Influence of hepatitis C virus infection on HIV-1 disease progression and response to highly active antiretroviral therapy

Effect of HCV infection on cause-specific mortality after HIV seroconversion, before and after 1997

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection frequently also are infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) (co-infection), but little is known about its effects on the progression of HIV-associated disease. We aimed to determine the effects of co-infection on mortality from HIV and/or acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), and hepatitis or liver disease, adjusting for the duration of HIV infection.

METHODS

We analyzed data from the 16 cohorts of the Concerted Action on Seroconversion to AIDS and Death in Europe (CASCADE) collaboration, which included information on HCV infection and cause of death. A competing-risks proportional subdistribution hazards model was used to evaluate the effect of HCV infection on the following causes of death: HIV- and/or AIDS-related, hepatitis- or liver-related, natural, and non-natural.

RESULTS

Of 9164 individuals with HIV infection and a known date of seroconversion, 2015 (22.0%) also were infected with HCV. Of 718 deaths, 395 (55.0%) were caused by HIV infection and/or AIDS, and 39 (5.4%) were caused by hepatitis or liver-related disease. Among individuals infected with only HIV or with co-infection, the mortality from HIV infection and/or AIDS-related causes and hepatitis or liver disease decreased significantly after 1997, when combination antiretroviral therapy became widely available. However, after 1997, HIV and/or AIDS-related mortality was higher among co-infected individuals than those with only HIV infection in each risk group: injection drug use (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 2.43; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14-5.20), sex between men and women or hemophilia (aHR, 3.43; 95% CI, 1.70-6.93), and sex between men (aHR, 3.11; 95% CI, 1.49-6.48). Compared with individuals infected with only HIV, co-infected individuals had a higher risk of death from hepatitis or liver disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on analysis of data from the CASCADE collaboration, since 1997, when combination antiretroviral therapy became widely available, individuals co-infected with HIV and HCV have had a higher risk of death from HIV and/or AIDS, and from hepatitis or liver disease, than patients infected with only HIV. It is necessary to evaluate the effects of HCV therapy on HIV progression.

High prevalence but low awareness of hepatitis C virus infection among heroin users who received methadone maintenance therapy in Taiwan

BACKGROUND

This study investigates the prevalence and correlates of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections among heroin dependent individuals who received methadone maintenance therapy in Taiwan. Also, we investigate users' awareness of HCV.

METHODS

Participants were 773 heroin users entering the methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) program at Tsaotun Psychiatric Center in Taiwan. The presence of HCV antibodies was detected. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify the relationship between HCV infection and correlates.

RESULTS

The prevalence of HCV infection was 90.8%. All participants who were HIV-positive were also infected with HCV. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the route of heroin administration (injection), HIV-infection, and criminal records were significantly related to HCV infection. Few (34.8%) HCV positive heroin users were aware of their infection.

CONCLUSION

An extremely high prevalence of HCV infection but low awareness of their infection status was found among MMT patients in Taiwan. These findings highlight the importance of education regarding risky behaviors and the necessity for HCV treatment for this population in Taiwan.

Stability of hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA levels among interferon-naïve HIV/HCV-coinfected individuals treated with combination antiretroviral therapy

OBJECTIVES

Infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major cause of chronic liver disease. High HCV RNA levels have been associated with poor treatment response. This study aimed to examine the natural history of HCV RNA in chronically HCV/HIV-coinfected individuals.

METHODS

Mixed models were used to analyse the natural history of HCV RNA changes over time in HIV-positive patients with chronic HCV infection.

RESULTS

A total of 1541 individuals, predominantly White (91%), male (73%), from southern (35%) and western central Europe (23%) and with HCV genotype 1 (58%), were included in the analysis. The median follow-up time was 5.0 years [interquartile range (IQR) 2.8 to 8.3 years]. Among patients not on combination antiretroviral therapy (cART), HCV RNA levels increased by a mean 27.6% per year [95% confidence interval (CI) 6.1-53.5%; P = 0.0098]. Among patients receiving cART, HCV RNA levels were stable, increasing by a mean 2.6% per year (95% CI -1.1 to 6.5%; P = 0.17). Baseline HCV RNA levels were 25.5% higher (95% CI 8.8 to 39.1%; P = 0.0044) in individuals with HCV genotype 1 compared with HCV genotypes 2, 3 and 4. A 1 log HIV-1 RNA copies/mL increase in HIV RNA was associated with a 10.9% increase (95% CI 2.3 to 20.2%; P = 0.012) in HCV RNA.

CONCLUSIONS

While HCV RNA levels increased significantly in patients prior to receiving cART, among those treated with cART HCV RNA levels remained stable over time.

Hepatic steatosis in human immunodeficiency virus: a prospective study in patients without viral hepatitis, diabetes, or alcohol abuse

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Abnormal liver enzymes (LEs) are common in those infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Histologic data on those with abnormal LE without viral hepatitis are lacking.

METHODS

HIV-positive subjects without hepatitis C virus, hepatitis B virus, alcohol abuse, and diabetes mellitus with more than 1 abnormal LE, defined as 1.25 ULN in aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, or alkaline phosphatase, over 6 months were included. Subjects underwent a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test, fasting lipids, insulin and glucose for insulin resistance (IR) by homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry for fat distribution. Biopsies were read blindly to clinical data, and scored by Ishak histologic activity index for inflammation and fibrosis and NAFLD activity score.

RESULTS

Fourteen patients underwent biopsy. All were on highly active antiretroviral therapy with undetectable HIV RNA and mean CD4 614. The histologic activity index scores for inflammation and fibrosis were 3.43(1.4) and 1.71(1.26), respectively, and 2 patients had advanced fibrosis (bridging fibrosis/cirrhosis). The majority (65%) of patients had steatosis: grade 1: 21%, grade 2: 28%, and grade 3: 14%. Hepatocyte ballooning was seen in 7 (40%) but nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) was diagnosed only in 4 (26%). NAFLD activity score of all biopsies of 3.07 (2.2; range, 0 to 5). HOMA-IR was higher in those with compared with those without steatosis (3.52 vs. 1.91; P = 0.11) and highest in those with NASH (4.89). Using multivariate logistic regression, only increased γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (P = 0.0009) predicted steatosis whereas HOMA-IR (P = 0.0046) predicted NASH.

CONCLUSIONS

Although steatosis is common in HIV patients with abnormal LE without diabetes mellitus, alcohol, or viral hepatitis coinfection, NASH was observed in only 26%. The only clinical or laboratory feature associated with biopsy proven steatosis and NASH were γ-glutamyl transpeptidase and a calculated measure of insulin resistance, respectively. Further studies are needed in this population to determine the long-term clinical significance.

The treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus infection in HIV co-infection

Chronic HCV co-infection is present in up to one third of HIV-positive patients in Europe. In recent years, apart from the traditional transmission route of intravenous drug abuse, outbreaks of sexually transmitted acute HCV infections, mainly among HIV-positive men who have sex with men, have contributed to the overall disease burden.

Because the natural course of HCV infection is substantially accelerated in HIV-co-infection, end-stage liver disease has become the most frequent cause of non-AIDS related death in this population. Therefore every HIV/HCV co-infected patient should be evaluated for possible anti-HCV therapy with the goal of reaching a sustained virological response and thus cure of hepatitis C infection. The standard of care for the treatment of chronic HCV infection in HIV-infected remains a pegylated interferon in combination with weight-adapted ribavirin.

HAART should not be withheld from HCV co-infected patients due to concerns of drug related hepatotoxicity and in patients with reduced CD4-cell counts HAART should be started first. Under pegylated interferon and ribavirin combination therapy drug to drug interactions and cumulated toxicity between nucleoside analogues and anti-HCV therapy may be observed and concomitant didanosine use is contraindicated and zidovudine and stavudine should be avoided if possible.

The development of new drugs for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C represents a promising perspective also for HIV positive patients. However, these substances will probably reach clinical routine for HIV patients later than HCV monoinfected patients. Therefore at present waiting for new drugs is not an alternative to a modern pegylated interferon/ribavirin therapy.

Predictors of CD4(+) T-cell counts of HIV type 1-infected persons after virologic failure of all 3 original antiretroviral drug classes

BACKGROUND

Low CD4(+) T-cell counts are the main factor leading to clinical progression in human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection. We aimed to investigate factors affecting CD4(+) T-cell counts after triple-class virological failure.

METHODS

We included individuals from the COHERE database who started antiretroviral therapy from 1998 onward and who experienced triple-class virological failure. CD4(+) T-cell counts obtained after triple-class virologic failure were analyzed using generalized estimating equations.

RESULTS

The analyses included 2424 individuals with a total of 23 922 CD4(+) T-cell count measurements. In adjusted models (excluding current viral load and year), CD4(+) T-cell counts were higher with regimens that included boosted protease inhibitors (increase, 22 cells/µL [95% confidence interval {CI}, 3.9-41]; P = .017) or drugs from the new classes (increase, 39 cells/µL [95% CI, 15-62]; P = .001), compared with nonnucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitor-based regimens. These associations disappeared when current viral load and/or calendar year were included. Compared with viral levels of <2.5 log(10) copies/mL, levels of 2.5-3.5, 3.5-4.5, 4.5-5.5, and >5.5 log(10) copies/mL were associated with CD4(+) T-cell count decreases of 51, 84, 137, and 186 cells/µL, respectively (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

The approximately linear inverse relationship between log(10) viral load and CD4(+) T-cell count indicates that there are likely immunologic benefits from lowering viral load even by modest amounts that do not lead to undetectable viral loads. This is important for patients with low CD4(+) T-cell counts and few drug options.

Different HCV genotype distributions of HIV-infected individuals in Henan and Guangxi, China

Background

Due to shared transmission routes, hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is highly prevalent among people infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) is associated with hepatotoxicity, leading to the negative effects on patients with HIV/HCV co-infection. In order to provide valuable information for HCV management in this particular population, we investigated the HCV genotypes in HIV-infected individuals from Henan and Guangxi, the two provinces with the most HIV-infected cases in China.

Methods

Individuals, who acquired HIV infection through various risk routes, were recruited from Henan and Guangxi. Test of antibodies against HCV (anti-HCV) was conducted, and detection of HCV RNA was performed by PCR amplification. HCV subtypes were determined by direct sequencing of amplicons, followed by phylogenetic analysis.

Results

We recruited a total of 1,112 HIV-infected people in this present study. Anti-HCV was detected from 218 (50.1%) patients from Henan and 81 (12.0%) patients from Guangxi, respectively. The highest prevalence of HIV/HCV co-infection was observed from FBDs (former blood donors) (87.2%) in Henan and IDUs (intravenous drug users) (81.8%) in Guangxi, respectively. The seroprevalence rate of HCV among people with sexual contact was significantly higher in Henan than in Guangxi (18.7% vs. 3.5%, P<0.05). The positive rate of HCV RNA in Henan and Guangxi was 30.6% (133/435) and 11.2% (76/677), respectively. Moreover, we found that 20 anti-HCV negative samples were HCV positive by PCR amplification. HCV subtype 1b (52.7%) was predominant in Henan, followed by subtype 2a (41.9%). The most frequently detected subtypes in Guangxi were 6a (35.6%) and 3b (32.9%).

Conclusion

The HCV genotype distributions were different in HIV-infected people from Henan and Guangxi. HIV/HCV co-infection was not only linked to the transmission routes, but also associated with the geographic position.

How important is HIV therapy for preventing liver fibrosis progression in HIV-HCV-coinfected individuals?

Early HIV therapy in HIV-HCV-coinfected individuals appears advisable in order to not only improve HIV outcome but also delay the natural course of liver disease. Indeed, antiretroviral-therapy-induced control of HIV infection with undetectable plasma HIV RNA levels affects HIV-HCV viral interactions and decreases liver inflammation resulting in lower fibrosis progression rates. Although these findings have influenced current revised HIV guidelines, HIV therapy is still started too late in most HCV-coinfected individuals, suggesting that, particularly in special at-risk patient populations, such as intravenous drug users, barriers to treatment uptake are still existing.

The burden of HIV and hepatitis C virus coinfection

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Persons with HIV are frequently coinfected with hepatitis C virus. We review recent data on the epidemiology and natural history of hepatitis C in HIV-infected persons.

RECENT FINDINGS

One-quarter of persons with HIV in Europe and the USA also have hepatitis C, but its prevalence in other areas is under 10%. Outbreaks of acute hepatitis C among men having sex with men have been described in Europe. Hepatitis C is the cause of more than three-quarters of liver-related deaths in HIV-seropositive individuals; however, liver-related morbidity and mortality are declining or stable in the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy. The association between hepatitis C virus coinfection and non-liver-related morbidity and mortality is still controversial. HIV-induced immune depression is strongly associated with worse liver disease, but it still does not support an earlier initiation of highly active antiretroviral therapy in coinfected subjects.

SUMMARY

Screening and management of hepatitis C virus coinfection should be mandatory in persons with HIV, especially in Europe and the USA, where prevention of blood exposure should also be pursued in patients with sexual risk behaviour. The results of ongoing randomized controlled trials are needed before recommending earlier initiation of highly active antiretroviral therapy in coinfected persons.

All-cause and liver-related mortality in HIV positive subjects compared to the general population: differences by HCV co-infection

BACKGROUND & AIMS

We aimed at comparing overall and liver-related mortality rates, observed in HIV positive subjects followed-up in the Cohorts of Spanish Network on HIV/AIDS Research stratified by HCV co-infection status, with the expected mortality of the general population of same age and sex in Spain, for the period 1997 - 2008.

METHODS

We estimated standardized mortality ratio (SMR) and excess mortality, comparing death rates from our cohort (globally and by HCV co-infection) with death rates from the general population standardized by sex in 5 year-age bands.

RESULTS

Overall, 5914 HIV positive subjects were included, 37.3% of which were co-infected with HCV; 231 deaths occurred, 10.4% of which were liver-related. SMR for all causes mortality for the HIV positive subjects was 5.6 (CI 95% 4.9-6.4), 2.4 (1.9-3.1) for HCV negative subjects and 11.5 (9.9-13.4) for HCV positive ones. Having HCV co-infection and AIDS yielded an SMR of 20.8 (16.5-26.1) and having AIDS and being HCV negative had an SMR of 4.8 (3.5-6.7). SMR for liver-related mortality was 1.8 (0.6-5.7) for HCV negative subjects vs. 22.4 (14.6-34.3) for HCV positive ones. Overall, both mortality rates as SMR and excess mortality rates were higher for injecting drug users (IDUs) than men having sex with men (MSM) and heterosexuals, patients with AIDS, with and without cART and for subjects included between 1997 and 2003.

CONCLUSIONS

There was an excess of all-cause and liver-related mortality in our cohorts compared with the general population. Furthermore, HCV co-infection in HIV positive patients increased the risk of death for both all causes and liver-related causes.

Chronic immune activation and decreased CD4 cell counts associated with hepatitis C infection in HIV-1 natural viral suppressors

We have established a cohort of natural viral suppressors (NVS) who can suppress HIV-1 replication to less than 400 copies/ml in the absence of therapy (similar to Elite Controllers/Elite Suppressors). Of the 59 patients currently in the NVS cohort, 45.8% have chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, thereby presenting a unique opportunity to study immune activation and the interaction between HCV and HIV. NVS with chronic HCV infection had elevated levels of immune activation (CD38-positive HLA-DR-positive CD8 cells) compared to NVS without chronic HCV (P = 0.004). The increased levels of immune activation were not associated with sex, HLA B57 status, or injection drug use use. NVS patients with chronic HCV had lower mean CD4 cell counts, CD4 percentage, and CD4/CD8 ratios than NVS without chronic HCV infection (P = 0.038, P = 0.008, and P = 0.048, respectively). The difference in CD4 cell count appeared to occur early in HIV infection with no difference observed in CD4 slopes between groups. Among all NVS, there was a direct correlation between mean CD4 cell count, mean CD4 percentage, and mean CD4/CD8 ratio with percentage of CD38 HLA-DR CD8 cells (P = 0.0018; P = 0.0069; and P = 0.0014, respectively). This study suggests a relationship between HCV infection, immune activation, and CD4 cell counts in the NVS, with chronic HCV infection associated with lower CD4 cell counts and higher levels of immune activation. Further studies are needed to determine if successful HCV treatment lowers immune activation levels and/or increases CD4 cell counts in these patients.

Response to raltegravir-based salvage therapy in HIV-infected patients with hepatitis C virus or hepatitis B virus coinfection

OBJECTIVES

To define the impact of coinfection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV) on viroimmunological response to raltegravir-based salvage regimens that also include new HIV inhibitors such as maraviroc, darunavir and etravirine.

METHODS

We used data from a national observational study of patients starting raltegravir-based regimens to compare virological suppression and CD4 cell change from baseline in patients with and without concomitant HBV or HCV infection.

RESULTS

Overall, 275 patients (107 coinfected and 168 non-coinfected) were evaluated. Coinfected patients were more commonly former intravenous drug users and had a longer history of HIV infection and higher baseline aminotransferase levels. Both HIV-RNA and CD4 response were similar in the two groups. Mean time to first HIV-RNA copy number <50 copies/mL was 4.1 months (95% CI 3.5-4.6) in non-coinfected patients and 3.9 months (95% CI 3.3-4.5) in coinfected patients (hazard ratio 1.039, 95% CI 0.761-1.418, P = 0.766, log-rank test). The risk of developing new grade 3-4 hepatic adverse events was significantly higher in coinfected patients (hazard ratio 1.779, 95% CI 1.123-2.817, P = 0.009). The two groups of coinfected and non-coinfected patients had similar rates of interruption of any baseline drug (hazard ratio 1.075, 95% CI 0.649-1.781, P = 0.776) and of raltegravir (hazard ratio 1.520, 95% CI 0.671-3.447, P = 0.311). Few AIDS-defining events and deaths occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Viroimmunological response to regimens based on raltegravir and other recent anti-HIV inhibitors is not negatively affected by coinfection with HBV or HCV. Liver toxicity, either pre-existing or new, is more common in coinfected patients, but with no increased risk of treatment interruption.

HCV coinfection does not alter the frequency of regulatory T cells or CD8+ T cell immune activation in chronically infected HIV+ Chinese subjects

Regulatory T cell (Treg) is a subset of CD4(+) T cells that play a critical role in regulating the immune responses. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is associated with T cell abnormalities and alters effector T cell function. There are a large number of patients coinfected with HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV). Here, we evaluated the proportion of CD4(+) Treg cells expressing CD25 and FOXP3, and the status of immune activation of CD8(+) T cells in 60 Chinese patients chronically infected with HIV and/or HCV. Furthermore, we investigated the influence of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) on the level of Treg cells and immune activated CD8(+) T cells. We observed that the Treg level was upregulated in HIV infection and HCV infection could not enhance this kind of upregulation significantly. The level of Treg cells was negatively correlated with CD4(+) T cell counts and positively correlated with HIV viral loads. We observed considerably elevated CD38 and HLA-DR expression in CD8(+) T cells in HIV-infected subjects but not in HCV-infected patients in comparison to that in healthy controls. There is no significant difference concerning the proportion of CD8(+) T cells expressing CD38 or HLA-DR between HIV-1-monoinfected and HIV/HCV-coinfected patients. After 12-week HAART, the proportion of Treg cells dropped, but still more than the level in healthy controls. HAART could reverse the abnormal immune activation of CD8(+) T cells. The decrease of Tregs did not alter the downregulation of HIV-1-specific CTL responses in these HIV-infected patients after HAART therapy. The level of HIV virus might be the key point for the decline of CTL responses.

Effect of hepatitis C treatment on CD4+ T-cell counts and the risk of death in HIV-HCV-coinfected patients: the COHERE collaboration

BACKGROUND

The short- and long-term effects of anti-hepatitis C treatment on mortality in the HIV-HCV-coinfected population have not been evaluated in observational cohorts. Such evaluations must use methods that allow for time-varying prognostic factors that both predict treatment and are affected by prior treatment. We aimed to study immunological changes in HIV-HCV-coinfected individuals during HCV treatment and to estimate the effect of HCV-treatment on mortality.

METHODS

Patients were included if they were aged ≥16 years, were HIV-HCV-coinfected and were enrolled in the COHERE cohort. Data were pooled within COHERE in December 2009 in EuroCoord. Random-effects models were used to model immunological changes during HCV treatment. Marginal structural models were used to estimate the effect of HCV treatment on mortality, allowing for time-dependent confounders affected by prior treatment.

RESULTS

In total, 780/6,433 (12%) HIV-HCV-coinfected patients initiated HCV treatment (interferon [IFN] and ribavirin n=692, IFN alone n=88). CD4(+) T-cell counts decreased during the first 12 weeks of treatment (P<0.0001) and stabilized from week 24 onwards. The estimated mortality hazard ratio for comparing HCV-treated with -untreated individuals was 0.72 (95% CI 0.43, 1.21). The estimated hazard ratio for liver-related death was 0.57 (95% CI 0.21, 1.55).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite its effect in reducing CD4(+) T-cell counts, the effect of HCV treatment on mortality was in the direction of benefit and our results excluded a substantial increase in mortality. Such benefit may be related to a lower risk of liver-related death. New HCV treatment strategies might contribute to a further reduction in mortality.

Virological effectiveness and CD4+ T-cell increase over early and late courses in HIV infected patients on antiretroviral therapy: focus on HCV and anchor class received

Background

The aim of this study was to explore the effects of HCV co-infection on virological effectiveness and on CD4+ T-cell recovery in patients with an early and sustained virological response after HAART.

Methods

We performed a longitudinal analysis of 3,262 patients from the MASTER cohort, who started HAART from 2000 to 2008. Patients were stratified into 6 groups by HCV status and type of anchor class. The early virological outcome was the achievement of HIV RNA <500 copies/ml 4–8 months after HAART initiation. Time to virological response was also evaluated by Kaplan-Meier analysis. The main outcome measure of early immunological response was the achievement of CD4+ T-cell increase by ≥100/mm³ from baseline to month 4–8 in virological responder patients. Late immunological outcome was absolute variation of CD4+ T-cell count with respect to baseline up to month 24. Multivariable analysis (ANCOVA) investigated predictors for this outcome.

Results

The early virological response was higher in HCV Ab-negative than HCV Ab-positive patients prescribed PI/r (92.2% versus 88%; p = 0.01) or NNRTI (88.5% versus 84.7%; p = 0.06). HCV Ab-positive serostatus was a significant predictor of a delayed virological suppression independently from other variables, including types of anchor class. Reactivity for HCV antibodies was associated with a lower probability of obtaining ≥100/mm³ CD4+ increase within 8 months from HAART initiation in patients treated with PI/r (62.2% among HCV Ab-positive patients versus 70.9% among HCV Ab-negative patients; p = 0.003) and NNRTI (63.7% versus 74.7%; p < 0.001). Regarding late CD4+ increase, positive HCV Ab appeared to impair immune reconstitution in terms of absolute CD4+ T-cell count increase both in patients treated with PI/r (p = 0.013) and in those treated with NNRTI (p = 0.002). This was confirmed at a multivariable analysis up to 12 months of follow-up.

Conclusions

In this large cohort, HCV Ab reactivity was associated with an inferior virological outcome and an independent association between HCV Ab-positivity and smaller CD4+ increase was evident up to 12 months of follow-up. Although the difference in CD4+ T-cell count was modest, a stricter follow-up and optimization of HAART strategy appear to be important in HIV patients co-infected by HCV. Moreover, our data support anti-HCV treatment leading to HCV eradication as a means to facilitate the achievement of the viro-immunological goals of HAART.

Interleukin 10 responses are associated with sustained CD4 T-cell counts in treated HIV infection

BACKGROUND

Inflammation persists in treated human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and may contribute to an increased risk for non-AIDS-related pathologies. We investigated the correlation of cytokine responses with changes in CD4 T-cell levels and coinfection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) during highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART).

METHODS

A total of 383 participants in the Women's Interagency HIV Study (212 with HIV monoinfection, 56 with HCV monoinfection, and 115 with HIV/HCV coinfection) were studied. HIV-infected women had <1000 HIV RNA copies/mL, 99.7% had >200 CD4 T cells/μL; 98% were receiving HAART at baseline. Changes in CD4 T-cell count between baseline and 2-4 years later were calculated. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained at baseline were used to measure interleukin 1β (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 10 (IL-10), interleukin 12 (IL-12), and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) responses to Toll-like receptor (TLR) 3 and TLR4 stimulation.

RESULTS

Undetectable HIV RNA (<80 copies/mL) at baseline and secretion of IL-10 by PBMCs were positively associated with gains in CD4 T-cell counts at follow-up. Inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12, and TNF-α) were also produced in TLR-stimulated cultures, but only IL-10 was significantly associated with sustained increases in CD4 T-cell levels. This association was significant only in women with HIV monoinfection, indicating that HCV coinfection is an important factor limiting gains in CD4 T-cell counts, possibly by contributing to unbalanced persistent inflammation.

CONCLUSIONS

Secreted IL-10 from PBMCs may balance the inflammatory environment of HIV, resulting in CD4 T-cell stability.

Relationship of chronic hepatitis C infection to rates of AIDS-defining illnesses in a Canadian cohort of HIV seropositive individuals receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy

BACKGROUND

The influence of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection on the risk, timing, and type of AIDS-defining illnesses (ADIs) is not well described. To this end, rates of ADIs were evaluated in a Canadian cohort of HIV seropositive individuals receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).

METHODS

ADIs were classified into 6 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-defined etiological subgroups: non-Hodgkin lymphoma, viral infection, bacterial infection, HIV-related disease, protozoal infection, and mycotic infection. Generalized estimating equation (GEE) Poisson regression models were used to estimate the effect of HCV on rates of ADIs after adjusting for covariates.

RESULTS

Among 2,706 HAART recipients, 768 (28%) were HCV coinfected. Rates of all ADIs combined and of bacterial infection, HIV-related disease, and mycotic infection were increased in HCV-coinfected persons and among those with CD4 counts <200 cells/mm3 HCV was associated with an increased risk of ADIs (rate ratio [RR], 1.38; 95% CI, 1.01-1.88) and a 2-fold increased risk of mycotic infections (RR, 2.21; 95% CI, 1.35-3.62) in univariate analyses and after adjusting for age, baseline viral load, baseline CD4 count, and region of Canada. However, after further adjustment for HAART interruptions, HCV was no longer associated with an increased rate of ADIs overall (RR, 1.13; 95% CI, 0.80-1.59), but remained associated with an increased rate of mycotic infections (RR, 1.97, 95% CI, 1.08-3.61).

CONCLUSION

Although HCV coin-fected individuals are at increased risk of developing ADIs overall, our analysis suggests that behavioral variables associated with HCV (including rates of retention on HAART), and not biological interactions with HCV itself, are primarily responsible.

Dynamic analysis of Th1/Th2 cytokine concentration during antiretroviral therapy of HIV-1/HCV co-infected patients

Background

Co-infection with hepatitis C (HCV) is very common in human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) infected patients. Although HIV co-infection clearly accelerates progression of HCV-related fibrosis and liver disease, controversy remains as to the impact of HCV on HIV disease progression in co-infected patients. HIV can cause immune dysfunction, in which the regulatory function of T helper (Th) cells is very essential. Moreover, cytokines derived from Th cells play a prominent role in viral infection. Investigating the functional changes of Th1 and Th2 cells in cytokine level can improve the understanding of the effect of co-infected HCV on HIV infection.

Methods

In this study, we measured the baseline Th1/Th2 cytokine concentration in sera by using flow cytometry in HIV/HCV co-infection, HIV mono-infection, HCV mono-infection, and healthy control group, as well as the dynamic changes of these cytokine levels after receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).

Results

The ratio of Th1 and Th2 cytokine concentration in HIV/HCV co-infection was higher than HCV mono-infection and healthy control group, while lower than HIV mono-infection group. After HAART was initiated, the Th1/Th2 ratio of HIV/HCV co-infection group decreased to the same level of healthy control, while HIV mono-infection group was still higher than the control group.

Conclusions

There was no significant evidence showing co-infected with HCV had negative effect on HIV related diseases. However, co-infected with HCV can decrease Th1/Th2 ratio by affecting Th1 cytokine level, especially the secretion of IFN-γ. With the initiation of HAART, Th1 and Th2 cytokine levels were progressively reduced. HIV was the main stimulating factor of T cells in HIV/HCV co-infection group.

Hepatitis C coinfection enhances sensitization of CD4(+) T-cells towards Fas-induced apoptosis in viraemic and HAART-controlled HIV-1-positive patients

BACKGROUND

Recently, we identified increased rates of CD4(+) T-cell apoptosis in HCV-infected HIV-positive patients as a potential mechanism for enhanced mortality in patients with HIV/HCV coinfection. Since this effect might be attributed to changes in receptor-induced apoptosis, we studied expression and function of Fas ligand (FasL) and its death receptor Fas on CD4(+) T-cells in HIV/HCV coinfection.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, we simultaneously analysed surface expression of Fas and FasL on CD4(+) T-cells and serum levels of soluble FasL in HCV/HIV-coinfected, HIV-monoinfected and HCV-monoinfected patients. Susceptibility to FasL-induced apoptosis was analysed by incubating isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells with rhFasL followed by measuring CD4(+) T-cell apoptosis.

RESULTS

HIV and HCV monoinfection were associated with significantly enhanced surface expression of Fas. Highest Fas expression was detected in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients and correlated with low CD4(+) T-cell counts. By contrast, elevated levels of soluble and cellular FasL were found only in patients with HIV infection, but not in patients with HCV infection. Importantly, enhanced Fas expression in HCV/HIV coinfection rendered CD4(+) T-cells more susceptible towards FasL-induced apoptosis. While effective HAART normalized expression and secretion of FasL in HIV-infected and HIV/HCV-coinfected patients, expression of Fas decreased only slightly and still remained significantly elevated as compared with healthy controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest a synergistic mechanism in HIV/HCV coinfection between up-regulation of Fas expression on CD4(+) T-cells and HIV-induced elevated levels of cellular and soluble FasL. Together, both effects contribute to enhanced apoptosis of CD4(+) T-cells in HIV/HCV coinfection.

Analysis of the PKR-eIF2alpha phosphorylation homology domain (PePHD) of hepatitis C virus genotype 1 in HIV-coinfected patients by ultra-deep pyrosequencing and its relationship to responses to pegylated interferon-ribavirin treatment

Chronic coinfection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is among the greatest challenges facing public health worldwide. In this population, the response to hepatitis C therapy by treatment with pegylated interferon plus ribavirin (PEG-IFN+RBV) is lower than in HCV-monoinfected patients, particularly in those infected by HCV genotype 1. A PKR/eIF-2α phosphorylation homology domain (PePHD) within the E2 protein has been found to interact with PKR and inhibit PKR in vitro, suggesting a possible mechanism for HCV to evade the antiviral effects of IFN. The aim of this work was to analyze the amino acid conservation in the HCV-E2-PePHD and quasispecies diversity among HCV-HIV-coinfected patients exhibiting sustained virological response, non-response, or partial response with viral relapse to PEG-IFN+RBV by ultra-deep pyrosequencing. For this purpose, HCV-E2-PePHD PCR products were generated and sequenced directly for four patients with a sustained response, seven patients with no virological response, and four patients with viral relapse before and after treatment with PEG-IFN+RBV. HCV-E2-PePHD amino acid sequences were obtained for isolates from serum collected before and during treatment (24 h, 4 weeks, and 12 weeks). Quasispecies analysis of the HCV-E2-PePHD and flanking genomic regions was performed using 454/Roche pyrosequencing, analyzing 39,364 sequence reads in total. The HCV-E2-PePHD sequence at the amino acid and nucleotide level was highly conserved among HCV genotype 1 strains, irrespective of the PEG-IFN+RBV response. This high degree of amino acid conservation and sporadic mutations in the HCV-E2-PePHD domain do not appear to be associated with treatment outcome. The HCV-E2-PePHD sequence before or during treatment cannot be used to predict reliably the outcome of treatment in patients coinfected with HCV genotype 1 and HIV.

Circulating sCD14 is associated with virological response to pegylated-interferon-alpha/ribavirin treatment in HIV/HCV co-infected patients

Objectives

Microbial translocation (MT) through the gut accounts for immune activation and CD4+ loss in HIV and may influence HCV disease progression in HIV/HCV co-infection. We asked whether increased MT and immune activation may hamper anti-HCV response in HIV/HCV patients.

Methods

98 HIV/HCV patients who received pegylated-alpha-interferon (peg-INF-alpha)/ribavirin were retrospectively analyzed. Baseline MT (lipopolysaccharide, LPS), host response to MT (sCD14), CD38+HLA-DR+CD4+/CD8+, HCV genotype, severity of liver disease were assessed according to Early Virological Response (EVR: HCV-RNA <50 IU/mL at week 12 of therapy or ≥2 log₁₀ reduction from baseline after 12 weeks of therapy) and Sustained Virological Response (SVR: HCV-RNA <50 IU/mL 24 weeks after end of therapy). Mann-Whitney/Chi-square test and Pearson's correlation were used. Multivariable regression was performed to determine factors associated with EVR/SVR.

Results

71 patients displayed EVR; 41 SVR. Patients with HCV genotypes 1–4 and cirrhosis presented a trend to higher sCD14, compared to patients with genotypes 2–3 (p = 0.053) and no cirrhosis (p = 0.052). EVR and SVR patients showed lower levels of circulating sCD14 (p = 0.0001, p = 0.026, respectively), but similar T-cell activation compared to Non-EVR (Null Responders, NR) and Non-SVR (N-SVR) subjects. sCD14 resulted the main predictive factor of EVR (0.145 for each sCD14 unit more, 95%CI 0.031–0.688, p = 0.015). SVR was associated only with HCV genotypes 2–3 (AOR 0.022 for genotypes 1–4 vs 2–3, 95%CI 0.001–0.469, p = 0.014).

Conclusions

In HIV/HCV patients sCD14 correlates with the severity of liver disease and predicts early response to peg-INF-alpha/ribavirin, suggesting MT-driven immune activation as pathway of HIV/HCV co-infection and response to therapy.

The influence of treatment with pegylated interferon-alfa and ribavirin on neutrophil function and death in patients with HIV/HCV coinfection

In patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) as well as in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection the impairment of neutrophil activity is observed. We decided to analyze how treatment with pegylated interferon-alfa (Peg-IFN-alfa) and ribavirin affects neutrophil function in HIV/HCV coinfected patients. The study group consisted of 18 patients with HIV/HCV coinfection, on combination antiretroviral treatment (cART), aged between 27 and 42 y (mean 33.1±4.5 y). At the beginning of treatment with Peg-IFN-alfa and ribavirin all patients had an undetectable HIV viral load, and CD4 T-cell counts higher than 350 cells/μL. At two time points, before and after 12 wk of treatment with Peg-IFN-alfa and ribavirin, we examined intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and expression of selected adhesion molecules on whole blood neutrophils, along with apoptosis and necrosis of these cells. These analyses were done with flow cytometry. During anti-HCV therapy undetectable HIV levels were maintained in all patients. Treatment with PEG-IFN-alfa and ribavirin resulted in increases in the expression of CD11b and CD18, and decreases of CD16 and CD62L. However, only the change in CD62L expression was statistically significant (p<0.05). Moreover, the treatment resulted in increased apoptosis of neutrophils, while necrosis remained unchanged. After 12 wk of treatment, an increase in ROS production by neutrophils stimulated with PMA was observed (p<0.01). In HIV/HCV coinfected patients on cART, PEG-IFN-alfa and ribavirin treatment caused an activation of neutrophil function, yet it did not affect the suppression of HIV replication.

HIV/hepatitis C coinfection natural history and disease progression

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Up to one-third of HIV-infected patients is infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). It is now widely accepted that HIV accelerates the course of HCV-related chronic liver disease. The improved survival of HIV patients after successful antiretroviral therapy (ART) has led to a significant decline in HIV-related morbidity, and liver disease caused by HCV infection has emerged as a major threat to the survival of HIV patients. HIV/HCV coinfected patients have a more rapid progression to cirrhosis and its complications than HCV monoinfected patients. Even though the effect of HCV on HIV infection and disease progression is less clear, most advocate early anti-HCV treatment to reduce the risk of chronic liver disease.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies support current recommendations to begin ART early in the course of HIV infection in order to limit progression of liver disease in coinfected patients. HIV coinfection has a negative impact on HCV pathogenesis, and despite increased risk of drug-related hepatotoxicity, successful response to ART might lessen progression of chronic liver disease and improve response to anti-HCV therapy.

SUMMARY

HIV infection affects rate of liver disease progression in those with HCV coinfection. Treatment of HIV may result in slower rates of progression and liver mortality.

HIV monoinfection is associated with increased aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index, a surrogate marker for hepatic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Although liver disease commonly causes morbidity and mortality among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals, data are limited on its prevalence in HIV monoinfection. We used the aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) as a surrogate marker of hepatic fibrosis to characterize liver disease in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study.

METHODS

Men were categorized based on their HIV and viral hepatitis status: uninfected (n = 1170), HIV monoinfected (n = 509), viral hepatitis monoinfected (n = 74), and HIV-viral hepatitis coinfected (n = 66).

RESULTS

The median APRI in the HIV-monoinfected group was similar to that in the hepatitis-monoinfected group (0.42 vs 0.43; P > .05), higher than in the uninfected group (0.42 vs 0.27; P < .001) but lower than in the coinfected group (0.42 vs 1.0; P < .001). On multivariable analysis, HIV infection (1.39-fold increase [FI]; P < .001), viral hepatitis infection (1.52-FI; P < .001), and the interaction between HIV and viral hepatitis infections were independently associated with a higher APRI (1.57-FI; P < .001). Among the HIV-infected men, viral hepatitis coinfection (2.34-FI; P < .001), HIV RNA ≥100 000 copies/mL (1.26-FI; P = .007), and CD4 count ≤200 cells/mL (1.23-FI; P = .022) were independently associated with a higher APRI.

CONCLUSIONS

HIV and viral hepatitis are independently associated with an increased APRI. Further studies are needed to understand the biological basis for the association between HIV and liver disease.

Hepatitis B virus coinfection negatively impacts HIV outcomes in HIV seroconverters

BACKGROUND

Understanding the impact of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) coinfection has been limited by heterogeneity of HIV disease. We evaluated HBV coinfection and HIV-related disease progression in a cohort of HIV seroconverters.

METHODS

Participants with HIV diagnosis seroconversion window of ≤ 3 years and serologically confirmed HBV infection (HB) status were classified at baseline into 4 HB groups. The risk of clinical AIDS/death in HIV seroconverters was calculated by HB status.

RESULTS

Of 2352 HIV seroconverters, 474 (20%) had resolved HB, 82 (3%) had isolated total antibody to hepatitis B core antigen (HBcAb), and 64 (3%) had chronic HB. Unadjusted rates (95% confidence intervals [CIs]) of clinical AIDS/death for the HB-negative, resolved HB, isolated HBcAb, and chronic HB groups were 2.43 (2.15-2.71); 3.27 (2.71-3.84); 3.75 (2.25-5.25); and 5.41 (3.41-7.42), respectively. The multivariable risk of clinical AIDS/death was significantly higher in the chronic HB group compared to the HB-negative group (hazard ratio [HR], 1.80; 95% CI, 1.20-2.69); while the HRs were increased but nonsignificant for those with resolved HB (HR, 1.17; 95% CI, .94-1.46) and isolated HBcAb (HR, 1.14; 95% CI, .75-1.75).

CONCLUSIONS

HBV coinfection has a significant impact on HIV outcomes. The hazard for an AIDS or death event is almost double for those with chronic HB compared, with HIV-monoinfected persons.

Gaining greater insight into HCV emergence in HIV-infected men who have sex with men: the HEPAIG Study

Objectives

The HEPAIG study was conducted to better understand Hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission among human immuno-deficiency (HIV)-infected men who have sex with men (MSM) and assess incidence of HCV infection among this population in France.

Methods and Results

Acute HCV infection defined by anti-HCV or HCV ribonucleic acid (RNA) positivity within one year of documented anti-HCV negativity was notified among HIV-infected MSM followed up in HIV/AIDS clinics from a nationwide sampling frame. HIV and HCV infection characteristics, HCV potential exposures and sexual behaviour were collected by the physicians and via self-administered questionnaires. Phylogenetic analysis of the HCV-NS5B region was conducted.

HCV incidence was 48/10 000 [95% Confidence Interval (CI):43–54] and 36/10 000 [95% CI: 30–42] in 2006 and 2007, respectively. Among the 80 men enrolled (median age: 40 years), 55% were HIV-diagnosed before 2000, 56% had at least one sexually transmitted infection in the year before HCV diagnosis; 55% were HCV-infected with genotype 4 (15 men in one 4d-cluster), 32.5% with genotype 1 (three 1a-clusters); five men were HCV re-infected; in the six-month preceding HCV diagnosis, 92% reported having casual sexual partners sought online (75.5%) and at sex venues (79%), unprotected anal sex (90%) and fisting (65%); using recreational drugs (62%) and bleeding during sex (55%).

Conclusions

This study emphasizes the role of multiple unprotected sexual practices and recreational drugs use during sex in the HCV emergence in HIV-infected MSM. It becomes essential to adapt prevention strategies and inform HIV-infected MSM with recent acute HCV infection on risk of re-infection and on risk-reduction strategies.

Predicted effect of direct acting antivirals in the current HIV-HCV-coinfected population in Spain

BACKGROUND

Direct acting antivirals (DAAs) against HCV are eagerly awaited for HIV-HCV-coinfected individuals. However, the activity of first generation drugs is limited to HCV genotype 1 and is lower in cirrhotics, subtype 1a infections, prior interferon (IFN)-α exposure or unfavourable IL28B alleles. Herein, we report the current profile of HIV-HCV-coinfected patients at our institution in an attempt to predict the effect of DAAs.

METHODS

All HIV-HCV-coinfected patients seen at our HIV outpatient clinic in 2011 were identified. Information on serum HCV RNA, HCV genotype/subtype, plasma HIV RNA, prior IFN-α experience, liver fibrosis staging and IL28B alleles was recorded.

RESULTS

A total of 424 HIV-HCV-coinfected patients were identified, of whom 174 (41%) were IFN-α-experienced. Mean serum HCV RNA was 6 log IU/ml. HCV genotype/subtype distribution was 166 (39.1%) G1a, 93 (22%) G1b, 85 (20%) G4, 49 (11.5%) G3 and 1 (<1%) G2, and 30 (7%) were unclassified. Of note, 56% of G1a were prior IFN-α-experienced patients. Overall, 37% had advanced liver fibrosis (Metavir score estimates F3-F4). Finally, 70% harboured unfavourable IL28B alleles.

CONCLUSIONS

The current profile of HIV-HCV-coinfected patients in Spain is dominated by particularly difficult-to-treat individuals, such as those infected with G1a or G4 (59%), advanced liver fibrosis (37%) and unfavourable IL28B alleles (70%). A wide use of prior anti-HCV therapy in our region most likely has resulted in hepatitis C cure of more IFN-α susceptible individuals, with accumulation of a more refractory treatment population. Thus, the use of DAAs in HIV-HCV-coinfected patients will require particular expertise and their benefit might be lower than expected.

No reduction of HCV viral load in HIV patients co-infected with HCV genotype 1 during a 30 days course of nitazoxanide monotherapy

There are two new drugs approved and several in development for treatment of chronic HCV; among them nitazoxanide (NTZ). Twelve HIV/HCV genotype 1 co-infected patients were enrolled prospectively to receive a 30 days course of oral NTZ 500 mg bid. This therapy was well tolerated in this group of HIV patients co-infected with HCV genotype 1. Nevertheless no changes in HCV viral load were observed during treatment in none of the patients evaluated. This data suggests that despite the promising results reported for HCV genotype 4 mono-infected patients, NTZ exhibit poor activity as monotherapy in HIV/HCV co-infected patients with genotype 1.

FIB-4 index is associated with hepatocellular carcinoma risk in HIV-infected patients

BACKGROUND

Chronic inflammation caused by hepatitis B virus infection, hepatitis C virus infection, and/or heavy alcohol use can lead to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and eventually hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). FIB-4 is an index score calculated from platelet count, alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, and age that predicts fibrosis and cirrhosis. We hypothesized that high FIB-4 would be associated with development of HCC in HIV-infected persons, who are at high risk due to high prevalence of viral hepatitis and alcohol consumption, and possibly due to HIV infection itself.

METHODS

Using proportional hazards models, we tested this hypothesis among 22,980 HIV-infected men from the Veterans Aging Cohort Study. We identified incident HCC cases from the Veterans Affairs Central Cancer Registry.

RESULTS

During follow-up, there were 112 incident HCC diagnoses. The age- and race/ethnic group-adjusted HR was 4.2 [95% confidence interval (CI), 2.4-7.4] for intermediate FIB-4 and 13.0 (95% CI, 7.2-23.4) for high FIB-4, compared with low FIB-4. After further adjustment for enrollment year, CD4 count, HIV-1 RNA level, antiretroviral therapy use, hepatitis B and C virus infection, alcohol abuse/dependency, and diabetes, FIB-4 remained a strong, significant, independent risk factor for HCC. The multivariate-adjusted HR was 3.6 (95% CI, 2.1-6.4) for intermediate FIB-4 and 9.6 (95% CI, 5.2-17.4) for high FIB-4.

CONCLUSIONS

Calculated from routine, noninvasive laboratory tests, FIB-4 is a strong, independent HCC risk factor in HIV-infected patients.

IMPACT

FIB-4 might prove valuable as an easily measured index to identify those at highest risk for HCC, even prior to development of clinical cirrhosis.

Opioids and HIV/HCV infection

Since human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) share the same modes of transmission and common risk factors for infection, co-infections with HIV and HCV are frequently found in injection drug users (IDUs). IDUs represent one of the largest reservoirs of HIV as well as HCV in the United States. These two pathogens are also likely to be responsible for the highest infectious disease morbidity and mortality rates among IDUs. IDUs frequently involve the abuse of heroin, the most common abused opiate. Opiates have been suggested to have a cofactor role in the immunopathogenesis of HIV disease, as they have the potential to compromise host immune responses and enhances microbial infections. Although in vitro studies have yielded relatively agreeable data that morphine, the active metabolite of heroin, exacerbate HIV infection/replication, epidemiologic studies as well as in vivo non-human primate investigations on the impact of opiate abuse on HIV disease progression have yielded the conflicting data. Given immunomodulation and immunocompromising effect as well as demonstrated impact to enhance HIV replication in vitro, it is reasonable to believe that opiate abuse is a facilitator in HIV and/or HCV disease progression. However, much remain to be learned about the mechanisms of opiate-mediated broad influence on host immunity and viral expression. Thus, more extensive studies are needed in order to determine the effects of different conditions of opiate abuse and to define the understanding of the role of opiate in modulating HIV and/or HCV disease progression.

An interrupted time series evaluation of a hepatitis C intervention for persons with HIV

Accurate HCV knowledge is lacking among high-risk groups, including people with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). Liver disease primarily due to HCV has emerged as a serious cause of mortality among PLWHA. We used an Interrupted Time Series design to evaluate a social-ecologically based intervention for PLWHA, where an infectious disease clinic serving a six-county intervention area was monitored before (7 months) and after (17 months) intervention onset. The intervention included education of PLWHA and medical providers, HIV/HCV support groups, and adaptation of the patient chart top sheet to include HCV test information. Clinic-level outcomes were assessed prospectively every other week for 2 years by interviewing patients (n = 259) with clinic appointments on assessment days. Abrupt, gradual and delayed intervention effects were tested. Weighted regression analyses showed higher average HCV knowledge and a higher prevalence of patients reporting HCV discussion with their medical providers after intervention onset. A delayed effect was found for HCV awareness, and a gradually increasing effect was found for knowing one's HCV status. Other communities may consider adopting this intervention. Additional HCV interventions for PLWHA with HIV are needed.

Hepatitis delta in HIV-infected individuals in Europe

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) infection results in the most aggressive form of chronic viral hepatitis. There is scarce information about the prevalence, epidemiology, virological profile and natural history of hepatitis delta in HIV patients.

METHODS

From 16,597 HIV patients enrolled in EuroSIDA, 1319 (7.9%) have ever reported serum hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen (HBsAg)-positive. At last follow-up, 1084 (6.5%) patients were HBsAg-positive. The HDV substudy was carried out in 422 individuals for whom stored sera were available at the time they were HBsAg-positive. Anti-HDV immunoglobulin G was assessed using a commercial enzyme immunoassay (EIA) and serum HDV-RNA was quantified using a real-time PCR method.

RESULTS

A total of 61 of 422 HBsAg-positive carriers were anti-HDV-positive (prevalence: 14.5%). Hepatitis delta predominated in intravenous drug users and for this reason in south and/or east Europe. Serum HDV-RNA was detectable in 87% of tested anti-HDV-positive patients, with a median titer of 1.76×10(7) copies/ml. Overall, delta hepatitis patients showed lower serum HBV-DNA than the rest of HBsAg-positive carriers, although the inhibitory effect of HDV on HBV replication was not recognized in HBV genotype D patients. Whereas HDV was not associated with progression to AIDS, it significantly influenced the risk of death.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of anti-HDV in chronic HBsAg-positive/HIV carriers in EuroSIDA is 14.5%. Most of these patients exhibit detectable HDV viraemia. Viral interference between HBV and HDV is manifested in all but HBV genotype D carriers in whom overt coreplication of both viruses occurs which might result in enhanced liver damage. Overall, delta hepatitis increases the risk of liver-related deaths and overall mortality in HIV patients.

[Human immunodeficiency virus infection and viral hepatitis]

Hepatic complications currently represent one of the leading reasons for medical consultations, hospitalisation, and death in the HIV-infected population. This is due to a large extent to viral hepatitis, given its disproportionate frequency in this population. Chronic hepatitis B affects 5-10% of the HIV-infected population. Vaccination has reduced the incidence of liver disease related to hepatitis-B virus (HBV), and the availability of tenofovir has dramatically improved the prognosis of HIV/HBV carriers. Delta hepatitis affects around 15% of HIV-infected individuals in Europe harbouring positive HBsAg. It has the worst prognosis, given its accelerated course to cirrhosis and the absence of successful therapy. Lastly, chronic hepatitis C is the major cause of liver disease in the HIV population. Although classically linked to persons infected parenterally (i.e., intravenous drug users), outbreaks of acute hepatitis C among homosexual men have been reported over the last decade. Treatment with pegylated interferon plus ribavirin provides a cure in less than 40% of patients. However, the introduction of new direct acting antivirals against hepatitis- C virus (HCV) (telaprevir, boceprevir) has revolutionised the field, as HAART did in 1996 in the HIV field, improving the prognosis of co-infected patients. However, interactions between these drugs and antiretroviral agents and the risk of selective resistance pose huge threats in this population.

Human immunodeficiency virus infects human seminal vesicles in vitro and in vivo

Semen represents the main vector of HIV dissemination worldwide, yet the origin of HIV in semen remains unclear. Viral populations distinct from those found in blood have been observed in semen, indicating local viral replication within the male genital tract. The seminal vesicles, the secretions of which constitute more than 60% of the seminal fluid, could represent a major source of virus in semen. This study is the first to investigate the susceptibility of human seminal vesicles to HIV infection both in vitro and in vivo. We developed and characterized an organotypic culture of human seminal vesicles to test for target cells and HIV infection, and, in parallel, analyzed the seminal vesicle tissues from HIV-infected donors. In vitro, in contrast to HIV-1 X4, HIV-1 R5 exposure induced productive infection. Infected cells consisted primarily of resident CD163(+) macrophages, often located close to the lumen. In vivo, HIV protein and RNA were also detected primarily in seminal vesicle macrophages in seven of nine HIV-infected donors, some of whom were receiving prolonged suppressive highly active antiretroviral therapy. These results demonstrate that human seminal vesicles support HIV infection in vitro and in vivo and, therefore, have the potential to contribute virus to semen. The presence of infected cells in the seminal vesicles of treated men with undetectable viremia suggests that this organ could constitute a reservoir for HIV.

Is there a need for liver disease monitoring in HIV patients in Africa?

Liver disease is one of the leading causes of death in HIV-infected individuals from Europe and North America and has been attributed mainly to coinfection with hepatotropic viruses. Little data, however, has so far become available on liver disease in HIV-infected individuals from Africa. Results from a first study on liver disease staging by Fibroscan(®) in a large group of HIV-infected patients from rural Uganda suggest unexpectedly high rates of advanced fibrosis. These results were independent from hepatitis status, initiating a discussion on the need for future liver disease monitoring in these particular patient groups.

Interferon combination therapy for HIV/hepatitis C virus coinfection

IFN-α has been the cornerstone of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment for over a decade. Yet, rates of sustained virologic response of HCV infection to interferon-based therapy, particularly in difficult-to-treat populations, have been disappointingly low. This is particularly true in HIV/HCV coinfection, in which less than a third of patients typically respond to therapy. New HCV protease inhibitors, most of which will need to be administered with pegylated interferon, are in development, but comprehensive, long-term data for their use in coinfected patients is not yet available. Understanding the basis of this population's poor response to interferon-based therapy is crucial to future exploration of new therapeutic options, immunotherapy and prognosis in HIV/HCV-coinfected population.

Immunopathogenesis of HIV/hepatitis C virus coinfection

As a result of shared infection routes, approximately 25% of individuals infected with HIV in North America are also infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). In the setting of HIV coinfection, the course of HCV disease is more aggressive, resulting in higher HCV viral loads and a more rapid progression of liver pathology. With the success of HAART, HCV-related end-stage liver disease has become a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients. In this article, we will discuss recent studies examining the immune response during HIV and HCV coinfection, focusing on alterations or dysfunctions in virus-specific T-cell responses that may play a role in the immunopathogenesis of HIV/HCV coinfection. Summarizing the impact of HIV coinfection on HCV-specific T-cell immunity and highlighting some of the proposed mechanisms of T-cell dysfunction in HIV/HCV-coinfected individuals may uncover information that could lead to new treatment strategies for these patients experiencing accelerated liver disease and generally poorer outcomes than their HCV-monoinfected counterparts.

Management of HIV and hepatitis virus coinfection

IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD

Liver disease related to infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and/or hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a frequent cause of morbidity and mortality in those infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in this era of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Although progress has been made in the treatment of HBV and HCV in the setting of HIV-coinfection, there is a lack of data in certain areas and several aspects of the management are unclear at this time.

AREAS COVERED IN THIS REVIEW

Available data on the treatment of HBV and HCV infections, especially in the HIV-coinfected patient, are presented. Practical aspects of the management of these patients are reviewed, including diagnosis, treatment indications, monitoring, and toxicities. The impact of HAART on liver disease, end-stage-liver disease, and new therapeutic approaches are also reviewed.

WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN

There are two modalities for the treatment of chronic HBV infection: interferon and nucleos(t)ide reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTI). The latter is the mainstream of therapy for HIV-HBV-coinfected patients. The double antiviral activity of NRTI requires coordination and careful selection of treatment for both viruses to avoid selection of resistance mutations and toxicity. Combination of pegylated interferon and ribavirin, the current standard treatment for chronic hepatitis C, has significant toxicity and limited efficacy in HIV-HCV-coinfected individuals. Oral anti-HCV treatments are currently under development and need to be studied in the HIV-coinfected population. Liver transplantation has a better outcome in HBV- than in HCV-HIV-coinfected patients. HAART seems to have a positive impact on the liver disease of HBV- and/or HCV-coinfected subjects but the CD4 threshold above which the benefit might take place is unknown at this time.

TAKE HOME MESSAGE

Anti-HBV treatment in the HIV-coinfected patient relies on the available NRTIs with activity against both viruses. Whereas HBV suppression can be achieved with this approach, toxicities and the selection of HBV-resistant variants result in challenging clinical scenarios. Current anti-HCV treatment (pegylated interferon and ribavirin) has limited efficacy in the HIV-coinfected patient, and STAT-C drugs are eagerly awaited.

The impact of HIV/HCV co-infection on health care utilization and disability: results of the ACTG Longitudinal Linked Randomized Trials (ALLRT) Cohort

HIV/hepatitis C virus (HCV) co-infection places a growing burden on the HIV/AIDS care delivery system. Evidence-based estimates of health services utilization among HIV/HCV co-infected patients can inform efficient planning. We analyzed data from the ACTG Longitudinal Linked Randomized Trials (ALLRT) cohort to estimate resource utilization and disability among HIV/HCV co-infected patients and compare them to rates seen in HIV mono-infected patients. The analysis included HIV-infected subjects enrolled in the ALLRT cohort between 2000 and 2007 who had at least one CD4 count measured and completed at least one resource utilization data collection form (N = 3143). Primary outcomes included the relative risk of hospital nights, emergency department (ED) visits, and disability days for HIV/HCV co-infected vs HIV mono-infected subjects. When controlling for age, sex, race, history of AIDS-defining events, current CD4 count and current HIV RNA, the relative risk of hospitalization, ED visits, and disability days for subjects with HIV/HCV co-infection compared to those with HIV mono-infection were 1.8 (95% CI: 1.3-2.5), 1.7 (95% CI: 1.4-2.1), and 1.6 (95% CI: 1.3-1.9) respectively. Programs serving HIV/HCV co-infected patients can expect approximately 70% higher rates of utilization than expected from a similar cohort of HIV mono-infected patients.

Prevalence and risk factors of Hepatitis C among individuals presenting to HIV testing centers, Hawassa city, Southern Ethiopia

Background

Hepatitis C virus (HCV), either alone or in combination with Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV), constitutes a major public health concern. This study was conducted to describe the prevalence and risk factors for HCV infection in people with and without HIV infection.

Methods

Blood samples and data on socio-demographic and risk factors for HCV infection were collected from consecutive 400 HIV- positive and 400 HIV- negative individuals attending HIV testing centers in Hawassa city, from October to December, 2008. All sera were tested for antibody to HCV infection (anti-HCV) using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Sera positive for anti-HCV were further tested for viral ribonucleic acid (RNA) levels using real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

The rate of anti-HCV positivity was 10.5% in the HIV- infected individuals compared with 6% in the HIV negative group (p = 0.002). HCV-RNA was detected in 9.1% of anti-HCV positive samples and rates were comparable between HIV- infected and HIV- non-infected individuals. There was no significant difference in odds of HCV infection in participants with and without HCV risk factors in either HIV sero-group.

Conclusion

HIV infected individuals had significantly higher rate of anti-HCV although most of them showed no evidence of viraemia. Hence, while priority should be given for HIV infected patients, testing those with anti-HCV for HCV-RNA remains important.

Clinical predictors of immune reconstitution following combination antiretroviral therapy in patients from the Australian HIV Observational Database

Background

A small but significant number of patients do not achieve CD4 T-cell counts >500cells/µl despite years of suppressive cART. These patients remain at risk of AIDS and non-AIDS defining illnesses. The aim of this study was to identify clinical factors associated with CD4 T-cell recovery following long-term cART.

Methods

Patients with the following inclusion criteria were selected from the Australian HIV Observational Database (AHOD): cART as their first regimen initiated at CD4 T-cell count <500cells/µl, HIV RNA<500copies/ml after 6 months of cART and sustained for at least 12 months. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to identify determinants associated with time to achieve CD4 T-cell counts >500cells/µl and >200cells/µl.

Results

501 patients were eligible for inclusion from AHOD (n = 2853). The median (IQR) age and baseline CD4 T-cell counts were 39 (32–47) years and 236 (130–350) cells/µl, respectively. A major strength of this study is the long follow-up duration, median (IQR) = 6.5(3–10) years. Most patients (80%) achieved CD4 T-cell counts >500cells/µl, but in 8%, this took >5 years. Among the patients who failed to reach a CD4 T-cell count >500cells/µl, 16% received cART for >10 years. In a multivariate analysis, faster time to achieve a CD4 T-cell count >500cells/µl was associated with higher baseline CD4 T-cell counts (p<0.001), younger age (p = 0.019) and treatment initiation with a protease inhibitor (PI)-based regimen (vs. non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, NNRTI; p = 0.043). Factors associated with achieving CD4 T-cell counts >200cells/µl included higher baseline CD4 T-cell count (p<0.001), not having a prior AIDS-defining illness (p = 0.018) and higher baseline HIV RNA (p<0.001).

Conclusion

The time taken to achieve a CD4 T-cell count >500cells/µl despite long-term cART is prolonged in a subset of patients in AHOD. Starting cART early with a PI-based regimen (vs. NNRTI-based regimen) is associated with more rapid recovery of a CD4 T-cell count >500cells/µl.

Safety and efficacy of raltegravir in patients with HIV-1 and hepatitis B and/or C virus coinfection

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to examine the long-term safety and efficacy of raltegravir in patients with HIV-1 and hepatitis B virus (HBV) and/or hepatitis C virus (HCV) coinfection in three double-blind, randomized, controlled Phase III studies.

METHODS

In STARTMRK, treatment-naïve patients received raltegravir 400 mg twice a day (bid) or efavirenz 600 mg at bedtime, both with tenofovir/emtricitabine. In BENCHMRK-1 and -2, highly treatment-experienced patients with multi-drug resistant virus and prior treatment failure received raltegravir 400 mg bid or placebo, both with optimized background therapy. Patients with chronic HBV and/or HCV coinfection were enrolled if baseline liver function tests were ≤5 times the upper limit of normal. HBV infection was defined as HBV surface antigen positivity for all studies; HCV infection was defined as HCV RNA positivity for STARTMRK and HCV antibody positivity for BENCHMRK.

RESULTS

Hepatitis coinfection was present in 6% (34 of 563) of treatment-naïve patients (4% HBV only, 2% HCV only and 0.2% HBV+HCV) and 16% (114 of 699) of treatment-experienced patients (6% HBV only, 9% HCV only and 1% HBV+HCV). The incidence of drug-related adverse events was similar in raltegravir recipients with and without hepatitis coinfection in both STARTMRK (50 vs. 47%) and BENCHMRK (34 vs. 38.5%). Grade 2-4 liver enzyme elevations were more frequent in coinfected vs. monoinfected patients, but were not different between the raltegravir and control groups. At week 96, the proportion of raltegravir recipients with HIV RNA <50 HIV-1 RNA copies/mL was similar between coinfected and monoinfected patients (93 vs. 90% in STARTMRK; 63 vs. 61% in BENCHMRK).

CONCLUSION

Raltegravir was generally well tolerated and efficacious up to 96 weeks in HIV-infected patients with HBV/HCV coinfection.