1
|
Kanda T, Li TC, Takahashi M, Nagashima S, Primadharsini PP, Kunita S, Sasaki-Tanaka R, Inoue J, Tsuchiya A, Nakamoto S, Abe R, Fujiwara K, Yokosuka O, Suzuki R, Ishii K, Yotsuyanagi H, Okamoto H. Recent advances in hepatitis E virus research and the Japanese clinical practice guidelines for hepatitis E virus infection. Hepatol Res 2024; 54:1-30. [PMID: 38874115 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.14062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Acute hepatitis E was considered rare until reports emerged affirming the existence of hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotypes 3 and 4 infections in Japan in the early 2000s. Extensive studies by Japanese researchers have highlighted the pivotal role of pigs and wild animals, such as wild boars and deer, as reservoirs for HEV, linking them to zoonotic infections in Japan. Currently, when hepatitis occurs subsequent to the consumption of undercooked or grilled pork, wild boar meat, or offal (including pig liver and intestines), HEV infection should be considered. Following the approval of anti-HEV immunoglobulin A antibody as a diagnostic tool for hepatitis E by Japan's Health Insurance System in 2011, the annual number of diagnosed cases of HEV infection has surged. Notably, the occurrence of post-transfusion hepatitis E promoted nationwide screening of blood products for HEV using nucleic acid amplification tests since 2020. Furthermore, chronic hepatitis E has been observed in immunosuppressed individuals. Considering the significance of hepatitis E, heightened preventive measures are essential. The Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development Hepatitis A and E viruses (HAV and HEV) Study Group, which includes special virologists and hepatologists, held a virtual meeting on February 17, 2024. Discussions encompassed pathogenesis, transmission routes, diagnosis, complications, severity factors, and ongoing and prospective vaccination or treatments for hepatitis E. Rigorous assessment of referenced studies culminated in the formulation of recommendations, which are detailed within this review. This comprehensive review presents recent advancements in HEV research and Japanese clinical practice guidelines for HEV infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuo Kanda
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Uonuma Institute of Community Medicine, Niigata University Medical and Dental Hospital, Minamiuonuma, Japan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Tian-Cheng Li
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaharu Takahashi
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Shigeo Nagashima
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Putu Prathiwi Primadharsini
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kunita
- Center for Experimental Medicine, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Reina Sasaki-Tanaka
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Jun Inoue
- Division of Gastroenterology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Atsunori Tsuchiya
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Shingo Nakamoto
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chuo-ku, Chiba, Japan
| | - Ryuzo Abe
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Oita University, Oita, Japan
| | - Keiichi Fujiwara
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chuo-ku, Chiba, Japan
| | - Osamu Yokosuka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chuo-ku, Chiba, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Suzuki
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koji Ishii
- Department of Quality Assurance and Radiological Protection, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yotsuyanagi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Advanced Clinical Research Center, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Applied Immunology, Hospital of the Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Okamoto
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Bhatti TK, Singal AK, Kwo PY. Viral Hepatitis and Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure. Clin Liver Dis 2023; 27:617-630. [PMID: 37380286 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2023.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a potentially reversible syndrome that develops in patients with cirrhosis or with underlying chronic liver disease (CLD) and is characterized by acute decompensation, organ failure, and high short-term mortality. Hepatitis A and hepatitis E are major causes of ACLF. Hepatitis B may also cause ACLF through a flare of hepatitis B, acute infection, or reactivation. Besides supportive care, nucleoside/nucleotide analog therapy should also be initiated in this setting. Nonhepatotropic viruses may rarely also cause ACLF with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 virus recently being identified with poorer outcomes in those with underlying CLD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ashwani K Singal
- University of SD Sanford School of Medicine, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - Paul Y Kwo
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Marginean CM, Pirscoveanu D, Popescu M, Vasile CM, Docea AO, Mitruț R, Mărginean IC, Iacob GA, Firu DM, Mitruț P. Challenges in Diagnosis and Therapeutic Approach of Acute on Chronic Liver Failure-A Review of Current Evidence. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1840. [PMID: 37509478 PMCID: PMC10376368 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11071840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a syndrome characterized by acute and severe decompensation of chronic liver disease (CLD) correlated with multiple organ failure, poor prognosis, and increased mortality. In 40-50% of ACLF cases, the trigger is not recognized; for many of these patients, bacterial translocation associated with systemic inflammation is thought to be the determining factor; in the other 50% of patients, sepsis, alcohol consumption, and reactivation of chronic viral hepatitis are the most frequently described trigger factors. Other conditions considered precipitating factors are less common, including acute alcoholic hepatitis, major surgery, TIPS insertion, or inadequate paracentesis without albumin substitution. Host response is likely the primary factor predicting ACLF severity and prognosis, the host immune response having a particular significance in this syndrome, together with the inflammatory cascade. The management of ACLF includes both the prevention of the precipitating factors that lead to acute liver decompensation and the support of vital functions, the prevention and management of complications, the estimation of prognosis, and the opportunity for liver transplantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Maria Marginean
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Denisa Pirscoveanu
- Department of Neurology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Mihaela Popescu
- Department of Endocrinology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Corina Maria Vasile
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, "Marie Curie" Emergency Children's Hospital, 041451 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Anca Oana Docea
- Department of Toxicology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Radu Mitruț
- Department of Cardiology, University and Emergency Hospital, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - George Alexandru Iacob
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Dan Mihai Firu
- Ph.D. School Department, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Paul Mitruț
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
MADUREIRA S, SOARES N, LINO R, ALMEIDA C, CEIA F, SILVA-PINTO A, ALBUQUERQUE I, ALMEIDA J. Ribavirin for severe acute hepatitis E virus infection. GAZZETTA MEDICA ITALIANA ARCHIVIO PER LE SCIENZE MEDICHE 2022. [DOI: 10.23736/s0393-3660.21.04605-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
5
|
Kovvuru K, Carbajal N, Pakanati AR, Thongprayoon C, Hansrivijit P, Boonpheng B, Pattharanitima P, Nissaisorakarn V, Cheungpasitporn W, Kanduri SR. Renal manifestations of hepatitis E among immunocompetent and solid organ transplant recipients. World J Hepatol 2022; 14:516-524. [PMID: 35582296 PMCID: PMC9055200 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v14.i3.516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections are generally self-limited. Rare cases of hepatitis E induced fulminant liver failure requiring liver transplantation are reported in the literature. Even though HEV infection is generally encountered among developing countries, a recent uptrend is reported in developed countries. Consumption of unprocessed meat and zoonosis are considered to be the likely transmission modalities in developed countries. Renal involvement of HEV generally holds a benign and self-limited course. Although rare cases of cryoglobulinemia are reported in immunocompetent patients, glomerular manifestations of HEV infection are frequently encountered in immunocompromised and solid organ transplant recipients. The spectrum of renal manifestations of HEV infection include pre-renal failure, glomerular disorders, tubular and interstitial injury. Kidney biopsy is the gold standard diagnostic test that confirms the pattern of injury. Management predominantly includes conservative approach. Reduction of immunosuppressive medications and ribavirin (for 3-6 mo) is considered among patients with solid organ transplants. Here we review the clinical course, pathogenesis, renal manifestations, and management of HEV among immunocompetent and solid organ transplant recipients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karthik Kovvuru
- Department of Medicine, Ochsner Clinic Foundation, New Orleans, LA 70121, United States
| | - Nicholas Carbajal
- Department of Medicine, Ochsner Clinic Foundation, New Orleans, LA 70121, United States
| | | | - Charat Thongprayoon
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Panupong Hansrivijit
- Department of Internal Medicine, UPMC Pinnacle, Harrisburg, PA 17104, United States
| | - Boonphiphop Boonpheng
- Department of Nephrology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
| | - Pattharawin Pattharanitima
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Thammasat University, Pathum Thani 12121, Thailand
| | - Voravech Nissaisorakarn
- Department of Internal Medicine, MetroWest Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 01760, United States
| | | | - Swetha R Kanduri
- Department of Medicine, Ochsner Clinic Foundation, New Orleans, LA 70121, United States
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Klöhn M, Schrader JA, Brüggemann Y, Todt D, Steinmann E. Beyond the Usual Suspects: Hepatitis E Virus and Its Implications in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5867. [PMID: 34831021 PMCID: PMC8616277 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus infections are the leading cause of viral hepatitis in humans, contributing to an estimated 3.3 million symptomatic cases and almost 44,000 deaths annually. Recently, HEV infections have been found to result in chronic liver infection and cirrhosis in severely immunocompromised patients, suggesting the possibility of HEV-induced hepatocarcinogenesis. While HEV-associated formation of HCC has rarely been reported, the expansion of HEV's clinical spectrum and the increasing evidence of chronic HEV infections raise questions about the connection between HEV and HCC. The present review summarizes current clinical evidence of the relationship between HEV and HCC and discusses mechanisms of virus-induced HCC development with regard to HEV pathogenesis. We further elucidate why the development of HEV-induced hepatocellular carcinoma has so rarely been observed and provide an outlook on possible experimental set-ups to study the relationship between HEV and HCC formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mara Klöhn
- Department of Molecular and Medical Virology, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, 44801 Bochum, Germany; (M.K.); (J.A.S.); (Y.B.); (D.T.)
| | - Jil Alexandra Schrader
- Department of Molecular and Medical Virology, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, 44801 Bochum, Germany; (M.K.); (J.A.S.); (Y.B.); (D.T.)
| | - Yannick Brüggemann
- Department of Molecular and Medical Virology, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, 44801 Bochum, Germany; (M.K.); (J.A.S.); (Y.B.); (D.T.)
| | - Daniel Todt
- Department of Molecular and Medical Virology, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, 44801 Bochum, Germany; (M.K.); (J.A.S.); (Y.B.); (D.T.)
- European Virus Bioinformatics Center (EVBC), 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Eike Steinmann
- Department of Molecular and Medical Virology, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, 44801 Bochum, Germany; (M.K.); (J.A.S.); (Y.B.); (D.T.)
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), External Partner Site, 44801 Bochum, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ji H, Chen S, He Q, Wang W, Gong S, Qian Z, Zhang Y, Wei D, Yu W, Huang F. The different replication between nonenveloped and quasi-enveloped hepatitis E virus. J Med Virol 2021; 93:6267-6277. [PMID: 34076903 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.27121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the major pathogen of viral hepatitis. However, the understanding of the HEV life cycle is limited. In the present study, cells were separately infected with nonenveloped HEV (derived from feces or bile) or quasi-enveloped HEV (derived from the cell culture after serial passages, eHEV) and observed by confocal fluorescence microscopy to investigate the life cycle of HEV. HEV finished its binding and entry into host cells at first 6 h postinoculation (hpi). Cells inoculated with eHEV showed less infectivity than cells inoculated with nonenveloped HEV. Newly synthesized progeny virions were released into the supernatant of cell cultures from 48 hpi. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot analysis results showed that the supernatant's progeny viruses were infectious even after five serial passages. These results show the significant difference between nonenveloped HEV and eHEV, which will provide novel insights into the HEV replication cycle. The efficient cell culture of HEV will promote the development of anti-HEV drugs and vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanbin Ji
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Shuangfeng Chen
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Qiuxia He
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Shilin Gong
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Zhongyao Qian
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Yike Zhang
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Daqiao Wei
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Wenhai Yu
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, PR China
| | - Fen Huang
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China.,Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Kunming, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kar P, Karna R. A Review of the Diagnosis and Management of Hepatitis E. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2020; 12:310-320. [PMID: 32837339 PMCID: PMC7366488 DOI: 10.1007/s40506-020-00235-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of review We aim to provide the readers an up-to-date knowledge of the structure, epidemiology, and transmission followed by a detailed discussion on testing, diagnostics and management of hepatitis E virus infection. We have also included a comprehensive review of hepatitis E in pregnancy. Recent findings European Association for the Study of the Liver established clinical practice guidelines for testing and treatment of suspected hepatitis E virus infections in 2018. Evidence suggests chronic hepatitis E may follow a course similar to hepatitis B/C with progression to cirrhosis and possibly hepatocellular carcinoma in immunocompromised patients. Summary Hepatitis E virus is the most common cause of acute viral hepatitis worldwide. A combination of serology and nucleic acid amplification testing is the recommended strategy for suspected patients. Ribavirin therapy for a period of 3 months is the drug of choice for severe acute hepatitis, acute-on chronic liver failure, and chronic infections from hepatitis E virus in immunocompromised patients who are unresponsive to decreased immunosuppression. PEGylated interferon α can be used for ribavirin-resistant liver transplant patients with chronic hepatitis E. Further research in therapeutic options is essential considering the stormy course of hepatitis E infection during pregnancy and teratogenicity of all available options.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P. Kar
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Max Super Specialty Hospital,Ghaziabad, Delhi, New Delhi 110017 India
| | - R. Karna
- Maulana Azad Medical College & Lok Nayak Hospital, Bahadurshah Zafar Road, New Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kumar M, Hooda P, Khanna M, Patel U, Sehgal D. Development of BacMam Induced Hepatitis E Virus Replication Model in Hepatoma Cells to Study the Polyprotein Processing. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:1347. [PMID: 32625196 PMCID: PMC7315041 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.01347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The processing of polyprotein(s) to form structural and non-structural components remains an enigma due to the non-existence of an efficient and robust Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) culture system. We used the BacMam approach to construct an HEV replication model in which the HEV genome was cloned in the BacMam vector under the CMV promoter. The recombinant BacMam was used to infect Huh7 cells to transfer the HEV genome. HEV replication was authenticated by the presence of RNAs of both the polarity (+) and (-) and formation of hybrid RNA, a replication intermediate. The presence of genes for Papain-like Cysteine Protease (PCP), methyltransferase (MeT), RNA dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), and ORF2 was confirmed by PCR amplification. Further, the infectious nature of the culture system was established as evidenced by the cross-infection of uninfected cells using the cell lysate from the infected cells. The HEV replication model was validated by detection of the ORF1 (Open Reading Frame1) encoded proteins, identified by Western blotting and Immunofluorescence by using epitope-specific antibodies against each protein. Consequently, discrete bands of 18, 35, 37, and 56 kDa corresponding to PCP, MeT, RdRp, and ORF2, respectively, were seen. Besides demonstrating the presence of non-structural enzymes of HEV along with ORF2, activity of a key enzyme, HEV-methyltransferase has also been observed. A 20% decrease in the replicative forms of RNA could be seen in presence of 100 μM Ribavirin after 48 h of treatment. The inhibition gradually increased from 0 to 24 to 48 h post-treatment. Summarily, infectious HEV culture system has been established, which could demonstrate the presence of HEV replicative RNA forms, the structural and non-structural proteins and the methyltransferase in its active form. The system may also be used to study the mechanism of action of Ribavirin in inhibiting HEV replication and develop a therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manjeet Kumar
- Virology Laboratory, Department of Life Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Preeti Hooda
- Virology Laboratory, Department of Life Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Madhu Khanna
- Virology Lab, Department of Virology, Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Utkarsh Patel
- Virology Laboratory, Department of Life Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Deepak Sehgal
- Virology Laboratory, Department of Life Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Greater Noida, India
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Istrate A, Rădulescu AL. A comparison of hepatitis E and A in a teaching hospital in Northwestern Romania. Acute hepatitis E - a mild disease? Med Pharm Rep 2020; 93:30-38. [PMID: 32133444 PMCID: PMC7051815 DOI: 10.15386/mpr-1487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims The incidence of locally acquired hepatitis E has increased in recent years across Europe. There are only few data on hepatitis E in Romania. The purpose of our research was to describe and compare hepatitis E and hepatitis A in adult patients. Methods We included all consecutive adult patients with hepatitis E and hepatitis A admitted to the Teaching Hospital of Infectious Diseases, Cluj-Napoca, Romania between January 2017 and August 2019. Results Hepatitis E incidence increased in 2018–2019 compared to 2017. The average age in hepatitis E (n=48) patients was 50.6 versus 39.1 years in hepatitis A (n=152, not including 262 minors) and two-thirds of the patients in both groups were men. Compared to hepatitis A, patients with hepatitis E presented significantly less modified AST and ALT, bilirubin, prothrombin index and INR levels. We found more comorbidities in hepatitis E patients adjusted for age and gender. Severe forms were found in 5 (3.3%) hepatitis A patients, compared to 12 (25%) of hepatitis E patients, of which 3 died. Ribavirin treatment was considered in 9 patients with acute-on-chronic hepatitis E, immunosuppression, cancers or neurological manifestations, showing good results. Conclusions We observed an increased number of hepatitis E cases. Although laboratory results were less modified compared to hepatitis A, we found a higher number of severe hepatitis E cases. Ribavirin treatment seems to be beneficial in patients with preexisting conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandru Istrate
- Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,Department of Epidemiology, Clinical Hospital of Infectious Diseases, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Amanda Lelia Rădulescu
- Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,Department of Epidemiology, Clinical Hospital of Infectious Diseases, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Horvatits T, Schulze Zur Wiesch J, Lütgehetmann M, Lohse AW, Pischke S. The Clinical Perspective on Hepatitis E. Viruses 2019; 11:E617. [PMID: 31284447 PMCID: PMC6669652 DOI: 10.3390/v11070617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Every year, there are an estimated 20 million hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections worldwide, leading to an estimated 3.3 million symptomatic cases of hepatitis E. HEV is largely circulating in the west and is associated with several hepatic and extrahepatic diseases. HEV Genotype 1 and 2 infections are waterborne and causative for epidemics in the tropics, while genotype 3 and 4 infections are zoonotic diseases and are mainly transmitted by ingestion of undercooked pork in industrialized nations. The clinical course of these infections differs: genotype 1 and 2 infection can cause acute illness and can lead to acute liver failure (ALF) or acute on chronic liver failure (ACLF) with a high mortality rate of 20% in pregnant women. In contrast, the majority of HEV GT-3 and -4 infections have a clinically asymptomatic course and only rarely lead to acute on chronic liver failure in elderly or patients with underlying liver disease. Immunosuppressed individuals infected with genotype 3 or 4 may develop chronic hepatitis E, which then can lead to life-threatening cirrhosis. Furthermore, several extra-hepatic manifestations affecting various organs have been associated with ongoing or previous HEV infections but the causal link for many of them still needs to be proven. There is no approved specific therapy for the treatment of acute or chronic HEV GT-3 or -4 infections but off-label use of ribavirin has been demonstrated to be safe and effective in the majority of patients. However, in approximately 15% of chronically HEV infected patients, cure is not possible.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Horvatits
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 22527 Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel and Heidelberg Partner sites, 22527 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Julian Schulze Zur Wiesch
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 22527 Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel and Heidelberg Partner sites, 22527 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marc Lütgehetmann
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel and Heidelberg Partner sites, 22527 Hamburg, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 22527 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ansgar W Lohse
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 22527 Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel and Heidelberg Partner sites, 22527 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sven Pischke
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 22527 Hamburg, Germany.
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel and Heidelberg Partner sites, 22527 Hamburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kamar N, Pischke S. Acute and Persistent Hepatitis E Virus Genotype 3 and 4 Infection: Clinical Features, Pathogenesis, and Treatment. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2019; 9:cshperspect.a031872. [PMID: 29735575 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a031872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotype (gt)3 and 4 infections are prevalent in industrialized and high-income countries. Although most HEV gt3 and gt4 infections are clinically silent, acute infection may be symptomatic in some patients. In persons with underlying liver disease and in elderly men, HEV infections may present as acute or acute-on-chronic liver failure. Chronic hepatitis may develop in immunosuppressed individuals, including transplant recipients, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients, and persons with hematologic malignancy undergoing chemotherapy, and may progress to life-threatening liver cirrhosis. Extrahepatic manifestations of infection may include neurological and renal disease. Although there is no approved specific therapy for the treatment of acute or chronic HEV gt3 or gt4 infection, off-label use of ribavirin appears to be capable of eliminating chronic HEV infection, and may reduce disease severity in patients suffering from acute liver failure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nassim Kamar
- Department of Nephrology and Organ Transplantation, Université Paul Sabatier, Toulouse 31059, France
| | - Sven Pischke
- Department of Medicine I, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20251, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Pathogenic mechanisms and current epidemiological status of HEV infection in asymptomatic blood donors and patients with chronic diseases. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2019; 38:1203-1209. [DOI: 10.1007/s10096-019-03534-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
|
14
|
Webb GW, Dalton HR. Hepatitis E: an underestimated emerging threat. Ther Adv Infect Dis 2019; 6:2049936119837162. [PMID: 30984394 PMCID: PMC6448100 DOI: 10.1177/2049936119837162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the most common cause of viral hepatitis in the world. It is estimated that millions of people are infected every year, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths. However, these estimates do not include industrialized regions and are based on studies which employ assays now known to have inferior sensitivity. As such, this is likely to represent a massive underestimate of the true global burden of disease. In the developing world, HEV causes large outbreaks and presents a significant public-health problem. Until recently HEV was thought to be uncommon in industrialized countries, and of little relevance to clinicians in these settings. We now know that this is incorrect, and that HEV is actually very common in developed regions. HEV has proved difficult to study in vitro, with reliable models only recently becoming available. Our understanding of the lifecycle of HEV is therefore incomplete. Routes of transmission vary by genotype and location: endemic regions experience large waterborne epidemics, while sporadic cases in industrialized regions are zoonotic infections likely spread via the food chain. Both acute and chronic infection has been observed, and a wide range of extrahepatic manifestations have been reported. This includes neurological, haematological and renal conditions. As the complete clinical phenotype of HEV infection is yet to be characterized, a large proportion of cases go unrecognized or misdiagnosed. In many cases HEV infection does not feature in the differential diagnosis due to a lack of knowledge and awareness of the disease amongst clinicians. In combination, these factors have contributed to an underestimation of the threat posed by HEV. Improvements are required in terms of recognition and diagnosis of HEV infection if we are to understand the natural history of the disease, improve management and reduce the burden of disease around the world.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Glynn W. Webb
- University of Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, 7 Radnor Rd London NW6 6TT Manchester, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
An Update on the Clinicopathologic Features and Pathologic Diagnosis of Hepatitis E in Liver Specimens. Adv Anat Pathol 2018; 25:273-281. [PMID: 29697415 DOI: 10.1097/pap.0000000000000195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Infection with the hepatitis E virus (HEV) is globally seen a leading cause of hepatitis. Now increasingly recognized also in industrialized countries, hepatitis E constitutes a significant health problem worldwide. The patient's immune status determines the clinical course and histopathology of hepatitis E. In immunocompetent patients, hepatitis E usually follows an asymptomatic or subclinical course, but may also present with acute hepatitis. In contrast, immunocompromised patients may develop chronic hepatitis, and patients with preexisting liver diseases are at risk for liver decompensation with potentially fatal outcome. Whereas pathologists only occasionally encounter liver biopsies from immunocompetent individuals with hepatitis E, they are more likely exposed to biopsies from patients with preexisting liver disease or immunocompromised individuals. Histopathologic hallmarks of hepatitis E in immunocompetent patients comprise lobular disarray, lobular, and portal inflammation, as well as hepatocyte necrosis of varying extend and regeneration. Thus, it is similar to acute non-E viral hepatitis, yet further differential diagnoses include autoimmune hepatitis and drug-induced liver injury. Histopathologic findings of hepatitis E in preexisting liver disease are determined by the underlying pathology, but may be more severe. Histopathologic presentation of hepatitis E in immunocompromised patients is highly variable, ranging from minimal active hepatitis to chronic hepatitis with severe activity and progressive fibrosis. Taken together, the variability of the histologic features depending on the clinical context and the overlap with other liver diseases make the histopathologic diagnosis of hepatitis E challenging. Immunohistochemistry for HEV open reading frame 2 protein and molecular testing for HEV RNA are useful tissue-based ancillary tools.
Collapse
|
16
|
Steve RJ, Gnanadurai FJ, Anantharam R, Jeyaseelan V, Zachariah UG, Goel A, Chundamannil EE, Abraham P. Expanded Diagnostic Approach to Hepatitis E Virus Detection in Patients with Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure: A Pilot Study. Indian J Med Microbiol 2018; 36:391-396. [DOI: 10.4103/ijmm.ijmm_18_35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
|
17
|
Gupta E, Agarwala P. Hepatitis E Virus Infection: An Old Virus with a New Story! Indian J Med Microbiol 2018; 36:317-323. [DOI: 10.4103/ijmm.ijmm_18_149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
18
|
De Winter BCM, Hesselink DA, Kamar N. Dosing ribavirin in hepatitis E-infected solid organ transplant recipients. Pharmacol Res 2018; 130:308-315. [PMID: 29499270 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.02.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2017] [Revised: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the most common cause of viral hepatitis worldwide. Genotypes 1 and 2 (GT1 and GT2) are mainly present in developing countries, while GT3 and GT4 are prevalent in developed and high-income countries. In the majority of cases, HEV causes a self-limiting hepatitis. GT3 and GT4 can be responsible for a chronic hepatitis that can lead to cirrhosis in immunocompromized patients, i.e. solid-organ- and stem-cell-transplant-patients, human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients, and patients receiving chemotherapy or immunotherapy. HEV has also been associated with extra-hepatic manifestations such as neurologic disorders (Guillain-Barré Syndrome and neuralgic amyotrophy) and kidney disease. In patients with chronic hepatitis, reduction of immunosuppression, when possible, is the first therapeutic option. In the remaining patients, ribavirin therapy has been shown to very efficient for treating HEV infection leading to a sustained virological response in nearly 80-85% of patients. However, the mechanism of action of ribavirin in this setting is still unknown, as is the impact of HEV RNA polymerase mutations. There are unmet needs with regard to the treatment of chronic HEV with ribavirin. These include the optimal dosing and duration of treatment, and the potential beneficial effects of therapeutic drug monitoring on the virological response and the incidence of side effects. In the present review, we will provide an overview of HEV epidemiology, its mode of transmission and clinical manifestations, as well as its treatment by ribavirin with a focus on the drug's pharmacokinetics and dosing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brenda C M De Winter
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dennis A Hesselink
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Rotterdam Transplant Group, Division of Nephrology and Organ Transplantation, CHU Rangueil, INSERM U1043, IFR-BMT, Université Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France
| | - Nassim Kamar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Organ Transplantation, CHU Rangueil, INSERM U1043, IFR-BMT, Université Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection can lead to acute and chronic hepatitis as well as to extrahepatic manifestations such as neurological and renal disease; it is the most common cause of acute viral hepatitis worldwide. Four genotypes are responsible for most infection in humans, of which HEV genotypes 1 and 2 are obligate human pathogens and HEV genotypes 3 and 4 are mostly zoonotic. Until quite recently, HEV was considered to be mainly responsible for epidemics of acute hepatitis in developing regions owing to contamination of drinking water supplies with human faeces. However, HEV is increasingly being recognized as endemic in some developed regions. In this setting, infections occur through zoonotic transmission or contaminated blood products and can cause chronic hepatitis in immunocompromised individuals. HEV infections can be diagnosed by measuring anti-HEV antibodies, HEV RNA or viral capsid antigen in blood or stool. Although an effective HEV vaccine exists, it is only licensed for use in China. Acute hepatitis E is usually self-limiting and does not require specific treatment. Management of immunocompromised individuals involves lowering the dose of immunosuppressive drugs and/or treatment with the antiviral agent ribavirin.
Collapse
|
20
|
|
21
|
Ankcorn MJ, Tedder RS. Hepatitis E: the current state of play. Transfus Med 2017; 27:84-95. [PMID: 28382704 DOI: 10.1111/tme.12405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2016] [Revised: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a major cause of acute hepatitis globally. Genotypes 1 and 2 (G1 and G2) are obligate human pathogens transmitted faeco-orally, leading to epidemics in developing countries. In contrast, genotypes 3 and 4 (G3 and G4) have a wider host range, including humans, but are primarily porcine viruses and are transmitted from animals to humans as a food-borne zoonosis when meat from an infected animal is consumed. HEV is increasingly recognised as a problem in developed countries, including countries in Europe. G3 HEV is now the most common cause of acute viral hepatitis in the UK and cases continue to rise. The majority of these infections are acquired within the UK and thought to be from insufficiently cooked meat, predominantly processed pork meat. Previously thought to only cause self-limiting disease, HEV infection can persist in immunosuppressed patients, which may lead to chronic hepatitis and the rapid development of cirrhosis. Of particular interest to the transfusion community has been the possibility of transfusion-transmitted HEV, which has been reported from countries classically considered HEV-endemic but also non-endemic countries in Europe and Japan. This has prompted some countries to introduce screening for HEV in blood donations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M J Ankcorn
- Blood Borne Virus Unit, Virus Reference Department, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK.,Transfusion Microbiology, National Health Service Blood and Transplant, London, UK
| | - R S Tedder
- Blood Borne Virus Unit, Virus Reference Department, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK.,Transfusion Microbiology, National Health Service Blood and Transplant, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Shrestha A, P Gupta B, K Lama T. Current Treatment of Acute and Chronic Hepatitis E Virus Infection: Role of Antivirals. Euroasian J Hepatogastroenterol 2017; 7:73-77. [PMID: 29201777 PMCID: PMC5663779 DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-10018-1216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2016] [Accepted: 11/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection results in nearly 20 million new infections, resulting in 70,000 deaths globally each year. Previously thought as a disease limited to developing nations with poor sanitation and hygiene, it is increasingly recognized that even the most developed nations are not spared. A clear dichotomy in epidemiology of HEV is noted between developing and industrialized nations. The HEV genotypes 1 and 2 are common in Asia and Africa and are transmitted mainly by contaminated drinking water. Sporadic as well as large-scale epidemics of acute hepatitis have been noted with HEV genotype 1 infection in developing countries of Asia and Africa. On the contrary, HEV genotypes 3 and 4 are common in industrialized nations and unlike genotypes 1 and 2, they are transmitted by consumption of raw meat products, fruits, and blood transfusion. Large epidemics have not been reported with HEV genotypes 3 and 4 and manifestation is usually indolent, though severe acute hepatitis has been reported. How to cite this article: Shrestha A, Gupta BP, Lama TK. Current Treatment of Acute and Chronic Hepatitis E Virus Infection: Role of Antivirals. Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2017;7(1):73-77.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Birendra P Gupta
- Central Department of Biotechnology, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
van der Eijk AA, Pas SD, de Man RA. Hepatitis E virus: A potential threat for patients with liver disease and liver transplantation. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol 2017. [PMID: 28624102 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpg.2017.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Immunocompromised patients are at risk of acquiring acute hepatitis E virus infection (HEV), leading to chronicity. Chronic HEV infection is associated with persistent viraemia, raised transaminase activity, histological features associated with chronic hepatitis and evidence of rapid development of cirrhosis. Extrahepatic manifestations have been associated with HEV. Most frequently reported are neurological disorders with predominantly involvement of the peripheral nervous system. In patients using immunosuppressive drugs antibody production is often delayed and HEV RNA detection is superior to serology to detect infection. Therapeutic options for chronic HEV includes tapering immunosuppressive and secondly ribavirin, pegylated interferon alpha (PEG-IFN). Present recommendation is to treat chronic HEV patients for 3 months, asses serum HEV RNA and stool HEV RNA and stop therapy if both are undetectable. Studies are required to determine which other antiviral agents than ribavirin and (PEG-)IFN are of clinical utility in treating HEV in the minority of patients who do not respond to ribavirin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annemiek A van der Eijk
- Department of Viroscience, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Suzan D Pas
- Department of Viroscience, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Robert A de Man
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Hartl J, Wehmeyer MH, Pischke S. Acute Hepatitis E: Two Sides of the Same Coin. Viruses 2016; 8:E299. [PMID: 27827877 PMCID: PMC5127013 DOI: 10.3390/v8110299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2016] [Revised: 10/04/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The relevance of acute hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections has been underestimated for a long time. In the past, HEV infection had been interpreted falsely as a disease limited to the tropics until the relevance of autochthonous HEV infections in the Western world became overt. Due to increased awareness, the incidence of diagnosed autochthonous HEV infections (predominantly genotype 3) in industrialized countries has risen within the last decade. The main source of infections in industrialized countries seems to be infected swine meat, while infections with the tropical HEV genotypes 1 and 2 usually are mainly transmitted fecal-orally by contaminated drinking water. In the vast majority of healthy individuals, acute HEV infection is either clinically silent or takes a benign self-limited course. In patients who develop a symptomatic HEV infection, a short prodromal phase with unspecific symptoms is followed by liver specific symptoms like jaundice, itching, uncoloured stool and darkened urine. Importantly, tropical HEV infections may lead to acute liver failure, especially in pregnant women, while autochthonous HEV infections may lead to acute-on-chronic liver failure in patients with underlying liver diseases. Immunosuppressed individuals, such as transplant recipients or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients, are at risk for developing chronic hepatitis E, which may lead to liver fibrosis and cirrhosis in the long term. Importantly, specific treatment options for hepatitis E are not approved by the regulation authorities, but off-label ribavirin treatment seems to be effective in the treatment of chronic HEV-infection and may reduce the disease severity in patients suffering from acute liver failure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Hartl
- First Medical Department, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, University Hospital Hamburg Eppendorf (UKE), 20246 Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Malte H Wehmeyer
- First Medical Department, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, University Hospital Hamburg Eppendorf (UKE), 20246 Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Sven Pischke
- First Medical Department, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, University Hospital Hamburg Eppendorf (UKE), 20246 Hamburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Rathod SB, Tripathy AS. TGF-β 1 and contact mediated suppression by CD4 +CD25 +CD127 - T regulatory cells of patients with self-limiting hepatitis E. Hum Immunol 2016; 77:1254-1263. [PMID: 27720959 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2016.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2016] [Revised: 09/07/2016] [Accepted: 10/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Literature on the role of Regulatory T cells (Tregs) in acute viral infections is limited. Having established that the Tregs in self-limiting hepatitis E infection are elevated and functional, this study has focused on characterizing the specificity, phenotypes and identifying the molecules or factors responsible for enhancement of Treg cells and abrogation of Treg-mediated suppression in hepatitis E. METHODS HEV rORF2p specific (a) Treg frequency, subset analysis and expression of surface and intracellular markers on Tregs and CFSE based functional analysis by flow cytometry (b) key cytokines quantification by multiplex (c) suppressive functional assay in the presence of anti-TGF-β1 or anti-IL-10 or both antibodies or Transwell insert or in combination were performed on samples from 58 acute patients (AVH-E), 45 recovered individuals from hepatitis E and 55 controls. RESULTS In AVH-E, the increased frequencies of Tregs and Teff cells were HEV rORF2p specific and Treg cells were of effector memory phenotype. Higher expressions of HEV rORF2p stimulated CTLA-4, GITR, PD1L, CD103, CD39, TLR2 and TGF-β1 molecules on Tregs of AVH-E were observed. Tregs produced TGF-β1 and inhibited the secretion of IFN-γ. Transwell insert and cytokines blocking assays indicated Tregs mediated suppression in AVH-E patients is majorly TGF-β1 mediated and partly cell-cell contact mediated. CONCLUSION Overall, we have identified beneficial involvement of HEV specific, functional Tregs and TGF-β1 as the regulatory molecule responsible for enhancement of Tregs in self-limiting HEV infection. Therefore, use of TGF-β1 as a possible supplement for boosting Treg response in recovery from severe hepatitis E needs evaluation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sanjay B Rathod
- Hepatitis Group, National Institute of Virology, Pune, India
| | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Goel A, Aggarwal R. Advances in hepatitis E - II: Epidemiology, clinical manifestations, treatment and prevention. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 10:1065-74. [PMID: 27148907 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2016.1185365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Infection with hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the commonest cause of acute hepatitis worldwide. This infection, with fecal-oral transmission, was previously thought to be limited to humans residing in developing countries with poor sanitation, spreading via contaminated drinking water. In recent years, our understanding of epidemiology and clinical spectrum of this infection have changed markedly. AREAS COVERED This article reviews the epidemiology, including routes of transmission, and clinical manifestations of HEV infection around the world. In addition, recent findings on transmission-associated HEV infection, extrahepatic manifestations of hepatitis E and chronic infection with HEV, and treatment and prevention of this infection are discussed. Expert commentary: HEV infection has two distinct epidemiologic forms and clinical patterns of disease: (i) acute epidemic or sporadic hepatitis caused by fecal-oral (usually water-borne) transmission of genotype 1 and 2 HEV from a human reservoir in areas with poor hygiene and frequent water contamination, and (ii) infrequent sporadic hepatitis E caused by zoonotic infection, possibly from an animal source through ingestion of undercooked animal meal, of genotype 3 or 4 virus. In disease-endemic areas, pregnant women are at a particular risk of serious disease and high mortality. In less-endemic areas, chronic infection with HEV among immunosuppressed persons is observed. HEV can also be transmitted through Transfusion of blood and blood products. Ribivirin treatment is effective in chronic hepatitis E. Two efficacious vaccines have been tried in humans; one of these has received marketing approval in its country of origin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amit Goel
- a Department of Gastroenterology , Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences , Lucknow , India
| | - Rakesh Aggarwal
- a Department of Gastroenterology , Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences , Lucknow , India
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Ji SB, Lee SS, Jung HC, Kim HJ, Kim HJ, Kim TH, Jung WT, Lee OJ, Song DH. A Korean patient with Guillain-Barré syndrome following acute hepatitis E whose cholestasis resolved with steroid therapy. Clin Mol Hepatol 2016; 22:396-399. [PMID: 27572076 PMCID: PMC5066380 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2015.0039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2015] [Revised: 12/10/2015] [Accepted: 12/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Autochthonous hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging pathogen in developed countries, and several cases of acute HEV infection have been reported in South Korea. However, there have been no reports on HEV-associated Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) in Korea. We recently experienced the case of a 58-year-old Korean male with acute HEV infection after ingesting raw deer meat. Persistent cholestasis was resolved by the administration of prednisolone. At 2.5 months after the clinical presentation of HEV infection, the patient developed weakness of the lower limbs, and was diagnosed with GBS associated with acute hepatitis E. To our knowledge, this is the second report on supportive steroid therapy for persistent cholestasis due to hepatitis E, and the first report of GBS in a Korean patient with acute HEV infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sung Bok Ji
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, Jinju, Korea
| | - Sang Soo Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, Jinju, Korea
| | - Hee Cheul Jung
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, Jinju, Korea
| | - Hong Jun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, Jinju, Korea
| | - Hyun Jin Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, Jinju, Korea
| | - Tae Hyo Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, Jinju, Korea
| | - Woon Tae Jung
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, Jinju, Korea
| | - Ok Jae Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, Jinju, Korea
| | - Dae Hyun Song
- Department of Pathology, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, Jinju, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Singh A, Seth R, Gupta A, Shalimar, Nayak B, Acharya SK, Das P. Chronic hepatitis E - an emerging disease in an immunocompromised host. Gastroenterol Rep (Oxf) 2016; 6:152-155. [PMID: 27516529 PMCID: PMC5952944 DOI: 10.1093/gastro/gow024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2016] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is increasingly being reported in immunosuppressed individuals with HIV, patients with haematological malignancy and transplant recipients. The diagnosis of cirrhosis and liver failure post chronic HEV is controversial due to lack of standard diagnostic criteria. The treatment benefits of ribavirin in chronic HEV of genotype 1 are not well reported. We report a case of chronic HEV infection of genotype 1 leading to chronic liver disease in a child cured of acute leukaemia. Our report also highlights the successful use of ribavirin for eradicating chronic HEV infection and its subsequent survival benefits. Chronic hepatitis E may be an emerging disease of immunosuppressed patients and should be suspected in the presence of cryptogenic transaminitis. Ribavirin is an effective therapy for controlling HEV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amitabh Singh
- Department of Paediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Rachna Seth
- Department of Paediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Anand Gupta
- Department of Paediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Shalimar
- Department of Gastroenterology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Baibaswata Nayak
- Department of Gastroenterology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Subrat Kumar Acharya
- Department of Gastroenterology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Prasenjit Das
- Department of Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Perrin HB, Cintas P, Abravanel F, Gérolami R, d'Alteroche L, Raynal JN, Alric L, Dupuis E, Prudhomme L, Vaucher E, Couzigou P, Liversain JM, Bureau C, Vinel JP, Kamar N, Izopet J, Peron JM. Neurologic Disorders in Immunocompetent Patients with Autochthonous Acute Hepatitis E. Emerg Infect Dis 2016; 21:1928-34. [PMID: 26490255 PMCID: PMC4622229 DOI: 10.3201/eid2111.141789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurologic disorders, mainly Guillain-Barré syndrome and Parsonage–Turner syndrome (PTS), have been described in patients with hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection in industrialized and developing countries. We report a wider range of neurologic disorders in nonimmunocompromised patients with acute HEV infection. Data from 15 French immunocompetent patients with acute HEV infection and neurologic disorders were retrospectively recorded from January 2006 through June 2013. The disorders could be divided into 4 main entities: mononeuritis multiplex, PTS, meningoradiculitis, and acute demyelinating neuropathy. HEV infection was treated with ribavirin in 3 patients (for PTS or mononeuritis multiplex). One patient was treated with corticosteroids (for mononeuropathy multiplex), and 5 others received intravenous immunoglobulin (for PTS, meningoradiculitis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, or Miller Fisher syndrome). We conclude that pleiotropic neurologic disorders are seen in HEV-infected immunocompetent patients. Patients with acute neurologic manifestations and aminotransferase abnormalities should be screened for HEV infection.
Collapse
|
30
|
Manka P, Verheyen J, Gerken G, Canbay A. Liver Failure due to Acute Viral Hepatitis (A-E). Visc Med 2016; 32:80-5. [PMID: 27413724 PMCID: PMC4926881 DOI: 10.1159/000444915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Viral hepatitis is still one of the key causes of acute liver failure (ALF) in the world. METHODS A selective literature search of the PubMed database was conducted, including current studies, reviews, meta-analyses, and guidelines. We obtained an overview of ALF due to viral hepatitis in terms of epidemiology, course, and treatment options. RESULTS Most fulminant viral courses are reported after infection with hepatitis A, B, and B/D, but not with hepatitis C. Hepatitis E is also known to cause ALF but has not gained much attention in recent years. However, more and more autochthonous hepatitis E virus infections have been recently observed in Europe. Reactivation of hepatitis B virus (HBV) under immunosuppressive conditions, such as after intensive chemotherapy, is also an increasing problem. For most viral-induced cases of ALF, liver transplantation represented the only therapeutic option in the past. Today, immediate treatment of HBV-induced ALF with nucleotide or nucleoside analogs is well tolerated and beneficially affects the course of the disease. CONCLUSION Although numbers in Western European countries are decreasing rapidly, reliable diagnostic screening for hepatitis A-E is necessary to identify the etiology and to determine those most at risk of developing ALF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Manka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Regeneration and Repair Group, The Institute of Hepatology, Foundation for Liver Research, London, UK
- Division of Transplantation Immunology and Mucosal Biology, King's College, London, UK
| | - Jens Verheyen
- Institute of Virology, University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Guido Gerken
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Ali Canbay
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Testoni B, Durantel D, Lebossé F, Fresquet J, Helle F, Negro F, Donato MF, Levrero M, Zoulim F. Ribavirin restores IFNα responsiveness in HCV-infected livers by epigenetic remodelling at interferon stimulated genes. Gut 2016; 65:672-82. [PMID: 26082258 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2014-309011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2014] [Accepted: 05/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Caveats in the understanding of ribavirin (RBV) mechanisms of action has somehow prevented the development of better analogues able to further improve its therapeutic contribution in interferon (IFN)-based and direct antiviral agent-based regimens for chronic HCV or other indications. Here, we describe a new mechanism by which RBV modulates IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs) and contributes to restore hepatic immune responsiveness. DESIGN RBV effect on ISG expression was monitored in vitro and in vivo, that is, in non-transformed hepatocytes and in the liver of RBV mono-treated patients, respectively. Modulation of histone modifications and recruitment of histone-modifying enzymes at target promoters was analysed by chromatin immunoprecipitation in RBV-treated primary human hepatocytes and in patients' liver biopsies. RESULTS RBV decreases the mRNA levels of several abnormally preactivated ISGs in patients with HCV, who are non-responders to IFN therapy. RBV increases G9a histone methyltransferase recruitment and histone-H3 lysine-9 dimethylation/trimethylation at selected ISG promoters in vitro and in vivo. G9a pharmacological blockade abolishes RBV-induced ISG downregulation and severely impairs RBV ability to potentiate IFN antiviral action and induction of ISGs following HCV infection of primary human hepatocytes. CONCLUSIONS RBV-induced epigenetic changes, leading to decreased ISG expression, restore an IFN-responsive hepatic environment in patients with HCV, which may also prove useful in IFN-free regimens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Testoni
- INSERM U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Lyon, France University of Lyon, UCBL, UMR_S1052, Lyon, France Hospices Civils de Lyon (HCL), Lyon, France
| | - David Durantel
- INSERM U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Lyon, France University of Lyon, UCBL, UMR_S1052, Lyon, France
| | - Fanny Lebossé
- INSERM U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Lyon, France University of Lyon, UCBL, UMR_S1052, Lyon, France Hospices Civils de Lyon (HCL), Lyon, France
| | - Judith Fresquet
- INSERM U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Lyon, France University of Lyon, UCBL, UMR_S1052, Lyon, France
| | - François Helle
- EA4294, Laboratoire de Virologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire et Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
| | - Francesco Negro
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and of Clinical Pathology, University Hospitals, Geneva 4, Switzerland
| | - Maria Francesca Donato
- IRCSS Foundation Ca' Granda, Maggiore Hospital Policlinico and University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Levrero
- Department of Internal Medicine (DMISM) and the IIT-CNLS, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy EAL INSERM U785, Villejuif, France EAL INSERM U785, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabien Zoulim
- INSERM U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Lyon, France University of Lyon, UCBL, UMR_S1052, Lyon, France Hospices Civils de Lyon (HCL), Lyon, France Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Péron JM, Abravanel F, Guillaume M, Gérolami R, Nana J, Anty R, Pariente A, Renou C, Bureau C, Robic MA, Alric L, Vinel JP, Izopet J, Kamar N. Treatment of autochthonous acute hepatitis E with short-term ribavirin: a multicenter retrospective study. Liver Int 2016; 36:328-33. [PMID: 26179015 DOI: 10.1111/liv.12911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2015] [Accepted: 07/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotypes 3 and 4 cause sporadic cases of infection in developed countries. Being elderly and having an underlying liver disease are the main risk factors for death in this population. Chronic infection has been described in immunocompromised patients. Ribavirin is now the antiviral treatment of choice in solid-organ-transplant recipients with chronic HEV infection. We hypothesized that early short-term treatment of acute HEV infection may be useful for patients with risk factors or undergoing chemotherapy. METHODS Between July 2010 and January 2014, 21 patients diagnosed with acute HEV infection were treated with ribavirin, at 600-800 mg/day for up to 3 months. All serum samples were positive for HEV RNA. RESULTS Nine patients were treated for severe hepatitis. Six patients were aged >70 years. Four patients were receiving an immunosuppressive therapy for an autoimmune disease and two patients were undergoing chemotherapy for a malignancy. Two patients received a fixed-dose regimen. For all other patients, ribavirin was stopped when HEV became undetectable in the serum. The median duration of ribavirin treatment was 26 days. Two patients developed severe anaemia. Two patients with encephalopathy died. One patient relapsed transiently. All patients were cleared of HEV and regained normalized liver-enzyme levels. Immunosuppressive treatment and chemotherapy could be resumed. CONCLUSIONS Treatment of acute HEV infection using ribavirin seems safe and effective. Short-term treatment tailored to viraemia may be the best regimen for this indication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean Marie Péron
- Service d'Hépato-gastroentérologie, Hôpital Purpan, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Université Paul Sabatier Toulouse III, Toulouse, France
| | - Florence Abravanel
- Laboratoire de Virologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Université Paul Sabatier Toulouse III, INSERM, UMR 1043, Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Maeva Guillaume
- Service d'Hépato-gastroentérologie, Hôpital Purpan, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Université Paul Sabatier Toulouse III, Toulouse, France.,INSERM U1048, Institute of Metabolic and Cardiovascular Diseases I2MC, Université Paul Sabatier Toulouse III, Toulouse, France
| | - René Gérolami
- Service d'Hépato-gastroentérologie, Hôpital de la Conception, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Marseille, Université de Marseille, Marseille, France
| | - Jean Nana
- Service d'Hépato-gastroentérologie, Hôpital Purpan, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Université Paul Sabatier Toulouse III, Toulouse, France
| | - Rodolphe Anty
- Service d'Hépato-gastroentérologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Université de Nice-Sophia-Antipolis, INSERM U1065, Nice, France
| | - Alexandre Pariente
- Service d'Hépato-gastroentérologie, Centre Hospitalier de Pau, Pau, France
| | - Christophe Renou
- Service d'Hépato-gastroentérologie, Hôpital de Hyères, Hyères, France
| | - Christophe Bureau
- Service d'Hépato-gastroentérologie, Hôpital Purpan, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Université Paul Sabatier Toulouse III, Toulouse, France
| | - Marie-Angèle Robic
- Service d'Hépato-gastroentérologie, Hôpital Purpan, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Université Paul Sabatier Toulouse III, Toulouse, France
| | - Laurent Alric
- Service de Médecine Interne, Hôpital Purpan, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Université Paul Sabatier Toulouse III, Toulouse, France
| | - Jean Pierre Vinel
- Service d'Hépato-gastroentérologie, Hôpital Purpan, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Université Paul Sabatier Toulouse III, Toulouse, France
| | - Jacques Izopet
- Laboratoire de Virologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Université Paul Sabatier Toulouse III, INSERM, UMR 1043, Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Nassim Kamar
- Service de Néphrologie et transplantation d'organes, Hôpital Rangueil, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Université Paul Sabatier Toulouse III, INSERM, UMR 1043, Toulouse, France
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Hui W, Wei L, Li Z, Guo X. Treatment of Hepatitis E. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2016; 948:211-221. [PMID: 27738987 DOI: 10.1007/978-94-024-0942-0_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections are the most common cause of acute hepatitis, but they can also take a chronic course. There is no specific therapy for acute hepatitis, and current treatment is supportive. Choosing ribavirin as the first-line therapy for chronic HEV is advisable, especially in solid organ transplant patients. Pegylated interferon-α has been used successfully for treatment of hepatitis E but is associated with major side effects. Cholestasis is one of the most common, but devastating, manifestations in hepatitis E. Current therapy for HEV aims to treat symptoms. Therapy generally involves several measures, such as vitamins for adequate nutrition, albumin and plasma for supporting treatment, symptomatic treatment for cutaneous pruritus, and ursodeoxycholic acid and S-adenosylmethionine, and Traditional Chinese medicine for removing jaundice. Patients with underlying liver disease may develop liver failure. For these patients, supportive treatment is the foundation. Ribavirin has successfully been used to prevent liver transplantation. Prevention and treatment of complications are important for treatment of liver failure. Liver support devices are intended to support liver function until such time as native liver function recovers or until liver transplantation. Liver transplantation is widely considered as irreplaceable and definitive treatment for acute-on-chronic liver failure, particularly for patients who do not improve with supportive measures to sustain life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Hui
- Department of Liver Diseases Endocrine, Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 8 XitoutiaoYouanmenWai, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, China.
| | - Linlin Wei
- Department of Liver Diseases Endocrine, Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 8 XitoutiaoYouanmenWai, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Zhuo Li
- Beijing Institute of Liver Disease, No.8 Xitoutiao Youanmen Wai, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Xinhui Guo
- Department of Liver Diseases Endocrine, Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 8 XitoutiaoYouanmenWai, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Ramsay I, Snell L, Sharma V, O'Beirne J, Patch D, Marshall A, Imber C, Ijaz S, Dianne Irish, Westbrook RH. Liver transplantation for acute liver failure because of genotype 3 hepatitis E virus infection. Liver Transpl 2015; 21:1557-9. [PMID: 26178234 DOI: 10.1002/lt.24213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2015] [Revised: 07/01/2015] [Accepted: 07/02/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Isobel Ramsay
- Department of Virology, Royal Free London, NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Luke Snell
- Department of Hepatology, Royal Free London, NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Vikram Sharma
- Department of Hepatology, Royal Free London, NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - James O'Beirne
- Department of Hepatology, Royal Free London, NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - David Patch
- Department of Hepatology, Royal Free London, NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Aileen Marshall
- Department of Hepatology, Royal Free London, NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Charles Imber
- Department of Virology, Royal Free London, NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Samreen Ijaz
- Infectious Diseases, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Dianne Irish
- Department of Virology, Royal Free London, NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Rachel H Westbrook
- Department of Hepatology, Royal Free London, NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Lapa D, Capobianchi MR, Garbuglia AR. Epidemiology of Hepatitis E Virus in European Countries. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:25711-43. [PMID: 26516843 PMCID: PMC4632823 DOI: 10.3390/ijms161025711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2015] [Revised: 09/12/2015] [Accepted: 10/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last decade the seroprevalence of immunoglobulin (IgG) anti hepatitis E virus (HEV) has been increasing in European countries and shows significant variability among different geographical areas. In this review, we describe the serological data concerning the general population and risk groups in different European countries. Anti-HEV antibody prevalence ranged from 1.3% (blood donors in Italy) to 52% (blood donors in France). Various studies performed on risk groups in Denmark, Moldova and Sweden revealed that swine farmers have a high seroprevalence of HEV IgG (range 13%-51.1%), confirming that pigs represent an important risk factor in HEV infection in humans. Subtypes 3e,f are the main genotypes detected in the European population. Sporadic cases of autochthonous genotype 4 have been described in Spain, France, and Italy. Although most HEV infections are subclinical, in immune-suppressed and transplant patients they could provoke chronic infection. Fulminant hepatitis has rarely been observed and it was related to genotype 3. Interferon and ribavirin treatment was seen to represent the most promising therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Lapa
- Laboratory of Virology, "Lazzaro Spallanzani" National Institute for Infectious Diseases, Via Portuense 292, Rome 00149, Italy.
| | - Maria Rosaria Capobianchi
- Laboratory of Virology, "Lazzaro Spallanzani" National Institute for Infectious Diseases, Via Portuense 292, Rome 00149, Italy.
| | - Anna Rosa Garbuglia
- Laboratory of Virology, "Lazzaro Spallanzani" National Institute for Infectious Diseases, Via Portuense 292, Rome 00149, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Sridhar S, Lau SKP, Woo PCY. Hepatitis E: A disease of reemerging importance. J Formos Med Assoc 2015; 114:681-90. [PMID: 25773541 PMCID: PMC7126687 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfma.2015.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2014] [Revised: 01/30/2015] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the most common cause of acute viral hepatitis worldwide. Originally considered to be restricted to humans, it is now clear that HEV and HEV-like viruses have several animal reservoirs with complex ecology and genetic diversity, as exemplified by the recent discovery of HEV in dromedaries, a previously underestimated reservoir of zoonotic viruses prior to the emergence of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus. Zoonotic foodborne transmission from pigs and feral animals such as wild boar is of increasing importance in the rapidly industrializing countries of the Asia Pacific region. Such zoonotic hepatitis E infection has particular relevance to the increasing population living with immunosuppression, due to the risk of chronic hepatitis E in these patients. Fortunately, major strides have been made recently in the management of chronic hepatitis E patients. Furthermore, an effective vaccine is also available that promises better control of hepatitis E burden in the near future. This review highlights these major recent developments in the epidemiology, treatment, and prevention of hepatitis E.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siddharth Sridhar
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Susanna K P Lau
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Research Centre of Infection and Immunology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Patrick C Y Woo
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Research Centre of Infection and Immunology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Shalimar, Acharya SK. Management in acute liver failure. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2015; 5:S104-15. [PMID: 26041950 PMCID: PMC4442864 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2014.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2014] [Accepted: 11/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute liver failure (ALF) is a rare, potentially fatal complication of severe hepatic illness resulting from various causes. In a clinical setting, severe hepatic injury is usually recognised by the appearance of jaundice, encephalopathy and coagulopathy. The central and most important clinical event in ALF is occurrence of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) and cerebral edema which is responsible for most of the fatalities in this serious clinical syndrome. The pathogenesis of encephalopathy and cerebral edema in ALF is unique and multifactorial. Ammonia plays a central role in the pathogenesis. The role of newer ammonia lowering agents is still evolving. Liver transplant is the only effective therapy that has been identified to be of promise in those with poor prognostic factors, whereas in the others, aggressive intensive medical management has been documented to salvage a substantial proportion of patients. A small fraction of patients undergo liver transplant and the remaining are usually treated with medical therapy. Therefore, identification of the complications and causes of death in such patients, and use of appropriate prognostic models to identify those who need liver transplant and those who can be managed with medical treatment is a vital component of therapeutic strategy. In this review, we discuss the various pathogenetic mechanisms and treatment options available.
Collapse
Key Words
- AASLD, American Association For the Study of Liver
- ALF, Acute Liver Failure
- ALFED, Acute Liver Failure Early Dynamic Model
- BBB, Blood Brain Barrier
- BCAA, Branched Chain Amino acid
- CBF, Cerebral Blood Flow
- CPP, Cerebral Perfusion Pressure
- CVVHD, Continuous Veno-Venous Hemodialysis
- FFP, Fresh Frozen Plasma
- GM-CSF, Granulocyte Macrophage Colony Stimulating Factor
- HE, Hepatic Encephalopathy
- ICU, Intensive Care Unit
- IEI, Icterus Encephalopathy Interval
- IL-1β, Interleukin-1 beta
- IL6, Interlekin 6
- INR, International Normalized Ratio
- LOLA, l-Ornithine L Aspartate
- LOPA
- LOPA, l-Ornithine Phenyl Acetate
- MAP, Mean Arterial Pressure
- NAC, N-Acetyl Cysteine
- NO, Nitric Oxide
- OLT, Orthotopic Liver Transplantation
- PCWP, Pulmonary Capillary Wedge Pressure
- PEEP, Positive End Expiratory Pressure
- PT, Prothrombin Time
- SIMV, Synchronous Intermittent mandatory Ventilation
- SIRS, Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome
- SPEAR, Selective Parenteral and Enteral Antibiotic Regimen
- TNF-α, Tumor Necrosis Factor alfa
- UCD, Urea Cycle Disorder
- USALF, United States Acute liver Failure Study Group
- ammonia
- cerebral edema
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Subrat K. Acharya
- Address for correspondence: Subrat K. Acharya, Department of Gastroenterology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Riveiro-Barciela M, Mínguez B, Gironés R, Rodriguez-Frías F, Quer J, Buti M. Phylogenetic demonstration of hepatitis E infection transmitted by pork meat ingestion. J Clin Gastroenterol 2015; 49:165-8. [PMID: 24637729 DOI: 10.1097/mcg.0000000000000113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is responsible for a small number of acute hepatitis in developed countries. In this setting, HEV infection seems to be a zoonosis, although this has not been completely demonstrated. High morbidity and mortality associated with severe acute infections have been described, as well as the possible role of ribavirin therapy in those cases. We describe a case of acute hepatitis after pork meat ingestion in a patient with Waldeström macroglobulinemia with immunoglobulin A deficiency. Acute hepatitis E was diagnosed based on positive IgM anti-HEV antibodies and HEV RNA detected by real-time PCR. Because of clinical and analytical worsening, ribavirin was initiated, achieving sustained virologic response after 12 weeks of treatment. The phylogenetic analysis revealed the same HEV strain genotype 3 in both plasma and consumed meat samples, proving the zoonotic transmission. Regarding immunocompromised patients, acute hepatitis E can be associated to high morbidity and mortality rate, so dietetic recommendations may be needed to avoid the virus transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mar Riveiro-Barciela
- *Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine ‡Departments of Biochemistry and Microbiology (Virology Unit), Vall d'Hebron Hospital, Autonomous University of Barcelona †Department of Microbiology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Kamar N, Abravanel F, Lhomme S, Rostaing L, Izopet J. Hepatitis E virus: chronic infection, extra-hepatic manifestations, and treatment. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2015; 39:20-7. [PMID: 25150374 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2014.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2014] [Accepted: 07/07/2014] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is a worldwide disease. An improved understanding of the natural history of HEV infection has been achieved within the last decade. Several reservoirs and transmission modes have been identified. It is an underdiagnosed disease because of the use of low-sensitivity serological assays; however, diagnostics tools, including nucleic-acid tests, have improved. HEV infection is usually an acute self-limiting disease, but causes chronic infection with rapidly progressive cirrhosis in adult and pediatric organ-transplant-patients. HEV infection evolves to chronic hepatitis in nearly 60% of HEV-infection solid-organ-transplant patients. HEV can also cause extra-hepatic manifestations, such as neurological symptoms and kidney injury. Reducing immunosuppression in transplant patients can lead to HEV clearance in one-third of patients with chronic hepatitis. The use of anti-viral therapies, such as pegylated-interferon and ribavirin, has been found to efficaciously treat HEV infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nassim Kamar
- Department of Nephrology and Organ Transplantation, CHU Rangueil, TSA 50032, 31059 Toulouse cedex 9, France; Inserm U1043, IFR-BMT, CHU Purpan, Toulouse, France; Université Paul-Sabatier, Toulouse, France.
| | - Florence Abravanel
- Inserm U1043, IFR-BMT, CHU Purpan, Toulouse, France; Université Paul-Sabatier, Toulouse, France; Laboratory of Virology, CHU Purpan, Toulouse, France
| | - Sebastien Lhomme
- Inserm U1043, IFR-BMT, CHU Purpan, Toulouse, France; Université Paul-Sabatier, Toulouse, France; Laboratory of Virology, CHU Purpan, Toulouse, France
| | - Lionel Rostaing
- Department of Nephrology and Organ Transplantation, CHU Rangueil, TSA 50032, 31059 Toulouse cedex 9, France; Inserm U1043, IFR-BMT, CHU Purpan, Toulouse, France; Université Paul-Sabatier, Toulouse, France
| | - Jacques Izopet
- Inserm U1043, IFR-BMT, CHU Purpan, Toulouse, France; Université Paul-Sabatier, Toulouse, France; Laboratory of Virology, CHU Purpan, Toulouse, France
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Kamar N, Rostaing L, Alric L, Peron JM, Izopet J. [Treatment of hepatitis E virus infection]. Presse Med 2015; 44:339-42. [PMID: 25639626 DOI: 10.1016/j.lpm.2014.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2014] [Accepted: 10/08/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The reduction of immunosuppressive therapy is the first-line therapeutic option in transplant-patients with chronic hepatitis E virus infection. Pegylated-interferon has been used for treating hepatitis E virus infection. Ribavirin alone is the treatment of choice of hepatitis E virus infection. Ribavirin is efficient for treating chronic hepatitis E in transplant patients, HIV patients, and hematology patients receiving or not chemotherapy. Ribavirin should be given to patients presenting hepatitis E virus associated extra-hepatic manifestations. The place of ribavirin therapy at acute phase is yet to be determined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nassim Kamar
- CHU de Toulouse, hôpital Rangueil, département de néphrologie et transplantation d'organes, 31059 Toulouse cedex 9, France; Université Paul-Sabatier, 31062 Toulouse, France; Inserm U1043, IFR-BMT, hôpital Purpan, 31059 Toulouse cedex 9, France.
| | - Lionel Rostaing
- CHU de Toulouse, hôpital Rangueil, département de néphrologie et transplantation d'organes, 31059 Toulouse cedex 9, France; Université Paul-Sabatier, 31062 Toulouse, France; Inserm U1043, IFR-BMT, hôpital Purpan, 31059 Toulouse cedex 9, France
| | - Laurent Alric
- Université Paul-Sabatier, 31062 Toulouse, France; CHU de Toulouse, hôpital Purpan, pôle digestif, service de médecine interne, 31059 Toulouse cedex 9, France
| | - Jean-Marie Peron
- Université Paul-Sabatier, 31062 Toulouse, France; CHU de Toulouse, hôpital Purpan, pôle digestif, service d'hépato-gastroentérologie, 31059 Toulouse cedex 9, France
| | - Jacques Izopet
- Université Paul-Sabatier, 31062 Toulouse, France; Inserm U1043, IFR-BMT, hôpital Purpan, 31059 Toulouse cedex 9, France; CHU de Toulouse, hôpital Purpan, laboratoire de virologie, institut fédératif de biologie, 31059 Toulouse cedex 9, France
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Behrendt P, Steinmann E, Manns MP, Wedemeyer H. The impact of hepatitis E in the liver transplant setting. J Hepatol 2014; 61:1418-29. [PMID: 25195557 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2014.08.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2014] [Revised: 08/25/2014] [Accepted: 08/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection has been identified as a cause of graft hepatitis in liver transplant recipients. The true frequency and clinical importance of HEV infections after liver transplantations is a matter of debate. It is proposed that consumption of HEV-contaminated undercooked meat is a main source for HEV infections in developed countries--which might also account for some hepatitis E cases after organ transplantation. However, HEV is also transmitted by transfusion of blood products, likely representing a previously underestimated risk particularly for patients in the transplant setting. HEV infection can take chronic courses in immunocompromised individuals, associated in some cases with rapid progression to cirrhosis within 1-2 years of infection. Diagnosis in transplanted patients is based on HEV RNA testing as antibody assays are not sensitive enough. Selection of immunosuppressive drugs is important as different compounds may influence viral replication and the course of liver disease. Ribavirin has antiviral activity against HEV and should be administered for at least three months in chronically infected individuals; however, treatment failure may occur. HEV infections have also been linked to a variety of extrahepatic manifestations both during and after resolution of infection. In this review we summarize the emerging data on hepatitis E with a particular focus on the importance of HEV infections for liver transplant recipients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Behrendt
- Department for Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; German Center for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany; Twincore, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, A Joint Venture Between Medical School Hannover and Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany
| | - Eike Steinmann
- Twincore, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, A Joint Venture Between Medical School Hannover and Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany
| | - Michael P Manns
- Department for Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; German Center for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany
| | - Heiner Wedemeyer
- Department for Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; German Center for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Festa S, Garbuglia AR, Baccini F, Panzuto F, Capobianchi MR, Santino I, Purchiaroni F, Orgera G, Delle Fave G, Marignani M. Acute fulminant hepatitis E virus genotype 3e infection: Description of the first case in Europe. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 46:727-31. [DOI: 10.3109/00365548.2014.928417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
|
43
|
Crossan CL, Simpson KJ, Craig DG, Bellamy C, Davidson J, Dalton HR, Scobie L. Hepatitis E virus in patients with acute severe liver injury. World J Hepatol 2014; 6:426-434. [PMID: 25018853 PMCID: PMC4081617 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v6.i6.426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2014] [Revised: 03/11/2014] [Accepted: 05/29/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To examine the incidence of hepatitis E (HepE) in individuals with acute liver injury severe enough to warrant treatment at a transplant unit.
METHODS: Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging pathogen in developed countries causing severe illness, particularly in immunocompromised patients or those with underlying chronic liver disease. HepE infection is often under diagnosed, as clinicians can be reluctant to test patients who have not travelled to regions traditionally considered hyperendemic for HepE. There are few data regarding the significance of HEV in patients with very severe acute liver injury in developed countries. Eighty patients with acute severe liver injury attending the Scottish Liver Transplant unit were tested for HEV and anti-HEV IgG and IgM. Severe acute liver injury was defined as a sudden deterioration in liver function confirmed by abnormal liver function tests and coagulopathy or presence of hepatic encephalopathy. Eighty percent of these patients were diagnosed with paracetomol overdose. No patients had a history of chronic or decompensated chronic liver disease at time of sampling. IgG positive samples were quantified against the World Health Organization anti-HEV IgG standard. Samples were screened for HEV viral RNA by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.
RESULTS: Four cases of hepatitis E were identified. Three of the four cases were only diagnosed on retrospective testing and were initially erroneously ascribed to drug-induced liver injury and decompensated chronic liver disease, with the cause of the decompensation uncertain. One case was caused by HEV genotype 1 in a traveller returning from Asia, the other three were autochthonous and diagnosed on retrospective testing. In two of these cases (where RNA was detected) HEV was found to be genotype 3, the most prevalent genotype in developed countries. Three patients survived, two of whom had been misdiagnosed as having drug induced liver injury. The fourth patient died from sepsis and liver failure precipitated as a result of hepatitis E infection and previously undiagnosed cirrhosis. Histopathology data to date is limited to mainly that seen for endemic HepE. All patients, with the exception of patient 1, demonstrated characteristics of HepE infection, as seen in previously described locally acquired cases.
CONCLUSION: In patients with acute severe liver injury, HEV testing should be part of the initial diagnostic investigation algorithm irrespective of suspected initial diagnosis, age or travel history.
Collapse
|
44
|
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is a worldwide disease. An improved understanding of the natural history of HEV infection has been achieved within the last decade. Several reservoirs and transmission modes have been identified. Hepatitis E is an underdiagnosed disease, in part due to the use of serological assays with low sensitivity. However, diagnostic tools, including nucleic acid-based tests, have been improved. The epidemiology and clinical features of hepatitis E differ between developing and developed countries. HEV infection is usually an acute self-limiting disease, but in developed countries it causes chronic infection with rapidly progressive cirrhosis in organ transplant recipients, patients with hematological malignancy requiring chemotherapy, and individuals with HIV. HEV also causes extrahepatic manifestations, including a number of neurological syndromes and renal injury. Acute infection usually requires no treatment, but chronic infection should be treated by reducing immunosuppression in transplant patients and/or the use of antiviral therapy. In this comprehensive review, we summarize the current knowledge about the virus itself, as well as the epidemiology, diagnostics, natural history, and management of HEV infection in developing and developed countries.
Collapse
|
45
|
Severe acute hepatitis E in an HIV infected patient: Successful treatment with ribavirin. J Clin Virol 2014; 60:422-3. [PMID: 24894604 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2014.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2014] [Revised: 04/30/2014] [Accepted: 05/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
In industrialized countries, most cases of hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection in humans are autochthonous, mainly through foodborne and zoonotic transmission routes. In Europe, genotype 3 is a cause of acute self-limiting viral hepatitis, but can also be responsible for chronic hepatitis in immunocompromised patients. Ribavirin has been successfully used in the treatment of chronic hepatitis E and in a few cases of severe acute hepatitis E in immunocompetent patients. We report here the case of a 39 year-old man infected with HIV presenting with acute hepatitis E (genotype 3c). Unlike most cases, evolution was severe with a fall of prothrombin time down to 45%. Treatment with ribavirin allowed rapid viral clearance and a gradual normalization of liver function tests.
Collapse
|
46
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Hepatitis E has been regarded as a disease of the developing world, where it causes large waterborne outbreaks and sporadic cases of hepatitis. Recent research has shown this received wisdom to be mistaken. RECENT FINDINGS Recent studies have shown that authochtonous (locally acquired) hepatitis E does occur in developed countries, is caused by hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotypes 3 and 4, and is zoonotic with pigs as the primary host. Most infections are clinically inapparent. However, acute symptomatic hepatitis E has a predilection for middle-aged and elderly men, with an excess mortality in patients with underlying chronic liver disease. Chronic infection occurs in the immunosuppressed with rapidly progressive cirrhosis if untreated, the treatment of choice being ribavirin monotherapy for 3 months. Hepatitis E has a range of extra-hepatic manifestations, including a spectrum of neurological syndromes. HEV can be transmitted by blood transfusion and has recently been found in donated blood in a number of countries. SUMMARY The diagnosis should be considered in any patient with a raised alanine aminotranferase, irrespective of age or travel history. The safety of blood products needs to be fully assessed, as a matter of priority, as blood donors are not currently screened for HEV.
Collapse
|
47
|
Riveiro-Barciela M, Buti M, Homs M, Campos-Varela I, Cantarell C, Crespo M, Castells L, Tabernero D, Quer J, Esteban R, Rodriguez-Frías F. Cirrhosis, liver transplantation and HIV infection are risk factors associated with hepatitis E virus infection. PLoS One 2014; 9:e103028. [PMID: 25068388 PMCID: PMC4113416 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0103028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2014] [Accepted: 06/26/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute and chronic hepatitis E have been associated with high mortality and development of cirrhosis, particularly in solid-organ recipients and patients infected by human immunodeficiency virus. However, data regarding the epidemiology of hepatitis E in special populations is still limited. AIMS Investigate seroprevalence and possible factors associated with HEV infection in a large cohort of immunosuppressed patients. METHODS Cross-sectional study testing IgG anti-HEV in serum samples from 1373 consecutive individuals: 332 liver-transplant, 296 kidney-transplant, 6 dual organ recipients, 301 non-transplanted patients with chronic liver disease, 238 HIV-infected patients and 200 healthy controls. RESULTS IgG anti-HEV was detected in 3.5% controls, 3.7% kidney recipients, 7.4% liver transplant without cirrhosis and 32.1% patients who developed post-transplant cirrhosis (p<0.01). In patients with chronic liver disease, IgG anti-HEV was also statistically higher in those with liver cirrhosis (2% vs 17.5%, p<0.01). HIV-infected patients showed an IgG anti-HEV rate of 9.2%, higher than those patients without HIV infection (p<0.03). Multivariate analysis showed that the factors independently associated with anti-HEV detection were liver cirrhosis, liver transplantation and HIV infection (OR: 7.6, 3.1 and 2.4). HCV infection was a protective factor for HEV infection (OR: 0.4). CONCLUSIONS HEV seroprevalence was high in liver transplant recipients, particularly those with liver cirrhosis. The difference in anti-HEV prevalence between Liver and Kidney transplanted cases suggests an association with advanced liver disease. Further research is needed to ascertain whether cirrhosis is a predisposing factor for HEV infection or whether HEV infection may play a role in the pathogeneses of cirrhosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mar Riveiro-Barciela
- Liver Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Buti
- Liver Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
- * E-mail:
| | - María Homs
- Liver Pathology Unit/Virology Unit Biochemistry and Microbiology Departments, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Isabel Campos-Varela
- Liver Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carmen Cantarell
- Nephrology Department, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manuel Crespo
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lluís Castells
- Liver Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - David Tabernero
- Liver Pathology Unit/Virology Unit Biochemistry and Microbiology Departments, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Quer
- Liver Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rafael Esteban
- Liver Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francisco Rodriguez-Frías
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
- Liver Pathology Unit/Virology Unit Biochemistry and Microbiology Departments, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Agrawal S, Dhiman RK. Hepatobiliary quiz-8 (2013). J Clin Exp Hepatol 2013; 3:357-61. [PMID: 25755526 PMCID: PMC4216931 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2013.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Radha K. Dhiman
- Address for correspondence: Radha K. Dhiman, Department of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Abbas Z, Afzal R. Hepatitis E: when to treat and how to treat. Antivir Ther 2013; 19:125-31. [PMID: 24192696 DOI: 10.3851/imp2705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
HEV generally causes a self-limited acute infection and treatment remains supportive. However, severe hepatitis or fulminant hepatic failure may occur, more so during pregnancy. It is an important cause of acute-on-chronic liver failure in endemic areas. Chronic HEV infection and progressive disease has been reported in recipients of solid organ transplants, haematological malignancies, HIV patients and those on haemodialysis. Clearance of HEV may occur after reducing immunosuppressive therapy, especially those targeting T-cells, in about one third of cases. Antiviral therapy should be considered for patients for whom immunosuppressive therapy cannot be reduced and for those who do not achieve viral clearance after reducing immunosuppression. For the patients with severe infection, fulminant hepatic failure and acute-on-chronic infection, ribavirin monotherapy should be considered to expedite the viral clearance and recovery. Although ribavirin therapy is contraindicated in pregnancy owing to teratogenicity, the risks of untreated HEV to the mother and fetus are high and treatment may be offered. A twelve-week course of pegylated interferon, ribavirin or a combination of the two agents leads to viral clearance in about two-thirds of patients with chronic hepatitis E. Three- to twelve-month treatment with pegylated interferon clears virus in liver transplant recipients and patients on haemodialysis. In kidney and heart transplant patients where interferon may lead to organ rejection, ribavirin may be given.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zaigham Abbas
- Department of Hepatogastroenterology, Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation, Karachi, Pakistan.
| | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Ribavirin inhibits in vitro hepatitis E virus replication through depletion of cellular GTP pools and is moderately synergistic with alpha interferon. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2013; 58:267-73. [PMID: 24145541 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01795-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a common cause of acute hepatitis that results in high mortality in pregnant women and may establish chronic infections in immunocompromised patients. We demonstrate for the first time that alpha interferon (IFN-α) and ribavirin inhibit in vitro HEV replication in both a subgenomic replicon and an infectious culture system based on a genotype 3 strain. IFN-α showed a moderate but significant synergism with ribavirin. These findings corroborate the reported clinical effectiveness of both drugs. In addition, the antiviral activity of ribavirin against wild-type genotype 1, 2, and 3 strains was confirmed by immunofluorescence staining. Furthermore, the in vitro activity of ribavirin depends on depletion of intracellular GTP pools, which is evident from the facts that (i) other GTP-depleting agents (5-ethynyl-1-β-d-ribofuranosylimidazole-4-carboxamide [EICAR] and mycophenolic acid) inhibit viral replication, (ii) exogenously added guanosine reverses the antiviral effects, and (iii) a strong correlation (R(2) = 0.9998) exists between the antiviral activity and GTP depletion of ribavirin and other GTP-depleting agents.
Collapse
|