumin level was significantly associated with recurrence among these patients (Huang et al., Liver International, 25, 236, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- SEN Virus Infection Influences the Pathological Findings in Liver But Does Not Affect the Incidence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C and Liver Cirrhosis
APRIL 2005
SEN-virus co-infection may influence the histopathological features of the livers of patients with type C chronic hepatitis and liver cirrhosis but does not affect the outcome of patients with type C chronic liver disease. (Moriyama et al., Liver International, 25, 226, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Influence of Viral Load and Genotype in the Progression of Hepatitis B-Associated Liver Cirrhosis to Hepatocellular Carcinoma
APRIL 2005
Patients with genotype C and a continuously high HBV DNA for 5 years or more are at a high-risk group for HCC development. Maintaining continuously low HBV DNA for 3 years or more with anti-viral therapy, may be useful in preventing or delaying HCC occurrence. (Mahmood et al., Liver International, 24, 220, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Antiviral Efficacy of NS3-Serine Protease Inhibitor BILN-2061 in Patients With Chronic Genotype 2 and 3 Hepatitis C
APRIL 2005
The antiviral efficacy of the HCV serine protease inhibitor BILN-2061 is less pronounced and more variable in patients with HCV genotype 2 or 3 infection compared with previous results in patients with HCV genotype 1. A lower affinity of BILN-2061 for the NS3 protease of genotypes 2 and 3 HCV is most likely a major contributor to these findings. (Reiser et al., Hepatology, 41, 832, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Late Liver-Related Mortality from Complications of Transfusion-Acquired Hepatitis C
APRIL 2005
In our study, liver-related mortality appeared to be high among elderly HCV-infected individuals. (Kamitsukasa et al., Hepatology;41, 819, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Prevalence and Significance of Neurocognitive Dysfunction in Hepatitis C in the Absence of Correlated Risk Factors
APRIL 2005
While our findings support an association between hepatitis C and indicators of central nervous system involvement in a cohort of patients carefully screened to eliminate other factors influencing neurocognitive integrity, the clinical significance of these effects is limited. (McAndrews et al., Hepatology;41,801, 2005.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Impact of Hepatitis C on Health Related Quality of Life: A Systematic Review and Quantitative Assessment
APRIL 2005
Patients with HCV have a clinically significant decrement in health related quality of life versus controls, and physical health related quality of life improves in patients achieving sustained virological response but not in those without sustained virological response. (Spiegel et al., Hepatology, 41,790, 2005

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- HIV Coinfection Shortens the Survival of Patients with Hepatitis C Virus-Related Decompensated Cirrhosis
APRIL 2005
HIV coinfection reduces considerably the survival of patients with HCV-related end-stage liver disease independently of other markers of poor prognosis. This fact must be taken into account to establish the adequate timing of liver transplantation in HIV-coinfected subjects. (Pineda et al., Hepatology, 41,4, 779, 2005)

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS-Budesonide Combined with UDCA to Improve Liver Histology in Primary Biliary Cirrhosis: A Three-Year Randomized Trial
APRIL 2005
Budesonide combined with Ursodeoxycholic acid improved liver histology, whereas the effect of Ursodeoxycholic acid alone was mainly on laboratory values. Studies with longer follow-up using a combination of budesonide and Ursodeoxycholic acid are warranted to confirm safety and effects. (Rautiainen et al., Hepatology, 41, 747, 2005.)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Prognosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Comparison of 7 Staging Systems in an American Cohort
APRIL 2005
Performance status, tumor extent, liver function, and treatment were independent predictors of survival mostly in patients with cirrhosis and HCC. The Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer staging system includes aspects of all of these elements and provided the best prognostic stratification for our cohort of patients with HCC. (Marrero et al., Hepatology,41, 707, 2005.)

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS- Severity of Cholestasis and Advanced Histological Stage But Not Menopausal Status Are the Major Risk Factors for Osteoporosis in Primary Biliary Cirrhosis
APRIL 2005
Osteoporosis is more prevalent in women with primary biliary cirrhosis than in the general population. Age and severity of the disease, but not menopausal status, are the main risk factors for osteoporosis in this liver disease. (GuaЯabens et al., J.Hepatol., 42, 573, 2005)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Compensated Cirrhosis with Radio-Frequency Thermal Ablation (RFTA): A Prospective Study
APRIL 2005
A complete response after radio-frequency thermal ablation significantly increases survival. The longest survival is obtained in the presence of HCC &#8804;3cm and of higher baseline albumin levels and platelet counts. Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer staging classification is able to discriminate patients with good or poor prognosis. (CammЮ et al., J.Hepatol., 42, 535, 2005)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Coffee Consumption Reduces the Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Independently of Its Aetiology: A Case-Control Study
APRIL 2005
Coffee drinking was inversely associated with HCC regardless of its aetiology. (Gelatti et al., J.Hepatol., 42, 528, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Persistence of HBV-DNA in Children With Chronic Hepatitis B Who Seroconverted to Anti-Hbs Antibodies After Interferon-alpha Therapy: Correlation with Specific IgG Subclass Responses to HBsAg
APRIL 2005
HBV-DNA may persist for a long time after IFN-alpha therapy despite the appearance of anti-HBs antibodies. The monitoring of specific IgG subclasses may be of predictive value for HBV-DNA persistence. (Gregorek et al., J.Hepatol, 42, 486, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Occult Hepatitis B Virus Infection in A North American Community-Based Population
APRIL 2005
In this community-based population; (1) the prevalence of occult HBV infection is 18% in those with serologic evidence of previous HBV infection and 8.1% in HBV seronegative individuals, (2) age, gender and liver biochemistry findings do not identify those with occult HBV and (3) S-variants are present in the majority of individuals with occult HBV.(Minuka et al., J.Hepatol. , 42, 480,2005).

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Octreotide Therapy for Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma.
APRIL 2005
Although occasional patients appear to have stable disease on long-acting octreotide therapy, overall the beneficial response in terms of time to tumor progression and survival is limited. (Slijkhuis et al., J.Clin. Gastroenterol.39, 333, 2005).

LIVER BIOPSY- Prospective Randomized Trial of Post-liver Biopsy Recovery Positions: Does Positioning Really Matter?
APRIL 2005
This study is the first to examine differing post-liver biopsy techniques. When three commonly practiced recovery positions, C, R, and S, are compared, C was the least acceptable position. Patients should be placed in position R or S during recovery. (Hyun et al., J.Clin. Gastroenterol., 39,328, 2005)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION-Pegylated Versus Standard Interferon-alpha In Antiviral Regimens For Post-Transplant Recurrent Hepatitis C: Comparison of Tolerability And Efficacy
APRIL 2005
In the OLT setting, the potential benefits of antiviral treatments including PEG-IFN may be limited by the poor tolerability of the adopted drugs. (Toniutto et al., J.Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 20, 577, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Usefulness of Combined Measurement of Serum Bile Acids and Ferritin As Additional Prognostic Markers to Predict Failure to Reach Sustained Response to Antiviral Treatment in Chronic Hepatitis C
APRIL 2005
Patients with high level of serum bile acids and ferritin responded less to interferon alfa2b alone or plus ribavirin for 48 weeks. (Jorquera et al.,J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol. 20, 547, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Antiviral Therapy in Advanced Chronic Liver Disease Due to Hepatitis C Virus Infection: Pilot Study
APRIL 2005
Low and titrable dose IFN-&#61537; and ribavirin therapy in patients with HCV-related advanced chronic liver disease achieves improvement in hepatic synthetic function, Child Pugh score and ascites. However, close monitoring for serious adverse events is warranted. (Kumar et al., J. Gastroenterol.Hepatol., 20, 527, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Hepatocyte Steatosis is an Important Predictor of Response to Interferon (IFN) Monotherapy in Japanese Patients Infected with HCV Genotype 2a: Virological Features of IFN-Resistant Cases With Hepatocyte Steatosis
APRIL 2005
High serum ferritin and body mass index are independent factors associated with steatosis. The sustained virological response rate in patients with high-grade steatosis was significantly lower than in the low-grade group. (Akuta et al., J. Med. Virol. 75,550, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- The Importance of HCV on the Burden of Chronic Liver Disease in Italy: A Multicenter Prevalence Study of 9,997 Cases
APRIL 2005
Hepatitis C is the important pathogenic factor for chronic liver disease in Italy However, a comparison between the prevalent and incident cases suggests that in future HCV infection will also play a progressively decreasing role, in part as a consequence of treatment. (Sagnelli et al., J. Med. Virol. 75, 522, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Favorable Efficacy of Long-Term Lamivudine Therapy in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis B: An 8-Year Follow-Up Study
APRIL 2005
Long-term lamivudine therapy improves long-term prognosis, especially when additional treatment for breakthrough hepatitis is used. (Akuta et al., J. Med. Virol. 75,491, 2005).

PRURITUS- A Controlled Trial of Ondansetron in the Pruritus of Cholestasis
APRIL 2005
Ondansetron was of no benefit in this group of pruritic patients during short-term treatment. (O'Donohue et al., Alim. Pharmacol. Therapeut., 21, 1041, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Liver histology of Asian patients with chronic hepatitis B on prolonged lamivudine therapy
APRIL 2005
Patients who developed YMDD mutations had higher baseline histological scores. With YMDD mutations, the liver histology became less favourable after 3 years than at the first year, although there was still improvement when compared with that at baseline. (Yuen et al., Aliment. Pharmacol. Therapeut., 21, 841, 2005

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Colchicine Treatment of Alcoholic Cirrhosis: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial of Patient Survival
APRIL 2005
In patients with advanced alcoholic cirrhosis, colchicine does not reduce overall or liver-specific mortality. Liver histology improves to septal fibrosis in a minority of patients after 24 months of treatment, with similar rates of improvement in patients receiving placebo and colchicine. Colchicine is not recommended for patients with advanced alcoholic cirrhosis. (Morgan et al., Gastroenterology, 128, 4, 882,2005)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Randomized Study Comparing Banding And Propranolol to Prevent Initial Variceal Hemorrhage in Cirrhotics with High-Risk Esophageal Varices
APRIL 2005
For patients with cirrhosis with high-risk esophageal varices and no history of variceal hemorrhage, propranolol-treated patients had significantly higher rates of failure, first esophageal varix hemorrhage, and cumulative mortality than banding patients. Direct costs of medical care were not significantly different.( Jutabha et al., Gastroenterology, 128,4, 870, 2005)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Prophylaxis of Hepatitis B Virus Recurrence After Liver Transplantation in Carriers of Lamivudine-Resistant Mutants
APRIL 2005
In carriers of YMDD mutants, the risk of post-Liver transplantation HBV recurrence is low, provided that preemptive and prophylactic adefovir dipivoxil (in addition to lamivudine and hepatitis B immunoglobulin) treatment is used in highly viremic patients and prophylactic lamivudine (or adefovir dipivoxil) and hepatitis B immunoglobulin therapy is continued in low viremic patients (Marzano et al.Liver Transpl ,11,532-538, 2005)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Analysis of Risk Factors for Tumor Recurrence After Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Key Role of Immunosuppression
APRIL 2005
Cyclosporine exposure was the only independent prognostic determinant at multivariate analysis . High Cyclosporine exposure favors tumor recurrence; Cyclosporine blood levels should be kept to the effective minimum in HCC patients. (Vivarelli et al., Liver Transpl 11,497,2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Efficacy of Short-Term Interferon Therapy for Patients Infected with Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 2a.
APRIL 2005
Duration of IFN therapy can be shortened to less than 24 wks in patients with good predictive factors. (Tabaru et al., Am J Gastroenterol.;100, 862, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Effects of Indomethacin on Viral Replication Markers in Asymptomatic Carriers of Hepatitis B: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial.
APRIL 2005
Use of asymptomatic HBsAg carriers who have detectable HBV-DNA or HBeAg in their sera has been observed to be useful. (Bahrami et al., Am J Gastroenterol;100, 856, 2005).

ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE- Efficacy and Tolerability of Long-Acting Injectable Naltrexone for Alcohol Dependence. A Randomized Controlled Trial
APRIL 2005
Long-acting naltrexone was well tolerated and resulted in reductions in heavy drinking among treatment-seeking alcohol-dependent patients during 6 months of therapy. These data indicate that long-acting naltrexone can be of benefit in the treatment of alcohol dependence. (Garbutt et al., JAMA. 293, 1617, 2005)

NON-ALCOHOLIC STEATOHEPATITIS- Incidence and Risk Factors for Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis: Prospective Study of 5408 Women Enrolled in Italian Tamoxifen Chemoprevention Trial
APRIL 2005
Tamoxifen was associated with higher risk of development of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis only in overweight and obese women with features of metabolic syndrome, but the disease, in both the tamoxifen and the placebo group, after 10 years of follow up seems to be indolent. (Bruno et al., BMJ, 330,932, 2005)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Diabetes Increases the Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in the United States: A Population Based Case Control Study
APRIL 2005
Diabetes is associated with a 2√3-fold increase in the risk of HCC, regardless of the presence of other major HCC risk factors. Findings from this population based study suggest that diabetes is an independent risk factor for HCC. (Davila et al., Gut 54, 533, 2005)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA -Effects of the Combined Treatment with Thalidomide, Megestrol And Interleukine-2 in Cirrhotic Patients with Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma. A Pilot Study
APRIL 2005
In cirrhotic patients, the combined treatment with thalidomide + megestrol (╠interleukin-2) does not control hepatocellular carcinoma growth, possibly due to the low tolerance to thalidomide and interleukin-2 preventing the use of appropriate dosages. (Mirici Cappa et al., Dig.Liver Dis., 37,4, 254,2005)

NON ALCOHOLIC STEATOHEPATITIS- Metabolic Aspects of Hepatitis C Viral Infection: Steatohepatitis Resembling But Distinct From NASH
APRIL 2005
When hepatitis C is compared with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), there are a number of similarities and several differences. These differences may explain the markedly higher incidence of HCC development in chronic hepatitis C compared with that in NASH. HCV infection needs to be viewed not only as a liver disease but also as a metabolic disease. (Koike et al., J. Gastroenterology, 40, 329, 2005)

NEWS FROM THE 40th ANNUAL MEETING OF THE EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF THE LIVER (EASL)√ April 13-17-2005, PARIS, FRANCE
APRIL 2005
News on Viral Hepatitis B (J.Hepatol, vol. 42, suppl.2, April 2005)

NEWS FROM THE 40th ANNUAL MEETING OF THE EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF THE LIVER (EASL)√ April 13-17-2005, PARIS, FRANCE
APRIL 2005
News on Viral Hepatitis C (J.Hepatol, vol. 42, suppl.2, April 2005)

NEWS FROM THE 40th ANNUAL MEETING OF THE EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF THE LIVER (EASL) √ April 13-17-2005, PARIS, FRANCE
APRIL 2005
News on Liver Cirrhosis (J.Hepatol, vol. 42, suppl.2, April 2005)

NEWS FROM THE 40th ANNUAL MEETING OF THE EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF THE LIVER (EASL)√ April 13-17-2005, PARIS, FRANCE
APRIL 2005
News on Hepatocellular Carcinoma (J.Hepatol, vol. 42, suppl.2, April 2005)

NEWS FROM THE 40TH ANNUAL MEETING OF THE EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF THE LIVER (EASL)√ April 13-17-2005, PARIS, FRANCE
APRIL 2005
News on Liver Transplantation (J.Hepatol, vol. 42, suppl.2, April 2005)

NEWS FROM THE 40th ANNUAL MEETING OF THE EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF THE LIVER (EASL)√ April 13-17-2005, PARIS, FRANCE
APRIL 2005
News on Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (J.Hepatol, vol. 42, suppl.2, April 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Monitoring of HBeAg Levels May Help to Predict the Outcomes of Lamivudine Therapy for HBeAg Positive Chronic Hepatitis B
MARCH 2005
The changing patterns of quantitative HBeAg levels by serial monitoring during lamivudine therapy may allow not only the prediction of treatment responses, but also an early recognition of a viral breakthrough.(Park et al, J Viral Hepat., 12, 216, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Impact of Interferon-Alpha Therapy on Liver Fibrosis Progression in Patients With HBeAg-Negative Chronic Hepatitis B
MARCH 2005
In HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B, IFNa significantly reduces the rate of fibrosis progression, but such an effect is mainly observed in patients with sustained biochemical responses. In relapsers and nonresponders, fibrosis benefit equals the treatment period. The strongest factor associated with fibrosis progression is the change in necroinflammatory activity. (Papatheodoridis et al., J Viral Hepat. ,12, 199, 2005)

VIRAL HPATITIS B-Long-Term Follow-Up of Chronic Hepatitis B After the Emergence of Mutations in the Hepatitis B Virus Polymerase Region
MARCH 2005
As mutations emerge in the polymerase region, the clinical outcome deteriorates.Thus, monitoring the patterns of mutation of the polymerase gene is useful when using lamivudine for treating HBV.(Natsuizaka et al., J Viral Hepat.;12, 154, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Efficacy of A 24-Week Course of PEG-Interferon Alpha-2b Monotherapy in Patients With Acute Hepatitis C After Failure of Spontaneous Clearance.
MARCH 2005
A 6-month course of PEG-IFN alpha-2b is effective in inducing resolution of acute hepatitis C in 94% of patients. Our results provide a rationale for delaying treatment for 12 weeks, targeting only patients who fail to clear the virus spontaneously and truly requiring therapy without loss of efficacy. (Santantonio et al., J Hepatol., 42, 329, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Barriers to Interferon-Alpha Therapy Are Higher in Intravenous Drug Users Than in Other Patients with Acute Hepatitis C.
MARCH 2005
Treatment of acute hepatitis C with pegylated IFN-alpha is highly beneficial, but its effectiveness is affected by a poor rate of acceptance and/or adherence to currently available regimens, especially in intravenous drug users and women. (Broers et al., J Hepatol. , 42, 323, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Etanercept as an Adjuvant to Interferon and Ribavirin in Treatment-Naive Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection: A Phase 2 Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
MARCH 2005
Etanercept given for 24 weeks as adjuvant therapy to interferon and ribavirin significantly improved virologic response at the end of the etanercept randomization period among patients with HCV, and was associated with decreased incidence of most adverse effects associated with interferon and ribavirin. (Zein et al., J Hepatol. , 42, 315, 2005).

VIRAL HPATITIS C- Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma and Other Nonhepatic Malignancies in Swedish Patients with Hepatitis C Virus Infection
MARCH 2005
Incidence of several malignancies in a nationwide cohort of HCV-infected persons are reported. Although the delayed diagnosis of HCV probably has resulted in an underestimation of the risk, this study showed a significantly increased risk of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and multiple myeloma (Duberg et al., Hepatology, 41, 652, 2005)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Effects of Celecoxib and Naproxen on Renal Function in Nonazotemic Patients with Cirrhosis and Ascites
MARCH 2005
Short-term administration of celecoxib does not impair platelet and renal function and the response to diuretics in decompensated cirrhosis. Further studies are needed to evaluate the long-term safety of this drug in cirrhosis. (ClЮria et al., Hepatology, 41,579, 2005)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Variceal Ligation Plus Nadolol Compared with Ligation for Prophylaxis of Variceal Rebleeding: A Multicenter Trial
MARCH 2005
Nadolol plus EVL reduces the incidence of variceal rebleeding compared with endoscopic variceal ligation alone. A combined treatment could lower the probability of variceal recurrence after eradication. (De la PeЯa et al., Hepatology, 41,572, 2005)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Evidence of Normal Thrombin Generation in Cirrhosis Despite Abnormal Conventional Coagulation Tests
MARCH 2005
Generation of thrombin is normal in cirrhosis. (Tripodi et al., Hepatology, 41, 533, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Retinal Toxicity During Pegylated a-Interferon Therapy for Chronic Hepatitis C: A Multifocal Electroretinogram Investigation
MARCH 2005
Subclinical retinal toxicity during anti-viral therapy with pegylated a-interferon and ribavirin was frequent in this study and it suggests that patients should be warned of this risk and monitored during therapy.(Chisholm et al., Aliment Pharmacol Ther., 21, 723, 2005)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-The Role of Transcatheter Arterial Embolization for Patients with Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Nationwide, Multicentre Study Evaluated By Cancer Stage
MARCH 2005
For patients who fulfilled the criteria of transcatheter arterial embolization, embolization can serve as a primary treatment for patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma. The survival benefit of transcatheter arterial embolization is regardless of tumour stages.(Huang et al., Aliment Pharmacol Ther.;21,687, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Dynamic Decision Analysis to Determine Optimal Treatment Duration in Chronic Hepatitis C
MARCH 2005
The dynamics of alanine aminotransferase levels and cost-per-cure provides a useful alternative to determine the duration of therapy in chronic hepatitis C.(Veldt et al., Aliment Pharmacol Ther.,21, 539, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Adefovir Dipivoxil Added to Ongoing Lamivudine Therapy in Patients with Lamivudine-Resistant Hepatitis B E Antigen-Negative Chronic Hepatitis B
MARCH 2005
Administration of adefovir in patients with lamivudine-resistant chronic hepatitis B results in significant suppression of viral replication. (Vassiliadis et al., Aliment Pharmacol Ther.;21,531, 2005)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Proposal of a New Prognostic Model for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: An Analysis of 403 Patients
MARCH 2005
The Tokyo score (consisting of four factors: serum albumin, bilirubin and size and number of tumours) is a simple system which provides good prediction of prognosis for Japanese patients with HCC requiring radical therapy. (Tateishi et al., Gut;54:419, 2005)

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSI and PRIMARY SCLEROSING CHOLANGITIS - Which Patients with Primary Biliary Cirrhosis or Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis Should Undergo Endoscopic Screening for Oesophageal Varices Detection?
MARCH 2005
Patients with primary biliary cirrhosis and primary sclerosing cholangitis. Patients with a platelet count <200 000/mm3, an albumin level <40 g/l, and a bilirubin level >20 ╣mol/l should be screened for oesophageal varices. (Bressler et al., Gut; 54,407, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Hepatitis C Reactivation in Patients with Chronic Infection with Genotypes 1b and 2c: A Retrospective Cohort Study of 206 Untreated Patients
MARCH 2005
Genotype 2c carriers are at high risk of hepatitis reactivation, suggesting that virus genetic heterogeneity is important in the natural history of HCV, questioning the linearity of hepatic fibrosis progression during hepatitis C. (Rumi et al., Gut; 54, 402, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Insulin Resistance Impairs Sustained Response Rate to Peginterferon plus Ribavirin in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients
MARCH 2005
Insulin resistance, fibrosis, and genotype are independent predictors of the response to antiviral therapy in chronic hepatitis C patients treated with peginterferon plus ribavirin. (Romero-Gomez et al., Gastroenterology.; 128, 636, 2005)

LIVER DISEASES- Contribution of Metabolic Factors to Alanine Aminotransferase Activity in Persons with Other Causes of Liver Disease
MARCH 2005
Obesity, insulin resistance, and the metabolic syndrome are strong predictors of increased alanine aminotransferase activity in the US population, both in persons with and in persons without other causes of chronic liver disease. We hypothesize that metabolic fatty liver disease related to these conditions is the cause of the increased alanine aminotransferase activity and may be underrecognized in persons with other causes of chronic liver disease. (Ioannou et al.,Gastroenterology.;128, 627, 2005)

CHOLANGIOCARCINOMA- Risk Factors of Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma in the United States: a Case-Control Study
MARCH 2005
This population-based study shows that in addition to previously well described risk factors, several others could be associated with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. These include hepatitis C virus, human immunodeficiency virus, liver cirrhosis, and diabetes.(Shaib et al., Gastroenterology.;128, 620, 2005)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Differences in Long-Term Survival After Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt for Refractory Ascites and Variceal Bleed.
MARCH 2005
Patients who received TIPS for variceal bleed had significantly longer survival compared with those for refractory ascites. (Membreno et al., J Gastroenterol Hepatol., 20, 474, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Factors Associated with Response to Lamivudine: Retrospective Study in a Tertiary Care Clinic Serving Patients With Chronic Hepatitis B.
MARCH 2005
Pre-tx ALT levels were not associated with response to lamivudine, but lower platelet count and female sex in HBeAg (+) patients were important predictive factors of a favorable response to lamivudine therapy. (Hann et al., J Gastroenterol Hepatol., 20, 433, 2005).

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Improving the Prediction of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Cirrhotic Patients with an Arterially-Enhancing Liver Mass
MARCH 2005
Delayed hypointensity of an arterially-enhancing mass was the strongest independent predictor of HCC, regardless of the size of the lesion. (Marrero et al., Liver Transpl, 11, 281, 2005).

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Comparing the Outcomes of Radiofrequency Ablation and Surgery in Patients with a Single Small Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Well-Preserved Hepatic Function.
MARCH 2005
Despite a higher rate of local recurrence, radiofrequency ablation was found to be as effective as surgical resection for the treatment of single small HCC in patients with well-preserved liver function, in terms of the incidence of remote recurrence and the patients' likelihood of achieving overall and/or recurrence-free survival. (Hong et al., J Clin Gastroenterol. , 39, 247, 2005)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Quantitative Treatment of the Hyponatremia of Cirrhosis
MARCH 2005
The hyponatremia of cirrhosis is frequently caused by diuretics. Its treatment can be effectively guided with the aid of quantitative estimates of Na deficit and/or water excess in all instances, although the methods of correction described are indicated in severe clinical conditions. (Castello et al., Dig.Liver Dis.,37, 176, 2005).

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Serum Fibrosis Markers Can Detect Large Oesophageal Varices with a High Accuracy.
MARCH 2005
Non-invasive markers of fibrosis correctly predict the presence or absence of medium to large oesophageal varices in 86% of alcoholic patients. (Vanbiervliet et al., Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol.;17,333, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Antibody Levels and Protection after Hepatitis B Vaccination: Results of a 15-Year Follow-up
MARCH 2005
Hepatitis B vaccination strongly protected against infection for at least 15 years in all age groups. Antibody levels decreased the most among persons immunized at 4 years of age or younger. (McMahon et al., Ann Intern Med.,142, 333, 2005)

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS- Raloxifene improves bone mass in osteopenic women with primary biliary cirrhosis: results of a pilot study
FEBRUARY 2005
Raloxifene appears safe and of benefit in preventing bone loss in patients with Primary Biliary Cirrhosis. (Levy et al., Liver Int., 25, 117, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Early Hepatitis C Virus Changes and Sustained Response in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Treated with Peginterferon a-2b and Ribavirin
FEBRUARY 2005
Peginterferon a-2b plus ribavirin treatment produces significant changes in HCV dynamics that can be detected as early as 48 h after the first dose of peginterferon a -2b and that these changes are useful in predicting response to therapy in CHC patients. (Gallegos-Orozco et al., Liver Int., 25, 91, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Decreased Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Whose Serum Alanine Aminotransferase Levels Became Less Than Twice the Upper Limit of Normal Following Interferon Therapy
FEBRUARY 2005
Patients with ALT levels less than twice the upper limit of normal after IFN therapy have a reduced risk of progression to HCC from C-viral chronic liver disease. (Moriyama et al., Liver Int., 25, 85, 2005)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Hemosiderosis is Associated with Accelerated Decompensation and Decreased Survival in Patients with Cirrhosis
FEBRUARY 2005
The presence of siderosis is associated with more advanced liver dysfunction. Even when the effects of baseline liver function are taken into account, siderosis is associated with decreased survival and more rapid decompensation in cirrhosis. (Kayali et al., Liver Int., 25, 41, 2005)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Alcohol, tobacco and obesity are synergistic risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma
FEBRUARY 2005
Alcohol, tobacco and obesity are independent risk factors for HCC in our patient population, and they interact synergistically to increase the risk of HCC. Data from this study may allow us to stratify cirrhotics into low- and high-risk groups for the development of HCC surveillance strategies. (Marrero et al., J. Hepatol, 42, 218, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Long-Term Clinical and Histological Outcomes in Patients with Spontaneous Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Seroclearance
FEBRUARY 2005
In patients with spontaneous HBsAg seroclearance, necroinflammation was markedly improved and liver fibrosis was unchanged or regressed despite occult HBV infection. However, HCC developed in a minority of cases. (Ahn et al., J Hepatol. 42, 188, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Extended Lamivudine Treatment in Patients with Hbeag-Negative Chronic Hepatitis B
FEBRUARY 2005
The clinical benefit of lamivudine is greatest for patients without YMDD variants over 2 years of extended treatment. Additional therapies should be considered for patients with YMDD variants. (Rizzetto et al., J. Hepatol., 42, 173, 2005)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION-Peginterferon Alfa-2a for Hepatitis C After Liver Transplantation: Two Randomized, Controlled Trials
FEBRUARY 2005
Peginterferon alfa-2a treatment for 48 weeks is safe and tolerable and offers some efficacy in the post-OLT setting. Randomized controlled studies are needed to establish the efficacy of pegylated interferon and ribavirin in patients who have undergone OLT. (Chalasani et al., Hepatology; 41, 289, 2005.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- High-Dose Ribavirin in Combination with Standard Dose Peginterferon for Treatment of Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
FEBRUARY 2005
A high dose of ribavirin according to an individualized schedule is feasible but associated with more frequent and serious side effects such as anemia. The viral response merits further evaluation. (Lindahl et al., Hepatology; 41,275, 2005.)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-The Value of Residual Liver Volume as a Predictor of Hepatic Dysfunction and Infection After Major Liver Resection
FEBRUARY 2005
The likelihood of severe hepatic dysfunction following liver resection can be predicted by a small %RLV and a high BMI whereas postoperative infection is more related to liver dysfunction than precise residual liver volume (Schindl et al., Gut, 54, 289, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Prospective comparison of transient elastography, Fibrotest, APRI, and liver biopsy for the assessment of fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C
FEBRUARY 2005
FibroScan is a simple and effective method for assessing liver fibrosis, with similar performance to FibroTest and APRI (aspartate transaminase to platelets ratio index). The combined use of FibroScan and FibroTest to evaluate liver fibrosis could avoid a biopsy procedure in most patients with chronic hepatitis C. (Castera et al., Gastroenterology, 128, 343, 2005)

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS-The Effect of Ursodeoxycholic Acid Therapy on the Natural Course of Primary Biliary Cirrhosis
FEBRUARY 2005
Treatment with ursodesoxicolic acid alone normalizes the survival rate of patients with primary biliary cirrhosis when given at early stages. However, there is a continued need for new therapeutic options in patients with advanced disease. (Corpechot et al., Gastroenterology, 128, 297, 2005)

INTERFERON- Interferon-induced depression: prevalence and management
FEBRUARY 2005
Psychiatric side effects are easy to see during interferon therapy. A psychiatric evaluation should be considered on all patients before treatment. If depression develops, it should be treated aggressively, and selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors are the anti-depressants of choice (Scalori et al., Dig Liver Dis.;37,102, 2005)

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS-Therapeutic Efficacy of Decreased Nitrite Production by Bezafibrate in Patients with Primary Biliary Cirrhosis
FEBRUARY 2005
The therapeutic efficacy of bezafibrate in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis, including those with Uusodeoxicolic acid-resistant primary biliary cirrhosis. Downregulation of nitrite production by antigen-presenting dendritic cells may have some relationship with the therapeutic efficacy of bezafibrate; however, further study will be needed to clarify whether or not the antiinflammatory activity of bezafibrate. (Akbar et al., J. Gastroenterology, 40, 157, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Risk Factors for Development of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C After Sustained Response to Interferon
FEBRUARY 2005
The risk of development of HCC is not completely eliminated in sustained responders to IFN. These findings may be useful in determining a follow-up strategy after a sustained response to IFN. (Ikeda et al., J.Gastroenterology, 40, 148, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Clinical and Virological Characteristics of Untreated Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C who Develop Serum Alanine Aminotransferase Flare-Up
FEBRUARY 2005
Multivariate analysis identified genotype 2 as the only significant determinant of ALT flare-up. ALT flare-up occurred in three of four patients without increase in viral load. (Hiraga et al., J. Med. Virol. 75:240, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Quantitative Detection of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen by Chemiluminescent Microparticle Immunoassay During Lamivudine Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Carriers
FEBRUARY 2005
Monitoring of serum HBsAg concentrations with the use of Architect HBsAg QT, in addition to measurement of HBV DNA levels, is helpful for evaluating the response to lamivudine treatment and for the early detection of drug-resistant strains. (Kohmoto et al., J. Med. Virol. 75, 235, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Liver Histology in Patients with Hbsag Negative Anti-Hbc and Anti-HCV Positive Chronic Hepatitis
FEBRUARY 2005
Anti-HBc positive patients with HCV chronic infection have a significantly higher degree of liver fibrosis, and that hepatocellular apoptosis, bile duct damage, and ductular proliferation correlate with the presence of this antibody in the serum. (Sagnelli et al., J. Med. Virol. 75, 222-226, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- A Randomized, Controlled Trial of Combination Therapy for Chronic Hepatitis B: Comparing Pegylated Interferon-a2b and Lamivudine with Lamivudine Alone
FEBRUARY 2005
In patients with HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B, staggered combination treatment with pegylated interferon-a2b and lamivudine may lead to a higher rate of virologic response than lamivudine monotherapy. (Chan et al., Annals, 142, 1-30, 2005).

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Cirrhosis: Is Clinical Tumor Classification before Transplantation Realistic?
FEBRUARY 2005
Current imaging techniques have a high incidence of false-negative and false-positive results when evaluating HCC in cirrhosis (Sotiropoulos et al., Transplantation. 79, 483, 2005).

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION-Triple Antiviral Therapy with Amantadine for IFN-Ribavirin Nonresponders with Recurrent Posttransplantation Hepatitis C.
FEBRUARY 2005
Triple antiviral therapy for 48 weeks induced a sustained virological response in 33% of IFN-ribavirin nonresponders with recurrent hepatitis C. (Bizollon et al., Transplantation, 79,325-329, 2005).

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Liver Transplantation and Hepatitis C Virus: Systematic Review of Antiviral Therapy.
FEBRUARY 2005
Even the best antiviral therapy (pegylated interferon/ribavirin) is neither easily used nor reasonably effective. The best strategy will be pretransplant treatment, most likely with newer agents (Triantos et al., Transplantation, 79, 261, 2005).

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Meta-analysis: endoscopic variceal ligation for primary prophylaxis of oesophageal variceal bleeding
FEBRUARY 2005
In patients with cirrhosis with moderate to large varices and who have not bled, endoscopic varices ligation compared with b-blockers significantly reduced bleeding episodes and severe adverse events, but had no effect on mortality (Khuroo et al., Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 21,347, 2005)

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS-Long-Term Ursodeoxycholic Acid Therapy for Primary Biliary Cirrhosis: A Follow-Up to 12 Years
FEBRUARY 2005
Long-term ursodeoxycholic acid therapy did not alter disease progression in primary biliary cirrhosis patients despite a significant improvement in serum bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase consistent with, and similar to, those seen in ursodeoxycholic acid cohorts in randomized trials. (Chan et al., Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 21,217-26, 2005).

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Partial Splenic Embolization in Patients with Cirrhosis: Efficacy, Tolerance and Long-Term Outcome in 32 Patients.
FEBRUARY 2005
In patients with cirrhosis, Partial Splenic Embolization may resolve cytopenia and the clinical complications related to hypersplenism or splenomegaly. However, due to a high risk of severe complications, particularly splenic abscess, the indications of Partial Splenic Embolization should be very limited and the extent of necrosis should be strictly controlled during the Partial Splenic Embolization procedure. (N'kontchou et al., Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol., 17, 179, 2005)

LIVER DISEASES-Correlation of Alcohol Consumption with Liver Histological Features in Non-Cirrhotic Patients.
FEBRUARY 2005
In non-cirrhotic patients liver steatosis and fibrosis were more common features among patients who reported a higher alcoholic consumption, but no clear-cut association between typical histological features of alcoholic liver disease and alcohol consumption was found. (Kondili et al., Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol.;17,155-159, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Liver Steatosis is an Independent Risk Factor for Treatment Failure in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C.
FEBRUARY 2005
Steatosis in the liver biopsy performed before the beginning of antiviral treatment was found to be associated only to the body mass index of the patients and to be a strong independent factor for treatment failure (Thomopoulos et al., Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol.;17, 149, 2005).

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS-Mycophenolate Mofetil for the Treatment of Primary Biliary Cirrhosis in Patients With an Incomplete Response to Ursodeoxycholic Acid.
FEBRUARY 2005
Mycophenolate Mofetil is not associated with important clinical benefits in Primary Biliary Cirrhosis based on the results of this pilot investigation. (Talwalkar et al., J.Clin. Gastroenterology, 39,168, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Nosocomial Transmission of HCV in the Liver Unit of a Tertiary Care Center
JANUARY 2005
HCV nosocomial infection appears to occur via patient-to-patient transmission in liver units, particularly in individuals who require long hospitalizations. Continuous reinforcement of universal prevention measures and, when possible, isolation of patients at higher risk might further reduce nosocomial HCV transmission. (Forns et al., Hepatology, 41, 115, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Persistence of Hepatitis C Virus in Patients Successfully Treated for Chronic Hepatitis C
JANUARY 2005
In patients with Sustained virological response after therapy, small quantities of HCV RNA may persist in liver or macrophages and lymphocytes for up to 9 years. This continuous viral presence could result in persistence of humoral and cellular immunity for many years after therapy and could present a potential risk for infection reactivation. (Radkowski et al., Hepatology, 41, 106, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Impact of Steatosis on Progression of Fibrosis in Patients with Mild Hepatitis C
JANUARY 2005
Steatosis is a major determinant of the progression of fibrosis in mild hepatitis C, regardless of the genotype. Our results argue for antiviral treatment in the subgroup of patients with mild hepatitis and steatosis. (Fartoux et al., Hepatology, 41,82, 2005)

AMINOTRANSFERASES- Chronological Development of Elevated Aminotransferases in a Nonalcoholic Population
JANUARY 2005
An association between development of elevated aminotransferases and risk factors of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease has been observed. (Suzuki et al., Hepatology, 41, 64, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Noninvasive Assessment of Liver Fibrosis by Measurement of Stiffness in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
JANUARY 2005
Noninvasive assessment of liver stiffness with transient elastography appears as a reliable tool to detect significant fibrosis or cirrhosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C. (Ziol et al., Hepatology, 41,48-54, 2005)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Serum Sodium Predicts Mortality in Patients Listed for Liver Transplantation
JANUARY 2005
Serum sodium < 126 mEq/L at listing or while listed for transplantation is a strong independent predictor of mortality. (Biggins et al., Hepatology, 41,32, 2005).

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Effect of Somatostatin Versus Octreotide on Portal Haemodynamics in Patients with Cirrhosis and Portal Hypertension
JANUARY 2005
Both somatostatin and octreotide can significantly reduce portal pressure, although somatostatin is more potent than octreotide. (Yang et al., Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol.,17, 53, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Pegylated Interferon Alfa-2b Alone or in Combination with Lamivudine for Hbeag-Positive Chronic Hepatitis B: A Randomised Trial
JANUARY 2005
Interpretation Treatment with pegylated interferon alfa-2b is effective for HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B. Combination with lamivudine in the regimen used is not superior to monotherapy. HBV genotype is an important predictor of response to treatment. (Janssen et al., Lancet, 365, 123, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Hepatic Vein Transit Times Using a Microbubble Agent Can Predict Disease Severity Non-Invasively in Patients with Hepatitis C
JANUARY 2005
Hepatic vein transit times using an ultrasound microbubble contrast agent can assess HCV related liver disease with clear differentiation between mild hepatitis and cirrhosis. (Lim et al., Gut, 54, 128, 2005)

LIVER STEATOSIS- Hepatic Triglyceride Content and its Relation to Body Adiposity: A Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Study
JANUARY 2005
Hepatic steatosis appears to be closely related to body adiposity, especially central obesity. MRS may be a useful method for monitoring intrahepatocellular lipids in future interventional studies. (Thomas et al., Gut; 54,122-127, 2005)

CHRONIC HEPATITIS- The Use of Growth Factors to Manage the Hematologic Side Effects of PEG-Interferon Alfa and Ribavirin.
JANUARY 2005
Although this early work shows tremendous promise for managing hematologic side effects of combination therapy for HCV, and potentially enhancing adherence, further research is needed to clarify the efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of growth factors in the management of patients with chronic HCV. (Collantes et al., Clin Gastroenterol. 39, Suppl 1, S9-, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Relation Between Hepatocyte G1 Arrest, Impaired Hepatic Regeneration, and Fibrosis in Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection.
JANUARY 2005
Hepatocyte G1 arrest in chronic HCV infection as been observed. This could impair hepatocellular function and limit hepatic regeneration. (Marshall et al., Gastroenterology.,128, 33, 2005).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Early Viral Kinetics and Treatment Outcome in Combination of High-Dose Interferon Induction Vs. Pegylated Interferon Plus Ribavirin for NaОve Patients Infected with Hepatitis C Virus of Genotype 1b and High Viral Load
JANUARY 2005
Early monitoring of viral kinetics is a useful measure to predict virological response, and might facilitate development of rational and effective therapeutic strategies .(Tsubota et al., J. Med. Virol., 75, 27, 2005).

ACUTE HEPATITIS- The Predictive Value of Admission and Follow Up Factor V and VII Levels in Patients with Acute Hepatitis and Coagulopathy
JANUARY 2005
In patients with hepatitis and coagulopathy without encephalopathy at presentation, admission factor VII level may serve as a reliable prognostic marker. Subsequently, during hospitalization, changes in factor V are better outcome indicators. (Elinav et al., J.Hepatol., 42, 82, 2005)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Cardiac Alterations in Cirrhosis: Reversibility After Liver Transplantation
JANUARY 2005
Cardiac alterations in cirrhosis present with mild increases in ventricular wall thickness, diastolic dysfunction that worsens with ascites and physical stress, and abnormal systolic response to stress limiting exercise capacity. Liver transplantation reverses these alterations. (Torregroosa et al., J.Hepatol., 42, 68, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Insulin resistance is associated with liver fibrosis in non-diabetic chronic hepatitis C patients
JANUARY 2005
Insulin resistance may play a role in fibrogenesis in chronic hepatitis C patients infected with genotype non-3. (Muzzi et al., J.Hepatol., 42, 41,2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Histopathology and Clinical Correlates of End-Stage Hepatitis B Cirrhosis: A Possible Mechanism to Explain the Response to Antiviral Therapy
JANUARY 2005
High-grade inflammation is common in end-stage HBV cirrhosis, but it is not readily detected by biochemical and virologic parameters. High-grade inflammation is associated with a greater degree of hepatic decompensation. (Sigal et al., Liver Transpl ,11, 82, 2005)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Liver Transplantation in HIV-Infected Recipients
JANUARY 2005
Orthotopic liver transplantation seems a safe therapeutic option in the short term for HIV-infected persons with end stage liver disease, including patients with a history of drug abuse. If indicated, an antiretroviral regimen consisting of 3 nucleosides could be used to avoid interactions with immunosuppressive drugs (Moreno et al., Liver Transpl, 11,76, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Activity of adefovir dipivoxil against all patterns of lamivudine-resistant hepatitis B viruses in patients
JANUARY 2005
Treatment with adefovir dipivoxil showed similar antiviral efficacy in patients with lamivudine-resistant virus from all four patterns (Westland et al., J.Viral Hepatitis, 12, 67, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Treatment of Histologically Mild Hepatitis C Virus Infection with Interferon and Ribavirin: a Multicentre Randomized Controlled Trial
JANUARY 2005
In the treatment group 32 of 98 (33%) patients achieved a sustained virological response (SVR). Patients infected with genotype 1 had a lower SVR than those infected with genotype non-1 (18%vs 49%P = 0.02). Patients who fail to respond by 12 weeks of therapy should have their treatment curtailed early (Wright et al., J.Viral Hepatitis, 12, 58, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- 13C-Methacetin Breath Test as Liver Function Test in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection
JANUARY 2005
The non-invasive 13C-methacetin breath test reliably distinguishes between early cirrhotic (Child A) and noncirrhotic patients, but fails to detect early stages of fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C. (Braden et al., Aliment Pharmacol Ther. ,21, 179, 2005)

SERUM ALANINE AMINOTRANSFERASE- Coffee and Caffeine Consumption Reduce the Risk of Elevated Serum Alanine Aminotransferase Activity in the United States
JANUARY 2005
In this large, national, population-based study, among persons at high risk for liver injury, consumption of coffee and especially caffeine was associated with lower risk of elevated ALT activity. ( Ruhl et al., Gastroenterology. 128, 24, 2005

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Lamivudine and High-dose Interferon-[alpha] Combination Therapy for Naive Children With Chronic Hepatitis B Infection.
JANUARY 2005
Lamivudine and high-dose interferon-[alpha] combination therapy after a 3-month lamivudine induction may represent an effective treatment option for children with chronic hepatitis B (Saltik-Temizel et al., J.Clin. Gastroent.39, 68, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Incidence and Characteristics of Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas in a Multicenter Case File of Patients With Hepatitis C Virus√Related Symptomatic Mixed Cryoglobulinemias
JANUARY 2005
The overall risk of Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas in patients cryoglobulinemic syndrome is about 35 times higher than in the general population (12 times higher if nonaggressive lymphomas are excluded). The presence of CS did not significantly affect the treatment of newly diagnosed lymphomas (Monti et al., Arch Intern Med., 165,101, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Antiviral Therapy for Cirrhotic Hepatitis C: Association with Reduced Hepatocellular Carcinoma Development and Improved Survival
JANUARY 2005
Interferon therapy for cirrhotic patients with chronic hepatitis C, especially those in whom the infection had been cured, inhibited the development of hepatocellular carcinoma and improved survival (Shiratori ET AL., Ann Intern Med.;142,105, 2005)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Viral Kinetics During Antiviral Therapy in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C and Persistently Normal ALT Levels
DECEMBER 2004
Viral kinetics are similar in patients with chronic hepatitis C and persistently normal ALT levels and those with elevated ALT levels. However, in patients with elevated GGT levels, a major association with reduced efficacy of blocking virus production and lower infected cell loss was observed. (Kronenberger et al., Hepatology, 40:1442, 2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Progression of Liver Fibrosis in Women Infected with Hepatitis C: Long-Term Benefit of Estrogen Exposure
DECEMBER 2004
Menopause appears to be associated with accelerated liver fibrosis progression in HCV-infected women, an effect that may be prevented by hormone replacement therapy. Pregnancies may have a beneficial impact on the long-term progression of liver fibrosis (Di Martino et al., Hepatology, 40:1426, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Comparison of Adefovir and Tenofovir in the Treatment of Lamivudine-Resistant Hepatitis B Virus Infection
DECEMBER 2004
Tenofovir may become an effective alternative for the treatment of patients with lamivudine-resistant HBV infection (van BЖmmel et al., Hepatology, 40:1421,2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Epoetin Alfa Improves Quality of Life in Anemic HCV-Infected Patients Receiving Combination Therapy
DECEMBER 2004
Epoetin alfa provided clinically significant HRQL improvement in HCV-infected patients receiving IFN/RBV therapy.. (Pockros et al., Hepatology, 40:1450, 2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Waning immunity to plasma-derived hepatitis B vaccine and the need for boosters 15 years after neonatal vaccination
DECEMBER 2004
One or more booster immunizations are needed in seronegative subjects by at least 15 years following neonatal immunization with plasma-derived HB vaccine (Lue t al., Hepatology, 40:1415, 2004)

PRIMARY SCLEROSING CHOLANGITIS - Metronidazole and Ursodeoxycholic Acid for Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial
DECEMBER 2004
Combining Metronidazole with UDCA in PSC improved serum ALP levels and New Mayo Risk Score, but no statistically significant effect on disease progression as assessed via liver histology or ERCP was seen. (FДrkkilД et al., Hepatology, 40:1379, 2004).

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Randomized Trial of Leuprorelin and Flutamide in Male Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma Treated with Tamoxifen
DECEMBER 2004
No benefit in survival was found with antiandrogenic treatment in male patients with advanced HCC. (Hepatology, 40:1361, 2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Treatment with Pegylated Interferon and Ribavarin in HCV Infection with Genotype 2 or 3 for 14 Weeks: A Pilot Study
DECEMBER 2004
Patients with genotype 2 or 3 and early virological response obtained a high sustained virological response after 14 weeks of treatment. (Dalgard et al., Hepatology;40: 1260, 2004)

LIVER STEATOSIS-Leptin, Insulin Resistance, and Liver Fibrosis in Human Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
DECEMBER 2004
In human nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, no relationship between leptin levels and fibrosis stage was demonstrated.(Angulo et al., J.Hepatol., 41, 943, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Evaluation of a Panel of Non-Invasive Serum Markers to Differentiate Mild from Moderate-To-Advanced Liver Fibrosis in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients
DECEMBER 2004
The three-marker panel (Hyaluronic acid, TIMP-1 and alpha2-macroglobulin ) may reliably differentiate CHC patients with moderate/severe fibrosis from those with no/mild fibrosis, although accurate delineation between stages was not possible.(Patel et al., J.Hepatol., 41, 935,2004).

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS-Estrogen Receptors in Cholangiocytes and the Progression of Primary Biliary Cirrhosis
DECEMBER 2004
Estrogen receptors are expressed in primary biliary cirrhosis and other pathologies associated with cholangiocyte proliferation but not in normal subjects. The low expression of Estrogen receptors -&#945; in PBC and their disappearance in the advanced histological stages suggests that an estrogenic deficiency could favour the evolution of this disease toward ductopenia. (Alvaro et al., J.Hepatol., 41, 905, 2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Evaluation of transcatheter arterial embolization prior to percutaneous tumor ablation in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: a randomized controlled trial
DECEMBER 2004
Transcatheter arterial embolization has a limited use in suppressing local recurrence when performed before percutaneous ethanol injection therapy but not before radiofrequency ablation. (Akamatsu et al., Liver International, 24, 625,2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Risk Factors for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Hepatitis C Patients with Sustained Virologic Response to Interferon Therapy
DECEMBER 2004
Pretreatment hepatic fibrosis score, age, and alcohol consumption may affect development of HCC even in sustained virologic responders. Thus, patients with these factors should be carefully followed even after eradication of the virus (Iwasaki et al., Liver International, 24, 603,2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Peginterferon &#61537;-2b Plus Ribavirin Compared with Interferon &#61537; -2b Plus Ribavirin for Initial Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C in Saudi Patients Commonly Infected with Genotype 4
DECEMBER 2004
Saudi patients with chronic HCV attained a higher, although statistically not significant sustained virologic response with pegylated interferon plus ribavirin compared with interferon plus ribavirin. (Alfaleh et al., Liver International,24, 568, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Lamivudine Treatment for Acute Severe Hepatitis B: a Pilot Study
DECEMBER 2004
Lamivudine induces a prompt clinical, biochemical, serological and virological response in immunocompetent patients with de novo HBV infection. Lamivudine may prevent the progression of severe acute disease to fulminant or chronic hepatitis and should be considered for use in selected patients (Schmilovitz-Weiss et al., Liver International, 24, 6 ,547, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Hepatitis B Virus Reactivation in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Cytotoxic Chemotherapy and the Role of Preemptive Lamivudine Administration
DECEMBER 2004
Preemptive use of lamivudine for prevention of HBV reactivation in patients who need short-term chemotherapy is encouraged. (Dai et al., Liver International, 24, 540, 2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Association Between Serum Hepatocyte Growth Factor and Survival in Untreated Hepatocellular Carcinoma
DECEMBER 2004
Patients with inoperable HCC had higher levels of serum HGF than the healthy controls, and serum HGF was negatively correlated with the survival time (Vejchapipat et al., J.Gastroenterol., 39, 12, 1435, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Change in Hepatitis C Virus Genotype in Injecting Drug Users
DECEMBER 2004
HCV genotype change in injecting drug users occurs at least as frequently as infections in naОve individuals. (Aitken et al., J. Med. Virol. 74:543, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Peginterferon Alfa-2a (40 Kilodaltons) and Ribavirin in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C and Normal Aminotransferase Levels
DECEMBER 2004
The efficacy and safety of peginterferon alfa-2a and ribavirin combination therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C and persistently normal ALT levels are similar to that in patients with elevated ALT levels (Zeuzem et al., Gastroenterology, 127, 1724, 2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Radiofrequency Ablation Improves Prognosis Compared with Ethanol Injection for Hepatocellular Carcinoma &#8804;4 cm
DECEMBER 2004
Radiofrequency ablation yielded better clinical outcomes than conventional and higher-dose PEI in treating HCC 4 cm or less (Lin et al., Gastroenterology,127 , 6 ,1714, 2004)

LIVER FIBROSIS- Serum Markers Detect the Presence of Liver Fibrosis: A Cohort Study
DECEMBER 2004
Assessment of liver fibrosis with multiple serum markers used in combination is sensitive, specific, and reproducible, suggesting they may be used in conjunction with liver biopsy to assess a range of chronic liver diseases.(Rosenberg et al., Gastroenterology, 127,6, 1704, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Pegylated Interferon Alfa-2b vs Standard Interferon Alfa-2b, Plus Ribavirin, for Chronic Hepatitis C in HIV-Infected Patients . A Randomized Controlled Trial
DECEMBER 2004
In combination with ribavirin, treatment with peginterferon alfa-2b is more effective than standard interferon alfa-2b for HCV infection in HIV-infected patients (Carrat et al., JAMA, 292:2839, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Combination of &#61537;-interferon with lamivudine reduces viral breakthrough during long-term therapy
DECEMBER 2004
IFN-&#61537; combined with lamivudine may reduce viral breakthrough during long-term lamivudine therapy, probably by suppressing the appearance of YMDD mutants. (Jang et al., J.Gastroenterol. Hepatol. ,19, 1363, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Long-term outcome of vertically acquired and post-transfusion hepatitis C infection in children
DECEMBER 2004
Outcomes among children with HCV acquired in infancy demonstrate asymptomatic and slowly progressive disease, at least for the initial decade of infection (Rerksuppaphol et al., J.Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 19, 1357, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Triple Combination of Thymalfasin, Peginterferon Alfa-2a and Ribavirin in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C who Have Failed Prior Interferon and Ribavirin Treatment: 24-Week Interim Results of a Pilot Study
DECEMBER 2004
In patients non responsive to interferon and ribavirin treated with Triple Combination of Thymalfasin, Peginterferon Alfa-2a and Ribavirin viral response was 60.8% at week 12 and 47.8% at week 24 (Poo et al., J.Gastroenterol.Hepatol., 19, S79, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Long-term Therapy with Lamivudine in Renal Transplant Recipients with Chronic Hepatitis B.
DECEMBER 2004
Lamivudine is a safe and effective treatment of active hepatitis B in renal transplant patients (Thabut et al., Eur. J.Gastroenterol.Hepatol.16,1367, 2004).

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- The Role of the Immune System in the Control of Hepatocellular Carcinoma.
DECEMBER 2004
The use of dendritic-cell vaccination raises exciting possibilities of preventing the formation of HCC in high-risk individuals such as those with cirrhosis (O'Beirne et al., Eur. J.Gastroenterol.Hepatol.16, 1257, 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Palpable Epigastric Liver as a Physical Sign of Cirrhosis: a Prospective Study.
DECEMBER 2004
A palpable liver in the epigastrium is a useful physical sign of cirrhosis in clinical practice. (McCormick et al., Eur. J.Gastroenterol. Hepatol. 16, 1331, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Lamivudine Therapy for Chronic Hepatitis B in Renal Transplant Recipients.
DECEMBER 2004
Lamivudine therapy has become the treatment of choice in HBV positive renal transplant recipients and improves prognosis and outcome of infected patients (Durlik et al., Eur. J.Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 16,1261, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Meta-Analysis: Effect of Hepatitis C Virus Infection on Mortality in Dialysis
DECEMBER 2004
This meta-analysis demonstrates that antihepatitis C virus-positive patients on dialysis have an increased risk of mortality compared with hepatitis C virus-negative patients. (Fabrizi et al., Aliment. Pharmacol. Therap., 20, 1271, 2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Endoscopic Prediction of Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Evaluation of Bleeding Esophageal Varices
DECEMBER 2004
The endoscopic form of bleeding esophageal varices can be a significant predictive factor for HCC in patients with liver cirrhosis. (Nakayama et al., Digestion ,70:233, 2004).

INFECTIOUS HEPATITIS- Effectiveness of Immune Globulins in Preventing Infectious Hepatitis and Hepatitis A: A Systematic Review
DECEMBER 2004
Immune globulins are efficacious in preventing infectious hepatitis and hepatitis A, but included studies do not report data about their safety . Average length of passive protection was three months. (Bianco et al., Dig.Liver Dis., 36, 834, 2004)

CHRONIC HEPATITIS-The Aetiology of Chronic Hepatitis in Italy: Results from a Multicentre National Study
DECEMBER 2004
Hepatitis C virus is the most important pathogenic factor for chronic hepatitis in Italy; however, the comparison between prevalent and incident cases suggests that this infection will play a less important role in the future. A comparison with previous reports shows that both hepatitis B virus-related and hepatitis Delta virus-related cases are decreasing (Stroffolini et al., Digest. Liver Disease, 36, 829, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-A Pilot Study of Interleukin-11 in Subjects with Chronic Hepatitis C and Advanced Liver Disease Nonresponsive to Antiviral Therapy.
DECEMBER 2004
This pilot study suggest that interleukin-11 may be beneficial for patients with hepatic inflammation and advanced liver disease associated with chronic HCV infection. (Lawitz et al., Am J Gastroenterol;99,1, 2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Peginterferon Alfa-2a (40 Kilodaltons) and Ribavirin in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C and Normal Aminotransferase Levels
DECEMBER 2004
The efficacy and safety of peginterferon alfa-2a and ribavirin combination therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C and persistently normal ALT levels are similar to that in patients with elevated ALT levels.(Zeuzem et al., Gastroenterology, 127, 6, 1724 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Short-Term Antiviral Efficacy of BILN 2061, A Hepatitis C Virus Serine Protease Inhibitor, in Hepatitis C Genotype 1 Patients
NOVEMBER 2004
BILN 2061 is a well-tolerated and very active compound that reduced serum viral RNA concentrations after 2 days of treatment in patients infected with genotype 1 HCV independent of the degree of fibrosis. Nevertheless, further clinical trials are on hold pending resolution of animal toxicity issues. (Hinrichsen et al., Gastroenterology, 127, 1629, 2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Hepatitis C Infection and the Increasing Incidence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Population-Based Study
NOVEMBER 2004
There has been a significant recent increase in HCV- and HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma . Increasing rates of HCV-related hepatocellular carcinoma can explain a substantial proportion of the reported increase in hepatocellular carcinoma incidence during recent years.(Davila et al., Gastroenterology, 127,1372, 2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Histological Response in Patients Treated by Interferon plus Ribavirin for Hepatitis C Virus-Related Severe Fibrosis.
NOVEMBER 2004
Interferon can slow fibrosis progression in sustained virological responders with severe fibrosis. In patients with a non-virological response and treated for 12 months the fibrosis progression rate was nil, meaning that only fibrosis stabilization could be obtained in these patients. Then, longer treatment duration (3-4 years) could be evaluated in non-virological responders. (Abergel et al., E. J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 16,1219, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Recurrent Hepatitis C Genotype 1b Following Liver Transplantation: Treatment with Combination Interferon-Ribavirin Therapy.
NOVEMBER 2004
Combination therapy has a very limited efficacy in the liver transplant setting, although some benefit may be achieved, even in those with advanced graft fibrosis. Tolerance, however, remains a matter of concern (Berenguer et al., E.J.Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 16, 1207, 2004)

LIVER CANCER- Primary Liver Cancer: Worldwide Incidence and Trends
NOVEMBER 2004
Estimates from the year 2000 indicate that liver cancer remains the fifth most common malignancy in men and the eighth in women worldwide. Primary liver cancer is the first human cancer largely amenable to prevention using hepatitis B virus vaccines and screening of blood and blood products for hepatitis B and C viruses. (Bosch et al., Gastroenterology. 127, Suppl 1, S5, 2004 ).

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS- Antimitochondrial Antibodies and Reactivity to N. Aromaticivorans Proteins in Icelandic Patients with Primary Biliary Cirrhosis and Their Relatives
NOVEMBER 2004
Interestingly, despite the homogenous genetic background, the group of Icelandic patients with primary biliary cirrhosis was heterogeneous in their antimitochondrial antibodies reactive patterns and also reacted with N. aromaticivorans proteins (Olafsson et al., Am J Gastroenterol. 99,2143, 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Acute Administration of Carvedilol is More Effective than Propranolol Plus Isosorbide-5-Mononitrate in the Reduction of Portal Pressure in Patients with Viral Cirrhosis
NOVEMBER 2004
In viral cirrhosis carvedilol is more effective than propranolol plus isosorbide-5-mononitrate in the reduction of portal pressure (Lin et al., Am.J.Gastroenterol., 99, 1953, 2004)

NON ALCOHOLIC STEATOHEPATITIS- Beneficial Effects of Tumor Necrosis Factor-alfa Inhibition by Pentoxifylline on Clinical, Biochemical, and Metabolic Parameters of Patients with Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis
NOVEMBER 2004
In patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, pentoxifylline therapy effectively achieved significant clinical and biochemical improvement with reduction in homeostatic metabolic assessment. These benefits are possibly mediated through suppression of Tumor Necrosis Factor-&#945; (Satapathy et al., Am. J. Gastroenterol., 99, 1946, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Peginterferon Alfa-2b Plus Ribavirin for the Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C Genotype 4
NOVEMBER 2004
Peginterferon alfa-2b in combination with ribavirin is effective in the treatment of HCV genotype 4 (sustained virological response = 68%). The treatment was well tolerated by most of the patients.(Hasan et al., Am.J.Gastroenterol, 99, 1733, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Interferon Alpha-2b and Ribavirin for Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C and Normal ALT
NOVEMBER 2004
Patients with normal ALT had a rate of SVR comparable to that reported in patients with elevated ALT. (Jacobson et al., Am J Gastroenterol;99:1700, 2004)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- One-year Morbidity After Donor Right Hepatectomy
NOVEMBER 2004
The majority of complications after donor right hepatectomy occur in the perioperative period. Later findings may include asymptomatic thrombocytopenia, with an incidence possibly as high as 23%, though the significance of this finding remains uncertain. (LaPointe Rudow et al., Liver Transpl 10,1428, 2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Survival of Cirrhotic Patients with Early Hepatocellular Carcinoma Treated by Percutaneous Ethanol Injection or Liver Transplantation
NOVEMBER 2004
This study challenges the therapeutic efficacy of PEI for patients with cirrhosis and early HCC, when compared to OLT: the proportion of both long-term survivors and tumor-free survivors was increased by OLT over PEI. The benefit of OLT extends to all patients, regardless of the degree of liver impairment. (Andriulli et al., Liver Transpl, 10,1355,2004.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Testing for Hepatitis C Virus Infection Should Be Routine for Persons at Increased Risk for Infection
NOVEMBER 2004
Medical and public health professionals should continue the practice of screening persons for risk factors; offering testing to those at increased risk for HCV infection. (Alter et al., Annal Int.Med. 141, 715, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Beneficial Effects of 'Lamivudine Pulse' Therapy in HBeAg-Positive Patients with Normal ALT
NOVEMBER 2004
Pulse therapy in HBeAg positive patients in normal ALT showed a beneficial effect.(Sarin et al., J.Viral Hepatitis, 11, 552, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- A Randomized Trial of Prolonged High Dose of Interferon Plus Ribavirin for Hepatitis C Patients Nonresponders to Interferon Alone
NOVEMBER 2004
These results suggest that retreatment with a reinforced regimen should be focused in nonresponder genotype 2/3 patients and younger genotype 1/4 patients, who are most likely to benefit. Induction therapy does not improve SVR. (Fattovich et al., J.Viral Hepatitis, 11, 543, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Treatment of Patients with HCV Infection with or Without Liver Biopsy
NOVEMBER 2004
In most patients with HCV infection, virological clearance after therapy can be achieved irrespective of whatever a liver biopsy might show. (Andriulli et al., J.Viral Hepatitis, 11, 536, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Multispecific T cell response and negative HCV RNA tests during acute HCV infection are early prognostic factors of spontaneous clearance
NOVEMBER 2004
Host related factors, in particular sex and CMI, play a crucial role in the spontaneous clearance of this virus. Most importantly, a negative HCV RNA test and broad CMI within the first month after onset of the symptoms represent very efficacious predictors of viral clearance and could thus be used as criteria in selecting candidates for early antiviral treatment (Spada et al., Gut;53:1673, 2004)

TTVIRUS -TTV Infection in Children Born to Mothers Infected with TTV But Not With HBV, HCV, or HIV
NOVEMBER 2004
59% of children became positive for TTV DNA during the follow-up period (Komatsu et al., J. Med. Virol. 74,499, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Long-Term Clinical and Virological Outcomes of Chronic Hepatitis C After Successful Interferon Therapy
NOVEMBER 2004
In chronic hepatitis C Sustained Virological Response, after therapy albeit free of occult HCV and/or HBV infections over a decade, retain mild liver inflammation and the risk of HCC. (Tsuda et al., J. Med. Virol. 74,406, 2004).

LIVER STEATOSIS- Therapeutic Efficacy of an Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonist in Patients with Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis
NOVEMBER 2004
Losartan (an angiotensin II receptor antagonist) may be therapeutically efficacious for Non alcholic steatohepatitis. (Yokohama et al., Hepatology , 40, 1222, 2004.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Detection of Apoptotic Caspase Activation in Sera from Patients with Chronic HCV Infection is Associated with Fibrotic Liver Injury
NOVEMBER 2004
Compared with conventional surrogate markers such as aminotransferases, detection of caspase activity in serum might be a more sensitive method of detecting early liver injury. (Bantel et al. Hepatology;40, 1078, 2004.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Preemptive Therapy for Hepatitis C Virus after Living-Donor Liver Transplantation
NOVEMBER 2004
The present preemptive antiviral protocol after Living-Donor Liver Transplantation is safe and might warrant a controlled study for confirming its benefit on graft survival. (Sugawara et al., Transplantation, 78,1308, 2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Treatment of Established Recurrent Hepatitis C in Liver-Transplant Recipients with Pegylated Interferon-alfa-2b and Ribavirin Therapy.
NOVEMBER 2004
Combination pegylated interferon with ribavirin appears to effective therapy in HCV recurrence and in HCV nonresponsive to interferon and ribavirin. (Neff et al., Transplantation. 78,1303, 2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- High-Dose Vitamin E Supplementation Does Not Diminish Ribavirin-Associated Haemolysis In Hepatitis C Treatment With Combination Standard &#61537;-Interferon and Ribavirin
NOVEMBER 2004
Vitamin E supplementation alone during standard &#61537;-interferon and ribavirin therapy does not appear to diminish ribavirin-associated haemolysis. (Saeian et al., Aliment. Pharmacol.Therapeutics, 20, 1189, 2004)

SCLEROSING CHOLANGITIS -A Prospective, Randomized-Controlled Pilot Study of Ursodeoxycholic Acid Combined with Mycophenolate Mofetil in the Treatment of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis
NOVEMBER 2004
Mycophenolate mofetil combined with ursodeoxycholic acid does not appear to provide additional benefit compared with standard doses of ursodeoxycholic acid alone in the treatment of primary sclerosing cholangitis. (Sterling et al., Aliment. Pharmacol. Therapeutics, 20,9, 943, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Meta-Analysis: a Randomized Trial of Peginterferon Plus Ribavirin for the Initial Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C Genotype 4
NOVEMBER 2004
Treatment-naОve patients infected with hepatitis C virus genotype 4 should be treated with peginterferon plus standard-dose ribavirin for 1 year, with an expected sustained virological response rate of 72%. (Khuroo et al., Aliment. Pharmacol. Therapeutics, 20, 9, 931, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Incidence of Thyroid Dysfunction During Interferon Alfa-2b and Ribavirin Therapy in Men With Chronic Hepatitis C . A Prospective Cohort Study
NOVEMBER 2004
Men with HCV infection treated with interferon and ribavirin should undergo routine screening for thyroid disease. Treatment of HCV can be safely continued in these patients because thyroid disease responds well to treatment and is reversible in most individuals. (Bini et al.,Arch Intern Med., 164, 2371, 2004)

LIVER STEATOSIS- Metabolic Significance of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Nonobese, Nondiabetic Adults
NOVEMBER 2004
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is closely associated with metabolic disorders, even in nonobese, nondiabetic subjects. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease can be considered an early predictor of metabolic disorders, particularly in the normal-weight population. (Kim et al., Arch Intern Med.,164,2169, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Safety and Efficacy of Alamifovir In Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection
NOVEMBER 2004
Alamifovir has shown potent in vivo anti-HBV activity, with a favourable safety profile (Soon et al., J.Hepatol, 41, 852, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Hepatitis C Virus Infection Affects The Brain-Evidence From Psychometric Studies And Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
NOVEMBER 2004
The data provide evidence of central nervous system involvement in patients with HCV infection.. (Weissenborn et al.J.Hepatol. 41, 845,2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Fibrosis Progression After Liver Transplantation In Patients With Recurrent Hepatitis C
NOVEMBER 2004
Recipients with fibrosis stages 3 or 4 in the 1-year biopsy had a significantly reduced survival rate, while fibrosis stage 0√2 indicated excellent survival. (Neumann et al., J.Hepatol. 41, 830, 2004)

LIVER STEATOSIAS- Silent Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease≈A Clinical√Histological Study
NOVEMBER 2004
Liver enzyme levels could not be used as surrogate markers of non-alcoholic-steatohepatitis. Histological hallmarks of patients with metabolic-syndrome, normal liver enzymes and non-alcoholic-steatohepatitis consist to a lesser degree of lobular-inflammation and a more severe ballooning and glycogenated-nuclei. (Tarantino et al., J.Hepatol. 41, 751, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- A Six-Year Follow-Up After Interferon-Alpha Monotherapy for Chronic Hepatitis C Infection in Hemodialysis Patients.
NOVEMBER 2004
These findings show that the long-term clinical, biochemical, and virological response to interferon monotherapy is good in Hemodialysis patients with HCV infection. (Odzemir et al., Ren Fail.,26, 583, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Is Screening for Interferon Retinopathy in Hepatitis C Justified?
NOVEMBER 2004
The incidence of retinopathy with pegylated interferon is low. The retinal complications resolve while treatment is continued and are asymptomatic. This study does not support routine screening for retinopathy in patients treated with pegylated interferon and ribavirin for hepatitis C. (Cuthbertson et al., Br J Ophthalmol. 88, 1518, 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Clinical value of increased serum creatinine concentration as predictor of short-term outcome in decompensated cirrhosis.
NOVEMBER 2004
Serum creatinine concentration is a parameter that should be included in the prognostic assessment of patients with decompensated cirrhosis, but should be combined with other specific parameters of liver function, such as bilirubin, albumin, and the international normalized ratio (INR) for prothrombin time. (Serra et al., Scand J Gastroenterol. , 39,1149, 2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-A Comparison of Chemoembolization Combination with and Without Radiotherapy for Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma.
NOVEMBER 2004
This retrospective study suggests that the outcome of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma can be influenced by radiation therapy.(Zeng et al., Cancer J., 10, 307, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Silent Celiac Disease in Chronic Hepatitis C: Impact of Interferon Treatment on the Disease Onset and Clinical Outcome.
NOVEMBER 2004
In hepatitis C patients, the activation of silent celiac disease during interferon treatment is almost universal and should be suspected, but it uncommonly requires interferon treatment discontinuation. Symptoms subside after interferon withdrawal. (Durante-Mangoni et al., J.Clinical Gastroenterology, 38,901, 2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Efficacy of Lamivudine Treatment in Japanese Patients with Hepatitis B Virus-Related Cirrhosis
NOVEMBER 2004
Lamivudine therapy improved the clinical course in some cirrhotic patients. However, in patients with Child▓s B and C cirrhosis, the emergence of YMDD mutants sometimes led to deterioration of liver function. (Ooga et al., J. Gastroenterology , 39, 1078, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Interferon Therapy for Aged Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C: Improved Survival in Patients Exhibiting A Biochemical Response
NOVEMBER 2004
IFN treatment could reduce liver-related mortality in chronic hepatitis C patients over age 60, notably in patients showing a biochemical response and in those showing a sustained virological response (Imai et al., J. Gastroenterology, 39,1069,2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Factors Contributing to Ribavirin-Induced Anemia
NOVEMBER 2004
Careful administration is necessary in patients >60 years old, in female patients, and in patients receiving a ribavirin dose of 12 mg/kg or more. Patients who experience a fall in hemoglobin concentrations of 2 g/dL or more at week 2 after the start of treatment should be monitored with particular care. (Nomura et al.,J.Gastroenterol. Hepatol.,19, 1312, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Four Years of Lamivudine Treatment in Chinese Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B
NOVEMBER 2004
Despite the emergence of YMDD-variant HBV, Chinese patients showed increased HBeAg seroconversion and improvement in ALT levels with an increased duration of treatment with lamivudine (Chang et al., J.Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 19, 1276,2004)

LIVER STEATOSIS-Role of Liver Biopsy in the Assessment of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease.
NOVEMBER 2004
Histology remains the 'gold standard' for making the important distinction between simple steatosis, which is generally non-progressive and readily reversible, and steatohepatitis, which has the potential to progress to severe fibrosis or cirrhosis. (Hubscher, E. J. . Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 16,1107, 2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Randomised Double-Blinded Trial Evaluating Silymarin for Chronic Hepatitis C in an Egyptian Village: Study Description and 12-Month Results
NOVEMBER 2004
The recommended dose of silymarin can be safely taken for 1 year and improves symptoms and general well-being, but has no effect upon hepatitis C virus viremia, serum ALT, or serum and ultrasound markers for hepatic fibrosis. (Tanamly et al., Digest. Liver Diseases, 36, 752, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Alcohol is an Important Co-Factor for Both Steatosis and Fibrosis in Northern Italian Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
OCTOBER 2004
Genotype 3a is the main risk factor for steatosis in patients with CHC. The grade of steatosis correlated with both grading and staging only in patients with genotypes other than 3a and this relationship is strictly linked to alcohol consumption. (Fabris et al., J.Hepatol.,41, 644,2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Bleeding Ectopic Varices≈Treatment with Transjugular Intrahepatic Porto-Systemic Shunt (TIPS) and Embolisation
OCTOBER 2004
Ectopic varices do rebleed despite a reduction of porto-systemic pressure gradient &#8804; 12mmHg or by 25√50% of baseline, following TIPS. Embolisation stopped bleeding in all but 1 patient. We recommend performing embolisation at the time of the initial TIPS to control bleeding from ectopic varices.(Vangeli et al., J.Hepatol., 41, 560,2004).

HEPATIC IRON OVERLOAD- Effects of Venesections and Restricted Diet in Patients with the Insulin-Resistance Hepatic Iron Overload Syndrome
OCTOBER 2004
Both venesections and diet improved iron, metabolic and hepatic indices. (Piperno et al., Liver International, 24, 471, 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Clinical Characteristics and Outcome of Patients with Cirrhosis and Refractory Ascites
OCTOBER 2004
In patients with cirrhosis and refractory ascites, older age, hepatocellular carcinoma and diabetes, but not Child-Pugh score at entry, were independent predictive factors of poor survival while abstinence was an independent predictive factor of good survival. These findings should be taken into account when deciding on liver transplantation in patients with refractory ascites. (Moreau et al., Liver International, 24, 457, 2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-The Role of Transcatheter Arterial Embolization in Patients with Resectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Nation-Wide, Multicenter Study
OCTOBER 2004
Surgery is superior to transcatheter arterial embolization for patients with resectable HCC. In patients who refuse surgery, TAE can be considered for selected patients whose tumors are in early stage..( Huang et al., Liver International, 24, 419, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Lymphocyte T Helper-Specific Reactivity in Sustained Responders to Interferon and Ribavirin with Negativation (Seroreversion) of Anti-Hepatitis C Virus
OCTOBER 2004
One-quarter of the SR showed seroreversion of anti-HCV and weaker CD4+ specific HCV proliferation than those who remained anti-HCV positive. The data suggest that complete viral eradication is a possible and achievable clinical objective (Marinho et al., Liver Internationl, 24, 413, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Influence of Alcohol Use, Race, and Viral Coinfections on Spontaneous HCV Clearance in A US Veteran Population
OCTOBER 2004
The likelihood of spontaneous clearance of HCV is decreased by alcohol and HIV coinfection. (Piasecki et al., Hepatology;40, 892, 2004.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Clinical Outcome of HBeAg-negative Chronic Hepatitis B in Relation to Virological Response to Lamivudine
OCTOBER 2004
Lamivudine is highly effective in reducing viral load in HBeAg-negative patients. After 4 years of therapy, 39% of patients maintain a virological and biochemical response. Loss of virological response may lead to clinical deterioration in patients with cirrhosis (Di Marco et al., Hepatology;40, 883, 2004)

SERUM BILIRUBIN -Serum Bilirubin Levels in the U.S. Population: Gender Effect and Inverse Correlation with Colorectal Cancer
OCTOBER 2004
Serum bilirubin levels vary significantly with gender, race, and smoking status. The observed inverse correlation between serum bilirubin concentrations and a history of nondermatological malignancy, particularly colorectal cancer, warrants further investigation of a potentially important chemopreventive function of bilirubin (Zucker et al., Hepatology;40, 827, 2004)

NONALCOHOLIC STEATOHEPATITIS- Natural History of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis: A Longitudinal Study of Repeat Liver Biopsies
OCTOBER 2004
Progression of liver fibrosis was found in a third of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis patients 4.3 years after the first liver biopsy, and obesity and body mass index were the only associated factors with such progression (Fassio et al., Hepatology;40, 820,2004).

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Persistent ascites and low serum sodium identify patients with cirrhosis and low MELD scores who are at high risk for early death
OCTOBER 2004
Persistent ascites and low serum sodium identify patients with cirrhosis with high mortality risk despite low MELD scores. (Heuman et al., Hepatology;40, 802, 2004.)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Influence of Portal Hypertension and its Early Decompression by TIPS Placement on the Outcome of Variceal Bleeding
OCTOBER 2004
Increased portal pressure estimated by early HVPG measurement is a main determinant of treatment failure and survival in variceal bleeding, and early TIPS placement reduces treatment failure and mortality in high risk patients defined by hemodynamic criteria.. (Monescillo et al., Hepatology;40,793, 2004)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Liver Transplantation in Patients with HIV Infection
OCTOBER 2004
The degree of immunosuppression from iatrogenic drug therapy and HIV does not lead to increased risk of infectious complications. (Fung et al., Liver Transpl;10,S39,2004.)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION-Liver Transplantation for Alcoholic Liver Disease: Current Concepts and Length of Sobriety
OCTOBER 2004
Although not supported by all studies, abstinence of fewer than 6 months prior to transplantation may be a reasonable predictor of recidivism and is widely employed as a criterion for listing for liver transplantation. (Lim et al., Liver Transpl, 10, S31, 2004.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Impact of Tacrolimus Versus Cyclosporine in Hepatitis C Virus-Infected Liver Transplant Recipients on Recurrent Hepatitis: A Prospective, Randomized Trial.
OCTOBER 2004
Choice of immunosuppressants inhibitors does not impact severity of recurrent HCV. (Martin et al., Liver Transpl.,10, 1258, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Long Term Clinical Outcome of Chronic Hepatitis C Patients With Sustained Virological Response to Interferon Monotherapy
OCTOBER 2004
Five year survival of European sustained virological responders was similar to the overall population, matched for age and sex. No HCCs were detected during long term follow up. (Gut , 53:1504-1508, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Genotype C Hepatitis B Virus Infection is Associated with an Increased Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
OCTOBER 2004
Genotype C HBV infection is an independent risk factor for HCC development in addition to liver cirrhosis (Chan et al., Gut ,53:1494, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- YMDD Mutants in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B Before Treatment Are Not Selected by Lamivudine
OCTOBER 2004
HBV mutants with mutations in the YMDD motif in patients before treatment would not be selected by lamivudine or induce breakthrough hepatitis.(Matsuda et al., J. Med. Virol.,74,361, 2004)

VIRAL HPATITIS C- Is There Any Relationship Between Hepatitis C Virus and Vitiligo?
OCTOBER 2004
Seroprevalence of HCV in vitiligo patients is not different from that of a control group in Turkey, and HCV infection may not be involved in the pathogenesis of vitiligo despite case reports showing co-existence of these 2 diseases. (Akbayir et al., J.Clin. Gastroenterol., 38,815, 2004).

AUTOIMMUNE HEPATITIS- Efficacy of Tacrolimus in the Treatment of Steroid Refractory Autoimmune Hepatitis.
OCTOBER 2004
Use of low dose tacrolimus led to successful biochemical and histologic remission and weaning off prednisone in patients with steroid refractory Autoimmune Hepatitis. (Aqel et al., J.Clin. Gastroenterol., 38,805, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Lamivudine for Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B and Advanced Liver Disease
OCTOBER 2004
Continuous treatment with lamivudine delays clinical progression in patients with chronic hepatitis B and advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis by significantly reducing the incidence of hepatic decompensation and the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (Liaw et al., N. Engl. J.Med. 351,1521, 2004

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Serum Lamivudine Levels in the Presence of a Lamivudine-Resistant HBV Mutant
OCTOBER 2004
While lamivudine serum levels appears stable when the anti-viral efficacy is fully achieved, important fluctuations are present according to the type of viral population, with a considerable decrease possibly due to the presence of the wild-type virus. (Torre et al., Dig. Liver Disease,36, 677,2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Peginterferon Alpha-2b plus Ribavirin with or Without Amantidine for the Treatment of Non-Responders to Standard Interferon and Ribavirin.
OCTOBER 2004
Peginterferon plus ribavirin therapy with or without amantidine is associated with a low sustained virological response in patients who failed interferon and ribavirin combination therapy (Hasan et al., Antivir Ther.;9, 499, 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Recombinant Factor VIIa for Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Patients with Cirrhosis: A Randomized, Double-Blind Trial
OCTOBER 2004
In Child-Pugh B and C cirrhotic patients administration of rFVIIa significantly decreased the proportion of patients who failed to control variceal bleeding. (Bosch et al., Gastroenterology, 127, 1123, 2004).

NEWS FROM 55TH ANNUAL METING OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF LIVER DISEASES (AASLD) October 29-November 2, 2004 - BOSTON
OCTOBER 2004
News on viral hepatitis B (Hepatology , vol. 40, suppl.1, 2004)

NEWS FROM 55TH ANNUAL MEETING OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF LIVER DISEASES (AASLD) , October 29-November 2, 2004 -. BOSTON
OCTOBER 2004
News on Viral Hepatitis C (Hepatology , vol. 40, suppl.1, 2004)

NEWS FROM 55TH ANNUAL MEETING OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF LIVER DISEASES (AASLD) , October 29-November 2, 2004 -. BOSTON
OCTOBER 2004
News on Liver Cirrhosis and Hepatocellular Carcinoma (Hepatology, vol. 40, suppl.1, 2004)

NEWS FROM 55TH ANNUAL MEETING OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF LIVER DISEASES (AASLD) , October 29-November 2, 2004 -. BOSTON
OCTOBER 2004
News on Miscellanea (Hepatology , vol. 40, suppl.1, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- A Dose-Finding Study of Once-Daily Oral Telbivudine in HBeAg-Positive Patients With Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection
SEPTEMBER 2004
These results support expanded clinical studies of this new agent for the treatment of hepatitis B (Lai et al., Hepatology, 40, 719, 2004.)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Hepatitis C Recurrence is More Severe After Living Donor Compared to Cadaveric Liver Transplantation
SEPTEMBER 2004
HCV recurrence is more severe in living donor liver transplantation compared to cadaveric liver transplantation. Although our results were based on a single-center experience, they should be considered in the decision-making process of transplant programs, since severe HCV recurrence may ultimately compromise graft and patient survival. (Garcia-Retortillo et al., Hepatology; 40,699,2004.)

PRIMARY SCLEROSING CHOLANGITIS- Effect of High-Dose Ursodeoxycholic Acid on Its Biliary Enrichment in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis
SEPTEMBER 2004
Biliary enrichment of UDCA increases with increasing dose and reaches a plateau at 22-25 mg/kg. There was no increase of toxic hydrophobic bile acids. If biliary enrichment of UDCA represents the decisive factor for its clinical effect, it seems likely that UDCA doses of up to 22-25 mg/kg may be more effective than lower doses (Rost et al., Hepatology, 40, 693, 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Effects of Contrast Media on Renal Function in Patients with Cirrhosis: A Prospective Study
SEPTEMBER 2004
The administration of contrast media is not associated with adverse effects on renal function in patients with cirrhosis. Cirrhosis does not appear to be a risk factor for the development of contrast media-induced nephrotoxicity (Guevara et al., Hepatology, 40, 646, 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Randomized Controlled Study of TIPS Versus Paracentesis Plus Albumin in Cirrhosis with Severe Ascites
SEPTEMBER 2004
Compared to large-volume paracentesis plus albumin, TIPS improves survival without liver transplantation in patients with refractory or recidivant ascites. (Salerno et al., Hepatology, 40,629, 2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Effects of Ribavirin Combined with Interferon-a2b on Viral Kinetics During First 12 Weeks of Treatment in Patients with Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 1 and High Baseline Viral Loads
SEPTEMBER 2004
In patients with HCV genotype 1 and high viral loads, the effects of ribavirin with IFN-a appeared slowly, after the earliest days of treatment. A long-term favourable outcome of combination therapy may be associated with a rapid viral decline in this later phase of therapy. (Enomoto et al., J. Viral Hepatitis, 11, 448, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Sustained Response After A 2-Year Course of Lamivudine Treatment of Hepatitis B e Antigen-Negative Chronic Hepatitis B
SEPTEMBER 2004
A sustained response can be achieved after a 2-year course of lamivudine in a subset of patients with Chronic hepatitis B e netaive.. (Fung et al., J.Viral Hepatitis, 11, 432, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- The Use of Lamivudine for Patients with Acute Hepatitis B (A Series of Cases)
SEPTEMBER 2004
This paper encourages the use of lamivudine in patients with severe forms of acute hepatitis B. However a randomized prospective study is warrented.(Kondili et al., J. Viral Hepatitis, 11, 427, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- High Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Anti-Hbe Positive Liver Cirrhosis Patients Developing Lamivudine Resistance
SEPTEMBER 2004
The occurrence of lamivudine resistance increases the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma in anti-HBe positive cirrhosis and warrants further research. (Andreone et al., J. Viral Hepatitis, 11, 439 ,2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Kinetics of Hepatitis B Viral Load During 48 Weeks of Treatment With 600 Mg Vs 100 Mg of Lamivudine Daily
SEPTEMBER 2004
More potent therapy appeared to result in more rapid decrease in the infected cell population (Wang et al., J. Viral Hepatitis,11, 443 , 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Racial Differences in Responses to Interferon-b-1a in Chronic Hepatitis C Unresponsive to Interferon-a: A Better Response in Chinese Patients
SEPTEMBER 2004
Interferon- b -1a provided considerable clinical benefit in Chinese patients with chronic hepatitis C unresponsive to interferon- a. (Cheng et al., J. Viral Hepatitis,11, 418 ,2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Ultrasound Guided Fine Needle Biopsy of Early Hepatocellular Carcinoma Complicating Liver Cirrhosis: A Multicentre Study
SEPTEMBER 2004
In a screening population, well over half of very small nodules arising in cirrhotic livers may prove to be hepatocellular carcinoma, and approximately 90% of these malignancies can be reliably identified with ultrasound guided-fine needle biopsy. (Caturelli et al., Gut;53,1356, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Sustained Virological Response in Hepatitis C Virus Type 1b Infected Patients is Predicted By the Number of Mutations Within The NS5A-ISDR: A Meta-Analysis Focused on Geographical Differences
SEPTEMBER 2004
Mutant-type ISDR strains may represent a subtype within genotype 1b with a more favourable response towards IFN therapy (Pascu et al., Gut 53,1345,2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS E- Hepatitis E in the South West of France in Individuals who Have Never Visited an Endemic Area
SEPTEMBER 2004
Virological and epidemiological data indicate that genotype 3 of hepatitis E virus are circulating in the south west part of France (Midi-Pyrenees) in patients with acute hepatitis and who have not visited recently areas in which HEV is endemic (Mansuy et al., J. Med. Virol. 74:419, 2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Long-Term Clinical and Virological Outcomes of Chronic Hepatitis C After Successful Interferon Therapy
SEPTEMBER 2004
These results suggest that susteined virological response, albeit free of occult HCV and/or HBV infection(s) over a decade, retain mild liver inflammation and the risk of Hepatocellular carcinoma. (Tsuda et al., J. Med. Virol. 74, 406, 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Acting Isosorbide-5-Mononitrate in Healthy Subjects and Patients With Cirrhotic Portal Hypertension
SEPTEMBER 2004
The acute administration of isosorbide-5-mononitrate produces different haemodynamic effects in healthy and diseased livers, both in the fasting state and after a meal, consistent with the hypothesis of a deranged response of the intrahepatic microcirculation to nitrates in cirrhosis. (Piscaglia et al., Digest.Liver Disease, 36, 594, 2004)

CHOLANGIOCARCINOMA- Movement of a Novel Serum Tumour Marker, RCAS1, in Patients with Biliary Diseases
SEPTEMBER 2004
Serum RCAS1 appears to be valuable as a diagnostic index for biliary carcinomas, as well as for evaluating the progression of cancers during therapy. We speculate that RCAS1 is a clinically more significant serum marker for biliary neoplasms than CA19-9. (Enjoji et al., Digest. Liver Disease , 36, 622, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Analysis of Hepatitis C Virus Quasispecies Transmission and Evolution in Patients Infected Through
SEPTEMBER 2004
Changes in E2/HVR1 quasispecies 8√22 weeks after infection, likely caused by mounting immune pressure, were predictive of ensuing chronic infection, whereas stability was associated with resolution. Our study also showed that composition of HCV quasispecies may be preserved during transmission from host to host. (Laskus et al., Gastroenterology, 127, 764, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Natural History of Chronic HBV Carriers in Northern Italy: Morbidity and Mortality After 30 Years
SEPTEMBER 2004
Over a 30-year period, chronic HBV carrier blood donors from Northern Italy did not develop clinically significant liver disease, hepatocellular cancer, or other liver-related morbidity or mortality at a higher rate than uninfected controls. The presence of medical comorbidities, older age at diagnosis, and abnormal GGT levels were independent predictors of death among chronic HBV carriers.(Manno et al., Gastroenterology, 127, 756, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Peginterferon Alfa-2b Plus Ribavirin for NaОve Patients with Genotype 1 Chronic Hepatitis C: A Randomized Controlled Trial
SEPTEMBER 2004
Combination therapy with an induction dose of PEG-Interferon was a more effective and better tolerated treatment for naОve patients with genotype 1 than combination therapy with high dose standard IFN. (Bruno et al., J.Hepatol., 41, 474, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Evaluation of amantadine in chronic hepatitis C: a meta-analysis
SEPTEMBER 2004
Combination therapy with amantadine is of no effect upon naive patients or relapsers. In non-responders, triple therapy with amantadine improved the sustained response..(Deltenre et al., J.Hepatol, 41, 462, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Comparison of Clinical Outcome Between Patients Continuing and Discontinuing Lamivudine Therapy After Biochemical Breakthrough of YMDD Mutants
SEPTEMBER 2004
Patients who discontinued lamivudine therapy increased the frequency of flare-ups and higher ALT peaks than those who continued therapy after 4 months post-breakthrough (Chen et al., J Hepatol., 41,454, 2004)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION-Donor Age Influences 10-Year Liver Graft Histology Independently of Hepatitis C Virus Infection
SEPTEMBER 2004
Donor age was also a strong factor in HCV infected patients as well as in HCV-negative patients. This variable should be taken into account, particularly for candidate recipients with long life expectancy. (Rifai et al., J Hepatol. , 41,446, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Transarterial Chemo-Lipiodolization Can Reactivate Hepatitis B Virus Replication in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
SEPTEMBER 2004
Transarterial chemo-lipiodolization can reactivate HBV, and HBeAg-positive HCC patients receiving chemo-lipiodolization should be closely monitored for HBV reactivation. (Jang et al., J.Hepatol., 41, 427, 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Effect of intravenous albumin on systemic and hepatic hemodynamics and vasoactive neurohormonal systems in patients with cirrhosis and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
SEPTEMBER 2004
Beneficial effects of albumin administration on systemic hemodynamics and renal function in spontaneous bacterial peritonitis have been observed and are related to both an improvement in cardiac function and a decrease in the degree of arterial vasodilation.(.(Fernandez et al., J.Hepatol, 41, 384,2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Role of Additional Angiography and Chemoembolization in Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma who Achieved Complete Necrosis Following Transarterial Chemoembolization
SEPTEMBER 2004
Additional angiography and chemoembolization did not reduce tumor recurrence or improve patient survival in Hepatocellular carcinoma patients who achieved complete necrosis, as assessed using dynamic computed tomography, following transarterial chemoembolization. (Jang et al., J. Gastroenterol. . Hepatol., 19, 1074, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Liver Iron Deposits in Hepatitis B Patients: Association with Severity of Liver Disease But Not with Hemochromatosis Gene Mutations
SEPTEMBER 2004
Elevated TS and liver iron deposits were frequent in non-cirrhotic HBV patients. Iron deposits were mainly mild and associated with higher activity and severity of liver disease, but not with HFE mutations. ( (Martinelli et al., J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol. , 19 , 1036 , 2004)

LIVER BIOPSY- Should A Liver Biopsy Be Done in Patients with Subclinical Chronically Elevated Transaminases?
SEPTEMBER 2004
Liver biopsy should be performed only in patients with AST > N or ALT > 2N. (de Ledinghen et al., Eur. J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol. 16, 879, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Correlation of Serum Aminotransferases With HCV RNA Levels And Histological Findings In Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C: the Role of Serum Aspartate Transaminase in the Evaluation of Disease Progression.
SEPTEMBER 2004
Aminotransferase values, especially AST, may correlate with liver damage. (Zechini et al., Eur. J.Gastroenterol. Hepatol.. 16,891, 2004) .

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Acute Administration of Carvedilol is More Effective Than Propranolol Plus Isosorbide-5-Mononitrate in the Reduction of Portal Pressure In Patients With Viral Cirrhosis.
SEPTEMBER 2004
In our patients with viral cirrhosis, carvedilol is more effective than propranolol plus isosorbide-5-mononitrate in the reduction of portal pressure. Carvedilol administration causes an increase in hepatic blood flow, but its systemic effects were similar to those of propranolol plus isosorbide-5-mononitrate (Lin et al., Am J Gastroenterol. 99,1953, 2004)

LIVER STEATOSIS-Beneficial Effects of Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha Inhibition by Pentoxifylline on Clinical, Biochemical, and Metabolic Parameters of Patients with Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis.
SEPTEMBER 2004
In patients with NASH, pentoxifylline therapy effectively achieved significant clinical and biochemical improvement with reduction in Homeostatic metabolic assessment(IR). These benefits are possibly mediated through suppression of TNF-alpha. (Satapathy et al.., Am J Gastroenterol.,99, 1946, 2004

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Peginterferon Alfa-2a Alone, Lamivudine Alone, and the Two in Combination in Patients with HBeAg-Negative Chronic Hepatitis B
SEPTEMBER 2004
Patients with HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B had significantly higher rates of response, sustained for 24 weeks after the cessation of therapy, with peginterferon alfa-2a than with lamivudine. The addition of lamivudine to peginterferon alfa-2a did not improve post-therapy response rates. (Marcellin et al., N Engl J Med.351,1206, 2004

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Obesity and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Chronic Hepatitis C.
SEPTEMBER 2004
Markers of obesity (BMI and W/H) and HCV genotype 3 are associated with the extent of steatosis and type of fatty liver. Higher grade of steatosis and presence of superimposed NASH are both associated with advanced hepatic fibrosis. (Younossi et al., J. Clin. Gastroenterol., 38, 705, 2004)

PRIMARY SCLEROSING CHOLANGITIS-Imaging of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: Preliminary Results by Two New Non-Invasive Techniques
SEPTEMBER 2004
Computerised tomographic cholangiography enables more accurate detection and location of primary sclerosing cholangitis than magnetic resonance cholangiography. Since computerised tomographic cholangiography offers additional information about biliary excretion, it may be proposed as an integrative technique in the diagnosis and follow-up of patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. (Macchi et al., Dig.Liver Dis., 36, 614,2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Peginterferon Alfa-2b Plus Ribavirin Compared With Interferon Alfa-2b Plus Ribavirin for Treatment of HIV/HCV Co-Infected Patients.
SEPTEMBER 2004
PEG-Interferon + Ribavirin was significantly more effective than Interferon + Ribavirin for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C in HIV co-infected patients, mainly of genotype 1 or 4. (Laguno et al., AIDS. 3;18, F 27. 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Histopathologic Efficacy of Ribavirin Monotherapy in Kidney Allograft Recipients with Chronic Hepatitis C.
SEPTEMBER 2004
Ribavirin alone in kidney allograft recipients results in biologic and histologic improvement without a virologic response and is reasonably well tolerated. (Fontaine et al., Transplantation, 78,853, 2004.)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Optimal Treatment Strategy for Elderly Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
AUGUST 2004
An advanced stage of HCC, not advanced age, influenced the survival rate in these elderly patients. Therefore, an optimal treatment strategy should be applied for elderly patients with HCC who demonstrate less prognostic factors in the same manner as that for non-elderly patients. (Dohmen et al., J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 19, 859, 2004

LIVER STEATOSIS- Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
AUGUST 2004
The prevalence of Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis is high in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients and liver biopsy is the only investigation to differentiate between non-alcoholic fatty liver and steatohepatitis (Gupte et al., J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 19, 854, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Hepatitis B Virus Infection After Renal Transplantation in the Presence of Antibody to Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Immunity
AUGUST 2004
Regardless of anti-HBs immunity, HBV infection occurred in immunosuppressed patients in a high endemic area (Kim et al., J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 19 , 847, 2004)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Use of Fenoldopam to Control Renal Dysfunction Early After Liver Transplantation
AUGUST 2004
Dopamine is not useful in preventing or limiting early renal dysfunction after liver transplantation, whail fenoldopam may preserve creatinine clearance by counterbalancing the renal vasoconstrictive effect of cyclosporine A.. (Biancofiore et al., Liver Transpl;,10,986, 2004.)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION-Hepatitis C Etiology of Liver Disease is Strongly Associated with Early Acute Rejection Following Liver Transplantation
AUGUST 2004
HCV etiology is strongly associated with Early Acute Rejection. (McTaggart et al., Liver Transpl; 10, 975, 2004.)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Alterations in Glucose Metabolism Associated with Liver Cirrhosis Persist in the Clinically Stable Long-Term Course After Liver Transplantation
AUGUST 2004
Preexisting impaired glucose tolerance or diabetes are the major risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance and diabetes after OLT (Tietge et al., Liver Transpl 10,1030, 2004)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION-Volumetric and Functional Recovery of the Liver After Right Hepatectomy for Living Donation
AUGUST 2004
Functional recoveryof the liver occurs much more gradually than the recovery of volume and liver biochemistries in After Right Hepatectomy for Living Donation (Nadalin et al., Liver Transpl; 10,1024, 2004)

AUTOIMMUNE HEPATITIS- Diagnostic and Therapeutic Implications of Bile Duct Injury in Autoimmune Hepatitis
AUGUST 2004
Patients with autoimmune hepatitis and bile duct injury lack features of primary biliary cirrhosis, and they respond as well to corticosteroid therapy as patients with classical disease. Background bile duct changes should not alter the diagnosis or treatment of autoimmune hepatitis . ( (Czaja et al., Liver Int., 24, 322, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B AND C- Induction of Oral Immune Regulation Towards Liver-Extracted Proteins for Treatment of Chronic HBV and HCV Hepatitis: Results of a Phase I Clinical Trial
AUGUST 2004
Immune regulation of the anti-HBV/HCV immune response via oral administration of a mixture of liver-extracted and viral proteins significantly altered the viral-specific immunity. This effect was associated with clinical and virological improvements in chronic HBV patients (Israeli et al.,Liver Int. 24, 295, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Common Heterozygous Hemochromatosis Gene Mutations are Risk Factors for Inflammation and Fibrosis in Chronic Hepatitis C
AUGUST 2004
Common heterozygous hemochromatosis mutations are associated with higher grades of inflammation and more severe hepatic fibrosis. Our findings support a role of HFE mutations as primary risk factors for fibrogenesis and disease progression in chronic hepatitis C. (Geier et al., Liver Int., 24, 285, 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- The Rational Use of Albumin in Patients with Cirrhosis and Ascites . A Delphi Study for the Attainment of a Consensus on Prescribing Standards
AUGUST 2004
For an outpatient prescription, the hypoalbuminemia limit of 2.5 g/dl or less is not sufficient, while the decision whether to administer the drug requires the evaluation of patient▓s overall clinical conditions as an essential criterion for the prescription of a home treatment with albumin (Gentilini et al., Dig. Liver Dis , 36, 539, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Reported Risk Factors are Useless in Detecting HCV-Positive Subjects in the General Population
AUGUST 2004
Reported risk factors are useless in detecting hepatitis C virus-positive subjects in the general population (Stroffolini et al., Digest.Liver Disease, 36, 547,2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Performance Standards for Therapeutic Abdominal Paracentesis
AUGUST 2004
Routine correction of prolonged prothrombin time or thrombocytopenia is not required when experienced personnel carry out paracentesis (Grabau et al., Hepatology, 40,484, 2004)

LIVER STEATOSIS- Portal Fibrosis and Hepatic Steatosis In Morbidly Obese Subjects: A Spectrum of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
AUGUST 2004
A significant subset of morbidly obese individuals has portal fibrosis in the absence of Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis that is associated with glycemic dysregulation. (Abrams et al., Hepatology, 40,475,2004)

PREGNANCY - Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy: Relationships Between Bile Acid Levels And Fetal Complication Rates
AUGUST 2004
No increase in fetal risk was detected in Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy patients with bile acid levels < 40 mmol/L, and we propose that these women be managed expectantly, which would significantly reduce the costs of medical care. (Glantz et al., Hepatology;40,467,2004.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Origin of Serum Hepatitis B Virus in Acute Exacerbation: Comparison with HBV in the Liver and from Other Exacerbation
AUGUST 2004
Viral strain in serum reflects the intrahepatic strain of the acute exacerbation. (Liu et al., Hepatology,40,310,2004)

BLOOD DONORS- Detection of HIV-1 and HCV Infections among Antibody-Negative Blood Donors by Nucleic Acid√Amplification Testing
AUGUST 2004
Minipool nucleic acid√amplification testing has helped prevent the transmission of approximately 5 HIV-1 infections and 56 HCV infections annually and has reduced the residual risk of transfusion-transmitted HIV-1 and HCV to approximately 1 in 2 million blood units (Stramer et al., N.Engl.J.Med. 351:760, 2004)

TISSUE DONORS -Probability of Viremia with HBV, HCV, HIV, and HTLV among Tissue Donors in the United States
AUGUST 2004
The prevalence rates of HBV, HCV, HIV, and HTLV infections are lower among tissue donors than in the general population. However, the estimated probability of undetected viremia at the time of tissue donation is higher among tissue donors than among first-time blood donors. The addition of nucleic acid√amplification testing to the screening of tissue donors should reduce the risk of these infections among recipients of donated tissues (Zou et al., N.Engl.J.Med. 351, 751, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Thyroid Disorders in Chronic Hepatitis C.
AUGUST 2004
Both hypothyroidism and thyroid autoimmunity are more common in patients with chronic hepatitis C-even in the absence of cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, or interferon treatment-than in normal controls or those with chronic hepatitis B infection. (Antonelli et al., Am J Med. 117,10, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Four Years Of Treatment With Lamivudine: Clinical And Virological Evaluations In HBe Antigen-Negative Chronic Hepatitis B
AUGUST 2004
Almost 90% of patients responded initially to lamivudine but the emergence of drug resistance progressively reduced the rate of virological remission to 39% at the fourth year of therapy. (Gaia, et al.,Aliment.Pharmacol. .Ther., 20, 281, 2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Expression of Somatostatin Receptors in Normal and Cirrhotic Human Liver and in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
AUGUST 2004
Cirrhotic liver and HCC express somatostatin receptor (Reynaert et al., Gut;53,1180,2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C -Racial Differences in Response Rates to Consensus Interferon in HCV Infected Patients Naive to Previous Therapy
AUGUST 2004
Racial Differences in Response Rates to Consensus Interferon in HCV Infected Patients have been observed (Gaglio et al., J. Clin. Gastroenterol.. 38,599, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Precision and Stability of Hepatitis B Virus DNA Levels in Chronic Surface Antigen Carriers
AUGUST 2004
The follow-up of the HBV DNA concentrations in 14 carriers showed in 7 carriers a rather stable course with variations within one order of magnitude, whereas in the other half the DNA concentrations fluctuated by factors between 100 and 1000000 over the observation period (Plents et al., J. Med. Virol. 73,522, 2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Interferon Monotherapy for Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C and Normal Serum Aminotransferase Levels at Commencement of Treatment
AUGUST 2004
IFN therapy is effective for patients with normal ALT levels and less than 1 Meq/ml HCV-RNA. (Mamori et al., J. Gastroenterol., 39, 776, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- A Randomized, Controlled Trial of Triple Antiviral Therapy as Initial Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C in HIV-Infected Patients
AUGUST 2004
Amantadine addition and interferon intensification do not improve the low efficacy of combination of interferon alfa plus ribavirin in HIV/HCV co-infected patients. Patients with no early virologic response did not have any probability of sustained response. (Puoti et al., J.Hepatol., 41, 312,2004)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION - Evaluation of donor hepatic iron concentration as a factor of early fibrotic progression after liver transplantation
AUGUST 2004
The graft hepatic iron concentration may be one of the factors involved in early fibrosis progression due to recurrent hepatitis C in female recipients (Toniutto et al., J.Hepatol.,41, 307, 2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Liver Abscess Complicating Transcatheter Arterial Embolization: A Rare but Serious Complication. A Retrospective Study After 3878 Procedures.
AUGUST 2004
Liver abscess is a rare complication after TAE for hepatocellular carcinoma. Recurrent fevers after an initial symptom free interval should arouse suspicion of an abscess. The mortality is high and a large abscess and higher age predict an unfavourable outcome. (Ong et al., Eur. J.Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 16,737, 2004.)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS -A Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial of Nadolol in the Prophylaxis of Growth of Small Esophageal Varices in Cirrhosis
AUGUST 2004
Beta-blocker prophylaxis of variceal bleeding in patients with compensated cirrhosis should be started when small esophageal varices are present. (Merkel et al., Gastroenterology, 127, 476, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Assessment of Correlation Between Serum Titers of Hepatitis C Virus and Severity of Liver Disease.
AUGUST 2004
The severity of liver disease is independent of serum levels of hepatitis C virus. (Anand et al., World J Gastroenterol. 15; 2409, 2004).

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS- Prospective randomized crossover trial of combination therapy with bezafibrate and UDCA for primary biliary cirrhosis
AUGUST 2004
The combination therapy with bezafibrate and UDCA significantly improves the laboratory data that specific for PBC in comparison with UDCA monotherapy (Itakura et al., Hepatol Res. 29, 216, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Short-term interferon therapy for chronic hepatitis C patients with low viral load.
AUGUST 2004
High-dose short-term interferon therapy might be useful when combining the selection of patients according to pretreatment hepatitis C virus RNA levels and testing virus presence at an early point after the start of interferon therapy. (Sato et al., Hepatogastroenterol., 51, 968,2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Acute pancreatitis associated with interferon and ribavirin therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C.
AUGUST 2004
IFN and RBV combination therapy is a potential cause of drug-induced pancreatitis in patients with chronic HCV. In these individuals, pancreatitis is often severe enough to warrant hospital admission, although symptoms resolve promptly after discontinuation of antiviral therapy. (Chaudhari et al., Dig Dis Sci.;49, 1000, 2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Insulin Resistance and Insulin Secretion in Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection
JULY 2004
Both insulin resistance and &#946;-cell dysfunction contribute to glucose intolerance in CHC patients.(.(Narita et al., J.Hepatol. 41, 132, 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Normal Protein Diet for Episodic Hepatic Encephalopathy: Results of a Randomized Study
JULY 2004
Diets with a normal content of protein, which are metabolically more adequate, can be administered safely to cirrhotic patients with episodic hepatic encephalopathy. Restriction of the content of protein of the diet does not appear to have any beneficial effect for cirrhotic patients during an episode of encephalopathy (CСrdoba et al. J. Hepatol. 41, 38, 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Alcohol and cirrhosis: dose√response or threshold effect?
JULY 2004
Alcohol has a threshold effect rather than a dose√response effect on mortality from alcoholic cirrhosis in alcohol misusers. (Tolstrup et al. J.Hepatol. , 41, 25, 2004)

LIVER STEATOSIS-Increased Prevalence of Fatty Liver in Arterial Hypertensive Patients with Normal Liver Enzymes: Role of Insulin Resistance
JULY 2004
The higher prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver in non-obese hypertensive patients with normal liver enzymes appears to be related to increases in insulin resistance and body weight. (Donati et al., Gut 53,1020, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- A Phase II Dose-Escalating Trial of Clevudine in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B
JULY 2004
This study demonstrates the tolerability and potent activity of clevudine in HBV-infected patients and support further clinical study. (Marcellin et al., Hepatology, 40:140, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- A Prospective Controlled Study of Interferon-Based Therapy of Chronic Hepatitis C in Patients on Methadone Maintenance
JULY 2004
Peginterferon and ribavirin seem reasonably safe and sufficiently effective in patients on methadone maintenance. (Mauss et al., Hepatology; 40,120, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Long-Term Follow-Up After Successful Interferon Therapy of Acute Hepatitis C
JULY 2004
Early treatment of symptomatic acute hepatitis C with IFN- -2b leads to a long-term virological, biochemical, and clinical response. (Wiegand et al., Hepatology;40,98, 2004.)

VIRAL HPATITIS C-Effects of Antiviral Therapy on the Cellular Immune Response in Acute Hepatitis C
JULY 2004
A sustained response to antiviral therapy was not associated with a lasting enhancement of HCV-specific T-cell responsiveness in the blood. (Rahman ET al., Hepatology;40, 87, 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Ligation Versus Propranolol for the Primary Prophylaxis of Variceal Bleeding in Cirrhosis
JULY 2004
Variceal banding ligation and propranolol were similarly effective for primary prophylaxis of variceal bleeding. Variceal banding ligation should be offered to patients who are not candidates for long-term propranolol treatment. (Schepke et al., Hepatology, 40,65, 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Midodrine, Octreotide, Albumin, and TIPS In Selected Patients with Cirrhosis and Type 1 Hepatorenal Sindrome
JULY 2004
TIPS is an effective treatment for type 1 Hepatorenal syndrome in suitable patients with cirrhosis and ascites, following the improvement of renal function with combination therapy of midodrine, octreotide, and albumin. (Wong et al., Hepatology;40,55,2004.)

LIVER STATOSIS- Beyond Insulin Resistance in NASH: TNF-a or Adiponectin?
JULY 2004
Hypoadiponectinemia is a feature of non alcoholic steatohepatitis independent of insulin resistance. Reduced adiponectin level is associated with more extensive necroinflammation and may contribute to the development of necroinflammatory forms of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. (Hui et al., Hepatology, 40,46, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Efficacy of Hepatitis B Vaccination and Interferon-a-2b Combination Therapy Versus Interferon-a-2b Monotherapy in Children with Chronic Hepatitis B
JULY 2004
Although the difference was statistically insignificant, the sustained response rates were better in the combination therapy group than in the monotherapy group. The potential benefit of combining IFN and hepatitis B vaccine should be investigated in further studies with different regimens of combination therapy. (Helvaci et al., J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 19, 785, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Factors Contributing to Ribavirin Dose Reduction Due to Anemia During Interferon Alfa2b and Ribavirin Combination Therapy for Chronic Hepatitis C
JULY 2004
Because patient age of 55 years or more, and Hb levels of less than 14 g/dl are significant factors that influence ribavirin-induced hemolytic anemia, more careful monitoring is necessary during combination therapy for patients with these risk factors (Takaki Et al., J. Gastroenterol., 39, 668, 2004)

LIVER STATOSIS- Clinical Characteristics and Prevalence of GB Virus C, SEN Virus, and HFE Gene Mutation in Japanese Patients with Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis
JULY 2004
Higher serum AST and ferritin, and lower serum T-Chol are distinctive features in NASH when compared with simple steatosis. GBV-C infection, SENV infection, and HFE gene mutation were not considered to influence the development of NASH from simple fatty liver (Yamauchi et al., J. Gastroenterol., 39, 654, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Occult Hepatitis B Virus Infection in Greek Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C and in Patients with Diverse Nonviral Hepatic Diseases
JULY 2004
One quarter of HCV-infected patients had occult HBV infection. Similar findings were not found in both control groups. Occult HBV infection in Greek patients with chronic hepatitis C does not seem to modify the progression of chronic liver disease. (Georgiadou et al., J.Viral Hepatitis, 11, 358, 2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Occult Hepatitis B Viral DNA in Liver Carcinomas from A Region With a Low Prevalence of Chronic Hepatitis B Infection
JULY 2004
Occult HBV was of genotype A and was found in a low percentage of cases of HCC and was associated with low tissue HBV DNA copy numbers and no detectable evidence for viral replication. (Kannangai et al., J.Viral Hepatitis, 11, 297, 2004)

PHARMACOKINETICS OF PEG-IFN-a2A- Pegylated Interferon-a2a Kinetics During Experimental Haemodialysis: Impact of Permeability and Pore Size of Dialysers
JULY 2004
The pharmacokinetics of Peg-IFN-a may vary in a patient on dialysis (Barril et al., Aliment.Pharmacol. Therap., 20, 37, 2004)

LIVER STEATOSIS-Metformin in the Treatment of Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis: A Pilot Open Label Trial
JULY 2004
Metformin treatment was associated with only a transient improvement in liver chemistries. A progressive, sustainable reduction in insulin sensitivity was not noted during treatment. (Nair ET AL., Aliment. Pharmacol.Therapeut., 20, 23, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Treatment of Acute Hepatitis C With Interferon a-2b: Early Initiation of Treatment is the Most Effective Predictive Factor of Sustained Viral Response
JULY 2004
Early treatment of acute hepatitis C virus with interferon prevents chronicity. A short waiting time from presentation to treatment appears as the most relevant predictive factor for sustained response (Delwaide et al., Aliment. Pharmacol.Therapeut., 20, 15, 2004)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION-Outcomes of Acute Rejection After Interferon Therapy in Liver Transplant Recipients
JULY 2004
Interferon-based therapy may lead to acute rejection and subsequent graft loss and should therefore be used with caution. Treated recipients may also develop progressive cirrhosis despite achieving a sustained virological response. (Saab et al., Liver Transpl;10,859, 2004.)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Effects of Interferon Treatment on Liver Histology and Allograft Rejection in Patients with Recurrent Hepatitis C Following Liver Transplantation
JULY 2004
Interferon treatment of recurrent hepatitis C does not consistently improve histologic disease after virologic response, and it may increase the risk of allograft rejection (Stravitz et al., Liver Transpl;10:850, 2004).

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION-Disparity in Use of Orthotopic Liver Transplantation Among Blacks and Whites
JULY 2004
Blacks were less likely to receive OLT within 4 years (P < .001). In conclusion, adult blacks were underrepresented among OLT patients. Although waiting times were similar once listed, black race affected outcomes while awaiting OLT. The process of referral and evaluation for OLT should be investigated further. (Reid et al., Liver Transpl.10, 834,2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C - The Predictive Value of Core Antigen Testing for the Management of Hepatitis C Patients Receiving Pegylated Interferon/Ribavirin Treatment
JULY 2004
The core antigen assay is a new reliable alternative for early prediction of virological non-response in patients treated with pegylated interferon/ribavirin. (Pradat et al., J. Med. Virol. 73, 392, 2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- High rate of spontaneous clearance of acute hepatitis C virus genotype 3 infection
JULY 2004
Acute infection in young Caucasian men with HCV genotype 3 leads more often to spontaneous clearance than infection with HCV genotype-1. The Autors suggest not to treat acute hepatitis C genotype 3 infection early but rather to wait at least 3 months after the onset of symptoms when chronicity becomes likely.(Lehmann et al., J. Med. Virol. 73,387, 2004. )

VIRAL HEPATITIS C AND HIV- Peginterferon Alfa-2a plus Ribavirin versus Interferon Alfa-2a plus Ribavirin for Chronic Hepatitis C in HIV-Coinfected Persons
JULY 2004
In persons infected with HIV, the combination of peginterferon and ribavirin is superior to the combination of interferon and ribavirin in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C. These regimens may provide clinical benefit even in the absence of virologic clearance. (Chung et al., N Engl J Med. 351,451, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C AND HIV- Peginterferon Alfa-2a plus Ribavirin for Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection in HIV-Infected Patients
JULY 2004
Among patients infected with both HIV and HCV, the combination of peginterferon alfa-2a plus ribavirin was significantly more effective than either interferon alfa-2a plus ribavirin or peginterferon alfa-2a monotherapy (Torrioni et al., N.Engl J Med. 29; 351:438, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Psychosocial Factors Are the Most Common Contraindications for Antiviral Therapy at Initial Evaluation in Veterans With Chronic Hepatitis C.
JULY 2004
A significant portion of hepatitis C patients could not initially be started on antiviral treatment due to psychosocial factors. (Rowan Et al.,J. Clin.Gastroenterol.. 38,530, 2004.)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- The Role of Serum Zinc and Other Factors on the Prevalence of Muscle Cramps in Non-alcoholic Cirrhotic Patients.
JULY 2004
Muscle cramps are frequent complication of cirrhosis. Neither biochemical characteristics including decreased serum zinc levels nor the use of diuretics explained the greater prevalence of cramps in patients with cirrhosis. The detrimental effect of cirrhosis on muscle fibers may be the major factor (Mevlut et al., J. Clin. Gastroenterol., 38, 524, 2004).

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Role of Vitamin K2 in the Development of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Women With Viral Cirrhosis of the Liver
JULY 2004
There is a possible role for vitamin K2 in the prevention of hepatocellular carcinoma in women with viral cirrhosis (Habu et al., JAMA.;292,358, 2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- C4BQ0: A Genetic Marker of Familial HCV-Related Liver Cirrhosis
JULY 2004
C4BQ0 is a risk indicator of familial HCV related cirrhosis. (Pasta et al., Dig.Liver Diseases., 36, 471, 2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Effects of Interferon Treatment Response on Liver Complications of Chronic Hepatitis C: 9-Year Follow-Up Study.
JULY 2004
Response to antiviral therapy, and particularly Sustained viral response, appears to reduce liver complications in chronic hepatitis C. However, in the absence of an antiviral treatment response, a course of interferon does not reduce risks of liver cancer or liver failure. (Coverdale et al., Am J Gastroenterol. 99,636, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Ultralow-Dose Alpha-Interferon Plus Ribavirin for the Treatment of Active Hepatitis C in Renal Transplant Recipients.
JUNE 2004
A significant portion of Renal Transplant Recipients with chronic hepatitis C may achieve sustained biochemical and virologic responses with Ultralow-Dose of Alpha-Interferon (1x1000000 three times/week) Plus Ribavirin (600 mg/day). (Transplantation. 77,1894, 2004).

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Biliary Complications In 96 Consecutive Right Lobe Living Donor Transplant Recipients.
JUNE 2004
Despite technical modifications and application of various surgical techniques, biliary complications remain frequent after right lobe living donor liver transplantations. Patients with multiple biliary reconstructions had a higher incidence of bile leaks. Patients who developed leaks had lower patient and graft survival rates (Gondolesi et al., Transplantation. 77,1842, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- A Randomized Trial of Chinese Herbal Medicines for the Treatment of Symptomatic Hepatitis C
JUNE 2004
A regimen of Chinese herbal medicines did not improve quality of life, liver chemistry results, or viral load in a cohort of patients with HCV. Patients and practitioners should remain cautious about the use of herbal medicines for HCV, because studies have not shown a clear benefit of these agents (Jakkula et al., Arch Intern Med., 164,1341, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Hepatocyte Proliferation in Chronic Hepatitis C: Correlation with Degree of Liver Disease and Serum &#61537;-Fetoprotein
JUNE 2004
In patients with chronic HCV infection, Hepatocyte proliferation increases with histologic progression of liver disease, but is impaired in cirrhosis. Hepatocyte proliferation was not increased in patients with elevated serum AFP levels. (Canchis et al., Liver International, 24, 198, 2004)

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS- Tamoxifen: a Novel Treatment for Primary Biliary Cirrhosis?
JUNE 2004
Two patients with Primary biliary cirrhosis who show a fall in serum alkaline phosphates levels whilst receiving tamoxifen therapy are described. (Reddy et al., Liver International, 24, 194, 2004)

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS- Biochemical Markers of Liver Fibrosis And Lymphocytic Piecemeal Necrosis in UDCA-Treated Patients with Primary Biliary Cirrhosis
JUNE 2004
Serum bilirubin and hyaluronic acid levels measured under UDCA therapy are of acceptable diagnostic value for extensive fibrosis, but none of the biochemical tests commonly employed in the management of Primary biliary cirrhosis can be considered as surrogate markers of lymphocytic piecemeal necrosis. Taken together with our previous results, these findings suggest that liver biopsy may be necessary to screen UDCA-treated patients who might require additional therapies. (Corpechot et al., Liver International, 24, 187, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Hepatic Iron Concentration Does Not Predict Response to Standard and Pegylated-IFN/Ribavirin Therapy in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
JUNE 2004
Pretreatment liver iron concentration does not predict response to combination therapy in patients with Chronic hepatitis C. In contrast, high baseline serum ferritin levels are predictors of poor response to antiviral therapy (Hofer et al., J. Hepatology, 40 , 1018, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Inhibition of Hepatitis C Virus NS3-Mediated Cell Transformation By Recombinant Intracellular Antibodies
JUNE 2004
Intracellular immunization-based gene therapy strategies may emerge as a promising antiviral approach to interfere with the life cycle and tumorigenicity of HCV (Zemel et al., J. Hepatology, 40, 1000, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Peginterferon alfa-2b plus ribavirin for treatment of chronic hepatitis C in previously untreated patients infected with HCV genotypes 2 or 3
JUNE 2004
Treatment for 24 weeks with peginterferon alfa-2b and ribavirin is sufficient in HCV 2 or 3 infected patients. The lower Sustained virological response in patients infected with HCV-3 compared with HCV-2 infected patients may be related to higher levels of steatosis in this population (Zeuzem et al., J. Hepatology, 40 , 993, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Evidence for a Relation Between the Viral Load and Genotype and Hepatitis C Virus-Specific T Cell Responses
JUNE 2004
The presence of an NS3-specific T cell response is related to the viral genotype and to a more rapid clearance of HCV RNA during antiviral therapy (Hultgren et al., J. Hepatology, 40 , 971, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Persistence of cccDNA During the Natural History of Chronic Hepatitis B and Decline During Adefovir Dipivoxil Therapy
JUNE 2004
cccDNA persists throughout the natural history of chronic hepatitis B, even in patients with serologic evidence of viral clearance. Long-term Adefovir Dipivoxil therapy significantly decreased cccDNA levels by a primarily noncytolytic mechanism. (Werle-Lapostolle et al., J.Gastroenterol., 126, 1750, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- A Significant Reduction in Serum Alanine Aminotransferase Levels After 3-Month Iron Reduction Therapy for Chronic Hepatitis C: A Multicenter, Prospective, Randomized, Controlled Trial in Japan
JUNE 2004
Biochemical efficacy and safety of iron reduction therapy for patients with Chronic Hepatitis C was demonstrated. (Yano Et al., J. Gastroenterology , 39, 570, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- The Presence of Non-Organ-Specific Autoantibodies is Associated With a Negative Response to Combination Therapy with Interferon and Ribavirin for Chronic Hepatitis C.
JUNE 2004
The absence of non-organ-specific autoantibodies might indicate a significantly higher chance for viral clearance in response to combination therapy for chronic hepatitis C infection. (Wasmuth et al., BMC Infect Dis.,13, 4,2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Hepatocellular carcinoma in a patient with liver cirrhosis associated with negative serum HCV tests but positive liver tissue HCV RNA.
JUNE 2004
A very rare case of hepatocellular carcinoma in a patient with liver cirrhosis associated with negative serum HCV findings, but positive finding for liver tissue HCV RNA is reported.(Esaki et al., Intern Med., 43,279, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Peginterferon Alfa-2b and Ribavirin for the Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C in Blacks and Non-Hispanic Whites
JUNE 2004
Black patients with chronic hepatitis C have a lower rate of response to treatment with peginterferon alfa-2b and ribavirin than non-Hispanic white patients, a difference that is not explained by differences in the viral genotype ( Muir et al. , N.Engl.J.Med. 350, 2265, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Pegylated Interferon Alpha 2b and Ribavirin in HIV/Hepatitis C Virus-Co-Infected Non-Responders and Relapsers to IFN-Based Therapy
JUNE 2004
PEG-Interferon-alpha 2b and ribavirin is a potentially useful therapy in HIV/HCV-co-infected patients who have failed standard Interferon-based regimens. Strategies to improve adherence are vital so as to maximize long-term response rates. (Myers et al., AIDS,18 , 75, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Pegylated Interferon Alpha2b Plus Ribavirin for the Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C in HIV-Infected Patients.
JUNE 2004
The combination of low doses of Peg-Interferon plus a fixed dose of ribavirin resulted in a rate of Sustained viral response similar to that obtained with higher doses of the drugs in HIV-infected patients and lower than those obtained in non-HIV patients. Response at week 12 may be useful to help guide therapy in HCV-HIV co-infected patients (Moreno et al., AIDS, 18, 67, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS D- Long-Term Benefit of Interferon- Therapy of Chronic Hepatitis D: Regression of Advanced Hepatic Fibrosis
JUNE 2004
High doses of interferon -2a significantly improved the long-term clinical outcome and survival of patients with chronic hepatitis D, even though the majority had active cirrhosis before the onset of therapy. (Farci et al., Gastroenterology,126, 1740, 2004)

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS-Extracorporeal Albumin Dialysis: A Procedure for Prolonged Relief of Intractable Pruritus in Patients with Primary Biliary Cirrhosis.
JUNE 2004
The Extracorporeal Albumin Dialysis procedure seems to be an effective alternative for the treatment of patients with pruritus of cholestasis who do not respond to other therapeutic methods (Pares et al., Am J. Gastroenterol., 99, 1105, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Amantadine Therapy for Chronic Hepatitis C: A Dose Escalation Study
JUNE 2004
Amantadine given at a dose of 300 mg daily is safe, and significantly lowers ALT blood levels more than 200 mg daily. The enzyme response rate does not significantly improve above 300 mg, but toxicity increases (Smith et al., ., Am J Gastroenterol. 99,1099, 2004)

CHRONIC HEPATITIS- DDB Treatment of Patients with Chronic Hepatitis
JUNE 2004
The normalization of ALT during dimethyl-4,4 -dimethoxy-5,6,5 ,6-dimethylenedioxybiphenyl-2,2 dicarboxylate (DDB) treatment does not indicate therapeutic efficacy. In view of the wide use of DDB in patients with chronic liver diseases who participate in clinical studies DDB use should be excluded (Huber et al., Hepatology;39,1732-1733, 2004.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Pegylated Interferon Alfa Therapy in Acute Hepatitis C: Relation to Hepatitis C Virus-Specific T Cell Response Kinetics
JUNE 2004
PEG IFN- therapy in acute hepatitis induces high rates of sustained virological response and prevents choronicity, probably through efficient early stimulation of multispecific HCV-specific CD4+ T helper 1 responses. (Kamal et al., Hepatology;39,1721, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Peginterferon Alfa-2a (40 Kd) and Ribavirin for Black American Patients with Chronic HCV Genotype 1
JUNE 2004
Peginterferon alfa-2a/ribavirin has demonstrated that treatment can be safely offered to black patients with chronic hepatitis C with reasonable antiviral and histological benefit (Jeffers et al., Hepatology;39,1702, 2004.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- HbsAg Seroclearance in Chronic Hepatitis B in the Chinese: Virological, Histological, and Clinical Aspects
JUNE 2004
Patients with HBsAg seroclearance had favorable biochemical, virological, and histological parameters. Intrahepatic HBV DNA level was low and predominantly in the form of cccDNA. However, Hepatocellular carcinomacould still develop, particularly in patients with cirrhosis who had HBsAg seroclearance at an older age. (Yuen et al., Hepatology,39:1694, 2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Oxidative Damage is Increased in Human Liver Tissue Adjacent to Hepatocellular Carcinoma
JUNE 2004
Oxidative Damage generated by chronic inflammation contributes to human hepatocarcinogenesis. (JЭngst et al., Hepatology;39, 1663, 2004.)

LIVER STEATOSIS- Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Improvement in Liver Histological Analysis with Weight Loss
JUNE 2004
Weight loss after surgery provides major improvement or resolution of obesity and metabolic syndrome-associated abnormal liver histological features in severely obese subjects. (Dixon et al., Hepatology;39,1647, 2004.)

LIVER STEATOSIS- Prediction of Liver Fibrosis In Patients with Features of the Metabolic Syndrome Regardless of Alcohol Consumption
JUNE 2004
In patients with increased serum aminotransferases associated with features of metabolic syndrome, a simple algorithm, including serum hyaluronate and serum carbohydrate-deficient transferrin/transferrin ratio, allows the exclusion of clinically relevant hepatic fibrosis, regardless of current or past alcohol consumption. (LainИ et al., Hepatology;39,1639,2004)

AUTOIMMUNE HEPATITIS- Progressive Fibrosis During Corticosteroid Therapy of Autoimmune Hepatitis
JUNE 2004
Fibrosis progresses in only a minority of patients during corticosteroid therapy. Exacerbations or persistence of disease activity does not increase disease progression after treatment has been instituted. (Czaja et al., Hepatology;39,1631, 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Sustained Rise of Portal Pressure After Sclerotherapy, But Not Band Ligation, in Acute Variceal Bleeding in Cirrhosis
JUNE 2004
During acute variceal bleeding endoscopic injection sclerotherapy, but not endoscopic band ligation, causes a sustained increase in hepatic venous pressure gradient, which is followed by a higher rebleeding rate. (Avgerinos et al., Hepatology;39,1623, 2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Cost-effectiveness of screening for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with cirrhosis due to chronic hepatitis C
JUNE 2004
Screening for hepatocellular carcinoma is as cost-effective as other accepted screening protocols. Of the strategies evaluated, biannual alpha-foetoprotein/annual ultrasonography gives the most quality-adjusted life-year gain. (Lin et al., Alim. Pharmacol.Therapeutics, 19, 1159,2004)

LIVER STEATOSIS- Insulin resistance and C-reactive protein as independent risk factors for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in non-obese Asian men
JUNE 2004
An increase in C-reactive and insulin resistance are independent risk factors for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in non obese asian men. (J. Gastroenterol.Hepatol., 19, 694, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- High Viral Load is a Risk Factor for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection
JUNE 2004
The present findings indicate that high viral load is a risk factor for HCC in patients with chronic HBV infection. Patients with a high HBV viral load should be carefully monitored for HCC. (Ohata et al., J. Gastroenterol.Hepatol., 19, 670, 2004)

DRUG-INDUCED HEPATITIS- Tamoxifen Induced Hepatotoxicity in Breast Cancer Patients With Pre-Existing Liver Steatosis: The Role of Glucose Intolerance.
JUNE 2004
Tamoxifen induced hepatotoxicity is observed in a great proportion of breast cancer patients with pre-existing liver steatosis, especially those with higher body mass index and higher glucose and lipid levels at baseline control. Glucose intolerance before the beginning of tamoxifen treatment seems to be a predictor of the hepatotoxicity, unrelated to baseline body mass index. (Elefsiniotis et al., Eur. J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 16, 593, 2004).

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Nitric Oxide in Ascitic Fluid is an Independent Predictor of the Development of Renal Impairment in Patients with Cirrhosis and Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis.
JUNE 2004
The increased serum and ascitic fluid nitric oxide found in patients with infected ascites might induce a deterioration of the increased peripheral vasodilation found in this setting, leading to the development of renal impairment in a series of patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. (Such et al., Eur. J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol. 16, 571, 2004)

ALCOHOL- Increased Cancer Risk in Heavy Drinkers with the Alcohol Dehydrogenase 1C*1 Allele, Possibly Due to Salivary Acetaldehyde
JUNE 2004
Heavy drinkers homozygous for the ADH1C*1 allele have a predisposition to develop upper aerodigestive tract cancer, possibly due to elevated salivary acetaldehyde levels following alcohol consumption (VisapДД et al., Gut;53, 871, 2004

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS- Asymptomatic Primary Biliary Cirrhosis: Clinical Features, Prognosis, and Symptom Progression in a Large Population Based Cohort
JUNE 2004
Although asymptomatic PBC is less severe at diagnosis than symptomatic disease, it is not associated with a better prognosis, possibly due to an increase in non-hepatic deaths. (Prince et al., Gut;53,865, 2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Resection Prior to Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Strategy of Optimizing the Role of Resection and Transplantation in Cirrhotic Patients with Preserved Liver Function
JUNE 2004
In selected patients, liver resection prior to transplantation does not increase the morbidity or impair long-term survival following Liver Transplantation . Therefore, liver resection prior to transplantation can be integrated in the treatment strategy for Hepatocellular carcinoma. (Poon et al., Liver Transpl., 10, 813, 2004.)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- The Effect of Donor Weight Reduction on Hepatic Steatosis for Living Donor Liver Transplantation
JUNE 2004
Short-term weight reduction of living donors will be helpful to alleviate excessive hepatic steatosis, especially in microvesicular type and can contribute to expand the pool of marginal living donors. (Hwang et al., Liver Transpl;10,721, 2004.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Prevalence and Clinical Implications of Occult Hepatitis B Viral Infection in Hemophilia Patients in Japan
JUNE 2004
HBV DNA was detected in 51,2% of patients with hemophilia who were negative for HBV surface antigen (HBs), indicating that these patients had occult HBV infection . In general, occult HBV infection did not appear to have significant clinical implications. (Toyoda et al., J. Med. Virol. 73,195, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Hepatitis B Infection of the Liver in Chronic Hepatitis C Without Detectable Hepatitis B Virus DNA in Serum
JUNE 2004
A significant proportion of patients with chronic HCV infection have HBV-DNA in the liver in the absence of viral DNA in serum. The impact of this finding on liver histology deserves further research.. (Mariscal et al., J. Med. Virol. 73,177, 2004).

LIVER STEATOSIS - Splanchnic Haemodynamics in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Effect of a Dietary/Pharmacological Treatment . A pilot study
JUNE 2004
Fatty liver is associated with an impaired hepatic blood flow characterised by increased intrahepatic resistances. Vascular changes are reversed by treatment and can be measured by echo-Doppler which may be useful to evaluate the natural course of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and to monitor the putative beneficial effects of therapy (Magalotti et al., Dig Liver Dis. 36, 406,2004).

LIVER STEATOSIS-Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a multicentre clinical study by the Italian Association for the Study of the Liver
JUNE 2004
The typical Italian patient with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a young male, obese, not diabetic, with a variable incidence of dyslipidaemia and hyperinsulinaemia. Only liver biopsy may define the type of liver damage.. (Loguercio et al., Dig.Liver Dis., 36, 398, 2004).

ALCOHOLIC HEPATITIS -A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial of Infliximab Associated with Prednisolone in Acute Alcoholic Hepatitis
MAY 2004
Three infusions of 10 mg/kg of infliximab in association with prednisolone may be harmful in patients with severe AAH because of the high prevalence of severe infections (Naveau et al., Hepatology, 39, 1390, 2004.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Low Membrane Protein Sulfhydrils But Not G6PD Deficiency Predict Ribavirin-Induced Hemolysis in Hepatitis C
MAY 2004
Low membrane protein sulfhydrils prior to therapy but not G6PD deficiency are predictive of RBV-induced major hemolysis. . In vitro, glutatione ester and dipyridamole reduce the RBV-associated oxidative stress in erythrocytes and prevent the increase in osmotic fragility, suggesting that these compounds might decrease the risk of hemolysis in patients (Grattagliano et al., Hepatology, 39, 1248, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Improved Prediction of Fibrosis in Chronic Hepatitis C Using Measures of Insulin Resistance in a Probability Index
MAY 2004
An fibrosis probability index using routinely assessed markers and incorporating a measure of insulin resistance can reliably predict the probability of significant hepatic fibrosis in most patients with chronic HCV infection. (Sud et al., Hepatology,39, 1239, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Steatosis and Liver Cell Apoptosis in Chronic Hepatitis C: A Mechanism for Increased Liver Injury
MAY 2004
Steatosis contributes to the progression of liver injury in chronic hepatitis C. (Walsh et al., Hepatology, 39, 1230, 2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Short-Term Interferon-alfa Therapy for Acute Hepatitis C: A Randomized Controlled Trial
MAY 2004
Short-term (4 weeks) IFN treatment of patients with acute hepatitis C may be associated with satisfactory results, if initiated at an early stage of the disease. (Nomura et al., Hepatology, 39, 1213, 2004

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Severe Acute Exacerbation of Liver Disease May Reduce or Delay Emergence of YMDD Motif Mutants in Long-Term Lamivudine Therapy for Hepatitis B E Antigen-Positive Chronic Hepatitis B
MAY 2004
Severe acute exacerbation tends to reduce or delay development of biochemical breakthrough (Tsubota et al., J. Med. Virol. 73,7, 2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Epoetin alfa Maintains Ribavirin Dose in HCV-Infected Patients: A Prospective, Double-Blind, Randomized Controlled Study
MAY 2004
Epoetin alfa maintained RBV dose and improved QOL and Hb in anemic HCV-infected patients receiving combination therapy (Afdhal et al., Gastroenterology, 126, 1302, 2004)

LIVER DISEASE- Patients with Elevated Liver Enzymes are Not at Higher Risk for Statin Hepatotoxicity
MAY 2004
Individuals with elevated baseline liver enzymes do not have higher risk for hepatotoxicity from statins. (Chalasani et al., Gastroenterology, 126, 1287,2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Neither hepatitis C virus genotype nor virus load affects survival of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma.
MAY 2004
Neither genotype nor virus load of HCV affected prognosis of HCC patients. (Akamatsu et al., Eur. J.Gastroenterol. Hepatol. 16, 459, 2004.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Does An 'Autoimmune' Profile Affect the Clinical Profile of Chronic Hepatitis C? An Italian Multicentre Survey
MAY 2004
The presence of Nonorgan-specific autoantibodies in patients with chronic HCV hepatitis is not related to specific demographic features and has no impact on the biochemical and histological profile of the liver disease at presentation and the response to antiviral treatment. (Stroffolini et al., J. Viral Hepatitis, 11, 257, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Serum Immunoglobulins Predict the Extent of Hepatic Fibrosis in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection
MAY 2004
A strong association between serum immunoglobulin levels (IgA, IgG and total) and hepatic fibrosis in patients with HCV infection has been observed. (Watt et al., J.Viral Hepatitis, 11, 251, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Changes in Haemoglobin During Interferon Alpha-2b Plus Ribavirin Combination Therapy for Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection
MAY 2004
Lower baseline creatinine clearance, higher baseline Hb levels and increased age were independently associated with increased risk of Hb decreases of >27.7%. (Sulkowski et al., J. Viral Hepatitis, 11,243, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Response to Interferon-[alpha] in Chronic Hepatitis B With and Without Precore Mutant Strain Detected by Mutation Site-specific Assay.
MAY 2004
Chronic hepatitis without precore mutant strain before treatment is more responsive to IFN-[alpha]. (Seo et al., J.Clin. Gastroenterol. 38, 460, 2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS A- Occupational Risk for Hepatitis A: A Literature-based Analysis.
MAY 2004
Food handlers, particularly in the hospital setting, should be vaccinated if seronegative for hepatitis A virus because of their ability to rapidly spread disease among vulnerable populations if infected. (Keeffe , J. Clin. Gastroenterol. 38, 440,2004

LIVER STEATOSIS- Long Term Prognosis of Fatty Liver: Risk of Chronic Liver Disease and Death
MAY 2004
Patients with type 1 non-alcoholic fatty liver disease have a benign clinical course without excess mortality (Dam-Larsen et al., Gut;53,750,2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Natural History of Compensated Viral Cirrhosis: A Prospective Study on the Incidence and Hierarchy of Major Complications
MAY 2004
Significant morbidity and mortality during the first decade after diagnosis of compensated cirrhosis due to HBV and/or HCV has been observed; hepatocellular carcinoma is the most frequent and life threatening complication, particularly in HCV positive cases. (BenvegnЫ et al., Gut;53,744, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- HVR-1 Quasispecies Modifications Occur Early and Are Correlated to Initial But Not Sustained Response in HCV-Infected Patients Treated with Pegylated- or Standard-Interferon and Ribavirin
MAY 2004
Baseline parameters of HVR-1 heterogeneity seem to be involved in the early response to treatment, and early response is associated with profound variations in the HVR-1 quasispecies. Viral quasispecies surviving early therapeutic pressure are most likely able to give rise to either virus rebound or persistence at T18. (Abbate et al., J. Hepatol., 40, 831, 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Natural History of Decompensated Hepatitis C Virus-Related Cirrhosis. A Study of 200 Patients
MAY 2004
Once decompensated HCV-related cirrhosis was established, patients showed not only a very high frequency of readmissions, but also developed decompensations different from the initial one. (Planas et al., J. Hepatol., 40, 823, 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Risk Factors and Clinical Presentation of Portal Vein Thrombosis in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis
MAY 2004
Portal vein thrombosis may be completely asymptomatic in patients with liver cirrhosis; however in more than half of cases presents with life-threatening complications such as gastrointestinal haemorrhage and intestinal infarction. Cirrhotic patients with portal vein thrombosis usually have an advanced liver disease and the presence of the mutation 20210 of the prothrombin gene increases more than fivefold the risk of portal vein thrombosis (Amitrano et al., J.Hepatol., 40, 736, 2004)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Hepatitis C Virus Quasi-Species Dynamics Predict Progression of Fibrosis After Liver Transplantation.
MAY 2004
The dynamics of HCV quasi species in patients who undergo transplantation are predictive of outcome. (Arenas et al., J Infect Dis. ,189, 2037, 2004)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Prediction of Sustained Virological Response in Liver Transplant Recipients with Recurrent Hepatitis C Virus Following Combination Pegylated Interferon Alfa-2b and Ribavirin Therapy Using Tissue Hepatitis C Virus Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction Testing
MAY 2004
Direct detection of HCV RNA by RT-PCR of liver tissue appears to more effectively predict SVR following pegylated interferon and ribavirin therapy than the conventional use of serum. (Neff et al., Liver Transpl;10,595, 2004.)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Long-Term Immune Response After Liver Transplantation in Patients with Spontaneous or Post-Treatment HCV-RNA Clearance
MAY 2004
Liver post-transplantation patients with spontaneous clearance of HCV-RNA and those with sustained viral response after therapy showed an immune response despite immunosuppression that might have contributed to their favorable outcome. (Casanovas-Taltavull et al., Liver Transpl; 10,584, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- A Randomized Controlled Trial of Consensus Interferon with or Without Lactoferrin for Chronic Hepatitis C Patients with Genotype 1b and High Viral Load.
MAY 2004
The combination therapy of Consensus Interferon and lactoferrin did not increase the response rate or prevent relapse after discontinuation of IFN (Hirashima et al., Hepatol Res. 29, 9, 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Serum Lipopolysaccharide-Binding Protein Prediction of Severe Bacterial Infection in Cirrhotic Patients with Ascites
MAY 2004
Monitoring of serum lipopolysaccharide-binding protein could help to target cirrhotic patients with ascites for antibiotic prophylaxis. (Albillos et al., Lancet, 15, 1608,2004).

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Non-Absorbable Disaccharides For Hepatic Encephalopathy: Systematic Review of Randomised Trials
MAY 2004
There is insufficient evidence to support or refute the use of non-absorbable disaccharides for hepatic encephalopathy. Antibiotics were superior to non-absorbable disaccharides in improving hepatic encephalopathy, but it is unclear whether this difference is clinically important. (Als-Nielsen et al., 328, 1046, 2004)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Recurrence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma After Liver Transplant: Patterns and Prognosis
APRIL 2004
Recurrent disease should be treated surgically when possible, because surgery is independently associated with longer survival. (Roayaie et al., Liver Transpl 10,534,2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIC C - Reduction of Relapse Rates by 18-Month Treatment in Chronic Hepatitis C. A Benelux Randomized Trial in 300 Patients
APRIL 2004
Reduction of relapse rates to 15% or less is feasible by prolongation of interferon-ribavirin treatment to 18 months (Brouwer et al. J.Hepatol., 40, 689, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Intrahepatic Hepatitis C Virus RNA Quantification in Microdissected Hepatocytes
APRIL 2004
A positive correlation between serum and intrahepatic viral loads, which therefore provides a reliable reflection of intrahepatic HCV replication have been demonstrated. (Vona et al., J. Hepatol., 40, 682, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- The Impact of Peginterferon Alfa-2a Plus Ribavirin Combination Therapy on Health-Related Quality of Life in Chronic Hepatitis C
APRIL 2004
The effects of combination therapy on health related quality of life and fatigue are less with peginterferon alfa-2a plus ribavirin than interferon alfa-2b plus ribavirin. (Hassanein et al., J.Hepatol., 40, 675, 2004)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Treatment of Recurrent Hepatitis C After Liver Transplantation: A Pilot Study of Peginterferon Alfa-2b and Ribavirin Combination
APRIL 2004
Combination therapy by PEG-IFN and ribavirin may be well tolerated and beneficial during recurrent hepatitis C in liver transplant recipients (Dumortier et al., J. Hepatol., 40, 669, 2004)

AUTOIMMUNE HEPATITIS -Decreased Fibrosis During Corticosteroid Therapy of Autoimmune Hepatitis
APRIL 2004
Fibrosis commonly improves or does not progress during corticosteroid therapy of autoimmune hepatitis , and histological cirrhosis may disappear. Improvements in fibrosis are associated with suppression of inflammatory activity (Czaja et al., J. Hepatol., 40, 646, 2004)

LIVER STEATOSIS -Clinical and Histopathological Features of NASH in Workers Exposed to Chemicals with or Without Associated Metabolic Conditions
APRIL 2004
Exposure to chemicals appears to be an independent risk factor for NASH that presents a peculiar profile. It is more frequently seen in men younger than non-exposed ones. Steatosis, fibrosis and cholestasis were frequent histological findings. Co-existing metabolic factors did not seem to influence clinical or histopathological presentation
(Cotrim et al., Liver Int. 24, 131, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Sequential Combination Therapy of Hbe Antigen-Negative/Virus-DNA-Positive Chronic Hepatitis B with Famciclovir or Lamivudine and Interferon-Alpha-2a
APRIL 2004
Sequential combination therapy can induce sustained virologic response in a subgroup of CHBe , but most with the G1896A precore mutant HBV relapse. Trials of CHBe should be based on characterization of HBV mutants (Schiefke et al., Liver Int., 24 ,98 ,2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C in HIV/HCV-Coinfection with Interferon a-2b+ Full-Course Vs. 16-Week Delayed Ribavirin
APRIL 2004
HCV therapy with IFN plus RBV is relatively safe in patients coinfected with HIV and HCV, but frequent treatment discontinuations and anemia-related RBV dose reductions contribute to a poor SVR rate. Control of HIV infection improves rather than worsens during therapy. (BrДu et al., Hepatology 39, 989, 2004)

LIVER ABSCESS- Treatment of Pyogenic Liver Abscess: Prospective Randomized Comparison of Catheter Drainage and Needle Aspiration
APRIL 2004
Intermittent needle aspiration is probably as effective as continuous catheter drainage for the treatment of pyogenic liver abscess, although further proof with a large-scale study is necessary. Due to the additional advantages of procedure simplicity, patient comfort, and reduced price, needle aspiration deserves to be considered as a first-line drainage approach. (Hepatology, 39, 932, 2004.)

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS- A Randomized Controlled Trial of Colchicine Plus Ursodiol Versus Methotrexate plus Ursodiol in Primary Biliary Cirrhosis: Ten-Year Results
APRIL 2004
Neither colchcine plus UDCA nor methotrexate plus UDCA improved survival beyond that predicted by the Mayo prognostic model. However, clinical, histologic, and biochemical improvement observed among those who remained in the study for 10 years suggests a possible benefit of these drugs in a subset of patients (Kaplan et al., Hepatology, 39, 915, 2004.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Impact of Acute Hepatitis C Virus Superinfection in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection
APRIL 2004
Acute HCV superinfection in patients with chronic HBV infection is clinically severe during its acute phase. The long-term prognosis following acute HCV superinfection is much worse than that following HDV superinfection or active hepatitis B in terms of continuing hepatitis activity after HBsAg loss and the development of cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma. (Liaw et al., Gastroenterology 126, 1024 , 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C - Peginterferon Alfa-2a and Ribavirin in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Who Have Failed Prior Treatment
APRIL 2004
Selected nonresponders to previous interferon-based therapy can achieve SVR following retreatment with peginterferon alfa-2a and ribavirin (Shiffman et al., Gastroenterology, 126 , 4,1015, 2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Increased Survival of Cirrhotic Patients with a Hepatocellular Carcinoma Detected During Surveillance
APRIL 2004
Cirrhotic patients developing a HCC during the last 5 years of surveillance survived longer than previously, as a consequence of improved management of the tumor and complications of cirrhosis. (Sangiovanni et al., Gastroenterology, 128, 1005, 2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Long-Term Oral Branched Chain Amino Acids In Patients Undergoing Chemoembolization For Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Randomized Trial
APRIL 2004
Nutritional supplementation with oral branched chain amino acids is beneficial in increasing the serum albumin level, reducing the morbidity and improving the quality of life in patients undergoing chemoembolization for inoperable hepatocellular carcinoma (Poon et al., Aliment.Pharmacol.Therapeut. 19 , 779,2004)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Low-Dose Hepatitis B Immunoglobulin Given on Demand in Combination with Lamivudine: A Highly Cost-Effective Approach to Prevent Recurrent Hepatitis B Virus Infection in the Long-Term Follow-Up After Liver Transplantation
APRIL 2004
Individual HBIg consumption profiles are highly variable. A low-dose (2,000 IU) on demand HBIg administration schedule is highly cost-effective and provides more than 50% savings compared with conventional high-dose monthly schedules (Di Paolo et al. ,Transplantation, 77, 27, 1203, 2004)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Impact of Hepatitis C Viral Infection in Primary Cadaveric Liver Allograft Versus Primary Living-Donor Allograft in 100 Consecutive Liver Transplant Recipients Receiving Tacrolimus
APRIL 2004
No detrimental effect of HCV infection was found in living-donor liver transplantation recipients when compared with contemporaneous cadaveric liver transplantation recipients. Patient survival, graft survival, rate of HCV recurrence, severity of HCV recurrence, graft loss from HCV, and interval for recurrence in cadaveric liver transplantation and living-donor liver transplantation were similar (Bozorgzadeh et al., Transplantation, 77, 1066, 2004)

LIVER DISEASES-Normal Serum Aminotransferase Concentration and Risk of Mortality from Liver Diseases: Prospective Cohort Study
APRIL 2004
People with slightly increased aminotransferase activity, but still within the normal range, should be closely observed and further investigated for liver diseases (Kim et al., BMJ, 328, 983, 2004)

NEWS FROM THE 39th ANNUAL MEETING OF THE EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF THE LIVER (EASL) √ April 14-18, 2004 , BERLIN, Germany
APRIL 2004
News on Miscellanea (J.Hepatol., vol.40, suppl.1, April 2004)

NEWS FROM THE 39th ANNUAL MEETING OF THE EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF THE LIVER (EASL) √ April 14-18, 2004 , BERLIN, Germany
APRIL 2004
News on Liver Transplantation (J.Hepatol., vol.40, suppl.1, April 2004)

NEWS FROM THE 39th ANNUAL MEETING OF THE EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF THE LIVER (EASL) √ April 14-18, 2004 , BERLIN, Germany
APRIL 2004
News on Liver cirrhosis and Hepatocellular carcinoma (J.Hepatol., vol.40, suppl.1, April 2004)

NEWS FROM THE 39th ANNUAL MEETING OF THE EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF THE LIVER (EASL) √ April 14-18, 2004 , BERLIN, Germany
APRIL 2004
News on Viral Hepatitis C (J.Hepatol., vol.40, suppl.1, April 2004)

NEWS FROM THE 39th ANNUAL MEETING OF THE EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF THE LIVER (EASL) √ April 14-18, 2004 , BERLIN, Germany
APRIL 2004
News on Viral Hepatitis B (J.Hepatol., vol.40, suppl.1, April 2004)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- New Onset Diabetes Mellitus After Liver Transplantation: The Critical Role of Hepatitis C Infection
APRIL 2004
De novo diabetes is common in transplant recipients, but is typically transient in nature. However, among those developing de novo persistent diabetes, HCV is one of the most important risk factors. This adds further support to the epidemiological data linking HCV and diabetes (Khalili et al., Liver Transpl;10,349,2004.)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Hepatitis C Virus Is Independently Associated With Increased Insulin Resistance After Liver Transplantation
MARCH 2004
HCV is independently associated with increased Insulin resistance after liver transplantation. These findings provide a possible pathogenetic basis for the association of diabetes with HCV. (Delgado-Borrego et al., Transplantation, 77, 703, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Risks of A Range of Alcohol Intake on Hepatitis C-Related Fibrosis
MARCH 2004
Heavy alcohol use exerts a greater effect on fibrosis than light or moderate use. Age, serum ALT, and inflammation are independently associated with fibrosis in multivariate analysis (Monto et al., Hepatology, 39, 826, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Long-Term Follow-Up of Alpha-Interferon Treatment of Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B
MARCH 2004
Response to IFN therapy increases survival and reduces the risk of developing HCC in patients with chronic hepatitis B. (Van Zonneveld et al., Hepatology;39, 804, 2004.)

LIVER STEATOSIS-Ursodeoxycholic Acid for Treatment of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis: Results of A Randomized Trial
MARCH 2004
2 years of therapy with Ursodeoxycholic acid at a dose of 13 to 15 mg/kg/d, although safe and well tolerated, is not better than placebo for patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (Lindor et al., Hepatology , 39,770, 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Antibiotic Prophylaxis After Endoscopic Therapy Prevents Rebleeding in Acute Variceal Hemorrhage: A Randomized Trial
MARCH 2004
Antibiotic prophylaxis can prevent infection and rebleeding as well as decrease the amount of blood transfused for patients with acute gastroesophageal variceal bleeding following endoscopic treatment (Hou et al., Hepatology,39,746,2004.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Role of g-Glutamyl Transferase Activity in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection
MARCH 2004
A significant number of patients with chronic HCV infection had elevated serum GGT levels. Furthermore, this enzyme seemed to be useful as an indirect marker of more advanced liver disease in chronic hepatitis C. (Silva et al., J. Gastroenterol.Hepatol., 11, 3, 314, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Hepatitis C Virus Core Antigen As A Predictor of Non-Response in Genotype 1 Chronic Hepatitis C Patients Treated with Peginterferon a-2b Plus Ribavirin
MARCH 2004
HCV Core Ag determination allows the identification of non-responders with only one test at week 12 and permits stopping therapy in these patients. HCV Core Antigen testing is cheaper and easier to perform than HCV RNA quantification (Buti et al., J. Hepatol., 40 , 527, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Complementary and Alternative Therapies in the Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C: A Systematic Review
MARCH 2004
Several promising complementary therapies (vitamin E, thymic extract, zinc, traditional Chinese medicine, Glycyrrhiza glabra and oxymatrine) although extrapolation of the results is difficult due to methodological limitations have been reported. More research is warranted to establish the role of these and other therapies in the treatment of hepatitis C (Coon et al., J. Hepatol., 40 , 491, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Combination Therapy with Amantadine and Interferon in NaОve Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C: Meta-Analysis of Individual Patient Data From Six Clinical Trials
MARCH 2004
In chronic hepatitis C, therapy with Amantadine and Interferon is effective and may be an alternative to Interferon and ribavirin in patients who cannot tolerate ribavirin (Mangia et al., J. Hepatol., 40, 478, 2004)

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS- Primary Biliary Cirrhosis: An Infectious Disease Caused by Chlamydia pneumoniae?
MARCH 2004
The presence of C. pneumoniae antigen and RNA in liver tissue of patients with Primary Biliary cirrhosis suggests that C. pneumoniae antigen may trigger an immune response based on molecular mimicry. (Abdulkarim et al., J.Hepatol.,40 , 380, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Effect of Antiviral Treatment on Evolution of Liver Steatosis in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C: Indirect Evidence of a Role of Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 3 in Steatosis
MARCH 2004
Significant improvement in steatosis in patients infected with HCV genotype 3, who achieved sustained viral clearance have been observed. This provides further evidence for direct involvement of HCV genotype 3 in the pathogenesis of hepatic steatosi (CastИra et al.,Gut, 53, 420, 2004)

LIVER DISEASES-Modest weight loss and physical activity in overweight patients with chronic liver disease results in sustained improvements in alanine aminotransferase, fasting insulin, and quality of life
MARCH 2004
Maintenance of weight loss and exercise in overweight patients with liver disease results in a sustained improvement in liver enzymes, serum insulin levels, and quality of life. Treatment of overweight patients should form an important component of the management of those with chronic liver disease. (Hickman et al.,Gut;53:413,2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Steatosis Affects Chronic Hepatitis C Progression in A Genotype Specific Way
MARCH 2004
Steatosis influences chronic hepatitis C progression in a genotype specific way. Patients infected with genotype 3 and histologically confirmed steatosis should not be deferred from effective antiviral therapy (Rubbia-Brandt et al., Gut,53,406,2004)

VIRAL HPATITIS C-A 48-Week Duration of Therapy With Pegylated Interferon Alpha 2b Plus Ribavirin May Be Too Short to Maximize Long-Term Response Among Patients Infected with Genotype-1 Hepatitis C Virus.
MARCH 2004
For some patients, suboptimal therapy with pegylated IFN plus ribavirin may need to be of longer duration than the currently recommended 48 weeks. This hypothesis requires prospective validation. (Drusano et al., J Infect Dis. 15, 189, 964, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Hepatitis C Virus Infection and Diabetes: Direct Involvement of the Virus in the Development of Insulin Resistance
MARCH 2004
The ability of insulin to lower the plasma glucose level in the HCV transgenic mice was impaired, as observed in chronic hepatitis C patients. These results provide a direct experimental evidence for the contribution of HCV in the development of insulin resistance in human HCV infection, which finally leads to the development of type 2 diabetes.( Shintani et al., Gastroenterology, 126, 3, 840, 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Simvastatin Enhances Hepatic Nitric Oxide Production and Decreases the Hepatic Vascular Tone in Patients with Cirrhosis
MARCH 2004
Simvastatin administration increases the hepatosplanchnic output of nitric oxide products and decreases hepatic resistance in patients with cirrhosis. (Zafra et al., Gastroenterology, 126,3,749, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Antiviral Action of Ribavirin in Chronic Hepatitis C
MARCH 2004
Ribavirin exerts a significant, moderate, and transient antiviral effect in a significant proportion of patients with chronic hepatitis (Pawlotsky et al., Gastroenterology, 126,3, 703,2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- The Predictive Value of Liver Fibrosis in Determining The Effectiveness of Interferon and Lamivudine Therapies for Chronic Hepatitis B
MARCH 2004
Both interferon and lamivudine were effective for patients with high ALT levels, but interferon s efficacy appeared to be limited by the degree of fibrosis. Lamivudine appeared to be effective irrespective of the degree of fibrosis, but YMDD mutations seemed to develop sooner in patients with advanced liver fibrosis (Shindo et al., J. Gastroenterology, 39, 3, 260, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Interferon Treatment Improves Survival In Chronic Hepatitis C Patients Showing Biochemical As Well As Virological Responses by Preventing Liver-Related Death
MARCH 2004
Interferon treatment improved survival in chronic hepatitis C patients showing a biochemical as well as a virological response by preventing liver-related deaths. (Kasahara et al., J. Viral Hepatitis, 11 , 148, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Lamivudine Prophylaxis for Prevention of Chemotherapy-Induced Hepatitis B Virus Reactivation in Hepatitis B Virus Carriers with Malignancies
MARCH 2004
Prophylactic lamivudine treatment in HBV carriers with haemato/oncological malignancy receiving chemotherapy prevents chemotherapy-induced HBV reactivation (Idilman et al., J. Viral Hepatitis, 11,2,. 141, 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Cost-Effectiveness of Hepatic Venous Pressure Gradient Measurements for Prophylaxis of Variceal Re-Bleeding
MARCH 2004
The cost-effectiveness of haemodynamic monitoring to guide secondary prophylaxis of recurrent variceal bleeding is highly dependent on local hepatic venous pressure gradient measurement costs, life expectancy and re-bleeding rates. (Raine et al., Aliment. Pharmacol. Therap., 19, 5, 571, 2004)

LIVER DISEASES -Correlation of Percutaneous Liver Biopsy Fragmentation with the Degree of Fibrosis
MARCH 2004
Fragmentation of percutaneous liver biopsy specimens is common and increases with progression from early to advanced fibrosis (Malik et al., Aliment. Pharmacol. Therap., 19, 5, 545, 2004)

LIVER STEATOSIS- Metformin in the Treatment of Patients with Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis
MARCH 2004
Improvement of the insulin sensitivity with metformin may improve the liver disease in patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. (Uygun et al., Aliment.Pharmacol.Therap., 19, 5, 537, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Screening for Hepatitis C Virus Infection: A Review of the Evidence for the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force
MARCH 2004
Although the yield from targeted screening, particularly in intravenous drug users, would be substantially higher than in the general population, data are inadequate to accurately weigh the overall benefits and risks of screening in otherwise healthy asymptomatic adults (Chou et al., Ann.Intern.Med. 140, 465, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Peginterferon-a2a and Ribavirin Combination Therapy in Chronic Hepatitis C
MARCH 2004
Treatment with peginterferon-a2a and ribavirin may be individualized by genotype. Patients with HCV genotype 1 require treatment for 48 weeks and a standard dose of ribavirin; those with HCV genotypes 2 or 3 seem to be adequately treated with a low dose of ribavirin for 24 weeks. (Hadziyannis et al. Ann. Intern.Med., 140, 5, 346, 2004)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Sustained Viral Response to Interferon and Ribavirin in Liver Transplant Recipients with Recurrent Hepatitis C
FEBRUARY 2004
One hundred nineteen transplant recipients were treated with interferon or combination therapy. Twenty-nine (20 men, 9 women; mean age, 54 yrs [range, 42-74 yrs]) lost detectable HCV RNA and remained virus negative for at least 6 months after discontinuing therapy (sustained viral response[SVR]). All patients remained HCV RNA negative (assessed by polymerase chain reaction or branched-DNA assay) during follow-up of up to 5 years. Loss of HCV after treatment of recurrent chronic hepatitis C with interferon and ribavirin is durable, and the durability of the SVR is associated with improvement in hepatic inflammation and regression of fibrosis. (Abdelmalek et al., Liver Transpl;10,199, 2004.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- A Randomized Controlled Trial of Amantadine Plus Interferon- a 2a Vs. Interferon-a2a Alone in Naive Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Randomized According to the Early Virological Response to Interferon- a 2a Monotherapy
FEBRUARY 2004
The addition of amantadine does not enhance the sustained virological response to interferon-a in naive patients with chronic hepatitis C; however, an additive effect of amantadine occurs in the first 6 months, mainly in patients without an early response to monotherapy. (Angelico et al., Aliment. Pharmacol. Therapeutics, 19, 3, 339, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Viral Clearance In HCV Viraemic Patients With Normal Alanine Aminotransferase After Combination Therapy: A Controlled, Open-Labelled Study
FEBRUARY 2004
Interferon and ribavirin induce comparable sustained virological response in patients with persistently normal or raised alanine aminotransferase levels. (Mangia et al., Aliment. Pharmacol. .Therap., 19, 3, 331, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Clinical Course After Stopping Lamivudine In Chronic Hepatitis B Patients With Lamivudine-Resistant Mutants
FEBRUARY 2004

It is relatively safe to stop lamivudine after YMDD mutants have emerged. ALT levels greater than or equal to twice the upper limit of normal at the time of stopping lamivudine have a higher risk for ALT flare (Wong et al., Aliment. Pharmacol. Therap., 19, 3, 323, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS E- Hepatitis E Superinfection Produces Severe Decompensation in Patients with Chronic Liver Disease
FEBRUARY 2004
Acute HEV in patients with chronic liver disease has a grave prognosis. Wilson's disease was the most common cause of chronic liver disease complicated by acute HEV. Seroprevalence studies showed that 44% of patients with chronic liver disease were at risk of developing hepatitis E. Hepatitis E vaccine, when available, is indicated for use in this group. (Ramachandran et al., J. Gastroenterol. . Hepatol., 19, 2, 134 , 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Improved Clinical Outcome Using Polytetrafluoroethylene-Coated Stents for Tips: Results of a Randomized Study
FEBRUARY 2004
The use of polytetrafluoroethylene-covered prostheses improves transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt patency and decreases the number of clinical relapses and reinterventions without increasing the risk of encephalopathy. (Bureau et al., Gastroenterology, 126,2,469,2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Diabetes Increases the Risk of Chronic Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma
FEBRUARY 2004
Among men with diabetes, the risk of chronic nonalcoholic liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma is doubled..( El-serag et al., Gastroenterology, 126,2,460, 2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Characteristics of Liver Cirrhosis in Italy: Results From a Multicenter National Study
FEBRUARY 2004
In Italy, liver cirrhosis is mainly associated with hepatitis C virus infection. (Stroffolini et al., Dig. Liver Diseases, 36,1, 56, 2004)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- The Barcelona Approach: Diagnosis, Staging, and Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
FEBRUARY 2004
Surgical resection is considered the first treatment option for early stage patients. It is reserved for patients with solitary tumors without portal hypertension and normal bilirubin. If these conditions are not met, patients are considered for liver transplantation (cadaveric or live donation) or percutaneous ablation if at an early stage (solitary 5 cm or up to 3 nodules 3 cm). If patients are diagnosed at an intermediate stage and are still asymptomatic and have preserved liver function, they may benefit from chemoembolization. There is no effective treatment for patients with advanced disease. (Llovet et al., Liver Transpl,10,S115,2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Effect of Peginterferon Alfa-2a on Liver Histology In Chronic Hepatitis C: A Meta-Analysis of Individual Patient Data
FEBRUARY 2004
In patients with chronic hepatitis C with or without cirrhosis, peginterferon alfa-2a (relative to IFN) significantly reduced fibrosis. The beneficial effects of peginterferon on liver histology are closely related to virologic response. (CammЮ et al., Hepatology;39,333, 2004)

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS- Frequency of Monosomy X in Women With Primary Biliary Cirrhosis
FEBRUARY 2004

Frequency of X monosomy, was significantly higher in women with PBC than in controls (Invernizzi et al., Lancet, 14, 363, 533, 2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Virological Significance of Low-Level Hepatitis B Virus Infection in Patients with Hepatitis C Virus Associated Liver Disease
FEBRUARY 2004
Hepatocellular carcinoma was more common among HCV/HBV co-infected patients than among HCV mono-infected patients. (Tanaka et al., Med. Virol. 72,223, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Hepatitis B Virus DNA in Liver, Serum, and Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells After the Clearance of Serum Hepatitis B Virus Surface Antigen
FEBRUARY 2004
The results demonstrate the early integration of HBV genome in the liver during acute and chronic viral infections and the persistence of the viral genome in an integrated form in peripheral blood mononuclear cells.( Murakami et al., J. Med. Virol. 72:203, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS A-Hepatitis A vaccine: Indirect Evidence of Immune Memory 12 Years After the Primary Course
FEBRUARY 2004
This study shows a substantial immune response to re-exposure to hepatitis A antigen after 12 years, which occurs rapidly to ensure protection within the average incubation period of hepatitis A virus. (Van Herck et al., J. Med. Virol. 72, 194, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Overweight and Obesity, Hepatic Steatosis, and Progression of Chronic Hepatitis C: A Retrospective Study on a Large Cohort of Patients in the United States
JANUARY 2004
Being overweight/obese serves as an independent risk factor for hepatic steatosis in U.S. patients with Chronic hepatitis C. Steatosis accelerates activity and progression of Chronic hepatitis C, and is independently associated with stage III/IV hepatic fibrosis in these patients (Ke-Qin Hu et al., J.Hepatol., 40,1, 147, 2004)

ALCOHOLIC HEPATITIS- A Randomized Placebo Controlled Trial of Vitamin E for Alcoholic Hepatitis
JANUARY 2004
Vitamin E treatment improves serum hyaluronic acid but has no beneficial effects on tests of liver function in patients with mild to moderate alcoholic hepatitis. (Mezey et al., J.Hepatol., 40 ,1, 40, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Predictive Value of Early HCV RNA Quantitation for Sustained Response in Nonresponders Receiving Daily Interferon and Ribavirin Therapy
JANUARY 2004
Nonresponse can be predicted as early as week 4 or week 12 in nonresponders treated with daily IFN and ribavirin (Trimoulet et al. J. Med. Virol. 72, 46, 2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Hepatitis B Viremia is Associated with Increased Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Chronic Carriers
JANUARY 2004
Hepatitis B viremia, except perhaps at extremely low levels, is associated with increased risk for Hepatocellular carcinoma. (Tang et al., J.Med.Virol., 72,1,35-40,2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS A- Time course of hepatitis A viremia and viral load in the blood of human hepatitis A patients
JANUARY 2004
A direct correlation to peak levels of viral load exists with peak serum transaminase levels. In two patients it was possible to trace viral load levels of 5 x 103 and 4 x 104 were detected respectiveli 408 and 490 days after onset of icterus. (Norman et al., J. Med. Virol. 72,10, 2004).

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Hepatitis B Virus Maintains its Pro-Oncogenic Properties in the Case of Occult HBV Infection
JANUARY 2004
Occult Hepatitis B virus is a risk factor for development of Hepatocellular carcinoma and the potential mechanisms whereby overt HBV might induce tumor formation are mostly maintained in cases of occult infection (Pollicino et al., Gastroenterology, 126, 1,102, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Adefovir Dipivoxil Alone or in Combination with Lamivudine in Patients with Lamivudine-Resistant Chronic Hepatitis B
JANUARY 2004
In patients with compensated liver disease, adefovir dipivoxil alone or in combination with ongoing lamivudine therapy provides effective antiviral therapy in patients with lamivudine-resistant HBV. (Marion et al., Gastroenterology, 126,1, 91, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Adefovir Dipivoxil Added to Ongoing Lamivudine in Chronic Hepatitis B with YMDD Mutant Hepatitis B Virus
JANUARY 2004
The addition of adefovir dipivoxil to lamivudine in patients with CHB with compensated or decompensated liver disease due to YMDD mutant HBV is associated with virologic and biochemical improvement during 52 weeks of treatment and is well tolerated. (Perrillo et al., Gastroenterology, 126, 1, 2004)

LIVER HEPATITIS C- The Severity of Liver Fibrosis is Associated with High Leptin Levels in Chronic Hepatitis C
JANUARY 2004
In patients with chronic hepatitis C and higher body mass index and glycaemia levels, the severity of liver fibrosis is associated with serum leptin. TNF-&#61537; is a putative candidate involved in the mechanism. (Piche et al., J.Viral Hepatitis,11,1,91, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Evidence that Plasma Concentration Rather Than Dose Per Kilogram Body Weight Predicts Ribavirin-Induced Anaemia
JANUARY 2004
Anaemia induced by ribavirin depends primarily on the concentration of ribavirin, and not on the dose per kg bw. This lends further support to the idea that ribavirin should be dosed according to renal function (Lindahl et al.,J. Viral Hepatitis, 11,1, 84, 2004

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Evolution of Hepatitis B Viral Load and Viral Genome Sequence During Adefovir Dipivoxil Therapy
JANUARY 2004
Adefovir Dipivoxil administration for 48-72 weeks effectively suppresses HBV replication without the emergence of resistant viral mutants (Werle et al., J. Viral Hepatitis, 11,1, 74, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Thymosin- 1 plus interferon- for naive patients with chronic hepatitis C: results of a randomized controlled pilot trial
JANUARY 2004
Immune modulator TA1 may enhance the end-of-treatment response in naive patients with chronic hepatitis C.(Journal of Viral Hepatitis, 11, 1, 69, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Interferon alfa2a Induction Therapy in Combination with Ribavirin and Amantadine for the Treatment of Naive Patients with Chronic HCV Infection
JANUARY 2004
Induction therapy with 6 MU IFN daily did not result in increased overall response rates compared with standard IFN dosages of 6 MU tiw (Engler et al., J.Viral Hepatitis, 11, 1, 60, 2004)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Treatment of Recurrent Hepatitis C Infection After Liver Transplantation with Combination of Pegylated Interferon alfa2b and Ribavirin: An Open-Label Series
JANUARY 2004
Post-OLT HCV recurrence can be safely treated with PEG-IFN and RIB. Bone marrow toxicity, depression, and rejection are limiting factors that require aggressive management. There was short-term histologic benefit to the use of this regimen, even in those patients without viral clearance. (Rodriguez-Luna et al., Transplantation, 77,2 , 190, 2004)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Donor Age Affects Fibrosis Progression and Graft Survival After Liver Transplantation for Hepatitis C
JANUARY 2004
.Liver transplantation with Older Donor grafts is associated with rapid progression of fibrosis and decreased graft survival in patients with HCV, but not in patients without HCV. Older Donor grafts should be considered preferentially for patients without HCV. (Machicao et al., Transplantation, 77, 84, 2004)

LIVER STEATOSIS- A Pilot Study of Pioglitazone Treatment for Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis
JANUARY 2004
Treatment with an insulin-sensitizing agent can lead to improvement in biochemical and histological features of NASH and support the role of insulin resistance in the pathogenesis of this disease. The long-term safety and benefits of pioglitazone require further study (Promrat et al., Hepatology, 39,188,2004.)

LIVER STEATOSIS-Relative Contribution of Iron Burden, HFE Mutations, and Insulin Resistance to Fibrosis in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver
JANUARY 2004
Insulin resistance is a major, independent risk factor for advanced fibrosis in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Increased ferritin levels are markers of severe histologic damage, but not of iron overload. Iron burden and HFE mutations do not contribute significantly to hepatic fibrosis in the majority of patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (Bugianesi et al., Hepatology;39,179,2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Long-Term Outcome (35 Years) Of Hepatitis C After Acquisition of Infection Through Mini Transfusions of Blood Given at Birth
JANUARY 2004
HCV infection acquired early in life shows a slow progression and mild outcome during the first 35 yr of infection (Casiraghi et al., Hepatology, 39,90, 2004.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Identification of HBV DNA Sequences that Are Predictive of Response to Lamivudine Therapy
JANUARY 2004
In HBeAg-negative patients specific viral DNA sequences which are present before therapy appear to be useful as predictors of long-term response to lamivudine treatment (Ciancio et al., Hepatology,39,64,2004.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Randomised, Double Blind, Placebo Controlled Trial of Interferon, Ribavirin, and Amantadine Versus Interferon, Ribavirin, and Placebo in Treatment NaОve Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
JANUARY 2004
Response to triple therapy of interferon alfa, ribavirin, and amantadine was similar to standard therapy of interferon alfa and ribavirin. Our results suggest that amantadine has no role in the management of HCV (Thuluvath et al., Gut;53,130-135,2004)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Ten Years' Follow-up of 472 Patients Following Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Stent-Shunt Insertion at a Single Centre
JANUARY 2004
TIPSS(Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Stent-Shunt) is effective in the management of variceal bleeding, and has a low complication rate. With surveillance, good patency can be achieved. Careful selection of patients is needed to reduce the encephalopathy rate. (Tripathi et al., Eur. J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol.,: 16, 1, 9 , 2004)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION-Treatment of Fractory Cholestatic Pruritus After Liver Transplantation with Albumin Dialysis
JANUARY 2004
MARS (Molecular Adsorbent Recirculating System) is an effective therapeutic option for patients with intractable cholestatic pruritus after liver transplantation. (Bellmann et al., Liver Transpl ,10, 107, 2004)

HEPATIC IRON STORES-Non-invasive Assessment of Hepatic Iron Stores by MRI
JANUARY 2004
MRI is a rapid, non-invasive, and cost effective technique that could limit use of liver biopsy to assess liver iron content (Gandon et al., Lancet; 363, 357,2004)

AUTOIMMUNE HEPATITIS- Effectiveness and Safety of Ciclosporin as Therapy for Autoimmune Diseases of the Liver in Children And Adolescents
JANUARY 2004
Ciclosporin may be considered as a safe treatment for all autoimmune liver diseases and as an effective alternative for front-line therapy. (Sciveres et al., Alim.Pharmacol. Therapeutics, 19, 2, 209, 2004)

ALCOHOLIC CIRRHOSIS-A Pilot Study to Investigate the Use of Oxpentifylline (Pentoxifylline) and Thalidomide in Portal Hypertension Secondary to Alcoholic Cirrhosis
JANUARY 2004
Thalidomide, but not oxpentifylline (pentoxifylline), reduces the hepatic venous pressure gradient in stable alcoholic cirrhotics, an effect that may be mediated by the inhibition of tumour necrosis factor-&#61537; production. The role of tumour necrosis factor-&#61537; inhibitory drugs in the therapy of portal hypertension should be investigated in a randomized controlled trial. (Austin et al., Alim. Pharmacol. Ther., 19, 1, 79, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-A Comparison of Hepatitis C Treatment and Outcomes at Academic, Private and Veterans' Affairs Treatment Centres
JANUARY 2004
Differences in treatment practice and use of diagnostic procedures were found in different Centres. Outside of the academic setting, there is significantly less diagnostic work-up performed prior to the initiation of hepatitis C virus therapy. (Jensen et al., Alim. Pharmacol.Therapeutics, 19, 69, 2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Sampling Variability of Liver Fibrosis in Chronic Hepatitis C
DECEMBER 2003
Sampling variability of fibrosis is a significant limitation in the assessment of fibrosis with liver biopsy. A length of at least 25 mm is necessary to evaluate fibrosis accurately with a semiquantitative score. (Bedossa et al., Hepatology;38,1449, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Adefovir Dipivoxil Therapy for Lamivudine-Resistant Hepatitis B in Pre√ And Post√Liver Transplantation Patients
DECEMBER 2003
48 weeks of achronic hepatitis B patients pre- and post-liver transplantation with lamivudine-resistant hepatitis B virus (Schiff et al., Hepatology;38,1419,2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Humoral and Cardiac Effects of TIPS in Cirrhotic Patients with Different ⌠Effective■ Blood Volume
DECEMBER 2003
The hemodynamic effects of TIPS differ according to the pre-TIPS effective blood volume. Furthermore, TIPS improves the diastolic cardiac function of cirrhotic patients with effective hypovolemia. This result is likely due to a TIPS-related improvement of the fullness of central blood volume (Salerno et al., Hepatology, 38,1370, 2003)

ALCOHOLIC HEPATITIS- Early Change in Bilirubin Levels is an Important Prognostic Factor in Severe Alcoholic Hepatitis Treated with Prednisolone
DECEMBER 2003
An early change in bilirubin levels is a very simple predictive factor for identifying nonresponders. A recommendation to discontinue corticosteroids after 7 days in patients without An early change in bilirubin levels, suggested by our results, awaits additional confirmation.. (Mathurin et al., Hepatology ;38, 1363, 2003.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Early is Superior to Deferred Preemptive Lamivudine Therapy for Hepatitis B Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy
DECEMBER 2003
Lamivudine should be considered preemptively before or at the initiation of chemotherapy for all hepatitis B surface antigen-positive lymphoma patients undergoing intense chemotherapy. (Lau et al., Gastroenterology, 125, 6, 1742, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Long-Term Safety of Lamivudine Treatment in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis B
DECEMBER 2003
Lamivudine treatment for up to 6 years has an excellent safety profile in patients with HBeAg-positive compensated liver disease, but patients with long-standing lamivudine-resistant mutations may experience worsening liver disease .(Lok et al., Gastroenterology, 125 , 6, 1714, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Insulin resistance is associated with chronic hepatitis C and virus infection fibrosis progression
DECEMBER 2003
Hepatitis C virus may induce insulin resistance irrespective of the severity of liver disease . Insulin resistance may contribute to fibrotic progression in chronic hepatitis C virus infection (Hui et al., Gastroenterology, 125, 6, 1695, 2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Oral Ciprofloxacin Versus Intravenous Cefotaxime and Ceftriaxone in the Treatment of Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis.
DECEMBER 2003
Orally ciprofloxacin is as effective as cefotaxime and ceftriaxone in the empirical treatment of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in cirrhotic patients, and is also less expensive and can be administered orally. (Tuncer et al., Hepatogastroenterology,50, 1426,2003)

NONALCOHOLIC STEATOHEPATITIS-Ursodeoxycholic Acid and Atorvastatin in the Treatment of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis
DECEMBER 2003
The use of atorvastatin in Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis patients with hyperlipidemia was found to be both effective and safe. The benefit of statin and ursodeoxycholic acid therapy in normolipidemic patients with Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis requires confirmation with further placebo-controlled trials. (Kiyici et al., Can J Gastroenterol. 17, 713, 2003).

TRANSAMINASES- Macro-Aspartate Aminotransferase (Macro-AST). A 12-Year Follow-Up Study In A Young Female
DECEMBER 2003
A case of chronic elevation of serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activity due to the presence of a macro-enzyme form of AST (macro-AST) in a young female followed up for 12 years is described. (Orlando et al., Eur. J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 15, 1371, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- First-Line Therapy With Daily Versus Thrice-Weekly Interferon Alfa-2b plus Ribavirin for Chronic Hepatitis C
DECEMBER 2003
Any difference between daily and thrice-weekly standard interferon plus ribavirin in achieving end-of-treatment and sustained virological responses in chronic hepatitis C has been demonstrated. (Reiser et al., Europ. J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 15, 1299, 2003)

PORTAL VEIN TROMBOSIS- A Surgical Solution to Extrahepatic Portal Thrombosis and Portal Cavernoma: The Splanchnic√Intrahepatic Portal Bypass
DECEMBER 2003
Three cases of prehepatic portal vein thrombosis, complicated by the clinical manifestations of portal hypertension, were successfully treated by surgically created splanchnic√intrahepatic portal bypass. (Audet et al., Digest. Liver Disease, 35, 903, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Interspousal Transmission of Hepatitis C in Thailand
DECEMBER 2003
Interspousal transmission of HCV seems to be very rare. (Boonyarad et al., J.Gastroenterol., 38, 1053, 2003)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Hepatic Arterial Infusion Chemotherapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma With Portal Vein Tumor Thrombosis.
DECEMBER 2003
Arterial infusion chemotherapy using low-dose cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil may be a useful alternative for the treatment of patients with advanced Hepatocellular carcinoma complicated with portal vein tumor thrombosis (Lai et al., World J Gastroenterol., 9, 2666, 2003 )

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Pilot Study of Prolonged Interferon-Alpha Retreatment in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients with Genotype 1b
DECEMBER 2003
After prolonged IFN retreatment (3 years), a significant number of patients showed a sustained response for the first time and long-term improvement in ALT level. (Nomura et al., Hepatol Res. 27, 266, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Consensus Interferon Versus Interferon-Alpha 2b Plus Ribavirin in Patients with Relapsing HCV Infection.
DECEMBER 2003
Treatment with Consensus IFN lead to a higher response rate compared to that of recombinant IFN-alpha 2b in association with ribavirin (Miglioresi et al. Hepatol Res. 27,253, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Twenty-Four Vs. Fourty-Eight Weeks of Re-Therapy with Interferon Alpha 2b and Ribavirin in Interferon Alpha Monotherapy Relapsers with Chronic Hepatitis C.
DECEMBER 2003
Prolonging interferon / ribavirin combination therapy in interferon alpha monotherapy relapsers with chronic hepatitis C from 24 to 48 weeks may increase sustained response rates. (August-Jorg et al., Swiss Med Wkly. 23,455, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction Assay for Serum Hepatitis B Virus DNA as a Predictive Factor for Post-Treatment Relapse After Lamivudine Induced Hepatitis B e Antigen Loss or Seroconversion
DECEMBER 2003
Extended lamivudine therapy for up to 12 months did not decrease the rate of post-treatment virological relapse, and monitoring of serum HBV DNA by a quantitative PCR method was helpful in predicting post-treatment relapse. (Lee et al., Gut; 52:1779, 2003)

PORTAL VENOUS OBSTRUCTION- Hepatic Dysfunction In Patients With Extrahepatic Portal Venous Obstruction
DECEMBER 2003
Hepatic dysfunction in the form of ascites and deranged liver functions is not uncommon in patients with Extrahepatic portal venous obstruction (Rangari et al., Liver International, 23, 434 ,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Low Daily Dosage of Interferon for 1 Year After HCV-Related End-Therapy Response. A Randomized-Controlled Study
DECEMBER 2003
Genotype 1b naive end-therapy responders to usual combined therapy, after a period of daily consolidation therapy with a low dosage of IFN without ribavirin, achieved a better rate of sustained response than the control group. (Tarantino et al. , Liver International, 23,413, 2003)

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS- Long-Term Efficacy of Sertraline as a Treatment For Cholestatic Pruritus in Patients With Primary Biliary Cirrhosis.
DECEMBER 2003
Sertraline use is associated with an improvement in cholestatic pruritus. (Browning et al., Am J Gastroenterol., 98, 2736, 2003 )

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Once-Weekly Epoetin Alfa Improves Anemia and Facilitates Maintenance of Ribavirin Dosing in Hepatitis C Virus-Infected Patients Receiving Ribavirin plus Interferon Alfa.
DECEMBER 2003
In anemic HCV-infected patients treated with Ribavirin/IFN, epoetin alfa increases Hemoglobin levels and maintains Ribavirina dosing (Dieterich et al. Am J Gastroenterol.; 98,2491, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-When and How to Treat Acute Hepatitis C?
DECEMBER 2003
Current evidence is sufficient to recommend interferon treatment of patients with acute hepatitis C. A later initiation of therapy yields the same likelihood of response as early treatment. A daily induction dose during the 1st month is the best option of treatment (Licata et al., J.Hepatol., 39, 1056, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Fibrogenic Impact of High Serum Glucose in Chronic Hepatitis C
DECEMBER 2003
High serum glucose, is an independent co-factor of fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C with a higher pro-fibrogenic impact than overweight (Ratziu et al., J. Hepatol, 39, 1049, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-In Overweight Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C, Circulating Insulin is Associated with Hepatic Fibrosis: Implications for Therapy
DECEMBER 2003
Increasing circulating insulin levels may be a factor responsible for the association between body mass index and fibrosis in patients with HCV, irrespective of viral genotype (Hickman et al., J. Hepatol., 39 , 1042, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B AND C-Epidemiological and Clinical Burden of Chronic Hepatitis B Virus/Hepatitis C Virus Infection. A Multicenter Italian Study
DECEMBER 2003
Anti-HCV was present in 7% of patients affected by hepatitis B. 44.4% had only HBV-DNA in serum, 13.9% had both HBV-DNA and HCV-RNA , 25% had HCV-RNA alone and 16.7% tested negative for both. (Gaeta et al., J.Hepatol., 39 , 1036, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Different hepatitis C virus dynamics of free-virions and immune-complexes after initiation of interferon-alpha in patients with chronic hepatitis C
DECEMBER 2003
The presence of escape mutants from the neutralizing antibodies may be involved in resistance to IFN. Analyzes offee virions- and immune-complexes -HCV dynamics are useful for predicting the IFN efficacy and understanding the mechanism of IFN action in chronic hepatitis patients. (Fujita et al., J. Hepatology, 39, 1013, 2003)

LIVER FAILURE- Prometheus - A New Extracorporeal System for the Treatment of Liver Failure
DECEMBER 2003
Prometheus (a new liver support system in which albumin-bound substances are directly removed from blood by special adsorber) is a safe supportive therapy for patients with liver failure. A significant improvement of the biochemical milieu was observed already after two treatments (Rifai et al., J.Hepatol, 39, 984, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS D-In Vivo Antiviral Efficacy of Prenylation Inhibitors Against Hepatitis Delta Virus.
DECEMBER 2003
This study provides the first preclinical data supporting the in vivo efficacy of prenylation inhibition as a novel antiviral therapy with potential application to HDV and a wide variety of other viruses. (Bordier et al., J Clin Invest. 112, 319, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- A pilot study of therapeutic vaccination with envelope protein E1 in 35 patients with chronic hepatitis C
NOVEMBER 2003
E1 therapeutic vaccination is well tolerated and the observed effects (improvement of liver histology in 38% of patients and a trend toward a ALT decrease) warrant further study. (Nevens et al., Hepatology , 38,1289, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Determinants for Sustained HBeAg response to Lamivudine Therapy
NOVEMBER 2003
HBV genotype, age, and additional treatment are the major determinants for the sustained HBeAg response to lamivudine therapy (Chien et al., Hepatology, 38:,1267, 2003)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Adjuvant Intra-Arterial Injection Of Iodine-131√Labeled Lipiodol After Resection of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
NOVEMBER 2003
This retrospective analysis supports the promising contribution of postoperative injection of 131I-Lip after resection of HCC. (Boucher et al., Hepatology, , 38, 1237, 2003)

LIVER DISEASE- Validity of the 13C-Caffeine Breath Test as a Noninvasive, Quantitative Test of Liver Function
NOVEMBER 2003
The 13C-CBT represents a valid indicator of plasma caffeine clearance and correlates reproducibly with hepatic dysfunction. (Jung-Hyuk Park et al., Hepatology, 38,1227, 2003

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Systemic, Renal, and Hepatic Hemodynamic Derangement in Cirrhotic Patients with Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis
NOVEMBER 2003
Patients with Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis frequently develop a rapidly progressive impairment in systemic hemodynamics, leading to severe renal and hepatic failure, aggravation of portal hypertension, encephalopathy, and death. This occurs despite rapid resolution of infection and is associated with an extremely poor prognosis (Ruiz-del-Arbol et al., Hepatology;38,1210, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Clinical outcome and virologic profiles of severe hepatitis B exacerbation due to YMDD mutations
NOVEMBER 2003
Though the majority of patients with severe hepatitis exacerbations due to YMDD mutants had uneventful course, early liver transplantation should be considered in patients with pre-existing cirrhosis and HBeAg seroreversion. (Yuen et al., J. Hepatol., 39 ,850, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- A randomized trial of consensus interferon in combination with ribavirin as initial treatment for chronic hepatitis C
NOVEMBER 2003
Higher consensus interferon dose does not increase sustained virologic response. Naive genotype 1 patients may achieve significant response rate of approximately 40% if treated with 9 mcg of consensus interferon plus ribavirin for 48 weeks (Fattovich et al., J.Hepatol., 39 , 843, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Antiviral Effect of Ribavirin in Early Non-Responders to Interferon Monotherapy Assessed By Kinetics Of Hepatitis C Virus RNA and Hepatitis C Virus Core Antigen
NOVEMBER 2003
Ribavirin has probably an additional antiviral effect in interferon treated patients. Kinetics of HCV RNA and HCV core antigen under treatment are highly predictive of a sustained virological response. (Lunel et al., J. Hepatol., 39 ,826, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Lymph Node Enlargement Within the Hepatoduodenal Ligament in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Reflects The Immunological Cellular Response of the Host
NOVEMBER 2003
The prevalence of lymph nodes within the hepatoduodenal ligament is high; lymph node enlargement is correlated with the immunological cellular response of the host; and the total lymph node volume is correlated with hepatic necroinflammatory markers and the stage of fibrosis. ( Muller et al., J. Hepatol., 39 , 807, 2003)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Risk Factors for the Local Recurrence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma After a Single Session of Percutaneous Radiofrequency Ablation
NOVEMBER 2003
Both tumor size and location relative to the liver surface influence the local efficacy of single-session RFA with a single electrode insertion. (Hori et al., J.Gastroenterol., 38, 977, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Is Acupuncture a Risk Factor for Hepatitis? Systematic Review of Epidemiological Studies
NOVEMBER 2003
A modest association between hepatitis C and acupuncture has been reported in some countries. This emphasizes the importance of exclusively using disposable acupuncture needles. (Ernste ET AL., J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 18, 1231, 2003)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- The Continuing Increase in the Incidence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in the United States: An Update
NOVEMBER 2003
The incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma continues to increase rapidly in the United States, with rates increasing the fastest in white men 45 to 54 years of age. These findings could be explained by consequences of hepatitis C virus acquired during the 1960s and 1970s. (El-Serag et al., Annals 139,817,2003).

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Detection of Identical Helicobacter DNA in the Stomach and in the Non-Cirrhotic Liver of Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
NOVEMBER 2003
Gastric colonization with a specific subset of Helicobacter strains is associated with the induction of HCC, either directly via colonization of the liver or indirectly, e.g. via secretion of specific toxins by Helicobacter residing in the stomach (Verhoef et al., Eur. J.Gastroenterol. Hepatol. ,15, 1171, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Outcomes of Interferon Alpha and Ribavirin Treatment for Chronic Hepatitis C in Patients with Normal Serum Aminotransaminases
NOVEMBER 2003
Combination therapy with interferon plus ribavirin is associated with a similar SVR in patients with normal ALT levels compared with those with elevated ALT levels. In patients with normal ALT levels. (Hui et al., Gut;52, 1644, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Liver Fibrosis is Not Associated With Steatosis But with Necroinflammation in French Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
NOVEMBER 2003
In patients with chronic hepatitis C steatosis does not seem to be an important determinant of liver fibrosis. High grade of necroinflammation is associated with a high stage of fibrosis. (Asselah et al., Gut;52,1638, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Re-Treatment of Patients With Anti-Hbe-Positive Chronic Hepatitis B who Relapsed After an Initial Course of Lamivudine
NOVEMBER 2003
Re-treatment with lamivudine can control viral replication. This effect is maintained for the initial 12 months in two-thirds of patients, but afterwards the duration of response lessens due to the development of viral resistance. (Niro et al., Aliment. Pharmacol. Therapeut., 18, 933, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Daily Induction Combination Treatment With Alpha 2b Interferon and Ribavirin or Standard Combination Treatment in Naive Chronic Hepatitis C Patients. A Multicentre Randomized Controlled Trial
NOVEMBER 2003
Although an early virological response is observed more frequently in the induction treatment, end of treatment response and sustained responses did not differ (Van Vlierberghe et al., J. Viral Hepatitis 10, 460, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Comparative Study of the Efficacy of an Induction Dose of Interferon-alfa2b with Ribavirin Compared with Standard Combined Treatment in Naive Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
NOVEMBER 2003
The induction treatment presented a better initial response, but this was not maintained at the end of treatment, and did not improve the results obtained with the standard treament. Although the patients with genotype 1 and elevated viral load had a better response with the induction treatment, this was accompanied by a greater percentage of dropouts and secondary effects. (PИrez et al., J. Viral Hepatitis, 10, 437, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- The Lack of Effect of Therapeutic Vaccination With a Pre-S2/S HBV Vaccine in the Immune Tolerant Phase of Chronic HBV Infection
OCTOBER 2003
Immunotherapy with specific anti-HBV vaccine in the immune tolerance phase of chronic HBV infection did not offer additional benefit. New immunotherapeutic strategies to control HBV infection by specific HBV vaccines in chronically infected subjects are needed (Yalcin et al., J. Clin. Gastroenterol.; 37,330, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Hepatic Venous Pressure Gradient Determination in Patients With Hepatitis C Virus-Related and Alcoholic Cirrhosis.
OCTOBER 2003
The degree of portal hypertension in cirrhotic patients does not correlate with the cause of the disease. Thus, current statements on the management of portal hypertension, although based upon studies including mainly patients with alcoholic cirrhosis, can be applied also to patients with viral-related cirrhosis. (Bellis et al., Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol.;15,1085, 2003).

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Is Obesity A Risk Factor for Cirrhosis-Related Death or Hospitalization? A Population-Based Cohort Study
OCTOBER 2003
Obesity appears to be a risk factor for cirrhosis-related death or hospitalization among persons who consume little or no alcohol. (Ioannou et al., Gastroenterology, 125,1053, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Risk Of HCV Transmission After Needlestick Injury, and the Efficacy of Short-Duration Interferon Administration to Prevent HCV Transmission to Medical Personnel
OCTOBER 2003
There is a lower risk of HCV transmission after needlestick accident than previously reported, and short-duration interferon administration at an early stage after the needlestick injury, to prevent HCV transmission, is unnecessary. (Chung et al., J.Gastroenterol., 38, 877, 2003)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Increased Risk of Cholestatic Hepatitis C in Recipients of Grafts from Living Versus Cadaveric Liver Donors
OCTOBER 2003
The incidence of cholestatic hepatitis was significantly greater in patients with HCV who underwent living donor liver transplantation (Gaglio et al., Liver Transpl. 9, 1028, 2003)

STEATOSIS - Is Hypothyroidism a Risk Factor for Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis?
OCTOBER 2003
Hypothyroidism is associated with human non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (Liangpunsakul et al., J. Clin.Gastroenterol., 37,340, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Identification of a Ribavirin-resistant NS5B Mutation of Hepatitis C Virus During Ribavirin Monotherapy
OCTOBER 2003
Ribavirin could work as a weak mutagen for HCV RNA in HCV-infected patients (Young et al., Hepatology;38, 869,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Long-Term Interleukin 10 Therapy in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients Has A Proviral and Anti-Inflammatory Effect
OCTOBER 2003
Long-term Interleukin 10 therapy appears to decrease disease activity, but also leads to increased HCV viral burden via alterations in immunologic viral surveillance. (Nelson et al., Hepatology; 38, 859, 2003.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Long-Term Additional Lamivudine Therapy Enhances Durability Of Lamivudine-Induced HBeAg Loss: A Prospective Study.
OCTOBER 2003
Long-term additional administration of lamivudine might enhance the durability of lamivudine-induced HBeAg seroconversion. (Hyung Ryu et al., J Hepatol., 39,614, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Randomized, Controlled Trial With IFN-Alpha Combined with Ribavirin with and Without Amantadine Sulphate in Non-Responders with Chronic Hepatitis C.
OCTOBER 2003
The addition of amantadine was well tolerated and led to an improvement of sustained virologic responses compared with retreatment with IFN-alpha/ribavirin alone, in particular in patients with low baseline viremia (Teuber et al., J Hepatol. 39, 606, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Peginterferon Vs. Standard Interferon in the Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C
OCTOBER 2003
On the basis of this systematic review, peginterferon-based regimens are superior to standard interferon-based regimens for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C. (Zaman et al., Aliment. Pharmacol. Therapeut. ,18, 661, 2003)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Percutaneous Portal Vein Embolisation in Preparation For Extended Hepatic Resection of Primary Nonresectable Liver Tumours
OCTOBER 2003
Preoperative partial portal vein embolisation allows more patients with previously unresectable liver tumours to benefit from a potentially curative (Ladurner et al., Digest. Liver Disease , 35, 716, 2003)

BILIARY DISEASES- Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography: A Meta-Analysis of Test Performance in Suspected Biliary Disease
OCTOBER 2003
Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography is a noninvasive imaging test with excellent overall sensitivity and specificity for demonstrating the level and presence of biliary obstruction (Romagnuolo et al., Annals, 139, 32, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Clinical Significance of SEN-Virus on Interferon Response in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients.
OCTOBER 2003
Hepatocellular injury in patients with chronic hepatitis who are coinfected with HCV and SENV appears to primarily be caused by HCV, and is less attributable to SENV. (Lin et al., J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 18, 1144, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Hepatitis C Virus RNA Load in Relapsed Patients: Week Two of Treatment is the Best Time to Predict the Complete Response
OCTOBER 2003
During treatment with interferon plus ribavirin in relapsed hepatitis C patients, viral kinetics showed that the second week of treatment appeared to be the time point most predictive of a sustained viral response (Halfon et al., Eur. J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol.,15, 1067, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Early Virologic Response to Treatment With Peginterferon alfa-2b Plus Ribavirin in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C.
OCTOBER 2003
Most patients who at the and of 12 weeks of therapy achieve early virologic response have a high probability of sustained virologic response. Patients who fail to achieve early virologic response will not clear virus even if an additional 9 months of therapy is received. Therapy can be confidently discontinued in those cases. (Davis et al., Hepatology. 38,645, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- High Body Mass Index is an Independent Risk Factor for Nonresponse to Antiviral Treatment in Chronic Hepatitis C
SEPTEMBER 2003
Obesity, only when defined as a BMI greater than 30 kg/m2, is an independent (of genotype and cirrhosis) negative predictor of response to hepatitis C treatment.. (Bressler et al., Hepatology;38,639, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS A-Viral and Clinical Factors Associated with the Fulminant Course of Hepatitis A Infection
SEPTEMBER 2003
HAV-related liver failure is due to an excessive host response associated with a marked reduction in viral load. Serum HAV RNA assay could be of help in the management of severe hepatitis A (Rezende et al., Hepatology. 38, 613, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS A-Viral and Clinical Factors Associated with the Fulminant Course of Hepatitis A Infection.
SEPTEMBER 2003
HAV-related liver failure is due to an excessive host response associated with a marked reduction in viral load. Serum HAV RNA assay could be of help in the management of severe hepatitis A (Rezende et al., Hepatology. 38, 613, 2003)

ALCOHOL-Screening in Brief Intervention Trials Targeting Excessive Drinkers in General Practice: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
SEPTEMBER 2003
Although even brief advice can reduce excessive drinking, screening in general practice does not seem to be an effective precursor to brief interventions targeting excessive alcohol use. This meta-analysis raises questions about the feasibility of screening in general practice for excessive use of alcohol (Beich et al., BMJ;327,536,2003)

VIRALHEPATITIS C-Interferon Plus Ribavirin in Patients with Hepatitis C Virus Positive Mixed Cryoglobulinemia Resistant to Interferon
SEPTEMBER 2003
Combination therapy of IFN plus ribavirin could be useful for patients with mixed cryoglobulinemia resistant to IFN as monotherapy (Mazzaro et al., J Rheumatol;30,1775-81, 2003)

VACCINATION- Hepatitis A Booster Vaccination: is There a Need?
SEPTEMBER 2003
There is no evidence to lend support to HAV booster vaccination after a full primary vaccination course in a healthy individual. (Van Damme et al., Lancet, 362,1065,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Infection with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus and Liver Transplantation: A Role for Interferon Therapy Before Transplantation
SEPTEMBER 2003
With careful supervision cirrhotic patients can tolerate high-dose interferon. In addition, a viral clearance can be achieved in a significant number of cirrhotic patients with high-dose interferon. One third of patients, in whom the HCV cleared before liver transplantation, did not have evidence of disease recurrence after liver transplantation. (Thomas et al., Liver Transpl. 9,905, 2003).

CHRONIC LIVER DISEASES- Assessment of Prognosis in Alcoholic Liver Disease: Can Serum Hyaluronate Replace Liver Biopsy?
SEPTEMBER 2003
Serum hyaluronic acid has been put forward as such a non-invasive test. Based on current evidence, serum hyaluronic acid may well be a useful adjunctive test in the assessment of certain categories of alcoholic liver disease patients, but at present it is unlikely to displace liver biopsy as the investigation of choice in alcoholic liver disease (Phillips et al., Eur. J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 15, 941, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Antiviral Therapy of Patients with Decompensated Cirrhosis to Prevent Recurrence of Hepatitis C After Liver Transplantation.
SEPTEMBER 2003
Antiviral therapy in HCV-infected patients awaiting Liver transplantation is one of the strategies to prevent hepatitis C recurrence after transplantation. (Forns et al., J Hepatol., 39,389, 2003).

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Quantitative Liver-Spleen Scan Using Single Photon Emission Computerized Tomography (SPECT) for Assessment of Hepatic Function in Cirrhotic Patients.
SEPTEMBER 2003
Quantitative SPECT of the liver may be an additional, useful, non-invasive quantitative test for assessment of hepatic function and severity of liver disease in cirrhotic patients (Zuckerman et al., J Hepatol.,39,326, 2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Memory Function in Early Hepatic Encephalopathy.
SEPTEMBER 2003
Patients with early Hepatic encephalopaty score lower than controls in memory tasks predominantly because of deficits in attention and visual perception (Weissenborn ET AL., J Hepatol.,39,320, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus In Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C Before And After Interferon Therapy
SEPTEMBER 2003
Thus, in predisposed individuals, alpha-interferon can either induce or accelerate a diabetogenic process already underway. Islet cell autoantibodies and glutamic acid decarboxylase autoantibodies could be investigated before and during interferon treatment in order to identify subjects at high risk of developing type 1 diabetes mellitus (Fabris et al., Aliment. Pharmacol. Therapeut. 18 , 549 ,2003)

HEPATIC DISEASES- Hepatic Injury in 12 Patients Taking the Herbal Weight Loss Aids Chaso or Onshido
SEPTEMBER 2003
The use of the weight loss aids Chaso and Onshido may be associated with acute liver injury. N-nitroso-fenfluramine is a possible hepatotoxic ingredient (Adachi et al., Annals 139, 47, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Quantitative Analysis of HBV DNA Level and HBeAg Titer in Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Positive Mothers and Their Babies: HBeAg Passage Through the Placenta and the Rate of Decay in Babies
SEPTEMBER 2003
HBeAg can cross the human placenta, and disappears from serum within 6 months in most babies. HBV DNA levels in hepatitis B carrier mothers are associated with the failure of HBIG and vaccine immunization, and the additional influence of transmitted HBeAg cannot be excluded. (Wang et al., J. Med. Virol. 71:360, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Loss of Hepatitis C Virus RNA After Parturition in Female Patients with Chronic HCV Infection
SEPTEMBER 2003
Significantly more pregnant patients lost HCV RNA than did nonpregnant controls. These findings suggest that pregnancy and parturition appear to influence the clinical course of HCV infection. (Hattori et al., J. Med. Virol. 71,205, 2003).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Spontaneous Elimination of Serum Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) RNA in Chronic HCV Carriers: A Population-Based Cohort Study
SEPTEMBER 2003
Serum HCV RNA is spontaneously eliminated in chronic HCV carriers (0,5%/year/person)in a population, and that the development of NOB antibody is associated with a natural resolution of chronic hepatitis in the minority of them.( Vatanabe et al., J. Med. Virol. 71,56, 2003).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Mycophenolate Mofetil in the Treatment of Autoimmune HCV-Associated Haematological Disorders Showing Steroid Resistance or Dependence.
SEPTEMBER 2003
Micophenolato Mofetil may represent an interesting therapeutic approach for autoimmune HCV associated haematological disorders (Ierardi et al., J Viral Hepat. 10,390, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-A Randomized Trial to Assess the Efficacy of Interferon-Alpha Daily in Combination with Ribavirin in the Treatment of Naive Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C.
SEPTEMBER 2003
Combination of IFN/ribavirin for 48 weeks is more effective when IFN is administered daily for the first 24 weeks in naive patients with CHC. (Tassopoulos et al., J Viral Hepat. 10,383, 2003)

LIVER STEATOSIS- Body Mass Index is a Good Predictor of an Elevated Alanine Transaminase Level in the General Population: Hints from the Dionysos Study
SEPTEMBER 2003
Body Mass Index is a good predictor of elevated ALT serum activity in the general population. The ability to predict an elevated ALT is however increased substantially by considering sex, ethanol intake, HBV and HCV infection together with Body Mass Index. (Bedogni et al., Digest. Liver Disease , 35, 648, 2003 )

VIRAL HEPATITIS B AND C-A Severe Hepatitis Flare in an HBV-HCV Coinfected Patient During Combination Therapy With Alpha-Interferon and Ribavirin
SEPTEMBER 2003
A reactivation of hepatitis B virus infection and a severe hepatitis flare in a patient with chronic hepatitis due to dual infection with hepatitis B and C viruses during combination therapy with alpha-interferon and ribavirin is reported. . Lamivudine may be administered early in HCV-RNA/HBsAg-positive patients who are at high risk of liver failure once reactivation of HBV occurs during interferon therapy (Yalcin et al.,J. Gastroenterol 38, 796, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Combined Interferon alfa2b and Cyclosporin A in the Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C: Controlled Trial
SEPTEMBER 2003
In patients with chronic hepatitis C combined interferon and cyclosporin A treatment was more effective than interferon monotherapy. The benefit was mostly achieved in patients with a high viral load and HCV genotype 1 (Inoue et al., J.Gastroenterol 38, 567, 2003)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Histopathological Changes After Microwave Coagulation Therapy for Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Review of 15 Explanted Livers.
SEPTEMBER 2003
Most of the treated areas after microwave ablation develop coagulative necrosis accompanied by a foreign body-like inflammatory reaction and fibrosis. Pathologists need to be aware that after this form of therapy, portions of the tumor maintain their native morphological features, but their cellular activity is destroyed. (Yamashiki et al., Am J Gastroenterol. 98,2052, 2003).

STEATOSIS -The Natural History of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Clinical Histopathological Study.
SEPTEMBER 2003
Histological progression correlated with higher serum AST but no other clinical factors. Steatosis alone may progress to Non alcolic steatohepatitis with fibrosis (Harrison et al., Am J Gastroenterol., 98, 2042, 2003)

LIVER DISEASE- Impact of Liver Biopsy Size on Histological Evaluation of Chronic Viral Hepatitis: the Smaller the Sample, the Milder the Disease
AUGUST 2003
Liver biopsy size strongly influences the grading and staging of chronic viral hepatitis. The use of fine needles should be discouraged in this setting. (Colloredo et al., J.Hepatol., 39 ,239,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Resistance to Adefovir Dipivoxil Therapy Associated with the Selection of A Novel Mutation in the HBV Polymerase
AUGUST 2003
A patient during treatment with adefovir dipivoxil showed resistance to the drug associated with the seleciton of a novel mutation in the HBV polymerase. The patient responded to subsequent lamivudine therapy, achieving normalization of alanine aminotransferase and a significant decrease in serum HBV DNA (Angus et al., Gastroenterology, 1254,2, 2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Platelet Count/Spleen Diameter Ratio: Proposal and Validation of a Non-Invasive Parameter to Predict the Presence of Oesophageal Varices in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis
AUGUST 2003
The platelet count/spleen diameter ratio is the only parameter which is independently associated with the presence of oesophageal varices, and its negative predictive value is reproducible. Its use is of value even in the subgroup of patients with compensated disease, and it is also cost effective. (Giannini et al., Gut;52,1200,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-A simple noninvasive index can predict both significant fibrosis and cirrhosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C
AUGUST 2003
A simple index (AST/platelet ratio) can identify chronic hepatitic C patients with significant fibrosis and cirrhosis with a high degree of accuracy. Application of this index may decrease the need for staging liver biopsy specimens among chronic epatitis C patients (Wai et al., Hepatology, 38,518,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Twice-weekly administration of peginterferon-a-2b improves viral kinetics in patients with chronic hepatitis C genotype 1
AUGUST 2003
To achieve continuous drug exposure and to improve initial viral clearance, peginterferon- a -2b has to be given at least two times weekly (Forman et al., J. Viral Hepatitis, 10, 271, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Dynamics of Alanine Aminotransferase During Hepatitis C Virus Treatment
AUGUST 2003
Alanina aminotransferase estimation is a surrogate marker for treatment effect in patients with elevated alanino aminotrasferase. (Ribeiro et al., Hepatology, 38,509,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Biochemical Surrogate Markers of Liver Fibrosis and Activity in a Randomized Trial of Peginterferon Alfa-2b and Ribavirin
AUGUST 2003
These biochemical markers of fibrosis and activity could be used as surrogate markers for liver biopsy in patients with chronic hepatitis C, both for the initial evaluation and for follow-up (Poynard et al., Hepatology, 38,481,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Favorable Prognosis of Chronic Hepatitis C After Interferon Therapy by Long-Term Cohort Study
AUGUST 2003
IFN therapy has a long-term clinical benefit for patients with chronic hepatitis C patients by reducing liver-related death, especially in patients with sustained virologic response (Imazeki et al., Hepatology, 38, 493, 2003)

LIVER STEATOSIS - Long-Term Outcomes of Cirrhosis in Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis Compared with Hepatitis C
AUGUST 2003
The prognosis of Cirrhosis in Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis is either similar or less severe than HCV-cirrhosis, except that Hepatocellular carcinoma appears less common. (Hui et al., Hepatology,38,420,2003)

LIVER STEATOSIS- Cytokines and NASH: A Pilot Study of the Effects of Lifestyle Modification and Vitamin E
AUGUST 2003
Lifestyle modifications (low-fat diet and exercise) were associated with improvement in liver enzymes, cholesterol, and plasma hyaluronic acid levels in patients with non alcoholic steato hepatitis, whereas the level of vitamin E supplementation used in this short-term pilot study provided no apparent added benefit. (Kugelmas et al., Hepatology;38,413, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Distribution of Hepatitis B Virus in the Liver of Chronic Hepatitis C Patients With Occult Hepatitis B Virus Infection
AUGUST 2003
Patients with occult HBV infection have a low number of HBV-infected hepatocytes and this fact could explain the lack of HBsAg detection and low viremia levels found in these cases. (RodrМguez-IЯigo et al., J.Med.Virol. 70, 5712003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- A Case-Control Study For Early Prediction of Hepatitis B E Antigen Seroconversion by Hepatitis B Virus DNA Levels and Mutations in the Precore Region and Core Promoter
AUGUST 2003
A decrease in HBV DNA levels and mutations in the precore region and the core promoter were associated significantly and complementarily with seroconversion, and each of them or a combination thereof was predictive of seroconversion years ahead (Yamaura et al., J.Med.Virol., 70,545,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Impact of High-Dose Interferon Induction and Ribavirin Therapy in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Relapsing After or Not Responding to Interferon Monotherapy
AUGUST 2003
High-dose induction therapy does not improve the outcome of interferon/ribavirin therapy in interferon nonresponders or relapsers. ( (Steindl-Munda et al., Liver International, 23, 269, 2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Spironolactone Alone or in Combination with Furosemide in the Treatment of Moderate Ascites in Nonazotemic Cirrhosis. A Randomized Comparative Study of Efficacy and Safety
AUGUST 2003
In the treatment of moderate ascites, spironolactone alone seems to be as safe and effective as spironolactone associated with furosemide. Since spironolactone alone requires less dose adjustment, it would be more suitable for treating ascites on an outpatient basis. (Santos et al., J.Hepatol., 39, 187,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- High Rate of Long-Term Virological Response After a 1-Year Course of Interferon ╠ Ribavirin in Chronic Hepatitis C Relapsers. Results of a 191 Patients Randomized Trial
AUGUST 2003
One-year retreatment of relapsers with the combination of IFN+ribavirin led to 61% of virological SR and to a significant improvement of histological activity. Therefore, the therapeutic schedule presented here can be considered of particular interest for the retreatment of relapsers. (Boucher et al., Liver International, 23,255, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Prediction of Liver Histological Lesions with Biochemical Markers in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B
AUGUST 2003
The aminotransferases and an index including five biochemical markers are accurate noninvasive markers of HBV-related activity and fibrosis, respectively. (Myers et al., J. Hepatol., 39 , 222, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Interferon and Ribavirin Treatment in Patients with Hepatitis C-Associated Renal Disease and Renal Insufficiency.
AUGUST 2003
Interferon and ribavirin can with reasonable safety be used in HCV-related vasculitis and glomerulonephritis irrespective of renal function (Bruchfeld et al., Nephrol. Dial. Transplant., 18,1573, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Early Prediction of Nonresponders to Treatment With Interferon Alpha-2b and Ribavirin in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
AUGUST 2003
A fall of 1.05 log10 in HCV RNA at week 4 predicts those patients who will not respond, identifying one-half of all nonresponders; this allows therapy to be stopped early, without depriving any patient who would have an SVR from treatment. (Liu et al., Can. J. Gastroenterol. 17, 483, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- High Dose Consensus Interferon in Nonresponders to Interferon Alpha-2b and Ribavirin with Chronic Hepatitis C
AUGUST 2003
High dose induction therapy with CIFN 15 ╣g/day in prior nonresponders to IFN alpha-2b and ribavirin led to loss of detectable HCV RNA in 50% of patients, but this response was only sustained in 8% of patients on completion of therapy. (Moskovit et al., Can.J.Gastroenterol.17, 479, 2003)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Tumor Seeding after Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy and Percutaneous Radiofrequency Thermal Ablation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
AUGUST 2003
A patient affected by hepatocellular carcinoma presented a needle-track tumor seeding after Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy and Percutaneous Radiofrequency Thermal Ablation . (Liu et al., Digest. Surg.;20:460, 2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Peripheral neuropathy in liver cirrhosis
AUGUST 2003
A significant number of patients with liver cirrhosis show evidence of peripheral neuropathy, which is present regardless of the etiology of cirrhosis, and is subclinical in a majority of these patients. (Parampreet et al., J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol. , 18, 922, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Regression of Fibrosis in Chronic Hepatitis C After Therapy with Interferon and Ribavirin
JULY 2003
Interferon and ribavirin had greater benefit on fibrosis when associated with clearance of HCV RNA. Treatment strategies in virological nonresponders who show fibrosis regression should include consideration of maintenance therapy. (Arif et al., Dig Dis Sci., 48,1425, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B AND C- Combination Therapy in the Treatment of Chronic Viral Hepatitis and Prevention of Hepatocellular Carcinoma.
JULY 2003
This review focuses on the difficulties with current therapy and the rationale for use of combination therapy with thymosin alpha 1 for both HBV and HCV therapies. (Rasi et al., Int Immunopharmacol. 3,1169, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Prophylaxis Against Chemotherapy-Induced Reactivation of Hepatitis B Virus Infection With Lamivudine
JULY 2003
Patients with chronic HBV infection (positive HBV DNA and/or positive HBsAg) or history of HBV infection with recovery (positive hepatitis B core antibody with or without HBsAb) be considered for prophylactic lamivudine use to prevent chemotherapy-induced HBV reactivation. (Simpson et al., J. Clin. Gastroenterol.; 37, 68, 2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Enhanced Renal Ammonia Excretion Following Volume Expansion in Patients with well Compensated Cirrhosis of the Liver
JULY 2003
In compensated liver cirrhosis volume expansion reduces plasma ammonia concentration by increasing ammonia excretion and reducing ammoniagenesis (Jalan et al., Gut; 52,:1041, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Ten Year Incidence of HCV Infection in Northern Italy and Frequency of Spontaneous Viral Clearance
JULY 2003
In rural northern Italy, the adult incidence of HCV is approximately 50 cases/100 000 inhabitants/year. Our findings suggest that as many as 17% of infected subjects may spontaneously clear HCV-Ab. Interfamilial transmission seems to have a role in the spread of infection. (Mazzeo et al., Gut;52,1030, 2003).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Interferon-a Combined with Ketoprofen as Treatment of NaОve Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C: A Randomized Controlled Trial
JULY 2003
Interferon alfa combined with Ketoprofen showed significantly higher efficacy than monotherapy in achieving long term response. However this combined treatment appears to be less effective than the association of pegylated IFN and ribavirin which represent the current standard treatment. Thus, the role of ketoprofen in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C needs to be further evaluated against such a treatment. (10%vs 32.5%) (Androne et al., J. Viral Hepatitis, 10, 306, 2003)

VIRAL HPATITIS B- Peginterferon a-2a (40 kDa): an Advance in the Treatment of Hepatitis B e Antigen-positive Chronic Hepatitis B
JULY 2003
Peginterferon a -2a (40 kDa) is superior in efficacy to conventional interferon a -2a in chronic hepatitis B based on clearance of HBeAg, suppression of HBV DNA, and normalization of ALT. (Cooksley et al., J.Viral Hepatitis, 10, 298,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Predicting Progression to Cirrhosis in Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection
JULY 2003
The following factors were independently associated with disease progression: male sex heavy alcohol consumption elevated serum ALT levels and histology demonstrating high-grade necro-inflammatory activity. (Freeman et al,J. Viral Hepatitis, 10, 285, 2003)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION-Surgery-Related Morbidity in Living Donors of Right-Lobe Liver Graft: Lessons from the First 200 Cases
JULY 2003
Complications occurred in 69 out of 200 right-lobe donors irrespective of donor age,body max index, estimated residual liver volume, and medical history. Living-liver donor surgery requires more care in right-lobe transplants (Ito et al,Transplantation; 76, 158, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Twelve Weeks of Follow-Up is Sufficient for the Determination of Sustained Virologic Response in Patients Treated with Interferon Alpha for Chronic Hepatitis C
JULY 2003
Determination of HCV RNA levels at 12 weeks of follow-up may be sufficient for making decisions related to the management of most patients treated with standard or pegylated interferon a.(Zeuzem et al., J. Hepatol., 39, 106,2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Plasma Volume Expansion by Albumin in Cirrhosis. Relation to Blood Volume Distribution, Arterial Compliance and Severity of Disease
JULY 2003
Although infusion of albumin improves the low effective arterial blood volume of such patients, which may be important in the prevention of circulatory dysfunction. (Brinch et al. J.Hepatol., 39, 24,2003)

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS- Combined Analysis of the Effect of Treatment with Ursodeoxycholic Acid on Histologic Progression in Primary Biliary Cirrhosis
JULY 2003
A 2-year ursodeoxycholic acid treatment reduces periportal necroinflammation and improves ductular proliferation, and when initiated at the earlier stages I-II of the disease also delays the progression of histologic stage. These data support the early initiation of the drug to prevent these histologic features of primary biliary cirrhosis. (Poupon et a., J.Hepatol., 39, 12,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Twice-weekly administration of peginterferon-a-2b improves viral kinetics in patients with chronic hepatitis C genotype 1
JULY 2003
To achieve continuous drug exposure and to improve initial viral clearance, peginterferon- a -2b has to be given at least two times weekly. (Formann et al., J. Viral Hepatitis, ,10, 271, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Clinical Features and Progression of Perinatally Acquired Hepatitis C Virus Infection
JULY 2003
The chronic progression rate of infection perinatally aquired is high, but the associated liver disease is usually mild. High ALT levels at onset seem to offer greater opportunity of biochemical remission and loss of viremia during follow-up.(Resti et al., J. Med. Virol. 70,373, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Hepatitis B Virus Genotypes and Virologic Response in 694 Patients in Phase III Studies of Adefovir Dipivoxil
JULY 2003
Forty-eight weeks of adefovir dipivoxil therapy resulted in significant decreases in serum HBV-DNA levels in patients regardless of HBV genotype, HBeAg status, or race (Westland et al., Gastroenterol. 125, 1,107, 2003)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Glypican-3: A Novel Serum and Histochemical Marker for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
JULY 2003
Glypican-3is specifically overexpressed in most Hepatocellular Carcinomas and is elevated in the serum of a large proportion of patients with Hepatocellular carcinoma . The simultaneous determination of Glypican-3 and alfa fetoprotein may significantly increase the sensitivity for diagnosis of Hepatocellular carcinoma. (Capurro et al., Gastroenterol. 125, 1,89, 2003).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Acute Hepatitis C: High Rate of Both Spontaneous and Treatment-Induced Viral Clearance
JULY 2003
The management of acute hepatitis C has to take into account the high rate of spontaneous viral clearance within 12 weeks after the onset of symptomatic disease. Treatment of only those patients who remain hepatitis C virus RNA positive for more than 3 months after the onset of disease led to an overall viral clearance (self-limited and treatment induced) in 91% of patients, and unnecessary treatment was avoided in those with spontaneous viral clearance. Patients with asymptomatic acute hepatitis C virus infection are unlikely to clear the infection spontaneously and should be treated as early as possible. (Gerlach et al., Gastroenterol. , 125, 1,80, 2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Improvement of Regional Cerebral Blood Flow After Treatment with Branched-Chain Amino Acid Solutions in Patients with Cirrhosis
JULY 2003
Administration of solutions enriched with branched-chain amino acids improves cerebral perfusion in patients with cirrhosis. (Iwasa et al., Eur.J.Gastroenterol. Hepatol.; 15,733, 2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-The Effect of Selective Intestinal Decontamination on the Hyperdynamic Circulatory State in Cirrhosis . A Randomized Trial
JULY 2003
Selective intestinal decontamination with norfloxacin partially reverses the hyperdynamic circulatory state in cirrhotic patients without harming splanchnic or renal hemodynamics (Rasaratnam et al., Annals 139, 62,2003).

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Non-Invasive Predictors of the Presence of Large Oesophageal Varices in Patients with Cirrhosis
JULY 2003
Thrombocytopenia, splenomegaly and ascites are independent predictors of large oesophageal varices in cirrhotic patients. We suggest that endoscopy could be avoided safely in cirrhotic patients with none of these predictive factors, as large varices are absent in this group of patients. (Thomopoulos et al., Dig. and Liver Dis. 35, 473, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Guidelines for the Screening and Follow-Up of Infants Born to Anti-HCV Positive Mothers
JULY 2003
In children born to hepatitis C virus-RNA positive mothers, alanine aminotransferase and hepatitis C virus RNA should be investigated at 3 months of age: hepatitis C virus-RNA positive children should be considered infected if viremia is confirmed by a second assay performed within the 12th month. (Resti et al., Dig. . Liver Dis., 35, 453, 2003)

LIVER DISEASE-Cohort study of hepatotoxicity associated with nimesulide and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
JULY 2003
The risk of liver injury in patients taking nimesulide and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is small (Traversa et al., BMJ ,327,18, 2003)

ALCOHOL- Initial and Maintenance Naltrexone Treatment for Alcohol Dependence Using Primary Care vs Specialty Care .A Nested Sequence of 3 Randomized Trials
JULY 2003
Naltrexone yielded comparable results during the initial 10 weeks of treatment when combined with primary care management or cognitive behavior therapy. Maintenance of improvement was enhanced by continued naltrexone treatment in the primary care management but not in the cognitive behavior therapy. (O'Malley et al., Arch Intern Med.;163,1695, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Cost-effectiveness of Treatment for Chronic Hepatitis C Infection in an Evolving Patient Population
JULY 2003
While newer treatment options for hepatitis C appear to be reasonably cost-effective on average, these results vary widely across different patient subgroups and depend critically on quality-of-life assumptions (Salomon et al., JAMA.,290,228, 2003.)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Test Characteristics of alpha-Fetoprotein for Detecting Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients with Hepatitis C . A Systematic Review and Critical Analysis
JULY 2003
Alfafetoprotein has limited utility for detecting hepatocellular carcinoma ( Gupta et al., Ann Intern Med.;139,46, 2003)

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS- Ursodeoxycholic Acid Therapy and the Risk of Colorectal Adenoma in Patients with Primary Biliary Cirrhosis: An Observational Study
JULY 2003
In patients with primary biliary cirrhosis, the prolonged administration of Ursodeoxycholic Acid (1) is not associated with an increased prevalence of colorectal adenomas, and (2) significantly decreases the probability of colorectal adenoma recurrence following removal. (Serfaty et al., Hepatology;38,203,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Week 48 Resistance Surveillance in two Phase 3 Clinical Studies of Adefovir Dipivoxil for Chronic Hepatitis B
JULY 2003
No adefovir resistance mutations were identified in a large group of chronic hepatitis B patients treated with ADV for 48 weeks. (Westland et al., Hepatology;38,96,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Effect of Treatment with Peginterferon or Interferon Alfa-2b and Ribavirin on Steatosis in Patients Infected with Hepatitis C
JULY 2003
Sustained disappearance of the virus is associated with reduction of steatosis in genotype 3 as well as a correction of baseline low serum cholesterol. (Poynard et al., Hepatology;38,75,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Maintenance Therapy with Ribavirin In Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C who Fail to Respond to Combination Therapy with Interferon Alfa and Ribavirin
JULY 2003
Continuation of ribavirin monotherapy may maintain serum biochemical improvements that occur during interferon-ribavirin combination therapy in some patients and that these improvements are often associated with decreases in necroinflammatory changes in the liver. (Hoofnagle et al., Hepatology;38,66, 2003.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Hepatitis C Virus Infection and Incident Type 2 Diabetes
JULY 2003
Pre-existing HCV infection may increase the risk for type 2 diabetes in persons with recognized diabetes risk factors (Mehta et al., Hepatology, 38, 50,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Moderate Alcohol Consumption Increases Oxidative Stress in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
JULY 2003
Even moderate alcohol consumption promotes oxidative stress in chronic hepatitis C patients, suggesting a role for oxidative injury in the worsening of chronic hepatitis C evolution by alcohol.. (Rigamonti et al., Hepatology, 38,42, 2003)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- A Model to Predict Severe HCV-Related Disease Following Liver Transplantation
JULY 2003
A model that uses early post-transplantation variables to predict severe HCV recurrence has been developed. (Berenguer et al., Hepatology;38,34, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- A Multicenter Study of Recombinant Human Interleukin 12 for the Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Patients Nonresponsive to Previous Therapy
JUNE 2003
Interleuchine-12 as monotherapy at the doses used in this trial for chronic hepatitis C has low efficacy, was poorly tolerated, and is unlikely to provide an alternative to conventional IFN-based therapy. (Pockros et al., Hepatology, 37,1368, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Triple Therapy with Amantadine in Treatment-Naive Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C: a Placebo-Controlled Trial
JUNE 2003
Multivariate analysis offers arguments that amantadine should be considered as a potential anti-HCV drug in future studies. (Berg et al., Hepatology,37,1359,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Effect of Ribavirin on Hepatitis C Viral Kinetics in Patients Treated with Pegylated Interferon
JUNE 2003
The first phase of viral decay (day 1) and the second phase of viral decay (days 2 to 21) were similar for all treatment groups. The decay was seen in several patients, and this phase of decay was significantly faster in patients treated with peginterferon -2a plus ribavirin compared with those treated with peginterferon -2a alone. (Herrmann et al., Hepatology 37,1351,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Steroid-Free Chemotherapy Decreases Risk of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Reactivation in HBV-Carriers with Lymphoma
JUNE 2003
Steroid-free chemotherapy decreases the incidence and severity of HBV reactivation in HBsAg-positive lymphoma patients. (Cheng et al., Hepatology 37,1320, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Serum HBV DNA as a Marker of Efficacy During Therapy for Chronic HBV Infection: Analysis and Review of the literature
JUNE 2003
The goal of anti-HBV therapy should be profound and durable viral suppression, as defined by very sensitive assays (Mommeja-Marin et al.,Hepatology, 37,1309, 2003.)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-A Role of Autoantibody-Mediated Platelet Destruction in Thrombocytopenia in Patients with Cirrhosis
JUNE 2003
Autoantibody-mediated platelet destruction may contribute at least in part to cirrhotic thrombocytopenia (Kajihara et al., Hepatology, 37, 1267, 2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Propranolol plus Placebo Versus Propranolol plus Isosorbide-5-Mononitrate in the Prevention of a First Variceal Bleed: A Double-Blind RCT
JUNE 2003
Propranolol effectively prevents variceal bleeding. Adding isosorbide--5-mononitrate does not further decrease the low residual risk of bleeding in patients receiving propranolol. (GarcМa-PagАn et al., Hepatology;37,1260, 2003).

LIVER DISEASE- Relation of elevated serum alanine aminotransferase activity with iron and antioxidant levels in the United States
JUNE 2003
The risk for apparent liver injury was associated with increased iron and decreased antioxidants, particularly carotenoids. (Ruhl et al., Gastroenterology, 124,1821, 2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Nutritional Supplementation with Branched-Chain Amino Acids in Advanced Cirrhosis: A Double-Blind, Randomized Trial
JUNE 2003
In advanced cirrhosis, long-term nutritional supplementation with oral branched-chain amino acids is useful to prevent progressive hepatic failure and to improve surrogate markers and perceived health status. New formulas are needed to increase compliance (Marchesini et al., Gastroenterology, 124, 1792, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Sustained Biochemical Remission after Interferon Treatment May Closely be Related to the end of Treatment Biochemical Response and Associated with a Lower Incidence of Hepatocarcinogenesis
JUNE 2003
Annual incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma was significantly lower in the patients with biochemical response and sustained response than that of the patients that did not show these responses. (Suzuki et al., Liver, 23, 143, 2003

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Chemoembolization Followed by Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Impedes Tumor Progression While on the Waiting List and Leads to Excellent Outcome
JUNE 2003
Furthermore, transarterial chemoembolization is highly efficacious in preventing tumor progression while waiting for Liver tansplantation. (Graziadei et al., Liver Transpl;9,557,2003.)

LIVER STEATOSIS -Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: An Underrecognized Cause of Cryptogenic Cirrhosis
JUNE 2003
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is now recognized as the most common cause of cryptogenic cirrhosis. (Clark et al., JAMA.,289,3000,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Lamivudine and 24 Weeks of Lamivudine/Interferon Combination Therapy for Hepatitis B E Antigen-Positive Chronic Hepatitis B in Interferon Nonresponders
JUNE 2003
Lamivudine for 52 weeks is as effective in interferon nonresponders as in previously reported treatment-naive patients; however, a combination of lamivudine for 24 weeks and interferon for 16 weeks was not effective in this population. (Schiff et al., J. Hepatol., 38 , 818, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS-Case Fatality Rate of Acute Viral Hepatitis in Italy: 1995√2000. An Update
JUNE 2003
Analysis of surveillance system data from 1995 to 2000 indicates that, in Italy, deaths due to acute viral hepatitis are rare, but most commonly observed with acute hepatitis B. Negli (Bianco et al., Digest. Liver Disease , 35, 404, 2003).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-High Sustained Virological Response in Chronic Hepatitis C by Combining Induction and Prolonged Maintenance Therapy
MAY 2003
Regimen that combines induction- and prolonged daily interferon treatment with ribavirin can eliminate hepatitis C virus in the majority of patients that have an a priori limited chance of sustained response. (Vrolijk et al., J. Viral Hepatitis, 10, 205, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Reinforced interferon alpha-2b and ribavirin is more effective than standard combination therapy in the retreatment of chronic hepatitis C previously nonresponsive to interferon: a randomized trial
MAY 2003
In nonresponders, a high-dose 48-week regimen of IFN and ribavirin combination was more effective than a regimen with interferon at lower dose and ribavirin for 24 weeks only (Poynard et al., J. Viral Hepatitis, 10, 197, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- A Randomized Trial to Assess the Efficacy of Interferon Alpha in Combination with Ribavirin in the Treatment of Interferon Alpha Nonresponders with Chronic Hepatitis C: Superior Efficacy of High Daily Dosage of Interferon Alpha in Genotype 1
MAY 2003
Re-treatment of patients not responding to previous IFN monotherapy with a combination of high daily dose of IFN with ribavirin may be beneficial for genotype 1 infected patients. (Tassopoulos et al., J. Viral Hepatitis, 10, 189, 2003)

HEPATIC CYST- Long-Term Results of Multiple Minocycline Hydrochloride Injections for the Treatment of Symptomatic Solitary Hepatic Cyst
MAY 2003
Multiple injections of minocycline are safe, definitive treatments for symptomatic solitary hepatic cyst. (Yoshida et al., J.Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 18, 595, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Dramatic Reduction of the alpha-Fetoprotein Level After Lamivudine Treatment of Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection and Cirrhosis
MAY 2003
This report describes three patients with cirrhosis and replicating hepatitis B virus infection who presented with initial serum alpha-fetoprotein levels of >1,000 ng/mL without clear evidence of hepatocellular carcinoma . Initiation of lamivudine treatment led to rapid and dramatic reductions in the alpha-fetoprotein level to the normal range. (Yao, J. Clin. Gastroenterol.; 36,440, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Effects of Alpha Interferon Induction Plus Ribavirin with or Without Amantadine in the Treatment of Interferon Non-Responsive Chronic Hepatitis C: A Randomised Trial
MAY 2003
The treatment of interferon non-responder hepatitis C patients, the association of interferon-ribavirin has a negligible long term effect whereas a triple regimen including interferon, ribavirin, and amantadine can be an effective and safe treatment. (Adinolfi et al., Gut; 52, 701-705, 2003)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Meta-Analysis: Evaluation of Adjuvant Therapy after Curative Liver Resection for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
MAY 2003
Post-operative transarterial chemotherapy improved survival and decreased the cumulative probability of no recurrence. (Mathurin et al., Alim. Pharmacol. Therap., 17, 1247,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Induction Interferon and Ribavirin for Re-Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C Patients Unresponsive to Interferon Alone
MAY 2003
High-dose induction interferon plus ribavirin is well tolerated and effective for patients unresponsive to interferon alone (Sievert et al., Alim.Pharm. Therap., 17, 1197, 2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Randomized Trial Comparing Albumin and Saline in the Prevention of Paracentesis-Induced Circulatory Dysfunction in Cirrhotic Patients with Ascites
MAY 2003
Albumin is more effective than saline in the prevention of Paracentesis-induced circulatory dysfunction. Saline is a valid alternative to albumin when less than 6 L of ascitic fluid is evacuated. (Sola-Vera et al., Hepatology; 37,1147, 2003.)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Des-gamma Carboxyprothrombin Can Differentiate Hepatocellular Carcinoma From Nonmalignant Chronic Liver Disease In American Patients
MAY 2003
Des-gamma Carboxyprothrombin was more sensitive and specific than -fetoprotein for differentiating Hepatocellular Carcinoma from nonmalignant chronic liver disease. Prospective studies to evaluate the role of Des-gamma Carboxyprothrombin in early Hepatocellular Carcinoma are underway. (Marrero et al., Hepatology; 37,1114,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Individualization of Interferon Therapy Using Serum Hepatitis B Virus DNA to Reduce Viral Relapse in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis B: A Randomized Controlled Trial
MAY 2003
Individualization of the duration of treatment to maintain serum HBV-DNA negativity for at least 6 months may reduce the viral relapse rate following IFN therapy. (Chung et al., Europ. J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol.,15, 489, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Clinical Management of HCV Carriers with Normal Aminotransferase Levels
MAY 2003
Disease activity is mild in most cases; fibrosis is generally mild and cirrhosis is very rare. HCV carriers should not undergo liver biopsy on a routine basis. Until the results of studies with PEG interferon plus ribavirin are available, HCV carriers should not receive antiviral treatment outside controlled experimental studies. (Puoti et al. Digest. Liver Disease 35, 362, 2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Emergency Sclerotherapy Versus Vasoactive Drugs for Variceal Bleeding in Cirrhosis: A Cochrane Meta-Analysis
MAY 2003
Available evidence does not support emergency sclerotherapy as the first-line treatment of variceal bleeding in cirrhosis when compared with vasoactive drugs, which control bleeding in 83% of patients. Therefore, endoscopic therapy might be added only in pharmacologic treatment failures (Gastroenterology, 124, 5, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Are Studies of Acute Hepatitis Adequate to Identify Routes of Transmission of Subclinical Hepatitis C Infection?
MAY 2003
A history of injection-drug use was strongly associated with both HCV seropositivity and a history of acute hepatitis whereas having a commercially applied tattoo was strongly associated with HCV seropositivity but not with a history of acute hepatitis. (Haley et al., Arch Intern Med.;163,1095-1098, 2003).

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION-Treatment of Recurrent Hepatitis C in Liver Transplant Recipients: Is There any Histologic Benefit?
APRIL 2003
The benefit of antiviral treatment in recurrent hepatitis C is disappointing, with little impact on the progression of fibrosis. (Nair et al., Liver Transpl. 9, 354, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Projecting Future Complications of Chronic Hepatitis C in the United States
APRIL 2003
The prevalence of cirrhosis and the incidence of its complications will increase over the next 10 to 20 years, These data emphasize the need for greater access to transplantation by expansion of the donor pool, increasing use of split livers and living donors, and novel options such as xenotransplantation (Davis et al., Liver Transp.;9,331, 2003.)

LIVER STEATHOSIS -Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver, Steatohepatitis, and the Metabolic Syndrome
APRIL 2003
The increasing prevalence of obesity, coupled with diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and ultimately the metabolic syndrome puts a very large population at risk of forthcoming liver failure in the next decades. (Marchesini et al., Hepatology , 37, 917, 2003)

NON ALCHOLOIC STEATOHEPATITIS- Dietary Habits and Their Relations to Insulin Resistance and Postprandial Lipemia in Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis
APRIL 2003
This paper provide further rationale for more specific alimentary interventions, particularly in nonobese, nondiabetic normolipidemic NASH patients. (Musso et al., Hepatology , 37, 909, 2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Hemodynamic Response to Pharmacological Treatment of Portal Hypertension and Long-term Prognosis of Cirrhosis
APRIL 2003
In cirrhotic patients receiving pharmacologic treatment for prevention of variceal rebleeding, a decrease in HVPG 20% or to 12 mm Hg is associated with a marked reduction in the long-term risk of developing complications of portal hypertension and with improved survival (Abraldes et al., Hepatology, 37, 902, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Long-Term Suppression of Hepatitis B e Antigen-Negative Chronic Hepatitis B by 24-month Interferon Therapy
APRIL 2003
24 months of treatment with interferon alfa 2b led to sustained disease suppression in a significant proportion of patients with HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B. (Lampertico et al., Hepatology, 37, 756,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Durability of Serologic Response After Lamivudine Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis B
APRIL 2003
Most HBeAg responses achieved during lamivudine therapy were durable, and most responders experienced prolonged clinical benefit after HBeAg seroconversion and subsequent discontinuation of lamivudine (Dienstag et al., Hepatology, 37, 748, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- A Comparison in the Progression of Liver Fibrosis in Chronic Hepatitis C Between Persistently Normal and Elevated Transaminase
APRIL 2003
Anti-HCV patients with persistent in normal alanine transaminase with an initial fibrosis of F0 or F1 were less likely to develop progression of fibrosis than those with elevated ALT, although patients with persistent in normal alanine transaminase may have histologically and clinically progressive disease. (Hui et al., J.Hepatol., 38 , 511, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Sustained Response to Combination Therapy in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C who Failed to Respond to Interferon
APRIL 2003
Chronic hepatitis C patients who are non-responders to interferon monotherapy and infected by non-1 genotypes should undergo re-treatment with combination therapy. Treatment should be extended to younger genotype 1 patients who are more susceptible to liver disease worsening because of longer life expectancy and have a higher probability of being long lasting responders than their older counterparts. (Fargion et al., J. Hepatol., 38,499, 2003)

NON-ALCOHOLIC STEATOHEPATITIS-Probucol in the Treatment of Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis: a Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Study
APRIL 2003
Probucol appears to be significantly effective in decreasing the ALT levels in patients with non alcholic steatohepatitis. (Merat et al., J. Hepatol., 38, 414, 2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Therapy of hyponatremia in cirrhosis with a vasopressin receptor antagonist: A randomized double-blind multicenter trial
APRIL 2003
An orally active vasopressin receptor antagonist (VPA-985) can correct hyponatremia in patients with cirrhosis and ascites. This represents a novel therapy of water retention in cirrhosis (Gerbes et al., Gastroenterol., 124,4,2003).

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Randomized Controlled Trial to Compare the Dose of Adjuvant Chemotherapy After Curative Resection of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
APRIL 2003
. Adjuvant chemotherapy may not be useful after curative resection of hepatocellular carcinoma (Kwok ET AL., J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol. 18, 450, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Impact of Moderate Alcohol Consumption on Histological Activity and Fibrosis in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C, and Specific Influence of Steatosis: A Prospective Study
APRIL 2003
This study demonstrates that both activity and fibrosis gradually increase according to the amount of alcohol ingested, and that even moderate alcohol consumption, as low as 31-50 g/day in men and 21-50 g/day in women, may aggravate histological lesions in patients with chronic hepatitis C (Hиzode et al., Alim. Pharm. Therap., 17,1031, 2003)

HEMOCHROMATOSIS - Serum Ferritin Level Predicts Advanced Hepatic Fibrosis among U.S. Patients with Phenotypic Hemochromatosis
APRIL 2003
Patients with hemochromatosis and serum ferritin levels less than 1000 g/L are unlikely to have cirrhosis (Morrison et al., Ann Intern Med., 138, 627, 2003).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Progression of Hepatic Fibrosis in Patients with Hepatitis C: A Prospective Repeat Liver Biopsy Study
MARCH 2003
One third of patients with predominantly mild hepatitis C showed significant fibrosis progression over a median period of 30 months. Histologically, mild hepatitis C is a progressive disease (Ryder et al., Gut;53,451,2004)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- HFE Mutations and Chronic Hepatitis C: H63D and C282Y Heterozygosity are Independent Risk Factors for Liver Fibrosis and Cirrhosis
MARCH 2003
C282Y or H63D heterozygosity is an independent risk factor for liver fibrosis and cirrhosis in HCV infected individuals. Screening for HFE mutations should be considered in HCV infection (Erhardt et al., J. Hepatol., 38 , 335, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- The Effect of Lamivudine Therapy on Hepatic Decompensation During Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Hepatitis B
MARCH 2003
Lamivudine may prevent fatality in CHB patients with hepatic decompensation if therapy starts early enough or before serum bilirubin level rise over 20mg/dl, but helps little if serum level already rised over that level. (Chien et al., J. Hepatol., 38, 322,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Rate of Natural Disease Progression in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
MARCH 2003
An interval of at least 4-5 years is needed between liver biopsies to measure change in patients with mild liver disease (Zarski et al., J.Hepatol., 38, 307, 2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Incidence and Natural History of Small Esophageal Varices in Cirrhotic Patients
MARCH 2003
In patients with no or small esophageal varices, endoscopy surveillance should be planned taking into account cause and degree of liver dysfunction. (Merli et al., J. Hepatol., 38, 266, 2003)

LIVER DISEASES- Comparison of Fibrosis Progression in Chronic Liver Diseases
MARCH 2003
Rates of fibrosis progression differ markedly between the predominant causes of chronic liver disease, and according to age and gender. Patients with HIV-HCV co-infection are at particularly high risk of fibrosis progression. (Poynard et al., J. Hepatol., Vol. 38, 257, 2003)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- A Survey of Liver Transplantation from Living Adult Donors in the United States
MARCH 2003
Adult-to-adult liver transplantation from a living donor is increasingly performed in the United States but is concentrated in a few large-volume centers. Mortality among donors is low, but complications in the donor are relatively common (Brown et al., New Engl.J.Med. 348, 818, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Long-Term Liver Histology Improvement in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C and Sustained Response to Interferon
MARCH 2003
Among chronic hepatitis C patients treated with IFN, those with a 12-month sustained response, unlike those who relapse, have a long-term progressive reduction and, in some cases, a complete regression of liver histological damage. (Toccaceli et al., J.Viral Hepatitis, 10 , 126 , 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Efficacy of Prolonged 5 Million Units of Interferon in Combination with Ribavirin for Relapser Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
MARCH 2003
Relapsed patients with genotype 1 or 4 may achieve significant response rates of approximately 50%, if retreated with 5 MU tiw IFN plus ribavirin for 48 weeks (Fattovich et al., J. Viral Hepatitis, 10, 111, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- The Impact of Prior Hepatitis B Virus Infection on Liver Histology and the Response to Interferon Therapy in Chronic Hepatitis C
MARCH 2003
Previous HBV infection does not affect liver histology or the response to IFN-based therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C. (Myers et al., J. Viral Hepatitis, 10, 103,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Cerebral Dysfunction in Chronic Hepatitis C Infection
MARCH 2003
In vivo magnetic resonance spectroscopy and neurophysiological studies have suggested that a biological mechanism may underlie these cognitive findings. The recent detection of HCV genetic sequences in post mortem brain tissue raises the intriguing possibility that HCV infection of the central nervous system may be related to the reported neuropsychological symptoms and cognitive impairment. (Forton et al., J.Viral Hepatitis, 10 , 81, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Kinetics of HBV DNA and HBsAg in acute hepatitis B patients with and without coinfection by other hepatitis viruses
MARCH 2003
Expression and elimination of HBV is in most patients with acute hepatitis B not altered by coinfecting hepatitis viruses. (Chulanov et al., J. Med. Virol. 69,313, 2003)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Severe Recurrent Hepatitis C After Liver Retransplantation for Hepatitis C Virus√Related Graft Cirrhosis
MARCH 2003
The outcome of retransplantation for HCV cirrhosis of the first graft is very poor because of multiple complications.. (Berenguer et al., Liver Transpl, 9, 228,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Prediction of Treatment Outcome in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C: Significance of Baseline Parameters and Viral Dynamics During Therapy
MARCH 2003
A viral load at treatment week 4 above 450,000 IU/mL and at week 12 above 30,000 IU/mL was 100% predictive for virologic nonresponse in all patients (Berg et al., Hepatology, 37,600,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C AND B- Ribavirin and Interferon is Effective for Hepatitis C Virus Clearance in Hepatitis B and C Dually Infected Patients
MARCH 2003
In hepatitis B and C dually infected patients, combination of IFN with ribavirin can achieve a sustained HCV clearance rate comparable with hepatitis C alone (Liu et al., Hepatology, 37,568, 2003)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Prospective analysis of risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with liver cirrhosis
MARCH 2003
Age 55 years or older, antibody to hepatitis C virus (anti-HCV) positivity, prothrombin activity 75% or less, and platelet count less than 75 в 103/mm3 showed an indipendent predictive value for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (VelАzquez et al., Hepatology 37:520-527,2003.)

LIVER INJURY- Cohort Study of the Incidence of Serious Acute Liver Injury in Diabetic Patients Treated with Hypoglycemic Agents
MARCH 2003
Acute liver failure or injury not clearly attributable to other known causes occurred on the order of 1 per 10 000 person-years among diabetic patients treated with oral hypoglycemic drugs or insulin. (Chan et al., Arch Intern Med., 163,728, 2003)

NONALCOHOLIC STEATOHEPATITIS- Probucol in the Treatment of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis: An Open-Labeled Study
MARCH 2003
Probucol, even in the low dose of 500 mg/d, appears to be significantly effective in decreasing the ALT and AST levels in patients with NASH. (Merat et al., J. Clin. Gastroenterol. 236, 266, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Hepatitis C and Alcohol: Interactions, Outcomes, and Implications
MARCH 2003
Alcohol use and HCV infection frequently coexist. Although there is ample evidence that alcohol use adversely affects the natural history of HCV liver disease, how the two interact is not well understood. Patients with chronic HCV should be encouraged to avoid alcohol; however, the threshold above which alcohol results in accelerated liver disease remains to be determined. (Bhattacharya et al. J.Clin. Gastroenterol.; 36,242,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Durability of HBeAg Seroconversion Following Antiviral Therapy for Chronic Hepatitis B: Relation to Type of Therapy and Pretreatment Serum Hepatitis B Virus DNA and Alanine Aminotransferase
MARCH 2003
The durability of HBeAg seroconversion following lamivudine treatment was significantly lower than that following IFN or IFN-lamivudine combination therapy. The risk of relapse after HBeAg seroconversion was also related to pretreatment levels of serum ALT and HBV DNA, but independent of Asian race. (van Nunen et al., Gut, 52, 420, 2003)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Interferon- 2b plus Ribavirin in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C After Liver Transplantation: A Randomized Study
MARCH 2003
The combination of interferon alfa-2b plus ribavirin induced a sustained virologic response in 21% of transplant recipients with recurrent hepatitis C. However, 43% discontinued therapy due to adverse events (primarily severe anemia). (Samuel et al., Gastroenterology, 124, 642, 2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-The North American Study for the Treatment of Refractory Ascites
MARCH 2003
Although TIPS plus medical therapy is superior to medical therapy alone for the control of ascites, it does not improve survival, affect hospitalization rates, or improve quality of life. (Sanyal et al., Gastroenterology, 124:634,2003)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Longer Survival in Female Than Male with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
MARCH 2003
The survival of female cases of HCC was longer than that of male cases. (Dohmen et al.,J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol., 18, 267,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Efficacy of Prolonged Interferon Therapy for Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C with HCV-genotype 1b and High Virus Load
MARCH 2003
Prolonged IFN therapy could be a worthwhile treatment strategy for patients with HCV genotype 1b and a high serum virus load. (Arase et al., J.Gastroenterol, 38 , 158, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Therapeutic Strategies of Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Previously Not Responding to Interferon
MARCH 2003
Combination therapy with interferon plus ribavirin is cost-effective in previous interferon non-responders and is within the range of some well-accepted medical interventions in our health care system (San Miguel et al., Aliment. Pharmacol. . Therap., 17, 765, 2003)

CHRONIC HEPATITIS B-Adefovir Dipivoxil for the Treatment of Hepatitis B e Antigen√Positive Chronic Hepatitis B
MARCH 2003
In patients with HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B, 48 weeks of 10 mg or 30 mg of adefovir dipivoxil per day resulted in histologic liver improvement, reduced serum HBV DNA and alanine aminotransferase levels, and increased the rates of HBeAg seroconversion. The 10-mg dose has a favorable risk√benefit profile for long-term treatment. No adefovir-associated resistance mutations were identified in the HBV DNA polymerase gene. (Marcellin et al., N.Engl.J.Med., 348, 808, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Adefovir Dipivoxil for the Treatment of Hepatitis B e Antigen√Negative Chronic Hepatitis B
MARCH 2003
In patients with HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B, 48 weeks of adefovir dipivoxil treatment resulted in significant histologic, virologic, and biochemical improvement, with an adverse-event profile similar to that of placebo. There was no evidence of the emergence of adefovir-resistant HBV polymerase mutations (Hadziyannis et al., N.Engl.J.Med., 348,800,2003)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Systematic Review of Randomized Trials for Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Chemoembolization Improves Survival
FEBRUARY 2003
Chemoembolization improves survival of patients with unresectable HCC and may become the standard treatment. Treatment with tamoxifen does not modify the survival of patients with advanced disease.. (Llovet et al., Hepatology, 37, 429, 2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Low Doses of Isosorbide Mononitrate Attenuate the Postprandial Increase in Portal Pressure in Patients with Cirrhosis
FEBRUARY 2003
Low doses of Isosorbide mononitrato effectively reduces the postprandial increase of portal pressure in cirrhosis, with only a mild effect on arterial pressure The same was observed in patients receiving propranolol.. (Bellis et al., Hepatology,37, 378, 2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS.-Endoscopic Screening for Esophageal Varices in Cirrhosis: Is it Ever Cost Effective?
FEBRUARY 2003
Empiric betablocker therapy for the primary prophylaxis of variceal hemorrhage is a cost-effective measure, as the use of screening endoscopy to guide therapy adds significant cost with only marginal increase in effectiveness. (Spiegel et al., Hepatology, 37, 366, 2003).

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Nadolol plus Spironolactone in the Prophylaxis of First Variceal Bleed In Nonascitic Cirrhotic Patients: A Preliminary Study
FEBRUARY 2003
Nadolol plus spironolactone does not increase the efficacy of nadolol alone in the prophylaxis of the first variceal bleeding. However, when bleeding and ascites were considered together, the combined therapy effectively reduced the incidence of both portal-hypertensive complications. (Abecasis et al., Hepatology, 37, 359,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Validity and Clinical Utility of the Aspartate Aminotransferase√Alanine Aminotransferase Ratio in Assessing Disease Severity and Prognosis in Patients With Hepatitis C Virus√Related Chronic Liver Disease
FEBRUARY 2003
Progressive liver functional impairment is reflected by an increase in the AST/ALT ratio. Noninvasive evaluation by means of the combined AST/ALT ratio and platelet count assessment misclassifies only a few cirrhotic patients (Giannini et al., Arch Intern Med.,163, 218, 2003)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Risk Factors Contributing to Early and Late Phase Intrahepatic Recurrence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma After Hepatectomy
FEBRUARY 2003
Factors to early recurrence were as follows: non-anatomical resection, presence of microscopic vascular invasion, and serum alpha-fetoprotein level >32ng/ml. Those contributing to late phase recurrence were higher grade of hepatitis activity, multiple tumors, and gross tumor classification. (Imamura et al., J. Hepatology, 38, 200, 2003)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Diagnostic Value of the Copper/Zinc Ratio In Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Case Control Study
FEBRUARY 2003
The Cu/Zn ratio was found to be significantly higher in patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma compared with that in age and sex-matched controls, with a sensitivity of 87.5%; this ratio might be useful in the evaluation of suspected hepatocellular malignancy (Poo et al., J. Gastroenterol., 38, 45, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Failure of Therapeutic Vaccination Using Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Vaccine in the Immunotolerant Phase of Children with Chronic Hepatitis B Infection
FEBRUARY 2003
Comparison of vaccinated and unvaccinated groups of immunotolerant children with chronic hepatitis B infection showed no difference in the clearance of HBV DNA and seroconversion of HBeAg to anti-HBe. (Dikici et al., J. Gastroenterol. .Hepatol. , 18, 218 , 2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Beneficial Effects of Terlipressin in Hepatorenal Syndrome: A Prospective, Randomized Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
FEBRUARY 2003
In patients with Hepatorenal Syndrome, terlipressin significantly improved renal functions and systemic hemodynamics, and showed a trend towards better clinical outcome (Solanki et al., J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol.,18 , 152, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-The Safety and Tolerability of Daily Infergen Plus Ribavirin in the Treatment of NaМОve Chronic Hepatitis C Patients
FEBRUARY 2003
Daily dosing Consensus Interferon may be difficult to tolerate resulting in discontinuation of therapy in a significant proportion of patients. (Pockros et al., J. Viral Hepatitis, 10, 1, 55, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Early Viral Kinetics on Treatment with Pegylated Interferon a-2a in Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 1 Infection
FEBRUARY 2003
Viral decline was not different between responders and NRs during the first 2 weeks on PEG-IFNa-2a. Therefore antiviral response to PEG-IFN-a2a is different to that on standard IFN. (Jessner et al., J. Viral Hepatitis, 10 , 37, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- The rate of fibrosis progression is an independent predictor of the response to antiviral therapy in chronic hepatitis C
FEBRUARY 2003
The rate of fibrosis progression is an independent predictor of sustained viral response to IFN-based therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C. This additional factor should be considered in economic models evaluating this condition. (Myers et al., J.Viral Hepatitis, 10, 1 , 16 , 2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Five-Year Survival Predictive Factors in Patients with Excessive Alcohol Intake and Cirrhosis. Effect of Alcoholic Hepatitis, Smoking and Abstinence
FEBRUARY 2003
In hospitalised patients with excessive alcohol intake and cirrhosis: 1. age, liver failure, gastrointestinal bleeding, concomitant viral B or C infection and persistent alcohol intake are independent poor prognostic markers, 2. smoking may contribute to the aggravation of cirrhosis, and 3. alcoholic hepatitis, being a potentially reversible cause of liver failure, has a favourable prognostic significance. (Pessione et al., Liver, 23, 45, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Effect of Hepatitis C Virus Infection and Abstinence From Alcohol on Survival in Patients with Alcoholic Cirrhosis
FEBRUARY 2003
Cumulative survival in alcoholic cirrhosis does not seem to be influenced by the presence or absence of markers of HCV infection. Once liver cirrhosis has been diagnosed in the alcoholic patient, complete alcohol abstinence should be strongly recommended. (Serra et al., J. Clin. Gastroenterol.; 36, 170, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Hepatitis C, Iron Status, and Disease Severity: Relationship with HFE Mutations
FEBRUARY 2003
HFE mutations accelerate hepatic fibrosis in hepatitis C but may not be responsible for progression to end-stage liver disease. (Tung et al., Gastroenterology, 124, 318, 2003)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Interferon Therapy after Tumor Ablation Improves Prognosis in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma Associated with Hepatitis C Virus
FEBRUARY 2003
After tumor ablation by ethanol injection, interferon therapy may enhance patient survival in selected patients with chronic hepatitis C.( Shirator et al., Ann Intern Med.,138,299,2003).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Worsening of Steatosis is an Independent Factor of Fibrosis Progression in Untreated Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C and Paired Liver Biopsies
FEBRUARY 2003
In untreated patients with chronic hepatitis C and serial liver biopsies, fibrosis progression is strongly associated with worsening of steatosis. (CastИra et al., Gut,52, 288, 2003)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Long Term Histological Improvement and Clearance of Intrahepatic Hepatitis C Virus RNA Following Sustained Response to Interferon-Ribavirin Combination Therapy in Liver Transplanted Patients with Hepatitis C Virus Recurrence
FEBRUARY 2003
In patients with biochemical and virological responses induced by ribavirin and interferon, a complete response was sustained in 93% for at least three years after cessation of therapy. This long term response was associated with absence of detectable intrahepatic hepatitis C RNA and marked histological improvement. (Bizollon et al., Gut, 52,283, 2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Comparison of Rifaximin and Lactitol in the Treatment of Acute Hepatic Encephalopathy: Results of a Randomized, Double-Blind, Double-Dummy, Controlled Clinical Trial
JANUARY 2003
Rifaximin may be considered a useful and safe alternative therapy to lactitol in the treatment of acute hepatic encephalopathy in cirrhosis. (Mass et al., J. Hepatol., 38,. 51, 2003)

NONALCOHOLIC STEATOSIS- Serum Thioredoxin Levels as a Predictor of Steatohepatitis in Patients With Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
JANUARY 2003
The pathogenesis of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis may be associated with iron-related oxidative stress. The serum TRX level is a parameter for discriminating nonalcoholic steatohepatitis from simple steatosis as well as a predictor of the severity of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (Sumida et al., J. Hepatol., 38, 32, 2003).

ALCOHOLIC HEPATITIS- Extracorporeal Liver Support with Molecular Adsorbents Recirculating System in Patients with Severe Acute Alcoholic Hepatitis
JANUARY 2003
MARS resulted in improved liver biochemistry, cardiovascular haemodynamics, renal function and encephalopathy in patients with severe alcholic hepatitis, with an apparent reduction in mortality. (Jalan et al., J. Hepatol., 38, 24, 2003)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Nucleolar Hypertrophy Correlates with Hepatocellular Carcinoma Development in Cirrhosis due to HBV Infection
JANUARY 2003
High percentages of hepatocytes showing nucleolar hypertrophy significantly predict HCC development in patients with HBV infection, whereas their predictive value in HCV-related cirrhosis seems to be lower (TrerХ et al., Hepatology, 37, 72, 2003.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Spontaneous Viral Clearance in Patients with Acute Hepatitis C Can Be Predicted by Repeated Measurements of Serum Viral Load
JANUARY 2003
Patients with acute icteric hepatitis C have a high rate of spontaneous viral clearance within the first month after the onset of symptoms. IFN therapy appears only needed in patients who fail to clear the virus within 35 days after onset of symptoms. (Hofer et al., Hepatology, 37, 60, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Lack of Antiviral Effect of a Short Course of Mycophenolate Mofetil in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection
JANUARY 2003
Mycophenolate alone does not appear to have a significant antiviral or biochemical effect in patients with chronic hepatitis C. The most common side effects were headache, nausea, and diarrhea. (Firpi et al., Liver Transpl., 9, 57, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-A United States Compassionate use Study of Lamivudine Treatment in Nontransplantation Candidates with Decompensated Hepatitis B Virus√Related Cirrhosis
JANUARY 2003
Lamivudine treatment can lead to significant improvements in liver disease severity in nontransplantation candidates with advanced disease. (Hann et al., Liver Transpl., 9, 49, 2003)

LIVER FAILURE-Artificial and Bioartificial Support Systems for Acute and Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure A Systematic Review
JANUARY 2003
This review suggests that artificial support systems reduce mortality in acute-on-chronic liver failure compared with standard medical therapy. Artificial and bioartificial support systems did not appear to affect mortality in acute liver failure. (Kjaergard et al. JAMA, 289,217, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Histological outcome during long-term lamivudine therapy
JANUARY 2003
Three years of lamivudine therapy reduces necroinflammatory activity and reverses fibrosis (including cirrhosis) in most patients The emergence of YMDD variants blunts histologic responses; therefore, extended-duration YMDD variants may require additional therapies to maintain the histological benefit of treatment. (Dienstag et al., Gastroenterology 124, 105, 2003).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Progression of Fibrosis in Chronic Hepatitis C
JANUARY 2003
The best predictors of fibrosis progression in CHC are the extent of serum aminotransferase elevations and the degree of hepatocellular necrosis and inflammation on liver biopsy. These findings support the recommendation that patients with normal aminotransferase levels and mild liver histology can safely defer treatment. (Ghany et al., Gastroenterology, 124, 97, 2003).

OVERWEIGHT- Determinants of the Association of Overweight with Elevated Serum Alanine Aminotransferase Activity in the United States
JANUARY 2003
Central adiposity, hyperleptinemia, and hyperinsulinemia were the major determinants of the association of overweight with elevated serum ALT activity.. (Ruhl et al., Gastroenterology, 124, 71, 2003).

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Acute Propranolol Administration Effectively Decreases Portal Pressure in Patients with TIPS Dysfunction
JANUARY 2003
Propranolol therapy may delay the increase in portal pressure and reduce the need for reintervention in patients with TIPS dysfunction (Bellis et al., Gut, 52, 130, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Impact of Smoking on Histological Liver Lesions in Chronic Hepatitis C
JANUARY 2003
Smoking, independent of alcohol, could aggravate the histological activity of chronic hepatitis C; therefore patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection should be advised to reduce or stop smoking. (HИzode et al., Gut;52:126, 2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS-Retrospective Analysis of Non-A-E Hepatitis: Possible Role of Hepatitis B and C Virus Infection
JANUARY 2003
HBV infection played a major role in occult non-A-E hepatitis and detection of HBV DNA by more sensitive PCR methods such as nPCR should be considered for diagnosis of HBV infection. (He et al., J. Med. Virol., 69, 59, 2003).

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Hepatic Resection and Percutaneous Ethanol Injection as Treatments of Small Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Cancer of the Liver Italian Program (CLIP 08) Retrospective Case-Control Study
JANUARY 2003
Patients with small hepatocellular carcinoma treated with hepatic resection or percutaneous ethanol injection have similar survival rates. In view of the higher cost and morbidity of hepatic resection, a prospective randomized study is warranted (Daniele et al., J. Clin. Gastroenterol.,36, 63, 2003)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Hepatic Venous Pressure Gradient Measurements to Assess Response to Primary Prophylaxis in Patients with Cirrhosis: a Decision Analytical Study
JANUARY 2003
Hepatic venous pressure gradient measurement to guide primary prophylaxis is an expensive strategy for reducing variceal bleeding or death, especially in patients with limited life expectancy, such as those with advanced, decompensated cirrhosis. (Hicken et al., Alim. Pharmacol. Therap., 17, 145, 2003)

PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS-Oral Antioxidant Supplementation for Fatigue Associated with Primary Biliary Cirrhosis: Results of a Multicentre, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Cross-Over Trial
JANUARY 2003
Although oral antioxidant supplementation appears to be safe, we could not find any evidence for a beneficial effect on fatigue or other liver-related symptoms. (Prince et al., Alim.Pharmacol.Therap., 17 ,137 ,2003)

VIRAL HEPATITIS- Acute Liver failure- Results of a Prospective Study of Acute Liver Failure at 17 Tertiary Care Centers in the United States
DECEMBER 2002
Acetaminophen overdose and idiosyncratic drug reactions have replaced viral hepatitis as the most frequent apparent causes of acute liver failure. (Ostapowicz et al., Ann Intern Med.;137,947,2002)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Prevalence of Liver Disease in a Population of Asymptomatic Persons with Hepatitis C Virus Infection
DECEMBER 2002
Hepatitis C is histologically active and progressive in up to 40% of asymptomatic persons with HCV infection. The severity of liver disease correlates with abnormal ALT levels and increases with age. (Alberti et al., Ann Intern Med., 137, 961, 2002).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Iron and HFE or TfR1 Mutations as Comorbid Factors for Development and Progression of Chronic Hepatitis C
DECEMBER 2002
Hepatic iron and HFE mutations are comorbid factors that increase development and progression of chronic hepatitis C. (Bonkovsky et al., J Hepatol, 37, 848, 2002)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Mycophenolate Mofetil in Combination with Recombinant Interferon Alfa-2a in Interferon-Nonresponder Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C
DECEMBER 2002
Combination therapy of interferon alfa-2a and Mycophenolate Mofetil is ineffective in improving virological response rates in nonresponder patients with chronic hepatitis C. (Cornberg et al., J. Hepatol., 37 , 843, 2002)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Steatosis Accelerates Fibrosis Development Over Time in Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 3 Infected Patients
DECEMBER 2002
Steatosis in genotype 3 infected patients is a risk factor for progression of fibrosis. Therefore, patients with genotype 3 and steatosis ought to be recommended for early therapeutic intervention. (Westin et al., J.Hepatol., 37, 837, 2002)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Efficacy of Interferon Monotherapy to 394 Consecutive Naive Cases Infected With Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 2a in Japan: Therapy Efficacy as Consequence of Tripartite Interaction of Viral, Host and Interferon Treatment-Related Factors
DECEMBER 2002
Interferon monotherapy is very effective for patients with genotype 2a, especially for those with low viral load; and that early viral kinetics is useful as a predictor of the response (Akuta et al., J.Hepatol., 37 , 831, 2002)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-Altered Response to Oral Glutamine Challenge as Prognostic Factor for Overt Episodes in Patients with Minimal Hepatic Encephalopathy
DECEMBER 2002
A pathological oral glutamine challenge in patients with Minimal hepatic encephalopathy appears to be a prognostic factor for the development of overt hepatic encephalopathy, whereas a normal oral glutamine challenge in patients without Minimal hepatic encephalopathy could exclude risk of overt hepatic encephalopathy. (Romero-GСmez J.Hepatol, 37, 781, 2002)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Familial Clustering of (Mostly) HCV-Related Cirrhosis. A Case-Control Study
DECEMBER 2002
Cirrhosis is significantly more frequent among first-degree relatives and spouses of patients with cirrhosis, mostly HCV-related, than among first-degree relatives and spouses of controls.. (Pagliaro et al., J.Hepatol., 37, 762,2002)

LIVER DISORDERS- Association Between Body Mass Index and Liver Disorders: An Epidemiological Study
DECEMBER 2002
Obesity is associated with a modest increase in the incidence of newly diagnosed liver disorder. (Meier et al., J.Hepatol.,37, 741, 2002).

CHOLESTASIS- Efficacy and Safety of Oral Naltrexone Treatment for Pruritus of Cholestasis. A Crossover, Double Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
DECEMBER 2002
Naltrexone can be considered as an alternative option to treat pruritus of cholestasis. In the current study, side effects were transient and did not require specific medication. (Terg et al., J.Hepatol., 37 , 717, 2002)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-HBV Genotype B is Associated with Better Response to Interferon Therapy in HBeAg(+) Chronic Hepatitis than Genotype C
DECEMBER 2002
HBV genotype B was associated with a higher rate of IFN-induced HBeAg clearance compared with genotype C. Stratification for HBV genotypes should be considered in future clinical trials of antiviral therapy of chronic hepatitis B (Wai et al., Hepatology,36,1425,2002.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Quantitative Serum HBV DNA Levels During Different Stages of Chronic Hepatitis B Infection
DECEMBER 2002
Given the fluctuating course of HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis, it is not possible to define a single cutoff HBV DNA value for differentiating inactive carriers from patients with HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis. (Chu et al., Hepatology,36,1408,2002.)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Randomized Comparison of Long-Term Carvedilol And Propranolol Administration in the Treatment of Portal Hypertension in Cirrhosis
DECEMBER 2002
Carvedilol has a greater portal hypotensive effect than propranolol in patients with cirrhosis. However, its clinical applicability may be limited by its systemic hypotensive effects. (BaЯares et al., Hepatology,36,1367, 2002.)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS-⌠A La Carte■ Treatment of Portal Hypertension: Adapting Medical Therapy to Hemodynamic Response for the Prevention of Bleeding
DECEMBER 2002
Hemodynamic response to drug therapy identifies patients who are efficiently protected from variceal bleeding as well as nonresponders in whom an alternative treatment should be considered.. (Bureau et al., Hepatology, 36, 1361, 2002.)

LIVER STEATOSIS- NAFLD May be a Common Underlying Liver Disease in Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma in the United States
DECEMBER 2002
Hepatitis C and cryptogenic liver disease are the most common etiologies of diseases in patients with HCC. Half of the patients with cryptogenic cirrhosis had histologic or clinical features associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. (Marrero et al., Hepatology,36,1349, 2002.)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Percutaneous Radiofrequency Thermal Ablation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Safe And Effective Bridge to Liver Transplantation
DECEMBER 2002
Percutaneous Radiofrequency Thermal Ablation is an attractive treatment option for liver transplant candidates with nonresectable HCC.. (Fontana et al., Liver Transpl.,8,1165,2002)

LIVER TRRANSPLANTATION- One Hundred Consecutive Hepatic Biopsies in the Workup of Living Donors for Right Lobe Liver Transplantation
DECEMBER 2002
Screening liver biopsy has a low complication rate and may serve to increase donor safety. Biopsy is essential in identifying donor grafts at risk for poor recipient outcome while maximizing the donor pool. (Ryan et al., Liver Transpl., 8,1114,2002)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunting Versus Paracentesis Plus Albumin for Refractory Ascites In Cirrhosis
DECEMBER 2002
In patients with refractory ascites, TIPS lowers the rate of ascites recurrence and the risk of developing hepatorenal syndrome. However, TIPS does not improve survival and is associated with an increased frequency of severe encephalopathy and higher costs compared with repeated paracentesis plus albumin. (GinХs et al., Gastroenterology, 123, 1839,2002)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Entecavir is Superior to Lamivudine in Reducing Hepatitis B Virus DNA in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B Infection
DECEMBER 2002
This study showed that entecavir has potent antiviral activity against HBV at 0.1-mg/day and 0.5-mg/day doses, both of which were superior to lamivudine in chronically infected HBV patients. (Lai et al., Gastroenterology;123,1831,2002).

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Influence of HIV Infection on the Response to Interferon Therapy and the Long-Term Outcome of Chronic Hepatitis B
DECEMBER 2002
Interferon therapy decreased the incidence of HBV cirrhosis regardless of HIV status or serologic response. HIV coinfection was associated with poorer response to IFN- therapy, more frequent HBV reactivations, and increased incidence of cirrhosis and cirrhosis-related death in cases of low CD4 count. (Di Martino et al., Gastroenterology, 123,1812, 2002).

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Hepatitis C Virus Replicates in Sweat Glands And Is Released Into Sweat in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
DECEMBER 2002
Hepatitis C Virus replicates in eccrine sweat glands cells and keratinocytes in healthy skin and is released into the sweat. (Ortiz-Movilla et al., J. Med. Virol. 68,529, 2002).

LIVER FAILURE- The Molecular Adsorbents Recirculating System (MARS) in Liver Failure
DECEMBER 2002
The molecular adsorbents recirculating system (MARS), a device in which patient's blood is dialysed across an albumin-impregnated membrane against a recirculated albumin-containing solution, seems to be effective in removing albumin-bound toxins, such as fatty acids, bile acids and bilirubin. Some pilot studies have reported its effectiveness at improving liver function and hepatic encephalopathy in patients with acute decompensation of chronic liver disease, and renal function in patients with hepatorenal syndrome type I (Sen et al., Alim. Pharmacol.. Therapeut. , 16 , 32 ,2002)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Albumin for Circulatory Support In Patients with Cirrhosis
DECEMBER 2002
Albumin is very effective in preventing renal failure associated with large-volume paracentesis and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. In patients with hepatorenal syndrome the administration of vasoconstrictor drugs in combination with albumin improves circulatory and renal function markedly and survival slightly (GinХs et al., Alim. Pharmacol. .Therapeut, 16 ,5, 24 , 2002)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA-Cost-Effectiveness of Adjuvant Interferon Therapy After Surgical Resection of Hepatitis C-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma
DECEMBER 2002
Adjuvant interferon therapy after surgical resection of primary hepatitis C-related hepatocellular carcinoma improves life expectancy through suppression of recurrent cancer with acceptable cost-effectiveness. (Hoshida et al., Liver, 22 , 6,479 ,2002)

VIRAL HPATITIS C-Retreatment with Interferon plus Ribavirin of Chronic Hepatitis C Non-Responders to Interferon Monotherapy: A Meta-Analysis of Individual Patient Data
DECEMBER 2002
Complete sustained responses were observed in 15,7% of cases . Patients less than 45 years old with normal -glutamyltransferase levels who were retreated with high dose long course combination therapy had a complete sustained response rate of 30%. (CammЮ et al., Gut; 51, 864, 2002)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Renal Failure in Cirrhotic Patients: Role of Terlipressin in Clinical Approach to Hepatorenal Syndrome Type 2
DECEMBER 2002
Terlipressin administration significantly improves renal function in cirrhotic patients with hepatorenal syndrome type 2 but not in organic kidney failure. (Alessandria et al., Eur. J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol.; 14,1363,2002)

PRIMARY BIILIARY CIRRHOSIS-The Influence of Sulindac on Patients with Primary Biliary Cirrhosis that Responds Incompletely to Ursodeoxycholic Acid: A Pilot Study
DECEMBER 2002
Sulindac in combination with UDCA further improves liver biochemistries in patients with PBC who responded incompletely to UDCA alone. (Leuschner et al., Eur. J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol.; 14,1369,2002)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Re-Treatment with Interferon-Beta of Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection
DECEMBER 2002
Treatment with recombinant IFN-b, at doses of up to 18 MIU for 6 months, is safe and well tolerated. However only 3.3% of the patients maintained a sustained virological response at the end of post-treatment follow-up.In conclusion the results of this trial do not support the use of IFN-b monotherapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C that is resistant to IFN-a on(Pellicano et al., Eur. J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol.; 14, 1377,2002)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Interferon for Treatment of Breakthrough Infection with Hepatitis B Virus Mutants Developing During Long-Term Lamivudine Therapy
NOVEMBER 2002
The efficacy of IFN in controlling virological breakthroughs and exacerbation of hepatitis by infection with lamivudine-resistant HBV mutants in patients with HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B could enhance the versatility of lamivudine, which may have to be given to them indefinitely. (Suzuki et al., J. Gastroenterology, 37, 922, 2002)

VIRAL HEPATITIS- Accurate Prediction of Fulminant Hepatic Failure in Severe Acute Viral Hepatitis: Multicenter Study
NOVEMBER 2002
The present study indicated that fulminant hepatic failure can be predicted, by a simple discrimination equation, at the stage of severe acute hepatitis (taking in accaunt viruses, total bilirubin and colinesterase). (Yoshiba et al., J. Gastroenterology, 38, 916, 2002)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B and C- HBV Superinfection in Hepatitis C Virus Chronic Carriers, Viral Interaction, and Clinical Course
NOVEMBER 2002
HBV superinfection in chronic HCV carriers has a severe clinical course and strongly and persistently depresses HCV (Sagnelli et al., Hepatology,36,1285,2002.)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Recombinant Alfa-Interferon Plus Ribavirin Therapy in Children and Adolescents with Chronic Hepatitis C
NOVEMBER 2002
Combination of alfa-interferon with ribavirin seems to be an important advance in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C in children and adolescents.. (Wirth et al., Hepatology;36,1280, 2002)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Neutropenia During Combination Therapy of Interferon Alfa and Ribavirin for Chronic Hepatitis C
NOVEMBER 2002
Neutropenia is frequent during treatment of hepatitis C with interferon and ribavirin, but it is not usually associated with infection (Soza et al., Hepatology;36,1273, 2002)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C-Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 3 is Cytopathic to Hepatocytes: Reversal of Hepatic Steatosis After Sustained Therapeutic Response
NOVEMBER 2002
Among patients infected with genotype 3, and treated with antiviral therapy Sustained Virological Response significantly reduced steatosis, but there was no change in steatosis among those without a Sustained Virological Response. These data provide strong support for a direct causal association between HCV genotype 3 infection and hepatic steatosis.. (Kumar et al., Hepatology; 36,1266,2002)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION-A Pilot Study of Interferon Alfa and Ribavirin Combination in Liver Transplant Recipients with Recurrent Hepatitis C
NOVEMBER 2002
Interferon and ribavirin are effective in a small proportion of liver allograft recipients with recurrent hepatitis C. Adverse effects occur commonly, requiring dose reductions and treatment withdrawal.. (Shakil et al., Hepatology ;36,1253, 2002)

HEPATOCARCINOMA -High-Dose Tamoxifen in the Treatment of Inoperable Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial
NOVEMBER 2002
Tamoxifen does not prolong survival in patients with inoperable Hepatocellular carcinoma and has an increasingly negative impact with increasing dose. No appreciable advantage to quality of life with Tamopxifen was observed. (Chow et al., Hepatology,36,1221, 2002)

HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA- Risk Factors for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Synergism of Alcohol with Viral Hepatitis and Diabetes Mellitus
NOVEMBER 2002
The significant synergy between heavy alcohol consumption, hepatitis virus infection, and diabetes mellitus may suggest a common pathway for hepatocarcinogenesis. (Hassan et al., Hepatology, 36, 1206, 2002.)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Renal Tubular Events Following Passage from the Supine to the Standing Position in Patients with Compensated Liver Cirrhosis: Loss of Tubuloglomerular Feedback
NOVEMBER 2002
This study suggests that both the reduction in fluid and sodium delivery to the distal nephron and loss of tubuloglomerular feedback (the mechanism increasing glomerular filtration rate when the distal tubule is reached by a reduced sodium load) contribute towards the tendency to sodium retention in compensated cirrhosis during prolonged upright posture (SansoИ et al., Gut;51,736, 2002)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B-Efficacy o Lamivudine Therapy for Advanced Liver Disease in Patients With Precore Mutant Hepatitis B Virus Infection Awaiting Liver Transplantation1
NOVEMBER 2002
Lamivudine has an important role in patients with end-stage liver disease caused by HBV precore mutant strain. Not only does HBV-DNA suppression allow patients to be eligible for Liver transplantation, but the improvement of the patients' clinical status may delay the need for Liver transplantation in an era of organ shortage. (Andreone et al., Transplantation, 74,1119, 2002)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- Durability of Lamivudine-Induced HBeAg Seroconversion for Chronic Hepatitis B Patients with Acute Exacerbation
NOVEMBER 2002
Lamivudine-induced full HBeAg seroconversion was not durable in about 56% of Taiwanese population. Age was the only independent predictive factor for relapse. (Lee et al., J.Hepatol., 37, 669, 2002)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- A Pilot Study of beta-Interferon for Treatment of Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B who Failed to Respond to alpha-Interferon ╓
NOVEMBER 2002
This pilot study suggests that beta-interferon therapy is effective and safe in the retreatment of patients with chronic hepatitis B who had not responded to a previous alpha-interferon cycle (MuЯoz et al., J. Hepatol, 37 , 655, 2002)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Serum Thrombopoietin Levels Are Linked to Liver Function in Untreated Patients with Hepatitis C Virus-Related Chronic Hepatitis
NOVEMBER 2002
Thrombopoietin serum levels were correlated to platelet count, and negatively correlated to fibrosis stage. Lastly, low Thrombopoietin serum levels were associated to a decrease in liver function. (Giannini et al., J. Hepatol., 37,. 572, 2002)

LIVER CIRRHOSIS- Diagnostic Accuracy of a Rapid Urine-Screening Test (Multistix8SG) in Cirrhotic Patients with Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis
NOVEMBER 2002
A positive Multistix8SG urine test result in ascitic fluid appears to be an indication for antibiotic treatment. (Vanbiervliet et al., Eur. J.. Gastroent. .Hepatol. 14,1257, 2002)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Detection of Hepatitis C Virus Sequences in Brain Tissue Obtained in Recurrent Hepatitis C After Liver Transplantation
NOVEMBER 2002
Hepatitis C virus was found to be present in the brain of two patients with recurrent hepatitis C after liver transplantation, leading to their demise. The severe mental depression of these patients might have been caused by HCV in the brain. (Vargas et al., Liver Transpl., 8,1014, 2002)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Ribavirin Dose Modification Based on Renal Function is Necessary to Reduce Hemolysis in Liver Transplant Patients With Hepatitis C Virus Infection
NOVEMBER 2002
The incidence of hemolysis was significantly associated with higher serum creatinine and decreased creatinine clearance. Because ribavirin is eliminated by the kidneys, this observation points to the need for adjustments in the dose of this agent in LTx patients, who tend to have some degree of renal dysfunction, to reduce the incidence of hemolysis. (Jain et al., Liver Transpl, 8,1007, 2002)


LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Combination of Interferon Alfa-2b and Ribavirin in Liver Transplant Recipients with Histological Recurrent Hepatitis C
NOVEMBER 2002
Liver transplant recipients seem less tolerant of interferon and ribavirin than nontransplant patients and frequently require dose reduction. However, 45% of those who tolerated the full dose lost HCV-RNA for at least 6 months after the end of the treatment. This combination therapy appears to prevent histological progression of disease if viral eradication is successful. (Firpi et al., Liver Transpl ,8,1000,2002)

VIRAL HEPATITIS B- The Role of Lamivudine and Predictors of Mortality in Severe Flare-Up of Chronic Hepatitis B with Jaundice
NOVEMBER 2002
Lamivudine confers no survival benefit to conventional treatment in severe exacerbations of Chronic Hepatitis B. Patients with thrombocytopenia and high bilirubin should be considered for liver transplantation. (Chan et al., J. Viral Hepatitis, 9 , 424 , 2002)

VIRAL HEPATITIS C- Long-term Impact of Renal Transplantation on Liver Fibrosis During Hepatitis C Virus Infection
NOVEMBER 2002
Liver fibrosis progression is low in most HCV-infected renal transplant recipients with moderate liver disease at baseline.. (Alric et al., Gastroenterology, 123:1494, 2002)

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION- Evolution of Hepatitis C Viral Quasispecies After Liver Transplantation
NOVEMBER 2002
After Liver Transplantation, a more complex quasispecies population was associated with mild disease recurrence. . The greatest change in viral amino acid sequences occurred in the first 36 months after Liver Transplantation. (Lyra et al., Gastroenterology, 123,1485,2002)