Cytokine Evaluation in Liver Cirrhosis and Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Background/Aims: The purpose of this study was to examine the roles of tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF- α), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-18, and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in patients with liver cirrhosis (LC) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methodology: AFP and cytokine serum concentrations were determined via EIA or ELISA. Results: In total, 81 patients were included, including 9 healthy controls, 36 LC patients, and 36 HCC patients. Significant differences in AFP, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-18 between the three groups were noted (p 7ng/ml had increased IL-18 concentrations compared to both the other groups p < 0.001). In contrast to previously published studies, TNF-α was highest in the healthy group, intermediate in the HCC group, and lowest in the LC group (p < 0.001). Conclusions: IL-18 may be a potential tumour marker in combination with IL-6 and AFP in the diagnosis of HCC, but further research including a larger population of patients is essential. Further research is warranted.