C5a had a negative relationship with liver fibrosis stages and the Child-Pugh score [48-50]. These studies show that the levels of complement components may be an indicator of liver fibrosis or cirrhosis stage [51]. There are two possible mechanisms: the reduction of complement synthesis after severe liver injury and excessive complement depletion [52]. However, the results of two studies showed some discrepancies; the serum complement concentration was normal, and no significant differences were observed in patients with alcoholic cirrhosis [53,54]. Further studies are required to explore the mechanisms underlying the role of the complement system in the occurrence and development of advanced liver disease, as complement regulation may be a potential strategy for reversing the progress of liver fibrosis.
