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Zignego AL, Marri S, Gragnani L. Impact of direct acting antivirals on hepatitis c virus-related cryoglobulinemic syndrome. Minerva Gastroenterol (Torino) 2021; 67:218-226. [PMID: 33793154 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-5985.21.02848-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mixed cryoglobulinemia (MC) is a B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder largely attributable to HCV infection. MC clinical manifestations are determined by systemic vasculitis of low/medium sized vessels (mixed cryoglobulinemia syndrome or cryoglobulinemic vasculitis and CV) caused by the deposition of cryoglobulins in blood vessels. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION A systematic review was performed via the Medline and Scopus databases to evaluate studies concerning CV treatment with new direct antiviral agents (DAAs) and their effect on the syndrome. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS The introduction of Interferon-free protocols has led to more evident positive effects than those observed in the treatment of C hepatitis/cirrhosis. In fact, IFN-free, DAA-based therapy minimised side effects permitting the treatment of previously contraindicated patients and led to a particularly high SVR rate and to a clinical/immunological response in the majority of patients, even if at different levels in different patients, from restitutio ad integrum to partial response. In view of the clearly positive evolution in CV management, the persistence of CV manifestations, in partial or non-responders continues to pose problems in the clinical approach to patients who represent a new condition that is still not completely known. CONCLUSIONS Results of DAAs-based therapy strongly confirm the use of anti-HCV therapy as the first-line therapeutic option in CV patients. However, growing evidence of a possible persistence or late relapse of CV suggests the need for longer/more accurate post-DAAs follow-ups as well as biomarkers that are capable of predicting the risk of clinical relapse/persistence to allow for the design of rational post-HCV eradication clinical flow-charts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna L Zignego
- MASVE Interdepartmental Hepatology Center, Department of Experimental and clinical Medicine, Center for Research and Innovation CRIAMASVE, University of Florence, Firenze, Italy -
| | - Silvia Marri
- MASVE Interdepartmental Hepatology Center, Department of Experimental and clinical Medicine, Center for Research and Innovation CRIAMASVE, University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| | - Laura Gragnani
- MASVE Interdepartmental Hepatology Center, Department of Experimental and clinical Medicine, Center for Research and Innovation CRIAMASVE, University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
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2
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KDIGO 2018 Clinical Practice Guideline for the Prevention, Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Treatment of Hepatitis C in Chronic Kidney Disease. Kidney Int Suppl (2011) 2018; 8:91-165. [PMID: 30675443 PMCID: PMC6336217 DOI: 10.1016/j.kisu.2018.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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Fabrizi F, Aghemo A, Lampertico P, Fraquelli M, Cresseri D, Moroni G, Passerini P, Donato FM, Messa P. Immunosuppressive and antiviral treatment of hepatitis C virus-associated glomerular disease: A long-term follow-up. Int J Artif Organs 2018; 41:306-318. [PMID: 29595085 DOI: 10.1177/0391398818762358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The evidence in the medical literature on the treatment of hepatitis C virus-associated glomerular disease is extremely limited. The advent of nonconventional immunosuppressive agents and direct-acting antivirals promises high efficacy and safety. AIMS We conducted an open-label, single-arm clinical study to examine the efficacy and safety of a combined approach for hepatitis C virus-associated glomerular disease. METHODS In the first phase of the study, patients with hepatitis C virus-associated glomerular disease received interferon-based antiviral therapy and immunosuppressive agents; since 2013, interferon-free antiviral therapy was adopted and novel immunosuppressants (including B-cell depleting agents and mycophenolate mofetil) or immunomodulators (ribavirin) were choiced. Virological and clinical responses were evaluated over a long observation period (median follow-up of 60 weeks and 46.5 months after the end of treatment with interferon and direct-acting antiviral agents, respectively). RESULTS We enrolled 25 consecutive patients with hepatitis C virus-associated glomerular disease, 8 being liver transplant recipients for hepatitis C. A total of 13 patients received therapy with direct-acting antivirals and experienced sustained viral response (serum hepatitis C virus RNA <12 IU/mL, 12 weeks after treatment ended, sustained viral response12). The mean (±standard deviation) proteinuria decreased from 2.61 ± 1.01 at baseline to 1.71 ± 1.43 (g/day) at sustained viral response 48, p = 0.031; microscopic hematuria and serum cryoglobulins disappeared in six (50%) and seven (64%) patients, respectively, after sustained viral response by direct-acting antivirals. Adverse events occurred in 69% (9/13) of patients and were mild, with four cases of ribavirin-related anemia requiring blood transfusions (no drop-outs). After sustained viral response by direct-acting antivirals, immunosuppressive and immunomodulatory agents were initiated in clinical relapsers ( n = 2) and nonresponders ( n = 3) with some benefit. Among patients on interferon-based regimens ( n = 12), viral response (sustained viral response 24) and dropout rates were 58% (7/12) and 33% (4/12), respectively. After sustained viral response by interferon-based therapy, clinical relapsers ( n = 3) were successfully managed with immunosuppressive agents in two patients. CONCLUSION Treatment with direct-acting antivirals provides excellent rates of viral response and safety in patients with hepatitis C virus-related glomerular disease; viral response was frequently accompanied by clinical improvement. The absence of hepatitis C virus RNA from serum allowed immunosuppressive and immunomodulatory therapies with benefits for glomerular abnormalities and no concern on hepatitis C virus replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Fabrizi
- 1 Division of Nephrology, Maggiore Hospital and IRCCS Foundation, Milano, Italy
| | - Alessio Aghemo
- 2 Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Maggiore Hospital and IRCCS Foundation, Milano, Italy
| | - Pietro Lampertico
- 2 Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Maggiore Hospital and IRCCS Foundation, Milano, Italy.,3 School of Medicine, University of Milan, Italy
| | - Mirella Fraquelli
- 2 Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Maggiore Hospital and IRCCS Foundation, Milano, Italy
| | - Donata Cresseri
- 1 Division of Nephrology, Maggiore Hospital and IRCCS Foundation, Milano, Italy
| | - Gabriella Moroni
- 1 Division of Nephrology, Maggiore Hospital and IRCCS Foundation, Milano, Italy
| | - Patrizia Passerini
- 1 Division of Nephrology, Maggiore Hospital and IRCCS Foundation, Milano, Italy
| | - Francesca M Donato
- 2 Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Maggiore Hospital and IRCCS Foundation, Milano, Italy
| | - Piergiorgio Messa
- 1 Division of Nephrology, Maggiore Hospital and IRCCS Foundation, Milano, Italy.,3 School of Medicine, University of Milan, Italy
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Andreoni M, Babudieri S, Bruno S, Colombo M, Zignego AL, Di Marco V, Di Perri G, Perno CF, Puoti M, Taliani G, Villa E, Craxì A. Current and future challenges in HCV: insights from an Italian experts panel. Infection 2017; 46:147-163. [PMID: 29098647 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-017-1093-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The recent availability of direct acting antiviral drugs (DAAs) has drastically changed hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment scenarios, due to the exceedingly high rates of sustained virological response (SVR) and excellent tolerability allowing for treatment at all disease stages. METHODS A panel of Italian experts was convened twice, in November 2016 and January 2017, to provide further support on some open issues and provide guidance for personalized HCV care, also in light of forthcoming regimens. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Treatment recommendations issued by international and national liver societies to guide clinicians in the management of HCV infection are constantly updated due to accumulating new data. Such recommendations may not be applicable to all healthcare settings for a variety of reasons. Moreover, some gaps still remain and the spectrum of patients to be treated is also evolving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Andreoni
- Infectious Diseases, Polyclinic of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Sergio Babudieri
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Savino Bruno
- Humanitas University and Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Colombo
- Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna L Zignego
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Interdepartmental Centre MASVE, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Vito Di Marco
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia e Epatologia, DiBiMIS, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanni Di Perri
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Sciences, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Carlo F Perno
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Puoti
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Gloria Taliani
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Umberto I Hospital-"Sapienza" University, Rome, Italy
| | - Erica Villa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonio Craxì
- Gastroenterology and Liver Unit, DiBiMIS, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.
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Zignego AL, Ramos-Casals M, Ferri C, Saadoun D, Arcaini L, Roccatello D, Antonelli A, Desbois AC, Comarmond C, Gragnani L, Casato M, Lamprecht P, Mangia A, Tzioufas AG, Younossi ZM, Cacoub P. International therapeutic guidelines for patients with HCV-related extrahepatic disorders. A multidisciplinary expert statement. Autoimmun Rev 2017; 16:523-541. [PMID: 28286108 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2017.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2017] [Accepted: 02/26/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is both hepatotrophic and lymphotropic virus that causes liver as well extrahepatic manifestations including cryoglobulinemic vasculitis, the most frequent and studied condition, lymphoma, and neurologic, cardiovascular, endocrine-metabolic or renal diseases. HCV-extrahepatic manifestations (HCV-EHMs) may severely affect the overall prognosis, while viral eradication significantly reduces non-liver related deaths. Different clinical manifestations may coexist in the same patient. Due to the variety of HCV clinical manifestations, a multidisciplinary approach along with appropriate therapeutic strategies are required. In the era of interferon-free anti-HCV treatments, international recommendations for the therapeutic management of HCV-EHMs are needed. This implies the need to define the best criteria to use antivirals and/or other therapeutic approaches. The present recommendations, based on qualified expert experience and specific literature, will focus on etiological (antiviral) therapies and/or traditional pathogenetic treatments that still maintain their therapeutic utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Linda Zignego
- Interdepartmental Center for Systemic Manifestations of Hepatitis Viruses (MaSVE), Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
| | - Manuel Ramos-Casals
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, ICMiD Josep Font Autoimmune Lab, CELLEX-IDIBAPS, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Clodoveo Ferri
- Chair and Rheumatology Unit, Medical School, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Policlinico di Modena, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - David Saadoun
- Sorbonne University, UPMC Univ Paris 06, UMR 7211, and Inflammation-Immunopathology-Biotherapy Department (DHU i2B), Paris, France; INSERM, UMR S 959, Paris, France; CNRS, FRE3632, Paris, France; AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Paris, France
| | - Luca Arcaini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Dario Roccatello
- Department of Hematology Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Center of Research of Immunopathology and Rare Diseases, and Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, San G. Bosco Hospital and University of Turin, Italy
| | - Alessandro Antonelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Savi 10, Pisa 56126, Italy
| | - Anne Claire Desbois
- Sorbonne University, UPMC Univ Paris 06, UMR 7211, and Inflammation-Immunopathology-Biotherapy Department (DHU i2B), Paris, France; INSERM, UMR S 959, Paris, France; CNRS, FRE3632, Paris, France; AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Paris, France
| | - Cloe Comarmond
- Sorbonne University, UPMC Univ Paris 06, UMR 7211, and Inflammation-Immunopathology-Biotherapy Department (DHU i2B), Paris, France; INSERM, UMR S 959, Paris, France; CNRS, FRE3632, Paris, France; AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Paris, France
| | - Laura Gragnani
- Interdepartmental Center for Systemic Manifestations of Hepatitis Viruses (MaSVE), Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Milvia Casato
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale dell'Università 37, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Peter Lamprecht
- Klinik für Rheumatologie Oberarzt, Ratzeburger Allee 160 (Haus 40), 23538 Lübeck, Germany.
| | - Alessandra Mangia
- Liver Unit, IRCCS "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza", San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy.
| | - Athanasios G Tzioufas
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, University of Athens, 75 M. Asias st, Building 16, Room, 32 11527 Athens, Greece.
| | - Zobair M Younossi
- Center for Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Falls Church, VA, USA; Beatty Liver and Obesity Program, Betty and Guy Beatty Center for Integrated Research, Inova Health System, Falls Church, VA, USA
| | - Patrice Cacoub
- Sorbonne University, UPMC Univ Paris 06, UMR 7211, and Inflammation-Immunopathology-Biotherapy Department (DHU i2B), Paris, France; INSERM, UMR S 959, Paris, France; CNRS, FRE3632, Paris, France; AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Paris, France
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Isnard Bagnis C, Cacoub P. Hepatitis C Therapy in Renal Patients: Who, How, When? Infect Dis Ther 2016; 5:313-27. [PMID: 27388502 PMCID: PMC5019972 DOI: 10.1007/s40121-016-0116-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Renal patients are overexposed to hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Hepatitis C virus infection may induce renal disease, i.e., cryoglobulinemic membrano-proliferative glomerulopathy and non-cryoglobulinemic nephropathy. Hepatitis C virus impacts general outcomes in chronic kidney disease, dialysis or transplanted patients. Hepatitis C virus infection is now about to be only part of their medical history thanks to new direct acting antiviral drugs exhibiting as much as over 95% of sustained virological response. All HCV-infected patients potentially can receive the treatment. Control of the virus is associated with better outcomes in all cases, whatever the severity of the hepatic or renal disease. This article focuses on HCV-induced renal diseases, the reciprocal impact of HCV infection on the renal outcome and renal status in liver disease, use of new direct-acting antiviral drugs with dosage adaptations and the most recent safety data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinne Isnard Bagnis
- Department of Nephrology AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié Salpêtrière, 75013, Paris, France. .,UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France.
| | - Patrice Cacoub
- Inflammation-Immunopathology-Biotherapy Department (DHU i2B), 75005, Paris, France.,INSERM, UMR_S 959, 75013, Paris, France.,Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, 75013, Paris, France.,Sorbonne University, UPMC Univ Paris 06, UMR 7211, Paris, France
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7
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Fabrizi F, Martin P, Cacoub P, Messa P, Donato FM. Treatment of hepatitis C-related kidney disease. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2015; 16:1815-27. [DOI: 10.1517/14656566.2015.1066333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Cacoub P, Gragnani L, Comarmond C, Zignego AL. Extrahepatic manifestations of chronic hepatitis C virus infection. Dig Liver Dis 2014; 46 Suppl 5:S165-73. [PMID: 25458776 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2014.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 189] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2014] [Accepted: 10/03/2014] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infected patients are known to be at risk of developing liver complications i.e. cirrhosis and liver cancer. However, the risks of morbidity and mortality are underestimated because they do not take into account non-liver consequences of chronic hepatitis C virus infection. Numerous extrahepatic manifestations have been reported in up to 74% of patients, from perceived to disabling conditions. The majority of data concern hepatitis C virus-related autoimmune and/or lymphoproliferative disorders, from mixed cryoglobulinaemia vasculitis to frank lymphomas. More recently, other hepatitis C virus-associated disorders have been reported including cardiovascular, renal, metabolic, and central nervous system diseases. This review aims to outline most of the extrahepatic manifestations that are currently being investigated, including some of autoimmune and/or lymphoproliferative nature, and others in which the role of immune mechanisms appears less clear. Beyond the liver, hepatitis C virus chronic infection should be analyzed as a multifaceted systemic disease leading to heavy direct and indirect costs. The accurate consideration of extrahepatic consequences of such a systemic infection significantly increases the weight of its pathological burden. The need for effective viral eradication measures is underlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrice Cacoub
- Sorbonne University, UPMC Univ Paris 06, UMR 7211, and Inflammation-Immunopathology-Biotherapy Department (DHU i2B), Paris, France; INSERM, UMR_S 959, Paris, France; CNRS, FRE3632, Paris, France; AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Paris, France.
| | - Laura Gragnani
- Interdepartmental Center for Systemic Manifestations of Hepatitis Viruses (MaSVE), Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Cloe Comarmond
- Sorbonne University, UPMC Univ Paris 06, UMR 7211, and Inflammation-Immunopathology-Biotherapy Department (DHU i2B), Paris, France; INSERM, UMR_S 959, Paris, France; CNRS, FRE3632, Paris, France; AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Paris, France
| | - Anna Linda Zignego
- Interdepartmental Center for Systemic Manifestations of Hepatitis Viruses (MaSVE), Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Delabaudière C, Lavayssière L, Dörr G, Muscari F, Danjoux M, Sallusto F, Peron JM, Bureau C, Rostaing L, Izopet J, Kamar N. Successful treatment of fibrosing cholestatic hepatitis with pegylated interferon, ribavirin and sofosbuvir after a combined kidney-liver transplantation. Transpl Int 2014; 28:255-8. [PMID: 25159822 DOI: 10.1111/tri.12428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2014] [Revised: 07/26/2014] [Accepted: 08/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosing cholestatic hepatitis (FCH) is a classical but rare and severe form of recurrent hepatitis C virus (HCV) after liver transplantation. Classical anti-HCV therapy, that is pegylated-interferon (peg-interferon) and ribavirin, has been shown to have limited efficacy in treating FCH. Herein, we report on the first case of successful use of peg-interferon, ribavirin, plus sofosbuvir to treat HCV-induced FCH in a combined liver-kidney transplant patient. Antiviral therapy was given for 24 weeks. HCV clearance occurred within 4 weeks after starting therapy and was maintained until 4 weeks after the end of therapy. Antiviral tolerance was good. We conclude that the use of sofosbuvir-based anti-HCV therapy can be successfully used to treat FCH after a liver or combined kidney-liver transplantation.
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Wei F, Liu J, Liu F, Hu H, Ren H, Hu P. Interferon-based anti-viral therapy for hepatitis C virus infection after renal transplantation: an updated meta-analysis. PLoS One 2014; 9:e90611. [PMID: 24699257 PMCID: PMC3974660 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0090611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2013] [Accepted: 01/31/2014] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is highly prevalent in renal transplant (RT) recipients. Currently, interferon-based (IFN-based) antiviral therapies are the standard approach to control HCV infection. In a post-transplantation setting, however, IFN-based therapies appear to have limited efficacy and their use remains controversial. The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of IFN-based therapies for HCV infection post RT. METHODS We searched Pubmed, Embase, Web of Knowledge, and The Cochrane Library (1997-2013) for clinical trials in which transplant patients were given Interferon (IFN), pegylated interferon (PEG), interferon plus ribavirin (IFN-RIB), or pegylated interferon plus ribavirin (PEG-RIB). The Sustained Virological Response (SVR) and/or drop-out rates were the primary outcomes. Summary estimates were calculated using the random-effects model of DerSimonian and Laird, with heterogeneity and sensitivity analysis. RESULTS We identified 12 clinical trials (140 patients in total). The summary estimate for SVR rate, drop-out rate and graft rejection rate was 26.6% (95%CI, 15.0-38.1%), 21.1% (95% CI, 10.9-31.2%) and 4% (95%CI: 0.8%-7.1%), respectively. The overall SVR rate in PEG-based and standard IFN-based therapy was 40.6% (24/59) and 20.9% (17/81), respectively. The most frequent side-effect requiring discontinuation of treatment was graft dysfunction (14 cases, 45.1%). Meta-regression analysis showed the covariates included contribute to the heterogeneity in the SVR logit rate, but not in the drop-out logit rate. The sensitivity analyses by the random model yielded very similar results to the fixed-effects model. CONCLUSIONS IFN-based therapy for HCV infection post RT has poor efficacy and limited safety. PEG-based therapy is a more effective approach for treating HCV infection post-RT than standard IFN-based therapy. Future research is required to develop novel strategies to improve therapeutic efficacy and tolerability, and reduce the liver-related morbidity and mortality in this important patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Wei
- Department of infectious Disease, Institute for Viral hepatitis, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for infectious disease, The second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Junying Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Central hospital of Zhoukou, Henan Province, China
| | - Fen Liu
- Department of infectious Disease, Institute for Viral hepatitis, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for infectious disease, The second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Huaidong Hu
- Department of infectious Disease, Institute for Viral hepatitis, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for infectious disease, The second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Hong Ren
- Department of infectious Disease, Institute for Viral hepatitis, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for infectious disease, The second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Peng Hu
- Department of infectious Disease, Institute for Viral hepatitis, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for infectious disease, The second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
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Antiviral therapy of symptomatic HCV-mixed cryoglobulinemia after liver transplant: case report and literature review. Int J Artif Organs 2013; 36:367-72. [PMID: 23446762 DOI: 10.5301/ijao.5000199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/17/2012] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection may be associated with extra-hepatic illness including mixed cryoglobulinemia (MC). Consistent evidence exists on HCV-MC in the non-transplantation setting but information on HCV-related cryoglobulinemia after solid organ transplantation is limited, particularly after liver transplantation (LT). We report on a 48-year-old man who developed HCV-associated cryoglobulinemic vasculitis with recurrent hepatitis after liver transplant. One year after transplant for HCV-positive
cirrhosis, he presented severe cutaneous manifestations, and biopsy-proven cryoglobulinemic membrano-proliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN). HCV RNA clearance occurred within a few weeks of antiviral therapy; sustained viral response (SVR) was obtained by one year of anti-HCV combination therapy (eight months of pegylated IFN/ribavirin and four months of standard IFN/ribavirin). SVR was linked to complete remission of skin, liver, and kidney abnormalities. Tolerance to the pegylated IFN/ribavirin regimen was not excellent due to the occurrence of lobar pneumonia with anemia; thus, peg-IFN was replaced by recombinant IFN, with a favorable outcome. Clinical and viral remission persisted over a 48-month follow-up. HCV-associated mixed cryoglobulinemia flareups following LT were successfully managed with combined antiviral therapy. HCV-related MC is uncommon in developed countries and this clearly hampers randomized controlled clinical trials aimed at evaluating the efficacy and safety of anti-HCV therapy after solid organ transplantation or in the non-transplantation setting.
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12
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Remission of HCV-associated Glomerulonephritis with Pegylated IFN and Ribavirin Therapy after Liver Transplantation: Case Report and Literature Review. Int J Artif Organs 2013; 36:63-8. [DOI: 10.5301/ijao.5000166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/03/2012] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Background Hepatitis C virus infection is associated with a variety of extrahepatic disorders such as membrano-proliferative glomerulonephritis, which is generally due to cryoglobulinemia. Setting We describe the case of one liver transplant recipient who received antiviral therapy (subcutaneous administration of peg-IFN-alpha-2a 180 mcg weekly and oral ribavirin 200 mg thrice a day) for HCV-related membrano-proliferative glomerulonephritis. He presented normal kidney function, non-nephrotic proteinuria (2 g/24 h) and mild hematuria. Results Urinary abnormalities disappeared within a few weeks after the initiation of antiviral therapy; however, combination antiviral therapy was not able to obtain viral clearance. After 11 months, IFN-therapy was interrupted and the patient continued low-dose ribavirin monotherapy (200 mg once per day) for one additional year- remission of proteinuria (<0.3 g/24 h) and hematuria persisted with intact kidney function. Although other mechanisms cannot be excluded, we suggest that ribavirin therapy was critically implicated in the remission of urinary abnormalities in our patient. The existing literature on the association between HCV-associated glomerulonephritis and therapy with ribavirin is reviewed. Conclusions Antiviral therapy may be effective in patients with HCV-induced glomerulonephritis. Further evidence is needed to evaluate efficacy and safety of ribavirin monotherapy for HCV-related glomerulonephritis.
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Hassan Q, Roche B, Buffet C, Bessede T, Samuel D, Charpentier B, Durrbach A. Liver-kidney recipients with chronic viral hepatitis C treated with interferon-alpha. Transpl Int 2013; 25:941-7. [PMID: 22882335 DOI: 10.1111/j.1432-2277.2012.01520.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Antiviral therapy with interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha) and pegylated IFN-alpha (PEG-IFN-alpha) for chronic hepatitis C (HCV)-infected kidney recipients remains controversial. IFN-alpha is not recommended in most cases because it induces severe acute graft rejection. However, IFN-alpha, as PEG-IFN-alpha, is associated with a more pronounced immune response, and is well tolerated in HCV-infected liver recipients without causing graft rejection. In combined liver-kidney transplant (LKT) recipients, IFN-alpha has been occasionally used and appears to be well tolerated. All LKT recipients with a functioning kidney and liver having a HCV replication and who needed IFN-alpha therapy have been included in the study. The occurrence of liver and/or renal acute rejection as well as the HCV replication has been collected. A total of 12 LKT patients treated with PEG-IFN-alpha plus ribavirin have been studied. No acute rejection was observed. Renal function remained stable during and after discontinuing treatment, without any graft dysfunction. Two patients had a partial viral response and four had a sustained viral response. All patients, whatever their viral response, had decreased liver-enzyme levels. Response to PEG-IFN-alpha therapy was correlated with steroid dose and transaminase level when PEG-IFN-alpha was started. These data suggest that the combination therapy of PEG-IFN-alpha plus ribavirin did not have a higher risk of acute kidney-graft rejection after liver-kidney transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qussai Hassan
- IFRNT, Nephrology and Transplantation Unit, Bicêtre Hospital, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
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Fabrizi F, Plaisier E, Saadoun D, Martin P, Messa P, Cacoub P. Hepatitis C virus infection, mixed cryoglobulinemia, and kidney disease. Am J Kidney Dis 2012; 61:623-37. [PMID: 23102733 DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2012.08.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2012] [Accepted: 08/28/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) may instigate mixed cryoglobulinemia; the most significant accompanying kidney lesion is type I membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, usually occurring in the context of type II mixed cryoglobulinemia. Additionally, recent data support a link between HCV infection and proteinuria in population-based studies, raising the possibility that kidney diseases associated with HCV may be more common than previously thought. A number of strategies have been used to treat HCV-related glomerulonephritis, including antiviral agents, immunosuppressive therapies such as corticosteroids and cytotoxic agents, and plasma exchange. Limited but encouraging data about the utility of antiviral treatment in the setting of HCV-associated glomerulonephritis exist, with one pooled analysis noting a sustained viral response of 42%, albeit with significant heterogeneity. Immunosuppressive therapy may be most useful for cryoglobulinemic kidney disease, with individualized approaches considered for the treatment of HCV-associated cryoglobulinemic glomerulonephritis based on the level of proteinuria and kidney failure. Of note, rituximab, a chimeric monoclonal antibody that blocks CD20 receptors on B cells, has been reported to be effective for the treatment of mixed cryoglobulinemia symptoms, including glomerulonephritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Fabrizi
- Division of Nephrology, Maggiore Policlinico Hospital, IRCCS Foundation, Milano, Italy.
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Fabrizi F. Hepatitis C virus, cryoglobulinemia, and kidney: novel evidence. SCIENTIFICA 2012; 2012:128382. [PMID: 24278667 PMCID: PMC3820459 DOI: 10.6064/2012/128382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2012] [Accepted: 06/26/2012] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus infection can lead to chronic active hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver failure; however, it is also associated with a wide range of extra-hepatic complications. HCV is associated with a large spectrum of histopathological lesions in both native and transplanted kidneys, and it is increasingly recognized as an instigator of B cell lympho-proliferative disorders including mixed cryoglobulinemia. Mixed cyoglobulinemia is a systemic vasculitis primarily mediated by immune complexes; it is characterized by variable organ involvement including skin lesions, chronic hepatitis, glomerulonephritis, peripheral neuropathy, and arthralgias. The most frequent HCV-associated nephropathy is type I membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, usually in the context of type II mixed cryoglobulinemia. Various approaches have been tried for the treatment of HCV-related glomerulonephritis, including immunosuppressive therapy (corticosteroids and cytotoxic agents), plasma exchange and antiviral agents. Data on the antiviral treatment of HCV-associated glomerulonephritis are not abundant but encouraging results have been provided. Immunosuppressive therapy is particularly recommended for cryoglobulinemic kidney disease. Recent evidence has been accumulated on rituximab therapy for HCV-related cryoglobulinemic glomerulonephritis exists but several questions related to its use remain unclear. Distinct approaches should be considered for the treatment of HCV-associated cryoglobulinemic glomerulonephritis according to the level of proteinuria and kidney failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Fabrizi
- Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Maggiore Hospital and IRCCS Foundation, Pad. Croff, Via Commenda 15, 20122 Milano, Italy
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Aljumah AA, Saeed MA, Al Flaiw AI, Al Traif IH, Al Alwan AM, Al Qurashi SH, Al Ghamdi GA, Al Hejaili FF, Al Balwi MA, Al Sayyari AA. Efficacy and safety of treatment of hepatitis C virus infection in renal transplant recipients. World J Gastroenterol 2012; 18:55-63. [PMID: 22228971 PMCID: PMC3251806 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v18.i1.55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2011] [Revised: 04/20/2011] [Accepted: 04/27/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To assess the efficacy and safety of combined pegylated interferon and ribavirin therapy in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in renal transplant recipients.
METHODS: This is a retrospective chart review of post renal transplant patients who were positive for anti-HCV and HCV-RNA, and who have received treatment with combination of pegylated interferon and ribavirin between October 2003 and December 2008. Only patients with stable graft function and absence of evidence of cirrhosis and who received the therapy for continuous 48 wk were included. Nineteen patients (13 male and 6 female) were identified and included. The patient’s complete blood count, liver and kidney profile, and calculated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) were monitored every 6-8 wk while on treatment. HCV-RNA was tested at 12 wk for early virological response, at 48 wk for end of treatment response (ETR), and then retested at 24, and 48 wk after completion of therapy for sustained virological response (SVR). Liver biopsies were obtained before treatment from all patients and graft kidney biopsies were performed as required.
RESULTS: Of the entire cohort, 9 patients (47.4%) showed an ETR and 8 had SVR (42.1%). Of the 8 patients with abnormal alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels at baseline, 78.9% had their ALT normalized (including the virological non responders). ALT was normal in all responders at the end of therapy and at 24 wk post therapy (100%). Only one patient (5.3%) developed an increase in creatinine and decline in GFR from baseline towards the end of treatment. This patient’s kidney biopsy revealed borderline rejection. There was no impact on response by HCV-genotype, initial HCV RNA load, age or sex of the patient or duration post transplant before commencement of therapy. All patients tolerated treatment in the same way as non-transplant with no unusual or increased occurrence of side effects.
CONCLUSION: The combination of pegylated interferon and ribavirin is effective in suppressing HCV-RNA, with a low risk of graft rejection or failure in HCV infected renal transplant recipients.
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Carbone M, Cockwell P, Neuberger J. Hepatitis C and kidney transplantation. Int J Nephrol 2011; 2011:593291. [PMID: 21755059 PMCID: PMC3132687 DOI: 10.4061/2011/593291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2011] [Revised: 03/05/2011] [Accepted: 04/13/2011] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is relatively common among patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) on dialysis and kidney transplant recipients. HCV infection in hemodialysis patients is associated with an increased mortality due to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The severity of hepatitis C-related liver disease in kidney transplant candidates may predict patient and graft survival after transplant. Liver biopsy remains the gold standard in the assessment of liver fibrosis in this setting. Kidney transplantation, not haemodialysis, seems to be the best treatment for HCV+ve patients with ESKD. Transplantation of kidneys from HCV+ve donors restricted to HCV+ve recipients is safe and associated with a reduction in the waiting time. Simultaneous kidney/liver transplantation (SKL) should be considered for kidney transplant candidates with HCV-related decompensated cirrhosis. Treatment of HCV is more complex in hemodialysis patients, whereas treatment of HCV recurrence in SLK recipients appears effective and safe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Carbone
- Liver Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham B15 2TH, UK
| | - Paul Cockwell
- Department of Nephrology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham B15 2TH, UK
| | - James Neuberger
- Liver Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham B15 2TH, UK
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Ponziani FR, Gasbarrini A, Pompili M, Burra P, Fagiuoli S. Management of hepatitis C virus infection recurrence after liver transplantation: an overview. Transplant Proc 2011; 43:291-5. [PMID: 21335208 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2010.09.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is the major indication for liver transplantation worldwide. Its recurrence is virtually universal. Once reinfection is established, progression to cirrhosis occurs in 25%-30% of recipients within 5 years. Several studies have attempted to identify the ideal antiviral treatment for liver transplant recipients. At present, the management of recurrent HCV infection in liver transplant recipients is based on widely accepted indications, which represent a reliable guide to identify the "ideal" candidate for therapy, when therapy should be started, and what is to be expected in terms of side effects and response to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- F R Ponziani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Catholic University, Rome, Italy.
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Van Wagner LB, Baker T, Ahya SN, Norvell JP, Wang E, Levitsky J. Outcomes of patients with hepatitis C undergoing simultaneous liver-kidney transplantation. J Hepatol 2009; 51:874-80. [PMID: 19643508 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2009.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2009] [Revised: 05/05/2009] [Accepted: 05/27/2009] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS The number of simultaneous liver-kidney transplants (SLK) has increased since the MELD era. Data on short- and long-term outcomes of hepatitis C virus positive (HCV+) SLK compared to HCV+ liver transplant alone (LTA) recipients are limited. METHODS A case-control study comparing outcomes of HCV+SLK versus transplant year-matched HCV+ LTA (1:1) was performed. RESULTS 38/142 (26.7%) SLK recipients were HCV+. LTA controls had lower MELD (17.4+/-8.6) at transplant than SLK (34.5+/-6.6) (p=0.001). There were increased early post-transplant infection episodes in SLK (56.3%) versus LTA (21.6%) (p=0.001) and a trend towards increased early mortality in the SLK group (p=0.08). However, there was no difference in long-term patient and graft survival, time to HCV recurrence, % >or=stage 2 fibrosis, renal function, and graft function between the groups. Ten SLK recipients were treated for HCV recurrence with pegylated interferon+ribavirin: two had sustained virologic response, five stopped due to side effects, and three had no response. None had liver or kidney rejection on treatment. CONCLUSION Our data represent the largest analysis of HCV+ SLK outcomes to date. We demonstrate increased early complications in SLK versus LTA recipients, likely due to being more critically ill at transplant (higher MELD) and complications unrelated to HCV within the first year. However, long-term outcomes, i.e. HCV recurrence, graft/renal dysfunction, are similar to LTA. In addition, while data are limited, treatment of HCV recurrence with interferon appeared safe in our SLK recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa B Van Wagner
- Division of Hepatology, Medicine Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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Perico N, Cattaneo D, Bikbov B, Remuzzi G. Hepatitis C infection and chronic renal diseases. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2009; 4:207-20. [PMID: 19129320 DOI: 10.2215/cjn.03710708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
More than 170 million people worldwide are chronically infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV), which is responsible for over 1 million deaths resulting from cirrhosis and liver cancers. Extrahepatic manifestations are also relevant and include mixed cryoglobulinemia, lymphoproliferative disorders, and kidney disease. HCV infection is both a cause and a complication of chronic kidney disease, occurring largely in the context of mixed cryoglobulinemia. This infection also represents a major medical and epidemiologic challenge in patients with end-stage renal disease on renal replacement therapy with dialysis or transplantation. In these settings the presence of HCV correlates with higher rates of patient mortality than in HCV-negative subjects on dialysis or undergoing kidney transplant. The major concern is the lack of safe and effective drugs to treat HCV-infected patients with chronic kidney disease. Unfortunately, there are no large-scale clinical trials in this population, especially those receiving renal replacement therapy, so that strong evidence for treatment recommendations is scant. This review article provides the readers with the most recent insights on HCV infection both as cause and complication of chronic kidney disease, discusses pitfalls and limitations of current therapies, and reports on preliminary experience with novel therapeutic agents, as well as directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norberto Perico
- Department of Medicine and Transplantation Ospedali Riuniti di Bergamo-Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Bergamo, Italy
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Abstract
UNLABELLED Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is especially problematic in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) who are undergoing hemodialysis. Rates of HCV infection are higher among hemodialysis patients than in the general population, and several routes of transmission are thought to stem from the dialysis unit. Management of chronic hepatitis C is also more complicated in hemodialysis patients because of altered pharmacokinetics and a predisposition for drug-related toxicity, particularly ribavirin-induced anemia. Clinical trials of patients with chronic hepatitis C and healthy, functioning kidney grafts are rare because of the inherent dangers of graft rejection. As a result, most studies in patients with ESRD have focused on patients waiting for a kidney transplant. Additionally, because ribavirin is contraindicated in this patient population, many studies have examined monotherapy treatments. According to meta-analyses, conventional interferon alfa treatment yields a sustained virological response (SVR) rate of 37%, whereas studies of pegylated interferon alfa monotherapy have yielded SVR rates between 13% and 75%. Several small studies have also used the monitoring of ribavirin plasma concentrations or hemoglobin levels to facilitate the use of combination therapy. In light of the results from these clinical trials, we herein review treatment guidelines and recommend strategies to help optimize the treatment of patients with ESRD. CONCLUSION There remains a lack of clarity surrounding the most effective treatment options for patients with chronic hepatitis C and ESRD. Treatment can be effective with many patients attaining SVR; however, unfavorable tolerability with interferon alfa-based therapy remains a concern and thus close supportive care should be aggressively pursued to help maintain adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Berenguer
- Hepatogastroenterology Service, Hospital La Fe, Facultad de Medicina de la Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain.
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Current World Literature. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2008; 20:111-20. [DOI: 10.1097/bor.0b013e3282f408ae] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Successful Hepatitis C Eradication With Preservation of Renal Function in a Liver/kidney Transplant Recipient Using Pegylated Interferon and Ribavirin. Transplantation 2007; 84:1374-5. [PMID: 18049127 DOI: 10.1097/01.tp.0000289996.37615.7d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a global health problem, common worldwide, leading to acute and chronic hepatitis and its consequences of hepatocirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Patients on hemodialysis belong to the high-risk group of HCV infection. The prevalence of HCV infection in dialysis patients ranges from 4% to more than 70% in some countries. The main reasons for such a high incidence of infections are a high prevalence of HCV infection in the general population, lack of standard infection precautions and effective vaccination, inadequate disinfection procedures of dialysis machines and other medical equipment, as well as spread of infection from patient to patient, especially in dialytic centers with a high percentage of infected patients. The diagnostic procedures useful in the evaluation of HCV infection are detection of anti-HCV antibodies, identification of HCV RNA, counts of virus copies, and identification of its genome. From the 6 major genotypes and multiple subtypes of the HCV, genotypes 1a and 1b are the most common in Europe and Japan, and 1b is responsible for more severe liver disease and aggressive course leading to liver fibrosis. Antiviral therapy of HCV+ dialysis patients with interferon-alpha (INF-alpha) gives slightly better results than in the general population, but is poorly tolerated and associated with side effects. Although ribavirin in not recommended for dialysis patients, the addition of small doses of this compound to pegylated INF is discussed, especially for patients in whom previous infection treatment failed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Władysław Sułowicz
- Department of Nephrology, Medical Faculty, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland.
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