Inhibition of activated blood platelets by interferon alpha 2b in chronic hepatitis C
Panasiuk, A.; Prokopowicz, D.; Zak, J.; Panasiuk, B.; Wysocka, J.
Hepato-Gastroenterology 51(59): 1417-1421
2004
ISSN/ISBN: 0172-6390 PMID: 15362767 Document Number: 568397
Background/Aims: Interferon alpha used in treatment of chronic hepatitis C significantly influences the blood platelets. The role of platelets in initiating and developing pathological processes in hepatic diseases is still barely known. We studied the effects of interferon alpha 2b (IFN alpha2b) on blood platelets in chronic hepatitis C. Methodology: The studies were conducted in 16 patients who underwent IFN a2b treatment 3 times a week at 6MU. The examination was carried out before and on the 14th day of the treatment of IFN a2b. Morphological parameters of blood platelets were determined by hematological methods and flow cytometry. Expression of receptors on blood platelet surfaces (CD41, CD42a, CD62P) and thrombopoietin, platelet-derived growth factor, soluble form sP-selectin, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor alpha were also determined. Results: The use of IFN a2b in patients with chronic hepatitis C significantly effects blood platelets morphology by causing the decrease in their number, the change in population size, and the increase in large platelet count. Interferon decreases P-selectin expression on platelets, sP-selectin and platelet-derived growth factor concentration in plasma. During interferon therapy we noted increase concentration of thrombopoietin, tumor necrosis factor alpha, IL-6 in chronic hepatitis C. Conclusions: IFN a2b stabilizes activated platelets and probably decreases their participation in inflammatory and fibrotic processes in the liver.