G-CSF therapy for severe alcoholic hepatitis: targeting liver regeneration or neutrophil function?

Abstract

Severe alcoholic hepatitis is a life-threatening liver disease. Although corticosteroid treatment is recommended and improves survival, mortality remains high and 35% of patients die within 6 months. There is no available medical treatment for patients who do not respond to corticosteroids. A new randomized pilot trial shows that the administration of the cytokine granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) improves liver function and 3-month survival in patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis. These results suggest a new therapeutic approach for severe alcoholic hepatitis.