Changes in serum levels of leucine‐rich α2‐glycoprotein predict prognosis in primary biliary cholangitis. Issue 4 (6th January 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hayashi, Manabu; Abe, Kazumichi; Fujita, Masashi; Okai, Ken; Takahashi, Atsushi; Ohira, Hiromasa
• Is Part Of: Hepatology research. Volume 49:Issue 4(2019)
• Page Start: 385
• Page End: 393
• Publication Date: 2019-01-06
• Subjects: cirrhosis -- ursodeoxycholic acid; Liver -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Liver Diseases -- Periodicals; Foie -- Maladies -- Périodiques; 616.362
• DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13291
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1386-6346

Abstract

Abstract : Aims: A non‐invasive biomarker for patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is needed. The association between leucine‐rich α2 glycoprotein (LRG) and PBC has not been investigated. We aimed to assess the predictive value of LRG for the development of cirrhosis‐related conditions in PBC. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed clinical data of 129 individuals with biopsy‐confirmed PBC. Leucine‐rich α2 glycoprotein was analyzed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays using stored sera at biopsy ( n = 129) and after treatment ( n = 80). Results: Levels of LRG decreased significantly after treatment (55.8 μg/mL vs. 39.8 μg/mL, P < 0.001). Neither LRG nor delta‐LRG was associated with transaminase or histological findings. Delta‐LRG >0 (hazard ratio [HR] 4.61, P = 0.013), delta‐LRG >0 and an aspartate aminotransferase/platelet ratio index (APRI) >0.76 (HR 458, P < 0.001) were associated with the development of a cirrhosis‐related condition. Patients with a delta‐LRG >0 and an APRI >0.76 had a significantly increased rate of developing cirrhosis‐related conditions ( P < 0.001). Conclusions: Changes in LRG levels after treatment predicted PBC prognosis but were not associated with histological stage. Changes in LRG in addition to the APRI could be a useful combination of tools for clinicians as a non‐invasive biomarker.