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Chronic hepatitis C is a common associated with hepatic granulomas
Ned Snyder1, Juan G Martinez, Shu-Yuan Xiao
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Division of Gastroenterology, Galveston, Texas 77555-0764, United States. nesnyder@utmb.edu
World Journal of Gastroenterology
|November 15, 2008
Summary
Hepatic epithelioid granulomas are uncommon liver biopsy findings. This study found hepatitis C virus (HCV) to be the most frequent association, suggesting it may be part of HCV's histological spectrum.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Pathology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Hepatic epithelioid granulomas are rare findings in liver biopsies.
- The etiological associations of these granulomas require further clarification.
- The potential link between granulomas and chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the most common causes of hepatic epithelioid granulomas.
- To investigate the association between hepatic epithelioid granulomas and chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of liver biopsy pathology database (1996-2006).
- Prospective study data analysis (2003-2006) on hepatic fibrosis markers and liver biopsies.
- Identification of epithelioid granulomas and review of clinical, laboratory, and histological data.
Main Results:
- Of 4578 liver biopsies, 36 (0.79%) showed epithelioid granulomas.
- Hepatitis C virus (HCV) was the most frequent association identified.
- In 14 patients with HCV, granulomas were found; in nine, no other known causes were identified.
Conclusions:
- Hepatic epithelioid granulomas can be part of the histological spectrum of chronic HCV.
- When found in HCV patients, other causes should be investigated.
- If no other etiology is identified, an association with HCV can be considered.
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