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Liver disease in haemophiliacs: an overstated problem?
British Journal of Haematology
|December 1, 1983
Summary
Liver biopsies in multi-transfused hemophiliacs with abnormal liver function tests revealed a low incidence of severe liver damage. Routine liver biopsy may not be necessary for asymptomatic hemophiliacs without proven therapy.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Hematology
- Transfusion Medicine
Background:
- Hemophiliacs often undergo multiple transfusions, increasing risks of liver disease.
- Previous reports suggested a high incidence of liver damage in this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the histological liver damage in multi-transfused hemophiliacs with abnormal liver function tests.
- To evaluate the necessity of routine liver biopsy in asymptomatic hemophiliacs.
Main Methods:
- Percutaneous liver biopsy was performed on 12 multi-transfused hemophiliacs with abnormal liver function tests.
- Histological examination of liver tissue was conducted.
Main Results:
- Only one patient (8.3%) showed severe chronic active hepatitis progressing to cirrhosis.
- Four additional patients (33.3%) exhibited mild chronic active hepatitis.
- The incidence of severe liver damage was lower than previously reported.
Conclusions:
- Routine liver biopsy may not be indicated for asymptomatic hemophiliacs, especially without effective therapies.
- Dynamic liver function tests can be valuable for monitoring liver health in hemophiliacs.