| Theme |
An Update on Hepatitis C Treatment |
| Title |
Effects of Iron Depletion on Chronic Hepatitis C |
| Author |
Takaaki Ohtake |
Third Department of Internal Medicine, Asahikawa Medical College |
| Author |
Yutaka Kohgo |
Third Department of Internal Medicine, Asahikawa Medical College |
| [ Summary ] |
Iron is a major metalic ion in the body and is used for hemoglobin synthesis and cellular oxidative reactions. This cellular iron is usually stored as ferritin, which prevents iron toxicity due to an increase of free iron. However, if iron is overloaded, the free iron pool is increased and facilitates free radical formation, which causes cell damage. In the liver tissue of chronic hepatitis C patients, iron accumulates in the hepatocytes and is thought to facilitate liver dysfunction. Iron depletion by phlebotomy improves serum ALT levels in chronic hepatitis C patients, even though they are refractory to interferon therapies. Long term phlebotomy improves liver fibrosis and may prevent carcinogenesis. Iron depletion therapy is an alterative for patients who do not respond to conventional therapies for chronic hepatitis C. |