Review for 10.1186/s12876-019-0973-5 (2019)

Reviewer ’s report  
 
Title: Rapid decline of noninvasive fibrosis index values in patients with hepatitis C receiving 
treatment with direct -acting antiviral agents  
 
Version: 0 Date: 19 Jan 2019  
 
Reviewer: Hong Zhao  
 
Reviewer's report:  
 
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The authors retrospectively analyzed the relationship between noninvasive parameters and 
biochemical markers in 395 CHC patients receiving DAAs therapy. Rapid de cline of APRI and 
FIB-4 was observed within the first 2 -4 weeks of treatment, whcih Consistent with the reduction 
of ALT and AST and the increased PLT.  
 
The article lacks pathological evidence. ALT, AST, and PLT are necessary variables for 
calculating APRI  and FIB -4. Synchronous changes in APRI/FIB -4 and ALT/AST/PLT are 
expected to be inevitable. The regression of liver inflammation needs pathological results.  
 
Are the methods appropriate and well described?  
If not, please specify what is required in your comments to the authors.  
 
Yes 
 
Does the work include the necessary contro ls? 
If not, please specify which controls are required in your comments to the authors.  
 
Yes 
 
Are the conclusions drawn adequately supported by the data shown?  
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Yes 
Are you able to assess any statistics in the manuscript or would you recommend an  
additional statistical review?  
If an additional statistical review is recommended, please specify what aspects require further  
assessment in your comments to the editors.  
 
I am able to assess the statistics  
 
Quality of written English  
Please indicate the quality of language in the manuscript:  
 
Acceptable  
 
Declaration of competing interests  
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below.  If your reply is yes to any, please give details below.  
 
NONE.  
 
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