Pathogenesis and treatment of hepatitis C virus-related liver diseases.

BACKGROUND

Few comprehensive reviews on the pathogenesis of hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related liver diseases have been presented to the present. This article was to review the pathogenesis and treatment of HCV-related liver diseases.

DATA SOURCES

Data presented here are mostly taken from Japanese studies.

RESULTS

HCV infection is characterized by persistent inflammation of the liver and frequent development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in most cases. These characteristic evidences could be explained by immunological alterations and oxidative stress in the hepatocyte caused by HCV infection. Interferon (IFN) treatment is carried out, at present, not only for the elimination of infected HCV for the treatment of chronic liver diseases, but also for both the prevention of HCC and the treatment of advanced HCC with chemotherapy. The treatment for oxidative stress is also important for non-responders to IFN.

CONCLUSION

It is important to understand the pathogenesis of HCV-related liver diseases for a successful treatment.