Journal of hepatology
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Journal of hepatology · Apr 2000
Blood neutrophil functions and cytokine release in severe alcoholic hepatitis: effect of corticosteroids.
Several observations point to an important role of interactions between polymorphonuclear neutrophils and cytokines in severe alcoholic hepatitis. The polymorphonuclear neutrophil activation status and the local and systemic pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine responses were quantified. The effect of corticosteroids, widely used in this setting, was evaluated using these parameters. ⋯ Severe alcoholic hepatitis appears to be associated with polymorphonuclear neutrophil activation and an imbalance between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines; during steroid therapy a normalization of these parameters was observed.