| Theme |
Interferon Therapy for Viral Hepatitis : an Update Reference |
| Title |
Prevention of Hepatocarcinogenesis with Interferon Therapy |
| Author |
Shuhei Nishiguchi |
Department of Hepatology, Hyogo College of Medicine |
| Author |
Masao Ohno |
Department of Hepatology, Hyogo College of Medicine |
| [ Summary ] |
Numerous clinical studies have demonstrated the effects of interferon (IFN) on suppressing hepatocarcinogenesis. The efficacy of this treatment has been reported on primarily in papers from Japan. Moreover, its effect on inhibiting progression from chronic hepatitis to liver cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma and its effect on prolonging life expectancy have also become apparent. These effects were marked in cases of sustained elimination of hepatitis C virus (HCV) following IFN therapy. In regard to suppression of carcinogenesis, nearly equivalent suppressive action can be expected even in cases where HCV remains after IFN therapy but in cases where liver function has normalized. Although IFN has a weak apoptotic effect on hepatocellular carcinoma itself, it acts to suppress the recurrence of ectopic cancer.
Complications with insulin resistance and fatty liver have recently been identified as risk factors for carcinogenesis. Comprehensive preventive measures, including treatment for these risk factors, are needed to heighten the effectiveness of IFN in suppressing carcinogenesis. |