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Significance of circulating hepatocyte growth factor in protein-losing enteropathy after Fontan operation

Gi Beom Kim1, Bo Sang Kwon, Eun Jung Bae

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, Seoul, South Korea.

Pediatric Cardiology
|June 14, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Serum hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is elevated in patients with protein-losing enteropathy (PLE) after the Fontan operation (FO). This finding suggests HGF may contribute to the development of PLE post-FO.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Protein-losing enteropathy (PLE) is a serious complication following the Fontan operation (FO).
  • The underlying mechanisms of PLE post-FO require further elucidation.
  • Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is implicated in various physiological and pathological processes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To measure serum hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) levels in patients with PLE after Fontan operation (FO).
  • To investigate the relationship between serum HGF and PLE following FO.
  • To compare HGF levels in PLE patients with control groups.

Main Methods:

  • Serum HGF, vascular endothelial growth factor, albumin, and stool alpha-1 antitrypsin were measured.
  • Patients with PLE post-FO were compared to controls without PLE post-FO and patients with nephrotic syndrome (NS).
  • Transthoracic echocardiography was performed.

Main Results:

  • Serum HGF levels were significantly higher in PLE patients post-FO compared to both control groups.
  • Patients with PLE post-FO exhibited lower serum albumin levels than controls without PLE.
  • Elevated serum HGF correlated significantly with lower serum albumin levels.

Conclusions:

  • Serum HGF levels are significantly elevated in patients experiencing protein-losing enteropathy after the Fontan operation.
  • Hepatocyte growth factor may play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of protein-losing enteropathy following the Fontan operation.

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