[Peripheral blood lymphocyte apoptosis in children with viral hepatites A, B, C and effect of ursodeoxycholic acid preparations].

Apoptosis plays an important role in the pathogenesis of viral hepatitis (VH), affecting not only hepatocytes but also immune cells. However, the occurrence of apoptosis in peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) during the course of VH in children has not been described. The aim of this study was to measure the level of PBL apoptosis during VH in children, and to test its possible correction by ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). Apoptosis was determined by flow cytometry using propidium iodide (PI) staining for hypodiploid cells. The apoptosis of PBL is closely correlated with the severity and progression of hepatitis A, B and C in children. Furthermore, the improved course and outcomes of the disease following UDCA treatment are associated with the reduction of PBL apoptosis.