One hundred sixty-two patients completed the antiviral treatment program. SVR was achieved in 77 patients (47.5%). VAI score had a direct correlation with HCV viral load and was independently associated with higher HOMA score, higher HCV RNA levels, necroinflammatory activity, and steatosis, by multiple linear regression analysis. IR, higher VAI score, and fibrosis were linked to steatosis, suggesting adipose tissue may interfere with liver fatty accumulation not only by IR promotion, but also by exercising its well-known function as an endocrine organ able to modulate metabolic functions, including steatogenesis. Older age, high VAI score, and fibrosis were independently associated with moderate-severe necroinflammatory activity by logistic regression analysis.

"Our study found that moderate-severe necroinflammatory activity is independently associated not only with older age but also with VAI score," commented Dr. Petta. "To the best of our knowledge, we have provided the first evidence of an independent link between adipose dysfunction and liver inflammation in CHC." The authors indicate that the index may be able to reflect the ability of adipose tissue to generate proinflammatory mediators capable of participating in liver inflammatory response during HCV infection.

Dr. Petta concluded, "We suggest using VAI as an indicator of adipose-related liver damage, as predictor of liver disease progression, and as a new therapeutic outcome measure in the management of G1 CHC patients."

Source: Wiley-Blackwell