Serum thrombopoietin levels are linked to liver function in untreated patients with hepatitis C virus-related chronic hepatitis

Background: Thrombocytopenia can be found in patients with chronic hepatitis related to hepatitis C virus (HCV). Both hypersplenism and decreased liver production of thrombopoietin (TPO) have been hypothesized as mechanisms responsible for thrombocytopenia. Aims: To assess the presence of relationships among platelet count, spleen size, TPO serum levels, liver histology, and liver function in a group of patients with HCV-related chronic hepatitis. Methods: Platelet count, TPO serum levels, and spleen size were assessed in 25 untreated HCV positive chronic hepatitis patients undergoing liver biopsy. These parameters were correlated to liver histology and liver function as evaluated by means of [ 13C]aminopyrine breath test (ABT). Results: Both platelet counts (146±48 vs. 202±56×10 9/1, P