Efficacy and Safety of Direct Acting Antivirals in Kidney Transplant Recipients with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection

Revolution in the diagnosis and management of hepatitis C virus infection in current era

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major global public health problem, particularly in developing part of the world. Significant advances have been made in the early diagnosis and treatment of the disease. Its management has been particularly revolutionized during the past two decades. In this review, we summarize the major advances in the diagnostic and management armamentarium for chronic HCV infection. The focus of the present review is on the newer directly acting anti-viral agents, which have revolutionized the management of chronic HCV infection. Management of uncomplicated chronic HCV infection and of specific complications and special at-risk populations of patients will be covered in detail. Despite the advent and approval of highly effective and well tolerable oral agents, still many challenges remain, particularly the affordability, the equitable distribution and access to later drugs. The World Health Organization aims to eliminate viral hepatitis including HCV by 2030 since its poses a major public health threat. There is an urgent need to ensure uniform and early access to diagnostic and therapeutic facilities throughout the world if the later goal has to be realized.

Utilization of HCV viremic donors in kidney transplantation: a chance or a threat?

Kidney transplantation is the treatment of choice in end-stage renal disease. The main issue which does not allow to utilize it fully is the number of organs available for transplant. Introduction of highly effective oral direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) to the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus infection (HCV) enabled transplantation of HCV viremic organs to naive recipients. Despite an increasing number of reports on the satisfying effects of using HCV viremic organs, including kidneys, they are more often rejected than those from HCV negative donors. The main reason is the presence of HCV viremia and not the quality of the organ. The current state of knowledge points to the fact that a kidney transplant from an HCV nucleic acid testing positive (NAT+) donor to naive recipients is an effective and safe solution to the problem of the insufficient number of organs available for transplantation. It does not, however, allow to draw conclusions as to the long-term consequence of such an approach. This review analyzes the possibilities and limitations of the usage of HCV NAT + donor organs. Abbreviations: DAA: direct-acting antivirals; HCV: hepatitis C virus; NAT: nucleic acid testing; OPTN: Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network; KDIGO: Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes; Ab: antigen; eGFR: estimated glomerular filtration rate; D: donor; R: recipient; CMV: cytomegalovirus; HBV: hepatitis B virus; UNOS: United Network for Organ Sharing; PHS: Public Health Service; EBR/GZR: elbasvir/grazoprevir; SVR: sustained virologic response; RAS: resistance-associated substitutions; SOF: soforbuvir; GLE/PIB: glecaprevir/pibrentasvir; ACR: acute cellular rejection; AR: acute rejection; DSA: donor-specific antibodies; KTR: kidney transplant recipients; AASLD: American Association for the Study of Liver Disease; IDSA: Infectious Diseases Society of America; PPI: proton pump inhibitors; CKD: chronic kidney disease; GN: glomerulonephritis; KAS: The Kidney Allocation system.

Donor and Recipient Matching in Facial Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation: A Closer Look at the Donor Pool

BACKGROUND

Identifying a donor for facial vascularized composite allotransplant recipients can be a lengthy, emotionally challenging process. Little is known about the relative distribution of key donor characteristics among potential donors. Data on actual wait times of patients are limited, making it difficult to estimate wait times for future recipients.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively reviewed charts of nine facial vascularized composite allotransplant patients and provide data on transplant wait times and patient characteristics. In addition, they analyzed the United Network for Organ Sharing database of dead organ donors. After excluding donors with high-risk characteristics (e.g., active cancer or risk factors for blood-borne disease transmission), the authors calculated the distribution of relevant donor-recipient matching criteria (i.e., ethnicity, body mass index, age, ABO blood group, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, hepatitis C virus) among 65,201 potential donors.

RESULTS

The median wait time for a transplant was 4 months (range, 1 day to 17 months). The large majority of United Network for Organ Sharing-recorded deaths from disease were white (63 percent) and male (58 percent). Female donors of black, Hispanic, or Asian descent are underrepresented, with 7, 5, and 1 percent of all recorded deaths from disease, respectively. Potential donors show cytomegalovirus and Epstein-Barr virus seropositivity of 65 and 95 percent, respectively. The number of annual hepatitis C-positive donors increased over time.

CONCLUSIONS

Actual facial vascularized composite allotransplant wait times vary considerably. Although most patients experience acceptable wait times, some with underrepresented characteristics exceed acceptable levels. Cytomegalovirus-seropositive donors present a large portion of the donor pool, and exclusion for seronegative patients may increase wait time. Hepatitis C-seropositive donors may constitute a donor pool for underrepresented patient groups in the future.

INASL-ISN Joint Position Statements on Management of Patients with Simultaneous Liver and Kidney Disease

Renal dysfunction is very common among patients with chronic liver disease, and concomitant liver disease can occur among patients with chronic kidney disease. The spectrum of clinical presentation and underlying etiology is wide when concomitant kidney and liver disease occur in the same patient. Management of these patients with dual onslaught is challenging and requires a team approach of hepatologists and nephrologists. No recent guidelines exist on algorithmic approach toward diagnosis and management of these challenging patients. The Indian National Association for Study of Liver (INASL) in association with Indian Society of Nephrology (ISN) endeavored to develop joint guidelines on diagnosis and management of patients who have simultaneous liver and kidney disease. For generating these guidelines, an INASL-ISN Taskforce was constituted, which had members from both the societies. The taskforce first identified contentious issues on various aspects of simultaneous liver and kidney diseases, which were allotted to individual members of the taskforce who reviewed them in detail. A round-table meeting of the Taskforce was held on 20-21 October 2018 at New Delhi to discuss, debate, and finalize the consensus statements. The evidence and recommendations in these guidelines have been graded according to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system with minor modifications. The strength of recommendations (strong and weak) thus reflects the quality (grade) of underlying evidence (I, II, III). We present here the INASL-ISN Joint Position Statements on Management of Patients with Simultaneous Liver and Kidney Disease.

Cost-effectiveness of using hepatitis C viremic hearts for transplantation into HCV-negative recipients

Outcomes following hepatitis C virus (HCV)-viremic heart transplantation into HCV-negative recipients with HCV treatment are good. We assessed cost-effectiveness between cohorts of transplant recipients willing and unwilling to receive HCV-viremic hearts. Markov model simulated long-term outcomes among HCV-negative patients on the transplant waitlist. We compared costs (2018 USD) and health outcomes (quality-adjusted life-years, QALYs) between cohorts willing to accept any heart and those willing to accept only HCV-negative hearts. We assumed 4.9% HCV-viremic donor prevalence. Patients receiving HCV-viremic hearts were treated, assuming $39 600/treatment with 95% cure. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were compared to a $100 000/QALY gained willingness-to-pay threshold. Sensitivity analyses included stratification by blood type or region and potential negative consequences of receipt of HCV-viremic hearts. Compared to accepting only HCV-negative hearts, accepting any heart gained 0.14 life-years and 0.11 QALYs, while increasing costs by $9418/patient. Accepting any heart was cost effective (ICER $85 602/QALY gained). Results were robust to all transplant regions and blood types, except type AB. Accepting any heart remained cost effective provided posttransplant mortality and costs among those receiving HCV-viremic hearts were not >7% higher compared to HCV-negative hearts. Willingness to accept HCV-viremic hearts for transplantation into HCV-negative recipients is cost effective and improves clinical outcomes.

EASL recommendations on treatment of hepatitis C: Final update of the series☆

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major cause of chronic liver disease, with approximately 71 million chronically infected individuals worldwide. Clinical care for patients with HCV-related liver disease has advanced considerably thanks to an enhanced understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease, as well as developments in diagnostic procedures and improvements in therapy and prevention. These therapies make it possible to eliminate hepatitis C as a major public health threat, as per the World Health Organization target, although the timeline and feasibility vary from region to region. These European Association for the Study of the Liver recommendations on treatment of hepatitis C describe the optimal management of patients with recently acquired and chronic HCV infections in 2020 and onwards.

Management and tolerability of glecaprevir-pibrentasvir pharmacotherapy in hepatitis C viremic heart and lung transplant recipients

We conducted a retrospective review of thoracic transplant recipients (22 heart and 16 lung transplant recipients) prospectively enrolled in a single-center observational study of HCV NAT+ organ transplantation in HCV NAT- recipients. All recipients were treated with 8 weeks of glecaprevir-pibrentasvir (GP) for HCV viremia in addition to standard triple immunosuppression post-transplant. Thoracic transplant recipients of HCV NAT- organs were used as a control (24 heart and 22 lung transplant recipients). Our primary outcome was to assess the effect of GP on tacrolimus dose requirements. Secondary objectives included assessing drug interactions with common post-transplant medications, adverse effects, and the need to hold or discontinue GP therapy. The median tacrolimus concentration-to-dose ratio (CDR) in the cohort was 184 (99-260) during GP therapy and 154 (78-304) over the first month after GP (P = .79). Trends in median tacrolimus CDR were similar on a per-week basis and per-patient basis. In three instances, concomitant posaconazole and GP led to hyperbilirubinemia and interruption of posaconazole. GP therapy was held in one heart transplant recipient and discontinued in another due to unresolving hyperbilirubinemia. Utilization of GP to treat HCV viremia post-thoracic transplant is feasible and safe, but requires modifications to post-transplant pharmacotherapy and careful monitoring for adverse effects.

Efficacy and safety of new direct-acting antivirals in kidney transplant recipients with chronic hepatitis C: a single-center study

Background

The recent interferon-free direct-acting antiviral (DAA) regimens have very good safety and efficacy profiles and are highly recommended for kidney transplant (KT) recipients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC).

Methods

All KT recipients with CHC followed at our hospital and who received therapy with the current DAAs were included. At the baseline visit, demographic, clinical and laboratory variables before and after KT, as well as at the commencement of DAAs, at the end of antiviral therapy and the end of follow up, were recorded, including assessment of glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). The changes in eGFR (DGFR) between baseline and end of therapy (1^st period), and between end of therapy and end of follow up (2^nd period), were evaluated.

Results

Twelve KT recipients were retrospectively evaluated: 2 had received antiviral therapy in the past; 4 (33.3%) patients had genotype 1 and 3 (25%) genotype 4 CHC. The median stiffness was 11.9 kPa (range 5-16.8), while 5 patients, none with decompensated cirrhosis, had stiffness >12.5 kPa. Eight patients received a sofosbuvir-containing antiviral regimen (Group 1) and 4 patients received an antiviral regimen without sofosbuvir (Group 2). Eleven (91.7%) patients achieved a sustained virological response (SVR). One patient discontinued DAAs early after treatment and did not achieve SVR. Otherwise, DAAs were well tolerated and no rejection episode was recorded. The DGFRs in the 1^st period and 2^nd period did not differ significantly between Group 1 and Group 2 patients.

Conclusion

In this real-world study of KT recipients with CHC, the high efficacy and clinically acceptable tolerability of DAAs were confirmed.

Paritaprevir, ritonavir, ombitasvir, and dasabuvir treatment in renal transplant patients with hepatitis C virus infection

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The Social Security System of our country reimburses only paritaprevir, ritonavir, ombitasvir, and dasabuvir (PrOD) regime in treatment-naive patients with hepatitis C regardless of kidney disease. Most of our renal transplant (RT) recipients were treated with PrOD. The aim of the present study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of PrOD in RT patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in a single center real-life experience.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

RT recipients with a post-transplant follow-up of at least 1 year were included in the study. The patients were treated and monitored according to the guidelines. Blood levels of immunosuppressive patients were closely followed up and adjusted.

RESULTS

A total of 21 (12 male and nine female) patients were assessed. The age of the patients was 50.8±8.5 years. Ten patients were infected with G1a, 10 patients with G1b, and one patient with G4 HCV. Two patients had compensated cirrhosis. Eighteen patients were treatment-naive, and three were peginterferon+ribavirin-experienced. Sustained virologic response (SVR12) was achieved in all patients. None of the patients discontinued the treatment. Cyclosporine (Csa) and tacrolimus (Tac) doses were reduced to once a day to once a week to maintain the blood level within normal range. The most common adverse effect was anemia in patients receiving ribavirin. Renal functions did not change during the treatment period.

CONCLUSION

In this real-life experience, all of the 21 PrOD-treated RT recipients reached SVR12. Tac or Csa serum levels were maintained within the normal range with close monitoring. PrOD regime can be successfully and safely used in RT recipients with HCV infection with close follow-up.

Highly effective treatment response and well tolerability by all oral direct acting antivirals for chronic hepatitis C patients post organ transplantation

BACKGROUND

Immunosuppressant-related acceleration of fibrosis has been documented in chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients who receive organ transplantation (Tx), and sustained virological response (SVR) rates for these patients by pegylated interferon (IFN)-based therapy are generally poor and associated with unfavorable safety profiles. In addition, IFN treatment varies by patient and poses a high risk of post-renal Tx graft rejection. This study was aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of all oral direct acting antivirals (DAAs) for CHC patients following organ Tx.

METHODS

A total of 32 organ Tx (liver: 17, kidney: 13, kidney then liver: 1, and heart: 1) patients with CHC on an oral DAA (paritaprevir/ritonavir, ombitasvir, and dasabuvir: 11, daclatasvir and asunaprevir: 4, sofosbuvir-based: 17) were enrolled in the study. DAAs regimen was based by genotype/subtype, patient characteristics, drug interaction profiles, and health insurance coverage.

RESULTS

Mean patient age was 61.4 ± 9.5 years, 50.0% male, and 15.6% with cirrhosis. Fourteen (43.7%) patients experienced unsuccessful IFN treatment. Genotype distribution was as follows: 1a: 6, 1b: 17, 2: 7, 3: 1, and 6: 1. Mean time between Tx and DAAs therapy was 77.3 ± 11.0 months. Baseline HCV RNA before DAAs was 6.20 ± 0.19 log10 IU/mL. After DAAs, the distribution of week 2 HCV RNA was as follows: <15 IU/mL (53.1%), 15 to 50 IU/mL (15.6%), 50 to 100 IU/mL (6.3%), and >100 IU/mL (25.0%), respectively. The rates of undetectable HCV RNA (<15 IU/mL) at week 4 and end-of-treatment were 93.8% and 100%, respectively. Subjective adverse events during therapy were generally mild, with no treatment terminations. After posttreatment follow-up, all 32 patients (100%) achieved SVR12.

CONCLUSION

Highly responsive treatment and favorable tolerability were achieved by all oral DAAs in this difficult-to-treat patient population.

Direct-acting Antivirals for the Treatment of Kidney Transplant Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Spain: A Long-term Prospective Observational Study

Background

Direct-acting antivirals (DAA) allow effective and safe eradication of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in most patients. There are limited data on the long-term effects of all-oral, interferon-free DAA combination therapies in kidney transplant (KT) patients infected with HCV. Here we evaluated the long-term tolerability, efficacy, and safety of DAA combination therapies in KT patients with chronic HCV infection.

Methods

Clinical data from KT patients treated with DAA were collected before, during, and after the treatment, including viral response, immunosuppression regimens, and kidney and liver function.

Results

Patients (N = 226) were mostly male (65.9%) aged 56.1 ± 10.9 years, with a median time from KT to initiation of DAA therapy of 12.7 years and HCV genotype 1b (64.6%). Most patients were treated with sofosbuvir-based therapies. Rapid virological response at 1 month was achieved by 89.4% of the patients and sustained virological response by week 12 by 98.1%. Liver function improved significantly after DAA treatment. Tacrolimus dosage increased 37% from the beginning of treatment (2.5 ± 1.7 mg/d) to 1 year after the start of DAA treatment (3.4 ± 1.9 mg/d, P < 0.001). Median follow-up was 37.0 months (interquartile range, 28.4-41.9) and death-censored graft survival was 91.1%. Adverse events resulting from DAA treatment, especially anemia, were reported for 31.0% of the patients.

Conclusions

Chronic HCV infection can be treated efficiently and safely with DAA therapy in KT patients. Most patients retained stable kidney function and improved liver function. Tacrolimus dose had to be increased in most patients, potentially as a result of better liver function.

Patient's Perspectives of Experimental HCV-Positive to HCV-Negative Renal Transplantation: Report from a Single Site

Background: With growing transplant wait times, clinical trials are evaluating the safety and efficacy of transplanting HCV-infected donor (HCV+) organs into HCV-noninfected recipients (HCV D+/R-). Such transplants raise ethical questions about safety, consent, and access to organs. Methods: We interviewed eight of the ten total HCV D+/R- transplant recipients enrolled in a pilot clinical trial examining the safety and feasibility of these novel transplants regarding their experiences in the trial, including their decision-making and perceptions of the informed consent process. Results: All interviewees reported positive experiences and expressed confidence regarding their decision to participate. Participants accepted an HCV + organ based on their assessments of the risks and potential benefits of HCV D+/R- transplants. For many, the risks of HCV were minimal compared to the risks of not receiving a transplant. All participants recalled providing informed consent, reporting that the process was thorough and that all their questions were addressed. Participants did not regret receiving an HCV D+/R- transplant and did not report experiencing stigma. However, given their understanding of HCV cure rates in the general population and the survival benefit associated with kidney transplantation, participants may have conflated research regarding HCV D+/R- transplantation with clinical care, suggesting a potential therapeutic misconception. Conclusions: Recipients of experimental HCV D+/R- transplants generally seemed to recognize the risks and benefits of these novel transplants and did not regret participating. Such salutary reported experiences are important in assessing the appropriateness of further research into the feasibility of HCV D+/R- transplants.

Efficacy and safety of the new antiviral agents for the treatment of hepatitis C virus infection in Egyptian renal transplant recipients

PURPOSE

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) is common and can impact on patient and graft survival rates. The efficacy and safety of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) to treat genotype-4 HCV-infected KTRs have not been fully established.

METHODS

A prospective, single-arm, single-center study was conducted at Mansoura Urology/Nephrology Center (Mansoura University, Egypt). 114 HCV RNA(+) genotype 4 KTRs were enrolled in this study after a hepatology consultation and consented to start treatment with interferon-free DAAs. A sofosbuvir-based regimen was given to 109 recipients that had creatinine clearance (Crcl) of > 30 mL/min/1.73 m². Ritonavir-boosted paritaprevir/ombitasvir was prescribed to five recipients with Crcl < 30 mL/min/1.73 m².

RESULTS

The mean age of the cohort was 45.2 ± 11.2 years; most were male. The mean duration with a transplant was 14.2 ± 3.5 years, with different immunosuppressive regimens, mostly based on calcineurin inhibitors. A rapid virological response (RVR), i.e., clearance of viral load, was achieved in 100% at 4 weeks after starting treatment. All patients had a sustained virological response (SVR) at 12 and 24 weeks posttreatment, with one exception. During DAA therapy serum creatinine increased in 12 patients. In three, this was concomitant with elevated calcineurin inhibitor and sirolimus trough levels. Graft biopsies were performed in 8 of these 12 patients: these revealed an acute rejection in 4 cases (acute cellular rejection grade-1A: n = 2, and grade-1B: n = 2). The rejection episodes occurred at 4-6 weeks after starting treatment.

CONCLUSION

DAAs were highly efficacious and safely treated genotype-4 HCV-infected KTRs and had no significant adverse effects on graft function/survival.

Long-term follow-up of HCV infected kidney transplant recipients receiving direct-acting antiviral agents: a single-center experience in China

Background

Long-term outcome of DAAs therapy in kidney transplant recipients was unknown. Thus, we aimed to evaluate it in a Chinese cohort of HCV-infected kidney transplant recipients.

Methods

Single-center and retrospective study of HCV-infected kidney transplant recipients initiating an DAAs regimen between January 2015 and December 2017 was conducted. Totally 26 KTX recipients were divided into three groups, including KTX-HD Group, DAA-KTX Group and KTX-DAA Group. On-treatment response was defined as target not detected within 12 weeks. SVR 48, 96 were defined as HCV-RNA negativity 48, 96 weeks after treatment cessation, respectively.

Results

HCV genotype was predominantly 1b (80.8%), followed by 2a. All (100%) patients achieved on-treatment response. Time to first TnD was 1.9 ± 0.6 weeks, with no significant difference among the three groups. All patients achieved SVR, with an SVR rate of 100.0% (26/26) among the patients who were followed up over 48 weeks after treatment cessation, and the same SVR rate (24/24) among the patients who were followed up over 96 weeks. Trough levels of Tac remained stable under DAAs therapy, without any dose adjustment. Two patients with abnormal GFR before treatment experienced serum creatinine elevation. Other adverse events included nausea, diarrhea, acid regurgitation, bilirubin elevation and edema of lower limbs. All patients recovered after treatment cessation without reductions in dose, or withdrawal of DAAs or immunosuppressive agents.

Conclusions

HCV genotype 1b and 2a are the only genotypes and 1b is predominant in our center. Antiviral treatment with DAAs in HCV-infected kidney transplant recipients is persistently effective and well tolerated during long-term follow-up. A regular monitoring of renal function in patients who receive DAAs regimens with preexisting impaired renal function is strongly recommended. Furthermore, the trough CNIs levels were recommended to be frequently monitored.

Balancing the risk and rewards of utilizing organs from hepatitis C viremic donors

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Owing to long waitlist times and high waitlist morbidity and mortality, strategies to increase utilization of hepatitis C viremic-deceased donor organs are under investigation in kidney, liver, heart, and lung transplantation.

RECENT FINDINGS

Direct-acting antiviral medications for hepatitis C virus infection have high cure rates and are well tolerated. Small, single-center trials in kidney and heart transplant recipients have demonstrated that with early posttransplant direct-acting antiviral therapy, 100% of uninfected recipients of hepatitis C viremic organs have been cured of infection after transplantation.

SUMMARY

In this manuscript, we review the risks and rewards of utilizing hepatitis C viremic organs for transplantation.

Changes in Utilization and Discard of HCV Antibody-Positive Deceased Donor Kidneys in the Era of Direct-Acting Antiviral Therapy

BACKGROUND

The availability of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy might have impacted use of hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected (HCV+) deceased donor kidneys for transplantation.

METHODS

We used 2005 to 2018 Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients data to identify 18 936 candidates willing to accept HCV+ kidneys and 3348 HCV+ recipients of HCV+ kidneys. We compared willingness to accept, utilization, discard, and posttransplant outcomes associated with HCV+ kidneys between 2 treatment eras (interferon [IFN] era, January 1, 2005 to December 5, 2013 vs DAA era, December 6, 2013 to August 2, 2018). Models were adjusted for candidate, recipient, and donor factors where appropriate.

RESULTS

In the DAA era, candidates were 2.2 times more likely to list as willing to accept HCV+ kidneys (adjusted odds ratio, 2.072.232.41; P < 0.001), and HCV+ recipients were 1.95 times more likely to have received an HCV+ kidney (adjusted odds ratio, 1.761.952.16; P < 0.001). Median Kidney Donor Profile Index of HCV+ kidneys decreased from 77 (interquartile range [IQR], 59-90) in 2005 to 53 (IQR, 40-67) in 2017. Kidney Donor Profile Index of HCV- kidneys remained unchanged from 45 (IQR, 21-74) to 47 (IQR, 24-73). After adjustment, HCV+ kidneys were 3.7 times more likely to be discarded than HCV- kidneys in the DAA era (adjusted relative rate, 3.363.674.02; P < 0.001); an increase from the IFN era (adjusted relative rate, 2.783.023.27; P < 0.001). HCV+ kidney use was concentrated within a subset of centers; 22.5% of centers performed 75% of all HCV+ kidney transplants in the DAA era. Mortality risk associated with HCV+ kidneys remained unchanged (aHR, 1.071.191.32 in both eras).

CONCLUSIONS

Given the elevated risk of death on dialysis facing HCV+ candidates, improving quality of HCV+ kidneys, and DAA availability, broader utilization of HCV+ kidneys is warranted to improve access in this era of organ shortage.

Hepatitis C virus infection in kidney transplantation-changing paradigms with novel agents

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a common cause of increased morbidity and mortality in kidney transplant patients. It is associated with posttransplant glomerulonephritis, chronic allograft nephropathy, and New Onset Diabetes after Transplant (NODAT). In the past, HCV was difficult to treat due to the presence of interferon alpha-based therapies that were difficult to tolerate and were associated with adverse side-effects, such as the risk of rejection. With the advent of oral directly acting antiviral therapies, the landscape for HCV and transplantation has changed. These agents are highly effective and well tolerated with minimal side-effects. Sustained viral response rates in excess of 90% are achieved with most current treatment regimens active against all HCV genotypes. These new agents may show an improvement in graft and patient survival while essentially eliminating the risk of acute rejection from the use of prior interferon-based HCV therapies. These agents may also result in an improvement in organ allocation for HCV donor/HCV recipient transplantation. This review is meant to discuss the epidemiology of HCV, the new oral direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) and future opportunities for research in the field of HCV related transplantation.

Timing of hepatitis C virus infection treatment in kidney transplant candidates

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is prevalent in patients with kidney disease including transplant candidates and recipients. It is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in end-stage renal disease patients and also increases the risk of allograft rejection and decreases allograft and patient survival post-transplant. Newly developed direct acting antivirals have revolutionized the way HCV is treated. Whether patients are treated before or after kidney transplantation, the cure rates with direct acting antivirals are >90%. Great debate has formed revolving the optimal timing to treat kidney transplant candidates. On the one hand, treatment before transplantation decreases early post-transplant complications related to HCV. On the other, postponing treatment until after transplantation opens the possibility of transplanting a kidney from a HCV positive donor, which is associated with shorter waiting time and improved organ utilization by expanding the organ donor pool. Most patients living in an area where waiting time is reduced by accepting an HCV positive kidney would benefit by the strategy of treatment post-transplantation, but this decision needs to be individualized in a patient-by-patient basis given that there are special circumstances (i.e., severe HCV-related extrahepatic manifestations, availability of live donors, etc.) in which treatment before transplant might be preferred.

Transplantation of hepatitis C virus infected kidneys into hepatitis C virus uninfected recipients

Long wait times for kidney transplant and the high risk of mortality on dialysis have prompted investigation into strategies to increase organ allocation and decrease discard rates of potentially viable kidneys. Organs from hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody positive donors are often rejected; nearly 500 HCV-infected kidneys are discarded annually in the United States. Due the opioid epidemic, the number of HCV-infected donors has increased because of a rise in both new HCV infections and drug-related deaths. In the past 5 years, HCV has been transformed into a curable illness with direct-acting antiviral therapies (DAAs) that are effective in >95% of patients treated and are extremely well tolerated. Recent data has shown several direct-acting antiviral combinations are safe and effective after kidney transplant, and can achieve the same high cure rate seen in the general population and without increasing the rate of acute rejection. Because of this, strategies to decrease discard of HCV-infected organs have been devised. Two recent studies have transplanted HCV-uninfected dialysis patients with kidneys from donors actively infected with HCV; recipients were treated with DAA in the peri-transplant period. More research is needed to determine the safety and efficacy of this approach, but it has the potential to dramatically increase the donor pool of available kidneys, shorten waitlist times and ultimately decreases mortality in patients waiting for kidney transplant.

Effectiveness and safety of sofosbuvir-based therapy against chronic hepatitis C infection after successful kidney transplantation

BACKGROUND

Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), including sofosbuvir (SOF), are recommended for treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. However, few studies have investigated the effectiveness and safety of new DAAs in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs).

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness and safety of SOF-based therapy in stable KTRs.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Forty KTRs were treated with SOF-based regimens. Rapid, end-therapeutic, and sustained virologic responses were assessed, as was liver stiffness by elastometry. Safety was monitored by measuring the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), blood hemoglobin (Hb) concentration, proteinuria, and blood trough levels of calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs). Other side effects were also recorded.

RESULTS

The effectiveness of DAAs was 100% at all time points. The therapy did not significantly influence eGFR or proteinuria, but significantly decreased mean blood Hb levels (13.5 ± 2.0 vs 11.6 ± 1.9, respectively, P < 0.001), which required a dose reduction or cessation of ribavirin (RBV) in 50% of patients. A profound, significant decrease in initial CNI concentrations was also observed during treatment in the majority of patients within the first month of therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort of KTRs, the new SOF-based therapies were characterized by 100% effectiveness and good safety profiles. However, in patients co-treated with RBV, close blood Hb monitoring and early RBV dose reduction are necessary. In the majority of KTRs, antiviral therapy leads to a substantial and early decrease in CNIs levels, thus frequent measurement of CNI levels is necessary during SOF-based therapy.

Eradication of HCV Infection with the Direct-Acting Antiviral Therapy in Renal Allograft Recipients

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection unfavorably affects the survival of both renal patients undergoing hemodialysis and renal transplant recipients. In this subset of patients, the effectiveness and safety of different combinations of interferon-free direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) have been analyzed in several small studies. Despite fragmentary, the available data demonstrate that DAA treatment is safe and effective in eradicating HCV infection, with a sustained virologic response (SVR) rates nearly 95% and without an increased risk of allograft rejection. This review article analyzes the results of most published studies on this topic to favor more in-depth knowledge of the readers on the subject. We suggest, however, perseverating in this update as the optimal DAA regimen may not be proposed yet, because of the expected arrival of newer DAAs and of the lack of data from large multicenter randomized controlled trials.

Hepatitis C and kidney transplant: The eradication time of the virus has arrived

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a factor that reduces the survival of the patient and the graft in renal transplant (RT). The availability of directly acting antivirals agents (DAAs), very effective and with an excellent safety profile, it allows eradicate HCV from patients with kidney disease, and this is a revolutionary radical change in the natural evolution of this infection, until now without effective and safe treatment for the contraindication use of interferon in kidney transplant patients. The efficiency of some DAAs for all genotypes, even in patients with renal insufficiency constitutes a huge contribution to eradicate HCV in the RT population independently the genotype, severity of kidney failure, progression of liver disease and previous anti HCV therapy. All this is raising, although with controversies, the possibility of use kidneys from infected HCV+ donors for transplant in uninfected receptors and can be treated successfully in the early post-TR, thus increasing the total "pool" of kidneys for RT.

Non-immunological complications following kidney transplantation

Kidney transplantation (KT) is the most effective way to decrease the high morbidity and mortality of patients with end-stage renal disease. However, KT does not completely reverse the damage done by years of decreased kidney function and dialysis. Furthermore, new offending agents (in particular, immunosuppression) added in the post-transplant period increase the risk of complications. Cardiovascular (CV) disease, the leading cause of death in KT recipients, warrants pre-transplant screening based on risk factors. Nevertheless, the screening methods currently used have many shortcomings and a perfect screening modality does not exist. Risk factor modification in the pre- and post-transplant periods is of paramount importance to decrease the rate of CV complications post-transplant, either by lifestyle modification (for example, diet, exercise, and smoking cessation) or by pharmacological means (for example, statins, anti-hyperglycemics, and so on). Post-transplantation diabetes mellitus (PTDM) is a major contributor to mortality in this patient population. Although tacrolimus is a major contributor to PTDM development, changes in immunosuppression are limited by the higher risk of rejection with other agents. Immunosuppression has also been implicated in higher risk of malignancy; therefore, proper cancer screening is needed. Cancer immunotherapy is drastically changing the way certain types of cancer are treated in the general population; however, its use post-transplant is limited by the risk of allograft rejection. As expected, higher risk of infections is also encountered in transplant recipients. When caring for KT recipients, special attention is needed in screening methods, preventive measures, and treatment of infection with BK virus and cytomegalovirus. Hepatitis C virus infection is common in transplant candidates and in the deceased donor pool; however, newly developed direct-acting antivirals have been proven safe and effective in the pre- and post-transplant periods. The most important and recent developments on complications following KT are reviewed in this article.

Impact of hepatitis C virus and direct acting antivirals on kidney recipients: a retrospective study

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) in kidney transplanted patients (KTx-p) carries a high risk for a worse outcome. This retrospective study evaluates the impact of HCV and of the new direct acting antivirals (DAAs) on patient and graft outcomes in KTx patients. Forty (6.5%) of the 616 KTx-p, who received a kidney transplantation (KTx) in our Centre had antibodies against HCV: 13 were positive for HCV RNA and received DAAs (Group A); 11 were HCV RNA positive and did not receive any treatment (Group B; n = 11); 16 were negative for HCV RNA (Group C). All Group A patients had HCV RNA negativity after 12 weeks of treatment, and 12 (92.30%) achieved a sustained virological response (SVR). Only two patients, who had proteinuria greater than 500 mg/day showed a worsening of proteinuria after antiviral therapy in Group A. Liver enzyme elevation and death were significantly more frequent in Group B than other groups. Our results support the notion that active HCV infection negatively affects kidney recipients and that DAA have a high safety and efficacy profile after KTx with no significant negative effect on allograft function, particularly in well-functioning renal grafts.

Race, Risk, and Willingness of End-Stage Renal Disease Patients Without Hepatitis C Virus to Accept an HCV-Infected Kidney Transplant

BACKGROUND

Despite effective antiviral treatment, hundreds of kidneys from deceased donors with hepatitis C virus (HCV) are discarded annually. Little is known about the determinants of willingness to accept HCV-infected kidneys among HCV-negative patients.

METHODS

At 2 centers, 189 patients undergoing initial or reevaluation for transplant made 12 hypothetical decisions about accepting HCV-infected kidneys in which we systematically varied expected HCV cure rate, allograft quality, and wait time for an uninfected kidney.

RESULTS

Only 29% of the participants would accept an HCV-infected kidney under all scenarios, whereas 53% accepted some offers and rejected others, and 18% rejected all HCV-infected kidneys. Higher cure rate (odds ratio [OR], 3.49; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.33-5.24 for 95% vs 75% probability of HCV cure), younger donor (OR, 2.34; 95% CI, 1.91-2.88 for a 20-year-old vs a 60-year-old hypertensive donor), and longer wait for an uninfected kidney (OR, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.22-1.67 for 5 years vs 2 years) were associated with greater willingness to accept an HCV-infected kidney. Black race modified the effect of HCV cure rate, such that willingness to accept a kidney increased less for blacks versus whites as the cure rate improved. Patients older than 60 years and prior kidney recipients showed greater willingness to accept an HCV-infected organ.

CONCLUSIONS

Most patients will consider an HCV-infected kidney in some situations. Future trials using HCV-infected kidneys may enhance enrollment by targeting older patients and prior transplant recipients, but centers should anticipate that black patients' acceptance of HCV-infected kidneys will be reduced compared with white patients.

Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C Infection Among Egyptian Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Pilot Study

OBJECTIVES

Chronic hepatitis C infection incidence and prevalence are high in Egypt and represent a major health burden. Hepatitis C virus infection can affect graft outcomes in kidney transplant recipients. Treatment of hepatitis C virus infection among this special group was difficult during the interferon era; however, with advances in direct-acting antivirals, treatment outcomes have become more promising.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a pilot, observational, single-center, one arm study that included 50 kidney transplant recipients seen at the Mansoura (Egypt) Urology and Nephrology Center. Patients were consented to receive a sofosbuvir-based regimen as all had creatinine clearance of greater than 30 mL/min/1.73 m2.

RESULTS

All patients achieved rapid virologic responses 4 weeks after starting treatment. Forty-nine of 50 patients achieved 12-week and 24-week sustained viral responses. Six patients had increased serum creatinine levels. Four graft biopsies were performed. Anemia was the most common adverse effect among the patients who were maintained on ribavirin.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of chronic hepatitis C infection has become easier and safe with the advance of new direct-acting antivirals.

Common viral infections in kidney transplant recipients

Infectious complications have been considered as a major cause of morbidity and mortality after kidney transplantation, especially in the Asian population. Therefore, prevention, early detection, and prompt treatment of such infections are crucial in kidney transplant recipients. Among all infectious complications, viruses are considered to be the most common agents because of their abundance, infectivity, and latency ability. Herpes simplex virus, varicella zoster virus, Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, hepatitis B virus, BK polyomavirus, and adenovirus are well-known etiologic agents of viral infections in kidney transplant patients worldwide because of their wide range of distribution. As DNA viruses, they are able to reactivate after affected patients receive immunosuppressive agents. These DNA viruses can cause systemic diseases or allograft dysfunction, especially in the first six months after transplantation. Pretransplant evaluation and immunization as well as appropriate prophylaxis and preemptive approaches after transplant have been established in the guidelines and are used effectively to reduce the incidence of these viral infections. This review will describe the etiology, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of viral infections that commonly affect kidney transplant recipients.

Use of Organs From Hepatitis C Virus-Positive Donors for Uninfected Recipients: A Potential Cost-Effective Approach to Save Lives?

BACKGROUND

Organs from hepatitis C virus (HCV) seropositive (HCVpos) individuals are seldom used for transplantation because of the risk of disease transmission. Because transmitted HCV is now amenable to effective treatment, we estimated the potential impact of using HCVpos deceased donor organs for transplantation.

METHODS

The Potential Donor Audit of patients (<80 years) dying in UK critical care units and the UK Transplant Registry was searched to identify HCVpos potential and proceeding deceased donors. Donor organ quality was assessed using validated donor organ quality indices. Cost analysis was performed by comparing the cumulative cost of direct-acting antivirals with hemodialysis and renal transplantation.

RESULTS

Between 2009 and 2016, 120 patients identified from the Potential Donor Audit were not considered as potential donors because of the presence of HCV. Between 2000 and 2015, 244 HCVpos potential deceased donors were identified from the UK Transplant Registry, and 76 (31%) proceeded to donation, resulting in 63 liver, 27 kidney, and 2 heart transplants. Recipient and graft survival was not adversely impacted by donor HCVpos status. Most (69%) offered organs were declined because of positive virology although their quality was similar to that of other transplanted organs. The additional costs of treating recipients exposed to HCV by receiving a HCVpos kidney was cost-neutral with dialysis 5 years from transplantation.

CONCLUSIONS

HCVpos donors represent a potential source of organs for HCV seronegative recipients as many good quality HCVpos donor organs are not currently used for transplantation. This change in practice may increase access to transplantation without having an adverse effect on transplant outcome.

Management of hepatitis C virus infection in patients with chronic kidney disease: position statement of the joint committee of Italian association for the study of the liver (AISF), Italian society of internal medicine (SIMI), Italian society of infectious and tropical disease (SIMIT) and Italian society of nephrology (SIN)

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is now considered a systemic disease due to the occurrence of extra-hepatic manifestations. Among these, the renal involvement is frequent. HCV infection, in fact, is strongly associated with proteinuria and chronic kidney disease (CKD) and negatively affects the prognosis of renal patients. In the last few years, availability of more specific and effective drugs against HCV has dramatically changed the clinical course of this disease. These drugs may provide further advantages in the CKD population as a whole by reducing progression of renal disease, mortality rate and by increasing the survival of graft in renal transplant recipients. The strict pathogenetic and prognostic link between HCV infection and CKD requires an ongoing relationship among the healthcare professionals involved in the treatment of both HCV infection and CKD. Therefore, Scientific Societies involved in the care of this high-risk population in Italy have organized a joint expert panel. The aim of the panel is to produce a position statement that can be used in daily clinical practice for the management of HCV infected patients across the whole spectrum of renal disease, from the conservative phase to renal replacement treatments (dialysis and transplantation). Sharing specific evidence-based expertise of different professional healthcare is the first step to obtain a common ground of knowledge on which to instate a model for multidisciplinary management of this high-risk population. Statements cover seven areas including epidemiology of CKD, HCV-induced glomerular damage, HCV-related renal risk, staging of liver disease in patients with CKD, prevention of transmission of HCV in hemodialysis units, treatment of HCV infection and management of HCV in kidney transplantation.

Successful treatment of chronic hepatitis C infection with directly acting antivirals in renal transplant recipients

AIMS

The data regarding the treatment of chronic hepatitis C (CHC) in renal transplant recipients is lacking from the Asia-Pacific region. The aim of the present study was to assess the safety and efficacy of directly acting antivirals (DAAs) in the treatment of CHC infection in renal transplant recipients.

METHODS

A total of 47 CHC infected renal transplant recipients were enrolled in this real life observational cohort analysis between March 2015 and September 2016. Presence of hepatic fibrosis/cirrhosis was assessed on transient elastography (Fibroscan). Fourteen patients were treated with Sofosbuvir and Ribavirin for 24 weeks. Twenty-two patients received Sofosbuvir and Ledipasvir and 12 patients received Sofosbuvir and Daclatasvir with (n = 3) or without (n = 31) Ribavirin for 12 or 24 weeks depending on genotype and underlying cirrhosis. Data were analyzed for safety and treatment efficacy [sustained virological response at 12 weeks (SVR12)].

RESULTS

The median baseline HCV RNA concentration in the whole group was 7.38 × 10⁶  IU/mL (1.23 × 10⁴ -6.36 × 10⁷ ). The SVR12 rates were 100% in all groups except in the Sofosbuvir and Ribavirin group (86%). Transient Elastography revealed minimal or no fibrosis (F0-F1) in 31 (65.96%) patients, moderate fibrosis (F2) in 11 (23.4%) patients and cirrhosis in five (10.64%) patients. The only serious adverse effect was anaemia observed in eight (57%) patients in the Sofosbuvir and Ribavirin group.

CONCLUSION

DAAs including Sofosbuvir, Daclatasvir and Ledipasvir with or without ribavirin are safe and effective for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C in renal transplant recipients.

Management of hepatitis C virus infection in patients with chronic kidney disease: position statement of the joint committee of Italian association for the study of the liver (AISF), Italian society of internal medicine (SIMI), Italian society of infectious and tropical disease (SIMIT) and Italian society of nephrology (SIN)

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is now considered a systemic disease due to the occurrence of extra-hepatic manifestations. Among these, the renal involvement is frequent. HCV infection, in fact, is strongly associated with proteinuria and chronic kidney disease (CKD) and negatively affects the prognosis of renal patients. In the last few years, availability of more specific and effective drugs against HCV has dramatically changed the clinical course of this disease. These drugs may provide further advantages in the CKD population as a whole by reducing progression of renal disease, mortality rate and by increasing the survival of graft in renal transplant recipients. The strict pathogenetic and prognostic link between HCV infection and CKD requires an ongoing relationship among the healthcare professionals involved in the treatment of both HCV infection and CKD. Therefore, Scientific Societies involved in the care of this high-risk population in Italy have organized a joint expert panel. The aim of the panel is to produce a position statement that can be used in daily clinical practice for the management of HCV infected patients across the whole spectrum of renal disease, from the conservative phase to renal replacement treatments (dialysis and transplantation). Sharing specific evidence-based expertise of different professional healthcare is the first step to obtain a common ground of knowledge on which to instate a model for multidisciplinary management of this high-risk population. Statements cover seven areas including epidemiology of CKD, HCV-induced glomerular damage, HCV-related renal risk, staging of liver disease in patients with CKD, prevention of transmission of HCV in hemodialysis units, treatment of HCV infection and management of HCV in kidney transplantation.

Cost-effectiveness of using kidneys from hepatitis C nucleic acid test-positive donors for transplantation in hepatitis C-negative recipients

Kidneys from deceased donors who are hepatitis C virus (HCV) nucleic acid test positive are infrequently used for transplantation in HCV-negative patients due to concerns about disease transmission. With the development of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) for HCV, there is now potential to use these kidneys in HCV-negative candidates. However, the high cost of DAAs poses a challenge to adoption of this strategy. We created a Markov model to examine the cost-effectiveness of using deceased donors infected with HCV for kidney transplantation in uninfected waitlist candidates. In the primary analysis, this strategy was cost saving and improved health outcomes compared to remaining on the waitlist for an additional 2 or more years to receive a HCV-negative transplant. The strategy was also cost-effective with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of $56 018 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) from the payer perspective, and $4647 per QALY from the societal perspective, compared to remaining on the waitlist for 1 additional year. The results were consistent in 1-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses. We conclude that the use of kidneys from deceased donors with HCV infection is likely to lead to improved clinical outcomes at reduced cost for HCV-negative transplant candidates.

Clinical outcomes of hepatitis C treatment before and after kidney transplantation and its impact on time to transplant: A multicenter study

Waitlist time for kidney transplantation is long but may be shortened with the utilization of hepatitis C positive allografts. We retrospectively reviewed the course of 36 hepatitis C positive patients awaiting kidney transplantation at 2 large centers within the same health system, with near-identical care delivery models with the exception of timing of hepatitis C treatment, to determine the impact of timing of hepatitis C treatment on access to transplant, waitlist time, and treatment efficacy and tolerability. The majority of patients had hepatitis C genotype 1a or 1b, and all received direct acting antiviral therapy with 100% treatment response. One patient underwent transplantation in the pretransplant treatment group. The 1-year transplantation rate was 12.5% vs 67.9% (P = .0013) in those treated posttransplantation. The median waitlist time in the posttransplant group was 122 (interquartile range [IQR] 21.5, 531.0) days, which was significantly shorter than the center's regional and national wait time. Pathologic review revealed no difference in allograft quality. Overall treatment related adverse events were not different between the 2 groups. A strategy of posttransplant hepatitis C treatment increased access to transplant and reduced waitlist time. Delaying treatment until after transplant did not appear to adversely affect recipients' kidney allograft or overall survival.

Management of hepatitis C virus infection in patients with chronic kidney disease: position statement of the joint committee of Italian association for the study of the liver (AISF), Italian society of internal medicine (SIMI), Italian society of infectious and tropical disease (SIMIT) and Italian society of nephrology (SIN)

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is now considered a systemic disease due to the occurrence of extra-hepatic manifestations. Among these, the renal involvement is frequent. HCV infection, in fact, is strongly associated with proteinuria and chronic kidney disease (CKD) and negatively affects the prognosis of renal patients. In the last few years, availability of more specific and effective drugs against HCV has dramatically changed the clinical course of this disease. These drugs may provide further advantages in the CKD population as a whole by reducing progression of renal disease, mortality rate and by increasing the survival of graft in renal transplant recipients. The strict pathogenetic and prognostic link between HCV infection and CKD requires an ongoing relationship among the healthcare professionals involved in the treatment of both HCV infection and CKD. Therefore, Scientific Societies involved in the care of this high-risk population in Italy have organized a joint expert panel. The aim of the panel is to produce a position statement that can be used in daily clinical practice for the management of HCV infected patients across the whole spectrum of renal disease, from the conservative phase to renal replacement treatments (dialysis and transplantation). Sharing specific evidence-based expertise of different professional healthcare is the first step to obtain a common ground of knowledge on which to instate a model for multidisciplinary management of this high-risk population. Statements cover seven areas including epidemiology of CKD, HCV-induced glomerular damage, HCV-related renal risk, staging of liver disease in patients with CKD, prevention of transmission of HCV in hemodialysis units, treatment of HCV infection and management of HCV in kidney transplantation.

Management of hepatitis C virus infection in patients with chronic kidney disease: position statement of the joint committee of Italian association for the study of the liver (AISF), Italian society of internal medicine (SIMI), Italian society of infectious and tropical disease (SIMIT) and Italian society of nephrology (SIN)

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is now considered a systemic disease due to the occurrence of extra-hepatic manifestations. Among these, the renal involvement is frequent. HCV infection, in fact, is strongly associated with proteinuria and chronic kidney disease (CKD) and negatively affects the prognosis of renal patients. In the last few years, availability of more specific and effective drugs against HCV has dramatically changed the clinical course of this disease. These drugs may provide further advantages in the CKD population as a whole by reducing progression of renal disease, mortality rate and by increasing the survival of graft in renal transplant recipients. The strict pathogenetic and prognostic link between HCV infection and CKD requires an ongoing relationship among the healthcare professionals involved in the treatment of both HCV infection and CKD. Therefore, Scientific Societies involved in the care of this high-risk population in Italy have organized a joint expert panel. The aim of the panel is to produce a position statement that can be used in daily clinical practice for the management of HCV infected patients across the whole spectrum of renal disease, from the conservative phase to renal replacement treatments (dialysis and transplantation). Sharing specific evidence-based expertise of different professional healthcare is the first step to obtain a common ground of knowledge on which to instate a model for multidisciplinary management of this high-risk population. Statements cover seven areas including epidemiology of CKD, HCV-induced glomerular damage, HCV-related renal risk, staging of liver disease in patients with CKD, prevention of transmission of HCV in hemodialysis units, treatment of HCV infection and management of HCV in kidney transplantation.

Eradication of HCV in Renal Transplant Recipients and Its Effects on Quality of Life

Background

The use of direct antiviral agents (DAA) has radically modified the course of HCV hepatitis in renal patients. Aim of this study was to assess the effects of HCV eradication on quality of life (QOL) in renal transplant recipients (RTR), measured by CLDQ and SF-36.

Methods

Sixteen RTR with well preserved GFR (mean: 60.3±19.3 ml/min) and chronic HCV infection with moderate liver stiffness (9.3±1.7 kPa) were given a sofosbuvir-based regimen for 12 weeks and had a 1 year follow-up.

Results

At end of treatment (EOT) a complete viral clearance was observed in all the patients, with normalization of most laboratory data and a consistent reduction in liver stiffness. All these parameters remained stable after 1 year, as well as renal function and proteinuria. Questionnaire data showed consistent amelioration in different “emotional” domains at EOT, which persisted after 1 year and were associated with a globally improved QOL, although there was no change in most of the “physical” domains in both questionnaires. One patient under ribavirin developed an acute anemia and withdrew from the study, but no further adverse episode was observed throughout the study.

Conclusions

Our data, while confirming the efficacy of oral DAA, show that HCV infection represents a heavy psychological burden in renal transplant recipients, greatly alleviated by viral eradication, which determines a significant improvement in QOL that represents an important outcome in management of all transplant recipients. This trial is registered with ISRCTN97560076.

Hepatitis C Virus Eradication in Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Single-Center Experience in Portugal

INTRODUCTION

Hepatitis C (HCV) is a major cause of liver impairment post-kidney transplantation (KT). Anti-HCV direct-acting antivirals (DAA) made viral eradication possible.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of KT patients (n = 23) who received DAA at our hospital. Sustained viral response (SVR) was defined as absence of viral detection 12 weeks after cessation of therapy.

RESULTS

From 1985 to September 2017, 1440 patients underwent transplantation at Hospital Santa Cruz. From a total of 32 HCV RNA+ KT recipients on follow-up, we describe the first 23 patients treated with DAA. They were 56.7 ± 9.1 years old; 22 were white, 52.2% were males, they underwent transplantation 18.8 ± 9.0 years ago, and 13 had genotype 1B, 21 were naïve, and 9 had stages F3/F4. All but 2 patients, treated with grazoprevir/elbasvir, received sofosbuvir (18 with ledispasvir, 2 with daclastavir, and 4 with simultaneous ribavirin). Pretreatment, intra-treatment, and post-treatment creatinine clearances were 61.4, 60.6, and 60.7 mL/min/1.73 m², respectively (not significant [NS]). Cyclosporine A was the basis of immunosuppression in the majority [(n = 14); pretreatment and intra-treatment levels were 79.5 ± 23.0 and 91.8 ± 26.0 ng/mL, respectively (P = .08)]; tacrolimus (n = 8) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) levels (n = 5) were also similar. One patient interrupted ribavirin after 7 weeks due to anemia; all other patients completed the treatment course without major side effects. Only 3 patients presented positive viral RNA at the fourth week of treatment and SVR was achieved in 100% of the patients 12 weeks after treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

DAA therapy was well tolerated and effective in 100% of our treated patients, without significant impact on the renal function or on the immunosuppression.

Impact of anti-HCV direct antiviral agents on graft function and immunosuppressive drug levels in kidney transplant recipients: a call to attention in the mid-term follow-up in a single-center cohort study

The medium-term impact on graft function and immunosuppressive drug pharmacokinetics of direct antiviral agents (DAAs) among hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected kidney transplant (KT) recipients remain unclear. We compared pre- and post-treatment 12-month trajectories of estimated glomerular filtration rate (ΔeGFR) and 24-h proteinuria (Δ24-h proteinuria) in 49 recipients treated with DAAs (mostly sofosbuvir plus ledipasvir). Among evaluable patients, 66.7% and 100.0% had undetectable viral load by week 4 and end of therapy (EoT). The sustained virologic response rate at 12 weeks was 95.8%. Overall, 80.6% of patients receiving tacrolimus required dose escalation while on DAA-based therapy (median increase of 66.7%) to maintain target levels. Tacrolimus levels resulted to be higher at 12 months compared to EoT (7.8 ± 2.1 vs. 6.7 ± 2.0 ng/ml; P-value = 0.002). No changes in graft function during the course of therapy were observed. However, eGFR significantly decreased (P-value <0.001) throughout the first 12 months after EoT. Median ΔeGFR and Δ24-h over pre- and post-treatment periods were 3.9% and -6.1% (P-value = 0.002) and -5.3% and 26.2% (P-value = 0.057). Caution should be exercised when adjusting immunosuppression in HCV-infected KT recipients upon initiation of DAAs, followed by mid-term monitoring of immunosuppressive drug levels and graft function.

Incidence of Acute Kidney Injury in Patients Coinfected with HIV and Hepatitis C Virus Receiving Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate and Ledipasvir/Sofosbuvir in a Real-World, Urban, Ryan White Clinic

Ledipasvir/sofosbuvir (LDV/SOF), an antiviral treatment for hepatitis C virus (HCV), and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), an antiretroviral for treating human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), may be coadministered in patients coinfected with these viruses. A drug interaction between LDV and TDF could increase TDF-associated nephrotoxicity rates; however, there is minimal clinical evidence describing acute kidney injury (AKI) rates in this population. This study was conducted at a Ryan White-funded facility in Atlanta, Georgia, that cares for over 5,000 patients with AIDS. This retrospective cohort used chart review to assess occurrence of and risk factors for AKI in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients receiving LDV/SOF and antiretroviral therapy (ART). AKI rates were compared between TDF-containing and non-TDF-containing ART groups according to Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria. Additional evaluated risk factors for AKI included chronic kidney disease and use of boosted protease inhibitor-based ART. In the 117 included patients, the overall incidence of AKI was 27.3%. AKI occurred more frequently in the non-TDF group (13/86, 15.1% vs. 19/31, 61.3%, p < .001). All AKI was KDIGO stage 1. From multivariable logistic regression, the only independent predictor of AKI was treatment with non-TDF relative to TDF (adjusted odds ratio 6.51, 95% confidence interval 2.34-18.10, p < .001). In this real-world cohort of HIV/HCV-coinfected patients, KDIGO-defined AKI was common, but occurred less frequently in patients receiving TDF-based ART. Our study suggests that patients with normal baseline renal function can be safely treated with TDF and LDV/SOF without significant nephrotoxicity if renal function is closely monitored.

The Mexican consensus on the treatment of hepatitis C

The aim of the Mexican Consensus on the Treatment of HepatitisC was to develop clinical practice guidelines applicable to Mexico. The expert opinion of specialists in the following areas was taken into account: gastroenterology, infectious diseases, and hepatology. A search of the medical literature was carried out on the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL databases through keywords related to hepatitisC treatment. The quality of evidence was subsequently evaluated using the GRADE system and the consensus statements were formulated. The statements were then voted upon, using the modified Delphi system, and reviewed and corrected by a panel of 34 voting participants. Finally, the level of agreement was classified for each statement. The present guidelines provide recommendations with an emphasis on the new direct-acting antivirals, to facilitate their use in clinical practice. Each case must be individualized according to the comorbidities involved and patient management must always be multidisciplinary.

Direct-Acting Antiviral Prophylaxis in Kidney Transplantation From Hepatitis C Virus-Infected Donors to Noninfected Recipients: An Open-Label Nonrandomized Trial

BACKGROUND

Given the high mortality rate for patients with end-stage kidney disease receiving dialysis and the efficacy and safety of hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatments, discarded kidneys from HCV-infected donors may be a neglected public health resource.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the tolerability and feasibility of using direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) as prophylaxis before and after kidney transplantation from HCV-infected donors to non-HCV-infected recipients (that is, HCV D+/R- transplantation).

DESIGN

Open-label nonrandomized trial. (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02781649).

SETTING

Single center.

PARTICIPANTS

10 HCV D+/R- kidney transplant candidates older than 50 years with no available living donors.

INTERVENTION

Transplantation of kidneys from deceased donors aged 13 to 50 years with positive HCV RNA and HCV antibody test results. All recipients received a dose of grazoprevir (GZR), 100 mg, and elbasvir (EBR), 50 mg, immediately before transplantation. Recipients of kidneys from donors with genotype 1 infection continued receiving GZR-EBR for 12 weeks after transplantation; those receiving organs from donors with genotype 2 or 3 infection had sofosbuvir, 400 mg, added to GZR-EBR for 12 weeks of triple therapy.

MEASUREMENTS

The primary safety outcome was the incidence of adverse events related to GZR-EBR treatment. The primary efficacy outcome was the proportion of recipients with an HCV RNA level below the lower limit of quantification 12 weeks after prophylaxis.

RESULTS

Among 10 HCV D+/R- transplant recipients, no treatment-related adverse events occurred, and HCV RNA was not detected in any recipient 12 weeks after treatment.

LIMITATION

Nonrandomized study design and a small number of patients.

CONCLUSION

Pre- and posttransplantation HCV treatment was safe and prevented chronic HCV infection in HCV D+/R- kidney transplant recipients. If confirmed in larger studies, this strategy should markedly expand organ options and reduce mortality for kidney transplant candidates without HCV infection.

PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE

Merck Sharp & Dohme.

Role of Direct Antiviral Agents in Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C Infection in Renal Transplant Recipients

BACKGROUND

Since the introduction of direct antiviral agents (DAAs), morbidity of HCV has considerably decreased but still no guidelines have been formulated in renal transplant recipients (RTRs). We studied efficacy and tolerability of direct antiviral agents in RTRs.

METHODS

This prospective observational study was conducted at Army Hospital Research & Referral, Delhi, from June 2016 to May 2017. Forty-five HCV infected RTRs with stable graft function were included.

RESULTS

Median time between renal transplantation and the start of anti-HCV therapy was 36 months (1-120 months). The majority (66.7%) were infected with genotype 3. Baseline median HCV RNA level was 542648 IU/ml (1189-55028534 IU/ml). Sofosbuvir-Ribavirin combination (24 weeks) was given to 30 patients including 3 cirrhotics, Ledipasvir-Sofosbuvir combination to 8 patients, and Daclatasvir-Sofosbuvir combination to 7 patients, including 2 cirrhotics. Rapid virological response was observed in 29 patients treated with Sofosbuvir/Ribavirin, all 8 patients on Sofosbuvir/Ledipasvir, and all 7 patients on Sofosbuvir/Daclatasvir. End treatment response and sustained virological response (12 weeks) were achieved in all patients irrespective of genotype or treatment regimen. Decrease in mean HCV RNA level and transaminase level was statistically significant (p < 0.01). Ribavirin was significantly associated with anaemia (p = 0.032).

CONCLUSIONS

DAA regimens are well tolerated and highly efficacious. Response to DAA is good irrespective of genotype, drug combination, initial HCV RNA level, age or sex of patient, or graft age. However, Sofosbuvir/Ledipasvir and Sofosbuvir/Daclatasvir combination is preferable.

Effect of the Opioid Crisis on the Donor Pool for Kidney Transplantation: An Analysis of National Kidney Deceased Donor Trends from 2010-2016

BACKGROUND

The opioid crisis has led to a dramatic increase in the number of drug overdose deaths in the United States. Little is known about the effect of the opioid crisis on the kidney transplant donor pool, particularly on hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected donors.

METHODS

This is a retrospective analysis of the data from the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network from 2010 to 2016. We determined the changes in characteristics of kidney transplant donors and evaluated which changes may be directly related to the opioid crisis.

RESULTS

Between 2010 and 2016, we found a 26% increase in overall donors, including a 277% increase in the number of donors who died from drug overdose. Nineteen percent of donors who died of drug overdose had HCV infection. Donors who die from drug overdose and donors with HCV infection are younger, less likely to have diabetes or hypertension, and have favorable kidney donor profile index scores compared to average donors. Despite these favorable characteristics, HCV-infected donors appear to be notably underutilized, with substantially lower kidneys per donor being transplanted compared to HCV uninfected donors.

CONCLUSION

The opioid crisis in the United States has substantially altered the kidney donor pool. Strategies to increase utilization of all potentially viable kidneys for transplant are needed, particularly in this era of new, highly effective, direct-acting antiviral therapy for HCV infection.

Transplant glomerulopathy

In the renal allograft, transplant glomerulopathy represents a morphologic lesion and not a specific diagnosis. The hallmark pathologic feature is glomerular basement membrane reduplication by light microscopy or electron microscopy in the absence of immune complex deposits. Transplant glomerulopathy results from chronic, recurring endothelial cell injury that can be mediated by HLA alloantibodies (donor-specific antibodies), various autoantibodies, cell-mediated immune injury, thrombotic microangiopathy, or chronic hepatitis C. Clinically, transplant glomerulopathy may be silent, detectable on protocol biopsy, or present with overt manifestations, including up to nephrotic range proteinuria, hypertension, and declining glomerular filtration rate. In either case, transplant glomerulopathy is associated with reduced graft survival. This review details the morphologic features of transplant glomerulopathy found on light microscopy, immunofluorescence microscopy, and electron microscopy. The pathophysiology of the causes and risk factors are discussed. Clinical manifestations are emphasized and potential therapeutic modalities are examined.

Direct-acting antiviral therapy for hepatitis C virus infection in the kidney transplant recipient

Hepatitis C virus infection (HCV) is a common comorbidity in patients who have undergone kidney transplantation and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality compared with recipients who do not have chronic HCV infection. Because interferon-α-based therapies can precipitate acute rejection, they are relatively contraindicated after kidney transplantation. Thus, the majority of kidney transplant recipients with HCV remain untreated. There are now all-oral, interferon-free direct-acting antiviral therapies for HCV infection that are extremely effective and well tolerated in the general population. Recent reports in the literature demonstrate that direct-acting antiviral therapies effectively cured HCV in 406 of 418 kidney transplant recipients (97%); the majority were treated with sofosbuvir-based regimens. Smaller numbers of kidney transplant recipients have been treated with paritaprevir-ritonavir, ombitasvir and dasabuvir, elbasvir-grazoprevir, or glecaprevir-pibrentasvir with excellent success. Direct-acting antiviral therapies were well tolerated and did not increase the rate of acute rejection. The latest advances include approval of regimens that can treat patients with advanced allograft dysfunction (eGFR < 30 ml/min per 1.73 m²) and "pan-genotypic" regimens that have activity against all 6 major genotypes of HCV. This review summarizes what is known about the epidemiology of HCV infection in kidney transplant recipients, and presents the landscape of direct-acting antiviral therapies and areas in need of further investigation.

Expert opinion on the management of renal manifestations of chronic HCV infection

Chronic HCV infection is a non-traditional (but modifiable) risk factor for chronic kidney disease and has been implicated in glomerular injury and nephrosclerotic disease. Three HCV direct-acting antiviral regimens are available for patients with severe kidney impairment: ombitasvir, paritaprevir with the pharmacokinetic enhancer ritonavir, and dasabuvir; glecaprevir plus pibrentasvir; and elbasvir plus grazoprevir. In patients with severe kidney impairment, sofosbuvir-free regimens are preferred because sofosbuvir accumulation has been associated with a progressive worsening of renal function. In this Review, we provide our expert opinion on the current HCV treatment paradigm and highlight the remaining issues that need to be overcome to improve the treatment of HCV in this population.