TNF and cryohydrocytosis: IFN-α alters the immune response in patients with CHC from T helper- (Th-) 2 to a Th1 mediated pattern to favour the eradication of the virus [9–12] and this is achieved through the modulation of several cytokines, including IFN-γ, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-6 and IL-10, tumour necrosis factor- (TNF-) α, and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) [13–16].