IL-10 is a cytokine that controls inflammatory responses and hepatic fibrosis. Twenty-four non-responders were given either 4 or 8 µg/kg IL-10 subcutaneously daily for 90 days, and had liver biopsies before and after therapy. Twenty-two patients finished treatment. ALT levels and liver inflammation improved, but there was no change in viral load, however the improvements in ALT’s and fibrosis after 12 weeks of therapy were similar to those seen in IFN therapy after 48 weeks of treatment (Gastroenterology 2000;118:655-660).
