Predictors of Respiratory Failure Development in a Multicenter Cohort of Inpatients With Cirrhosis

INTRODUCTION

Hospitalized patients with cirrhosis can develop respiratory failure (RF), which is associated with a poor prognosis, but predisposing factors are unclear.

METHODS

We prospectively enrolled a multicenter North American cirrhosis inpatient cohort and collected admission and in-hospital data (grading per European Association for the Study of Liver-Chronic Liver Failure scoring system, acute kidney injury [AKI], infections [admission/nosocomial], and albumin use) in an era when terlipressin was not available in North America. Multivariable regression to predict RF was performed using only admission day and in-hospital events occurring before RF.

RESULTS

A total of 511 patients from 14 sites (median age 57 years, admission model for end-stage liver disease [MELD]-Na 23) were enrolled: RF developed in 15%; AKI occurred in 24%; and 11% developed nosocomial infections (NI). At admission, patients who developed RF had higher MELD-Na, gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding/AKI-related admission, and prior infections/ascites. During hospitalization, RF developers had higher NI (especially respiratory), albumin use, and other organ failures. RF was higher in patients receiving albumin (83% vs 59%, P < 0.0001) with increasing doses (269.5 ± 210.5 vs 208.6 ± 186.1 g, P = 0.01) regardless of indication. Admission for AKI, GI bleeding, and high MELD-Na predicted RF. Using all variables, NI (odds ratio [OR] = 4.02, P = 0.0004), GI bleeding (OR = 3.1, P = 0.002), albumin use (OR = 2.93, P = 0.01), AKI (OR = 3.26, P = 0.008), and circulatory failure (OR = 3.73, P = 0.002) were associated with RF risk.

DISCUSSION

In a multicenter inpatient cirrhosis study of patients not exposed to terlipressin, 15% of patients developed RF. RF risk was highest in those admitted with AKI, those who had GI bleeding on admission, and those who developed NI and other organ failures or received albumin during their hospital course. Careful volume monitoring and preventing nosocomial respiratory infections and renal or circulatory failures could reduce this risk.

A clinical review of congenital hepatic fibrosis diagnosed in adulthood: presentation, complications, and outcomes

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Congenital hepatic fibrosis (CHF) is a rare condition characterized by biliary tract changes and a geographic pattern of liver fibrosis. Liver biopsy is essential to confirm its diagnosis. The absence of specific clinical indicators in adults often leads to delays in diagnosis and management, while the natural history has not been well described. We sought to define the presentation and outcomes of adults with biopsy-proven CHF.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective chart review was conducted of patients diagnosed with CHF by liver biopsy. Continuous variables were summarized with the sample median and range. Categorical variables were summarized with number and percentage of patients.

RESULTS

We identified 24 patients evaluated over a 20-year period, with a median age of 51 years (range 22-72 years) at initial presentation; 14 were male. The most common imaging findings were renal cysts (91.3%), splenomegaly (69.6%), and a cirrhotic-appearing liver (60.9%). The most commonly treated liver-related complications were cholangitis (45.8%), varices (45.8%), and hepatic encephalopathy (25%). Two patients died with a median length of follow-up of 2.9 years (range: 0.0-20.0 years). Two patients underwent transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) placement to manage bleeding esophageal varices. Eight patients underwent liver transplantation (LT), the most common indication being decompensated disease (50%).

CONCLUSIONS

CHF should be considered when patients present with cholangitis and/or complications of portal hypertension and have a cirrhotic appearing liver and renal cysts on imaging. Depending upon the disease severity, interventions such as TIPS or LT may be required.

Global Burden of Digestive Diseases: A Systematic Analysis of the Global Burden of Diseases Study, 1990 to 2019

BACKGROUND & AIMS

This study assessed the worldwide burden of digestive diseases between 1990 and 2019.

METHODS

We analyzed data from the Global Burden of Diseases study, covering 18 digestive diseases across 204 countries and territories. Key disease burden indicators, including incidence, prevalence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), were studied. Linear regression analysis was applied to the natural logarithm of age-standardized outcomes to determine the annual percent change.

RESULTS

In 2019, there were 7.32 billion incidents and 2.86 billion prevalent cases of digestive diseases, resulting in 8 million deaths and 277 million DALYs lost. Little to no decrease in global age-standardized incidence and prevalence of digestive diseases was observed between 1990 and 2019, with 95,582 and 35,106 cases per 100,000 individuals in 2019, respectively. The age-standardized death rate was 102 per 100,000 individuals. Digestive diseases accounted for a significant portion of the overall disease burden, with more than one-third of prevalent cases having a digestive etiology. Enteric infections were the primary contributor to incidence, death, and DALYs lost, whereas cirrhosis and other chronic liver diseases had the highest prevalence rate. The burden of digestive diseases was inversely related to the sociodemographic index, with enteric infections being the predominant cause of death in low and low-middle quintiles and colorectal cancer in the high quintile.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite significant reductions in deaths and DALYs due to digestive diseases from 1990 to 2019, they remain prevalent. A significant disparity in the burden of digestive diseases exists among countries with different development levels.

Utility of an Artificial Intelligence Enabled Electrocardiogram for Risk Assessment in Liver Transplant Candidates

BACKGROUND

Post-operative cardiac complications occur infrequently but contribute to mortality after liver transplantation (LT). Artificial intelligence-based algorithms based on electrocardiogram (AI-ECG) are attractive for use during pre-operative evaluation to screen for risk of post-operative cardiac complications, but their use for this purpose is unknown.

AIMS

The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of an AI-ECG algorithm in predicting cardiac factors such as asymptomatic left ventricular systolic dysfunction or potential for developing post-operative atrial fibrillation (AF) in cohorts of patients with end-stage liver disease either undergoing evaluation for transplant or receiving a liver transplant.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed in two consecutive adult cohorts of patients who were either evaluated for LT or underwent LT at a single center between 2017 and 2019. ECG were analyzed using an AI-ECG trained to recognize patterns from a standard 12-lead ECG which could identify the presence of left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVEF < 50%) or subsequent atrial fibrillation.

RESULTS

The performance of AI-ECG in patients undergoing LT evaluation is similar to that in a general population but was lower in the presence of prolonged QTc. AI-ECG analysis on ECG in sinus rhythm had an AUROC of 0.69 for prediction of de novo post-transplant AF. Although post-transplant cardiac dysfunction occurred in only 2.3% of patients in the study cohorts, AI-ECG had an AUROC of 0.69 for prediction of subsequent low left ventricular ejection fraction.

CONCLUSIONS

A positive screen for low EF or AF on AI-ECG can alert to risk of post-operative cardiac dysfunction or predict new onset atrial fibrillation after LT. The use of an AI-ECG can be a useful adjunct in persons undergoing transplant evaluation that can be readily implemented in clinical practice.

Portopulmonary Hypertension in Nontransplanted Patients: Results of the Largest US Single-Institution Registry

OBJECTIVE

To explore clinical characteristics, risk profiles, and outcomes of patients with portopulmonary hypertension (PoPH) who have contraindications to liver transplant (LT).

METHODS

From the largest US single-institution registry of patients with PoPH, we analyzed 160 patients who did not receive LT between 1988 to 2019. Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)-pertinent characteristics, hemodynamic features, treatments, and risk stratification were compared at baseline, first follow-up visit, and censor/death time.

RESULTS

Median survival for the entire cohort was 27.5 months from the diagnosis of PoPH. Overall survival was 89%, 77%, 51%, and 38% at 6 months, 1 year, 3 years, and 5 years, respectively. Survival was significantly affected by the severity of liver disease (P<.001). Most patients received PAH-specific therapies (136 [85%]), predominantly monotherapy (123 [77%)]. With treatment, significant improvements were noted in World Health Organization functional class (P=.04), 6-minute walk distance (P<.001), right ventricular function (P<.001), pulmonary vascular resistance (P<.001), and Registry to Evaluate Early and Long-term Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Disease Management (REVEAL) Lite 2 score (P=.02) univariately. Per European Society of Cardiology risk stratification, no patient met full criteria for low risk at baseline or at follow-up. In a multivariate Cox risk model, 6-minute walk distance, right atrial pressure, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, bilirubin level, and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease-sodium score of 15 or higher were associated with increased risk of death.

CONCLUSION

Patients with PoPH who did not undergo LT had a poor prognosis. This persisted despite use of PAH-specific therapies and significant improvements in hemodynamics, echocardiography parameters of right ventricle function, 6-minute walk distance, and World Health Organization functional class.

The changing impact of pre-liver transplant renal dysfunction on post-transplant survival: results of 2 decades from a single center

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Renal dysfunction before liver transplantation (LT) is associated with higher post-LT mortality. We aimed to study if this association still persisted in the contemporary transplant era.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed data on 2871 primary LT performed at our center from 1998 to 2018. All patients were listed for LT alone and were not considered to be simultaneous liver-kidney (SLK) transplant candidates. SLK recipients and those with previous LT were excluded. Patients were grouped into 4 eras: era-1 (1998-2002, n = 488), era-2 (2003-2007, n = 889), era-3 (2008-2012, n = 703) and era-4 (2013-2018, n = 791). Pre-LT renal dysfunction was defined as creatinine (Cr) >1.5 mg/dl or on dialysis at LT. The effect of pre-LT renal dysfunction on post-LT patient survival in each era was examined using Kaplan Meier estimates and univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard analyses.

RESULTS

Pre-LT renal dysfunction was present in 594 (20%) recipients. Compared to patients in era-1, patients in era-4 had higher Cr, lower eGFR and were more likely to be on dialysis at LT (P < 0.001). Pre-LT renal dysfunction was associated with worse 1, 3 and 5-year survival in era-1 and era-2 (P < 0.005) but not in era-3 or era-4 (P = 0.13 and P = 0.08, respectively). Multivariate analysis demonstrated the lack of independent effect of pre-LT renal dysfunction on post-LT mortality in era-3 and era-4. A separate analysis using eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m² at LT to define renal dysfunction showed similar results.

CONCLUSIONS

Pre-LT renal dysfunction had less impact on post-LT survival in the contemporary transplant era.

Metabolic associated fatty liver disease and acute-on-chronic liver failure: common themes for common problems

Metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) affects 20-30% of the worldwide population and is becoming the most common cause of chronic liver disease, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). MAFLD is the hepatic expression of metabolic dysfunction correlated with a variety of metabolic comorbidities including obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension and type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Obesity, altered gut permeability, chronic inflammation and dysbiosis related to MAFLD might predispose patients with cirrhosis to the development of acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF); however, this relationship remains unclear. ACLF is a syndrome with high short-term mortality, presenting with acute hepatic decompensation associated with organ failures in patients with underlying chronic liver disease with or without an identifiable precipitating event. While this syndrome can occur in any patient with cirrhosis, the increasing prevalence of cirrhosis due to MAFLD is of great concern because, in a recent analysis, MAFLD was the fastest rising cause of cirrhosis associated with ACLF among patients listed for LT in the US. In this review, we will discuss the current knowledge on MAFLD and the development of ACLF.

Impact of County Health Rankings on Nationwide Liver Transplant Outcomes

BACKGROUND

There is limited information concerning whether social determinants of health affect postliver transplant (LT) outcomes. This study aims to understand to what extent the health of LT recipients' counties of residence influence long-term LT outcomes.

METHODS

We used the United Network for Organ Sharing data to identify adult LT recipients transplanted between January 2010 and June 2018. Patient-level data were matched to county-level County Health Ranking (CHR) data using transplant recipient zip code, and nationwide CHRs were created. Mixed-effects Cox proportional hazards models were used to examine associations between CHRs and graft and patient survival post-LT.

RESULTS

Health outcomes rank was significantly associated with posttransplant graft and patient survival, with worst tertile counties showing a 13% increased hazard of both graft failure and patient mortality compared to the best tertile counties.

CONCLUSIONS

Although county health is associated with LT outcomes, it also appears that LT recipient selection is effective at mitigating major disparities based on county of residence and helps yield equitable outcomes in this respect.

Post-Liver Transplant Early Allograft Dysfunction Modifies the Effect of Pre-Liver Transplant Renal Dysfunction on Post-Liver Transplant Survival

Pre-liver transplantation (LT) renal dysfunction is associated with poor post-LT survival. We studied whether early allograft dysfunction (EAD) modifies this association. Data on 2,856 primary LT recipients who received a transplant between 1998 and 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients who died within the first post-LT week or received multiorgan transplants and previous LT recipients were excluded. EAD was defined as (1) total bilirubin ≥ 10 mg/dL on postoperative day (POD) 7, (2) international normalized ratio ≥1.6 on POD 7, and/or (3) alanine aminotransferase or aspartate aminotransferase ≥2000 IU/mL in the first postoperative week. Pre-LT renal dysfunction was defined as serum creatinine >1.5 mg/dL or on renal replacement therapy at LT. Patients were divided into 4 groups according to pre-LT renal dysfunction and post-LT EAD development. Recipients who had both pre-LT renal dysfunction and post-LT EAD had the worst unadjusted 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year post-LT patient and graft survival, whereas patients who had neither renal dysfunction nor EAD had the best survival (P < 0.001). After adjusting for multiple factors, the risk of death was significantly higher only in those with both pre-LT renal dysfunction and post-LT EAD (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 2.19; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.58-3.03; P < 0.001), whereas those with renal dysfunction and no EAD had a comparable risk of death to those with normal kidney function at LT (aHR, 1.12; 95% CI, 0.86-1.45; P = 0.41). Results remained unchanged when pre-LT renal dysfunction was redefined using different glomerular filtration rate cutoffs. Pre-LT renal dysfunction negatively impacts post-LT survival only in patients who develop EAD. Livers at higher risk of post-LT EAD should be used with caution in recipients with pre-LT renal dysfunction.

PNPLA3 Gene Polymorphism and Liver- and Extrahepatic Cancer-Related Mortality in the United States

The palatin-like phospholipase domain-containing 3 (PNPLA3) rs738409 G allele is associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), hepatocellular carcinoma,¹ and all-cause or cardiovascular mortality in the general population.² One recent Italian study reported an association between PNPLA3 polymorphism and liver-related events and mortality in biopsy-confirmed NAFLD.³ Regarding extrahepatic cancer-related mortality, one study showed that only women carrying the G allele without hepatic steatosis had a 60% lower risk for cancer-related mortality.⁴ However, owing to insufficient follow-up and selected populations, the results from these studies cannot generalize about the association between PNPLA3 polymorphism and liver- and extrahepatic cancer-related mortality at a population level. Thus, we investigated the association between PNPLA3 polymorphism and liver- and extrahepatic cancer-related mortality based on the presence of NAFLD in the U.S. general population.

Skin cancer in non-white liver transplant recipients: Mayo Clinic experience

BACKGROUND

Limited data are available on the development of skin cancer and the associated risk factors for non-White liver transplant (LT) recipients. The aim of this study is to determine the incidence of newly diagnosed skin cancer postoperatively and to identify the risk factors for the development of skin cancer in non-White LT recipients.

METHODS

We conducted an initial retrospective chart review of non-White LT patients who received a transplant at our center between January 1, 2011, and December 31, 2013.

RESULTS

Of the 96 patients in the study cohort, 32% were Black, 17% were Asian, 15% were White Hispanic, and 10% were Black Hispanic. One patient had a history of nonmelanoma skin cancer before transplant. No skin cancers were diagnosed during follow-up (median, 1.3 years; range, 17 days to 8.6 years).

CONCLUSION

Our center's experience is consistent with the literature and suggests that the incidence of newly diagnosed skin cancer in non-White liver transplant recipients is low. Longer follow-up may provide additional insights into the specific risk factors for the posttransplant development of skin cancer.

Sequential Protocol Biopsies Post-Liver Transplant From Donors With Moderate Macrosteatosis: What Happens to the Fat?

The number of steatotic deceased donor livers encountered has continued to rise as a result of the obesity epidemic. Little is known about the histological characteristics of moderately macrosteatotic livers over time in the recipient following liver transplantation (LT). All recipients undergoing LT at Mayo Clinic Florida with donor livers with moderate macrosteatosis (30%-60%) from 2000-2017 were identified (n = 96). Routine protocol liver biopsies were performed 1-week and 6-months following LT. All liver donor and protocol biopsies were read by an experienced liver pathologist. Of the 96 moderate macrosteatosis LTs, 70 recipients had post-LT protocol liver biopsies available and comprised the study cohort. Median donor allograft macrosteatosis at the time of transplant was 33% (IQR, 30%-40%) compared with 0% (IQR, 0%-2%) at 1-week (P < 0.001) and 0% (IQR, 0%-0%) at 6-months (P < 0.001) following LT. Biopsies at 1-week post-LT displayed pericentral necrosis in 57.1% of recipients and lipopeliosis in 34.3% of recipients. In the 6-month post-LT biopsies, cholestasis was seen in 3 (4.3%) of the recipients, whereas grade 2 fibrosis was seen in 6 recipients (8.6%). Graft survival at 5 years in the present cohort was 74.0%. Moderate macrosteatosis (30%-60%) in the donor allograft demonstrates complete reversal on liver biopsies performed as early as 7 days following LT and remains absent at 6-months following LT. Both pericentral necrosis and lipopeliosis are common features on day 7 biopsies. Despite these encouraging findings, the perioperative risks of using these livers (postreperfusion cardiac arrest and primary nonfunction) should not be understated. Long-term graft survival is acceptable in patients who are able to overcome the immediate perioperative risk of using moderately steatotic donor livers.

A 3-Decade Analysis of Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma After Solid Organ Transplant

OBJECTIVE

Solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients have moderately increased risk of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAC). We evaluated the incidence and survival of PAC in 2 cohorts and aimed to identify potential risk factors.

METHODS

This study performed a retrospective cohort analysis. Cohort A was extracted from the United Network of Organ Sharing data set and cohort B from SOT recipients evaluated at 3 Mayo Clinic transplant centers. The primary outcome was age-adjusted annual incidence of PAC. Descriptive statistics, hazard ratios, and survival rates were compared.

RESULTS

Cohort A and cohort B included 617,042 and 29,472 SOT recipients, respectively. In cohort A, the annual incidence rate was 12.78 per 100,000 in kidney-pancreas, 13.34 in liver, and 21.87 in heart-lung transplant recipients. Receiving heart-lung transplant, 50 years or older, and history of cancer (in either recipient or donor) were independent factors associated with PAC. Fifty-two patients developed PAC in cohort B. Despite earlier diagnosis (21.15% with stage I-II), survival rates were similar to those reported for sporadic (non-SOT) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

We report demographic and clinical risk factors for PAC after SOT, many of which were present before transplant and are common to sporadic pancreatic cancer. Despite the diagnosis at earlier stages, PAC in SOT portends a very poor survival.

PNPLA3 gene polymorphism and overall and cardiovascular mortality in the United States

BACKGROUND AND AIM

The association between palatin-like phospholipase domain-containing 3 (PNPLA3) I148M (rs738409) polymorphism and mortality is not well understood. We investigated the impact of PNPLA3 I148M (rs738409) polymorphism on overall and cardiovascular mortality based on the presence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

METHODS

The third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 1991 to 1994 and National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III-linked mortality data through 31 December 2015 were utilized in this study.

RESULTS

Of 4814 participants, 50.7% were homozygous for the C-allele and 12.6% were homozygous for the G-allele. During a follow up of 20 years, there were a total of 1255 deaths, 422 attributed to cardiovascular disease. There was a significant association with overall mortality among those with the PNPLA3 I148M (rs738409) GG genotype (hazard ratio [HR] 1.34, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02-1.77) or G-allele (HR 1.22, 95% CI 1.09-1.36) in the general population. NAFLD with homozygous PNPLA3 I148M (rs738409) GG genotype had higher overall mortality after adjusting for multiple metabolic risk factors (HR 1.45, 95% CI 1.01-2.08). The PNPLA3 I148M (rs738409) G-allele had a tendency of increased cardiovascular mortality in the total population. This association was not noted in those with NAFLD.

CONCLUSIONS

The homozygous PNPLA3 I148M (rs738409) GG genotype showed an increase in overall mortality in the general population and NAFLD independent of multiple metabolic risk factors.

Arterial Blood Pressure at Liver Transplant Evaluation Predicts Renal Histology in Candidates With Renal Dysfunction

Renal dysfunction is common in liver transplantation (LT) candidates, but differentiating between reversible and irreversible renal injury can be difficult. Kidney biopsy might be helpful in differentiating reversible from irreversible renal injury, but it is associated with significant complications. We aimed to identify pre-LT predictors of potentially reversible renal injury using histological information obtained on pre-LT renal biopsy. Data on 128 LT candidates who underwent pre-LT kidney biopsy were retrospectively collected and correlated with renal histological findings. Indications for kidney biopsy were iothalamate glomerular filtration rate (iGFR) ≤40 mL/minute, proteinuria >500 mg/day, and/or hematuria. According to the biopsy diagnosis, patients were grouped into the following categories: normal (n = 13); acute tubular necrosis (ATN; n = 25); membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (n = 19); minimal histological changes (n = 24); and advanced interstitial fibrosis (IF) and glomerulosclerosis (GS) (n = 47). Compared with patients having advanced IF/GS, patients with normal biopsies and those with ATN had lower systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and higher international normalized ratio and total bilirubin levels (<0.05 for all). Both SBP and DBP directly correlated with the degree of IF and GS (R = 0.3, P ≤ 0.02 for all). SBP ≤90 mm Hg was 100% sensitive and 98% specific in correlating with normal biopsies or ATN, whereas SBP ≥140 mm Hg was 22% sensitive and 90% specific in correlating with advanced IF/GS. Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score, serum creatinine, iGFR, urinary sodium excretion, and renal size did not correlate with biopsy diagnosis or degree of IF or GS. In conclusion, SBP at the time of LT evaluation correlates with renal histology, and it should be included along with other clinical and laboratory markers in the decision-making process to list patients with renal dysfunction for LT alone versus simultaneous liver-kidney transplantation.

Bias-corrected estimates of reduction of post-surgery length of stay and corresponding cost savings through the widespread national implementation of fast-tracking after liver transplantation: a quasi-experimental study

Background: Fast-tracking is an approach adopted by Mayo Clinic in Florida's (MCF) liver transplant (LT) program, which consists of early tracheal extubation and transfer of patients to surgical ward, eliminating a stay in the intensive care unit in select patients. Since adopting this approach in 2002, MCF has successfully fast-tracked 54.3% of patients undergoing LT. Objectives: This study evaluated the reduction in post-operative length of stay (LOS) that resulted from the fast-tracking protocol and assessed the potential cost saving in the case of nationwide implementation. Methods: A propensity score for fast-tracking was generated based on MCF liver transplant databases during 2011-2013. Various propensity score matching algorithms were used to form control groups from the United Network of Organ Sharing Standard Analysis and Research (STAR) file that had comparable demographic characteristics and health status to the treatment group identified in MCF. Multiple regression and matching estimators were employed for evaluation of the post-surgery LOS. The algorithm generated from the analysis was also applied to the STAR data to determine the proportion of patients in the US who could potentially be candidates for fast-tracking, and the potential savings. Results: The effect of the fast-tracking on the post-transplant LOS was estimated at approximately from 2.5 (p-value = 0.001) to 3.2 (p-value < 0.001) days based on various matching algorithms. The cost saving from a nationwide implementation of fast-tracking of liver transplant patients was estimated to be at least $78 million during the 2-year period. Conclusion: The fast-track program was found to be effective in reducing post-transplant LOS, although the reduction appeared to be less than previously reported. Nationwide implementation of fast-tracking could result in substantial cost savings without compromising the patient outcome.

An Argument for Vitamin D, A, and Zinc Monitoring in Cirrhosis

Malnutrition is prevalent in cirrhosis. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies, including vitamin D, vitamin A, and zinc, are common and have been shown to correlate with survival. Our aim was to review the mechanisms of vitamin D, vitamin A, and zinc deficiencies in cirrhosis and the clinical assessment of affected patients, their outcomes based on the current literature, and management. This is a narrative review including the relevant literature for cirrhosis and vitamin D, vitamin A, and zinc deficiencies. Vitamin D deficiency has important effects in cirrhosis, regardless of the cause of chronic liver disease.These effects include associations with fibrosis and outcomes such as infections, hepatocellular carcinoma, and mortality. Vitamin A deficiency is associated with liver disease progression to cirrhosis and clinical decompensation, including occurrence of ascites or hepatic encephalopathy. Zinc deficiency can lead to hepatic encephalopathy and impaired immune function. Such deficiencies correlate with patient survival and disease severity. Caution should be applied when replacing vitamin D, vitamin A, and zinc to avoid toxicity. Identification and appropriate treatment of vitamin and mineral deficiencies in cirrhosis may reduce specific nutritional and cirrhosis-related adverse events. Routine monitoring of vitamin A, vitamin D and zinc levels in cirrhosis should be considered.

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

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

Serum Electrolyte Levels and Outcomes in Patients Hospitalized with Hepatic Encephalopathy

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS

Serum electrolyte derangements are common in patients with decompensated cirrhosis hospitalized for hepatic encephalopathy. There are limited data describing the association between electrolyte levels and outcomes in hepatic encephalopathy. We assessed the association between initial serum electrolyte values and outcomes in patients with hepatic encephalopathy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 385 consecutive patients hospitalized with encephalopathy were included in the study. Baseline electrolyte levels (sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, calcium and phosphorus) were measured at the time of admission and assessed for association with outcomes, which included survival, admission to the intensive care unit, requirement for mechanical ventilation, and length of hospital stay. P-values ≤ 0.0083 were considered significant after adjustment for multiple testing.

RESULTS

In unadjusted analysis, significant associations were identified regarding both bicarbonate and phosphorus (admission to intensive care unit), and calcium (mechanical ventilation); however these findings weakened and no longer approached statistical significance when adjusting for confounding variables. No other significant associations between serum electrolyte measurements and outcomes were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that in patients hospitalized with encephalopathy, serum electrolyte measurements are not strong predictors of patient outcome.

Multicenter Experience using Ledipasvir/Sofosbuvir ± RBV to Treat HCV GT 1 Relapsers after Simeprevir and Sofosbuvir Treatment

INTRODUCTION AND AIM

Approximately 10%-15% of patients with hepatitis C genotype 1 (HCV GT1) experience virological relapse after all-oral antiviral regimen using simeprevir (SMV) and sofosbuvir (SOF). The efficacy and safety of treating such relapsers using ledipasvir/sofosbuvir (LDV/SOF) with/without ribavirin (RBV) has been limited.

OBJECTIVE

Report the virological response and safety of LDV/SOF with/without RBV for 12-24 weeks in treating HCV GT1 relapsers after SMV + SOF.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Patients treated with standardized clinical protocol utilizing LDV/SOF with/without RBV at three transplant centers were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

Forty-five patients (29% post-LT, 82% male, 13% non-white, 73% subtype 1a, 86% IL28B CT/TT, 78% F3-4) started LDV/SOF with/without RBV at a median of 22 weeks (range 7-55 weeks) after the last dose of SMV+SOF treatment. Thirty-seven patients received LDV/SOF for 24 weeks (24/37 patients with RBV) and eight patients received LDV/SOF for 12 weeks (5/8 patients with RBV). RBV dose was adjusted for renal function. Sixteen patients who were RBV-ineligible received LDV/SOF without RBV for 12 or 24 weeks. SVR 12 was achieved in 96% (43/45) of patients. Baseline viral load, RBV use, or GT1 subtype did not impact SVR 12. Minimal adverse events were reported in those without RBV; 45% of patients who received RBV developed significant anemia requiring RBV dose reduction and/or discontinuation. In LT recipients, minimal immunosuppression dose adjustments were required and no biopsy-proven acute rejection occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with LDV/SOF with/without RBV for 12-24 weeks was very well tolerated and resulted in high SVR 12 rates (96%) in HCV GT1 relapsers to SMV + SOF treatment.

Impact of psychiatric comorbidities on outcomes of elderly liver transplant recipients

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluated the impact of psychiatric comorbidities in liver transplant (LT) recipients aged ≥65 years (elderly) on length of hospital-stay (LOS), death, and a composite outcome of graft loss or death.

METHODS

This retrospective study assessed impact of psychiatric comorbidities in 122 elderly LT recipients and a matched group of 122 LT recipients aged <65 years (younger). Associations were assessed using adjusted multivariable regression models.

RESULTS

Among elderly, median age at LT was 68 years, most were males (62%), white (85%) and 61.7% had a history of any psychiatric diagnosis. Among younger, median age was 55, most were males (67.2%), white (77.5%) and 61.5% had any psychiatric diagnosis. Median LOS was 8 days for both groups. Among elderly, after a median follow-up of 5 years, 25.4% died and 29.5% experienced graft loss or death. History of adjustment disorder, history of depression, past psychiatric medication use, and pain prior to LT were associated with an increased risk of death or the composite graft loss or death. Perioperative use of SSRIs and lack of sleeping medication use were associated with longer LOS. Among aged <65, after median follow-up of 4.7 years, 21 patients (17%) died and 25 (20%) experienced graft loss or death; history of depression, perioperative SSRIs or sleeping medications use was associated with increased mortality and graft-loss or death.

CONCLUSION

Six out of 10 patients among both elderly and younger cohorts had pre-LT psychiatric comorbidities, some of which adversely affected outcomes after LT.

Intraregional model for end-stage liver disease score variation in liver transplantation: Disparity in our own backyard

Variation in average Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score at liver transplantation (LT) by United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) regions is well documented. The present study aimed to investigate MELD variation at the interregional, intraregional, and intra-donation service area (DSA) levels. Patients undergoing LT between 2015 and 2016 were obtained from the UNOS standard analysis and research file. The distribution of allocation MELD score including median, skew, and kurtosis was examined for all transplant programs. Intraregional median allocation MELD varied significantly within all 11 UNOS regions. The largest variation between programs was seen in region 5 (MELD 24.0 versus 38.5) and region 3 (MELD 20.5 versus 32.0). Regions 1, 5, and 9 had the largest proportion of programs with a highly negative skewed MELD score (50%, 57%, and 57%, respectively), whereas regions 3, 6, 10, and 11 did not have any programs with a highly negative skew. MELD score distribution was also examined in programs located in the same DSA, where no barriers exist and theoretically no significant difference in allocation should be observed. The largest DSA variation in median allocation MELD score was seen in NYRT-OP1 LiveOnNY (MELD score variation 11), AZOB-OP1 Donor Network of Arizona (MELD score variation 11), MAOB-OP1 New England Organ Bank (MELD score variation 9), and TXGC-OP1 LifeGift Organ Donation Ctr (MELD score variation 9). In conclusion, the present study demonstrates that this MELD disparity is not only present at the interregional level but can be seen within regions and even within DSAs between programs located as close as several city blocks away. Although organ availability likely accounts for a component of this disparity, the present study suggests that transplant center behavior may also play a significant role. Liver Transplantation 24 488-496 2018 AASLD.

What are the outcomes of declining a public health service increased risk liver donor for patients on the liver transplant waiting list?

The tragedy of the national opioid epidemic has resulted in a significant increase in the number of opioid-related deaths and accordingly an increase in the number of potential donors designated Public Health Service (PHS) increased risk. Previous studies have demonstrated reluctance to use these PHS organs, and as a result, higher discard rates for these organs have been observed. All patients listed for liver transplantation in the United States from January 2005 to December 2016 were investigated. Patients on the waiting list were divided into 2 groups: those in which a PHS liver was used for transplantation (accepted PHS group) and those in which a PHS liver was declined and transplanted into a recipient lower on the match run (declined PHS group). Intention-to-treat patient survival from the time of PHS offer was significantly higher in the accepted PHS compared with the declined PHS group (P < 0.001). On Cox multivariate regression, declining a PHS donor liver was associated with a hazard ratio of 2.36 (95% confidence interval, 2.23-2.49; P < 0.001). For patients in which a PHS organ offer was declined, 11.6% died or were delisted for being too sick within the subsequent year. Donor liver allografts implanted in the accepted PHS group were of a lower donor risk index (1.28 versus 1.44) compared with the non-PHS organs that patients in the declined PHS group ultimately received if they underwent transplantation. In conclusion, there is a significantly higher survival for patients in which a PHS liver is accepted and used compared with those patients in which a PHS organ is declined. These data will help inform decisions about whether or not to accept a PHS donor liver for both patients and transplant professionals. Liver Transplantation 24 497-504 2018 AASLD.

Editorial: The Risky Business of Fungal Infections in Patients with Cirrhosis

Hospitalized patients with cirrhosis have a high rate of mortality. In the report by Bajaj et al., the negative impact of fungal infections (FI) on outcomes in a large US cohort of hospitalized cirrhotics is highlighted. Risk factors for FI are identified. Increasing awareness of FI along with the application of new diagnostic tools in species identification will provide the opportunity to improve patient outcomes.

Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Impact of Wait Time at a Single Center

INTRODUCTION AND AIM

Liver transplantation (LT) provides durable survival for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, there is continuing debate concerning the impact of wait time and acceptable tumor burden on outcomes after LT. We sought to review outcomes of LT for HCC at a single, large U.S. center, examining the influence of wait time on post-LT outcomes.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We reviewed LT for HCC at Mayo Clinic in Florida from 1/1/2003 until 6/30/2014. Follow up was updated through 8/1/ 2015.

RESULTS

From 2003-2014, 978 patients were referred for management of HCC. 376 patients were transplanted for presumed HCC within Milan criteria, and the results of these 376 cases were analyzed. The median diagnosis to LT time was 183 days (8 - 4,337), and median transplant list wait time was 62 days (0 - 1815). There was no statistical difference in recurrence-free or overall survival for those with wait time of less than or greater than 180 days from diagnosis of HCC to LT. The most important predictor of long term survival after LT was HCC recurrence (HR: 18.61, p < 0.001). Recurrences of HCC as well as survival were predicted by factors related to tumor biology, including histopathological grade, vascular invasion, and pre-LT serum alpha-fetoprotein levels. Disease recurrence occurred in 13%. The overall 5-year patient survival was 65.8%, while the probability of 5-year recurrence-free survival was 62.2%.

CONCLUSIONS

In this large, single-center experience with long-term data, factors of tumor biology, but not a longer wait time, were associated with recurrence-free and overall survival.

Waitlist Outcomes for Patients Relisted Following Failed Donation After Cardiac Death Liver Transplant: Implications for Awarding Model for End-Stage Liver Disease Exception Scores

Understanding of outcomes for patients relisted for ischemic cholangiopathy following a donation after cardiac death (DCD) liver transplant (LT) will help standardization of a Model for End-Stage Liver Disease exception scheme for retransplantation. Early relisting (E-RL) for DCD graft failure caused by primary nonfunction (PNF) or hepatic artery thrombosis (HAT) was defined as relisting ≤14 days after DCD LT, and late relisting (L-RL) due to biliary complications was defined as relisting 14 days to 3 years after DCD LT. Of 3908 DCD LTs performed nationally between 2002 and 2016, 540 (13.8%) patients were relisted within 3 years of transplant (168 [4.3%] in the E-RL group, 372 [9.5%] in the L-RL group). The E-RL and L-RL groups had waitlist mortality rates of 15.4% and 10.5%, respectively, at 3 mo and 16.1% and 14.3%, respectively, at 1 year. Waitlist mortality in the L-RL group was higher than mortality and delisted rates for patients with exception points for both hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS) at 3- to 12-mo time points (p < 0.001). Waitlist outcomes differed in patients with early DCD graft failure caused by PNF or HAT compared with those with late DCD graft failure attributed to biliary complications. In L-RL, higher rates of waitlist mortality were noted compared with patients listed with exception points for HCC or HPS.

Noneligible Donors as a Strategy to Decrease the Organ Shortage

Organ procurement organization (OPO) performance is generally evaluated by the number of organ procurement procedures divided by the number of eligible deaths (donation after brain death [DBD] donors aged <70 years), whereas the number of noneligible deaths (including donation after cardiac death donors and DBD donors aged >70 years) is not tracked. The present study aimed to investigate the variability in the proportion of noneligible liver donors by the 58 donor service areas (DSAs). Patients undergoing liver transplant (LT) between 2011 and 2015 were obtained from the United Network for Organ Sharing Standard Transplant Analysis and Research file. LTs from noneligible and eligible donors were compared. The proportion of noneligible liver donors by DSA varied significantly, ranging from 0% to 19.6% of total liver grafts used. In transplant programs, the proportion of noneligible liver donors used ranged from 0% to 35.3%. On linear regression there was no correlation between match Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score for programs in a given DSA and proportion of noneligible donors used from the corresponding DSA (p = 0.14). Noneligible donors remain an underutilized resource in many OPOs. Policy changes to begin tracking noneligible donors and learning from OPOs that have high noneligible donor usage are potential strategies to increase awareness and pursuit of these organs.

Comparison of longterm outcomes and quality of life in recipients of donation after cardiac death liver grafts with a propensity-matched cohort

The use of liver grafts from donation after cardiac death (DCD) has been limited due to the increased rate of graft failure, mostly related to ischemic cholangiopathy (IC). It is our hypothesis that longterm outcomes and quality of life (QOL) similar to patients undergoing liver transplantation (LT) with donation after brain death (DBD) can be achieved. Clinical outcomes of all patients undergoing DCD LT (n = 300) between 1998 and 2015 were compared with a propensity score-matched cohort of patients undergoing DBD LT (n = 300). Patients were contacted for a follow-up questionnaire and short-form (SF)-12 QOL Survey administration. Median follow-up was >5 years. Graft survival at 1-, 3-, and 5-years was 83.8%, 75.5%, and 70.1% in the DCD LT group and 88.4%, 80.3%, and 73.9% in the DBD LT group (P = 0.27). Patient survival at 1-, 3-, and 5-years was 92.3%, 86.1%, and 80.3% in the DCD LT group and 92.3%, 85.1%, and 79.5% in the DBD LT group (P = 0.81). IC developed in 11.7% and 2% of patients in the DCD LT group and DBD LT group, respectively (P < 0.001). DCD LT recipients who developed IC had inferior graft survival compared with both the DCD non-IC group (P < 0.001) and the DBD LT group (P < 0.001); no difference in graft survival was observed between the DCD non-IC group and the DBD LT group (P = 0.50). Physical and Mental Composite Scores on the SF-12 QOL questionnaire were similar between the DCD LT and DBD LT groups (44.0 versus 45.4; P = 0.34 and 51.9 versus 52.2; P = 0.83), respectively. Similar longterm survival and QOL scores can be achieved between DCD LT and DBD LT. Prevention of IC in DCD LT yields excellent graft and patient survival with virtually no difference compared with DBD LT. Liver Transplantation 23 342-351 2017 AASLD.

Predictors and impacts of hospital readmissions following liver transplantation

While liver transplantation is the definitive therapy for end stage liver disease, it remains a major procedure, with many potential complications. Hospital readmissions after the initial hospitalization for liver transplantation can be associated with adverse outcomes, increased cost, and resource utilization. Our aim was to define the incidence and reasons for hospital readmission after liver transplant and the impact of readmissions on patient outcomes. We retrospectively analyzed 30- and 90-day readmission rates and indications in patients who underwent liver transplant at a large-volume transplant center over a 3-year period. Four hundred seventy-nine adult patients underwent their first liver transplant during the study period. The 30-day readmission rate was 29.6%. Recipient and donor age, etiology of liver disease, biological Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score, and cold ischemia time were similar between patients who were readmitted within 30 days and those who were not readmitted. Readmissions occurred in 25% of patients who were hospitalized prior to liver transplant compared to 30% who were admitted for liver transplant. The most common indications for readmission were infection, severe abdominal pain, and biliary complications. Early discharge from hospital (fewer than 7 days after liver transplant), was not associated with readmission; however, a prolonged hospital stay after liver transplant was associated with an increased risk of readmission (p = 0.04). In conclusion, patients who undergo liver transplant have a high rate of readmission. In our cohort, readmissions were unrelated to pre-existing recipient or donor factors, but were associated with a longer hospital stay after liver transplant.

Simultaneous liver and kidney transplantation in elderly patients: Outcomes and validation of a clinical risk score for patient selection

 Introduction and aim. Many transplant programs have expanded eligibility to include patients previously ineligible because of advanced age. Outcomes of simultaneous liver-kidney transplantation (SLK) in recipients with advanced age are not known.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Data from patients undergoing transplantation between 2002 and 2015 were obtained from the UNOS Standard Analysis and Research file.

RESULTS

SLK recipients aged ≥ 65 years (N = 677), SLK recipients aged < 65 years (N = 4517), and recipients of liver transplant alone(LTA) aged ≥ 65 years(N = 8495) were compared. Recipient characteristics were similar between the SLK groups. Similar patient and graft survival were observed in SLK recipients aged ≥ 65 years compared to SLK recipients aged < 65 years and LTA recipients aged ≥ 65 years. Importantly, in a subgroup analysis, superior survival was seen in the SLK group aged ≥ 65 years compared to LTA recipients aged ≥ 65 years who underwent dialysis in the week prior to transplantation (p < 0.001). A prediction model of patient survival was developed for the SLK group aged ≥ 65 years with predictors including: age ≥ 70 years (3 points), calculated MELD score (-1 to 2 points), and recipient ventilator status at the time of SLK (4 points). The risk score predicted patient survival, with a significantly inferior survival seen in patients with a score ≥ 4 (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Age should not be used as a contraindication for SLK transplantation. The validated scoring system provides a guide for patient selection and can be used when evaluating elderly patients for SLK transplantation listing.

Early allograft dysfunction after liver transplantation: an intermediate outcome measure for targeted improvements

BACKGROUND

The term early allograft dysfunction (EAD) identifies liver transplant (LT) allografts with initial poor function and portends poor allograft and patient survival. Aims of this study are to use EAD as an intermediate outcome measure in a large single center cohort and identify donor, recipient and peri-operative risk factors.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In 1950 consecutive primary LT, donor, recipient and peri-operative data were collected. EAD was defined by the presence of one or more of the following: total bilirubin ≥ 10 mg/dL (171 μmol/L) or, INR ≥ 1.6 on day 7, and ALT/AST > 2,000 IU/L within the first 7 days.

RESULTS

The incidence of EAD was 26.5%. 1-, 3-, and 5-year allograft and patient survival for patients who developed EAD were significantly inferior to those who did not (P < 0.01 at all time points). Multivariate analysis demonstrated associations in the development of EAD with recipient pre-operative ventilator status, donation after cardiac death allografts, donor age, allograft size, degree of steatosis, operative time and intra-operative transfusion requirements (all P < 0.01). Patients with EAD had a significantly longer hospitalization at 20.9 ± 38.9 days (median: 9; range: 4-446) compared with 10.7 ± 13.5 days (median: 7; range: 3-231) in patients with no EAD (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

This is the largest single center experience demonstrating incidence of EAD and identifying factors associated with development of EAD. EAD is a useful intermediate outcome measure for allograft and patient survival. Balancing recipient pretransplant conditions, donor risk factors and intra-operative conditions are necessary for avoiding EAD.

Early Allograft Dysfunction After Liver Transplantation Is Associated With Short- and Long-Term Kidney Function Impairment

Early allograft dysfunction (EAD) after liver transplantation (LT) is related to ischemia-reperfusion injury and may lead to a systemic inflammatory response and extrahepatic organ dysfunction. We evaluated the effect of EAD on new-onset acute kidney injury (AKI) requiring renal replacement therapy within the first month and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) within the first year post-LT in 1325 primary LT recipients. EAD developed in 358 (27%) of recipients. Seventy-one (5.6%) recipients developed AKI and 38 (2.9%) developed ESRD. Compared with those without EAD, recipients with EAD had a higher risk of AKI and ESRD (4% vs. 9% and 2% vs. 6%, respectively, p < 0.001 for both). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed an independent relationship between EAD and AKI as well as ESRD (odds ratio 3.5, 95% confidence interval 1.9-6.4, and odds ratio 3.1, 95% confidence interval 11.9-91.2, respectively). Patients who experienced both EAD and AKI had inferior 1-, 3-, 5-, and 10-year patient and graft survival compared with those with either EAD or AKI alone, while those who had neither AKI nor EAD had the best outcomes (p < 0.001). Post-LT EAD is a risk factor for both AKI and ESRD and should be considered a target for future intervention to reduce post-LT short- and long-term renal dysfunction.

Educational Intervention in Primary Care Residents' Knowledge and Performance of Hepatitis B Vaccination in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus

OBJECTIVES

Although guidelines recommend hepatitis B virus (HBV) immunization for adults with diabetes mellitus (DM), vaccination rates remain low. Our aim was to evaluate knowledge and practice regarding HBV and to assess the effectiveness of a multifaceted educational program.

METHODS

Primary care residents (n = 244) at three academic institutions were surveyed about various aspects of HBV. Residents at one training program were then randomly assigned to an educational intervention (E) (n = 20) and control group (C) (n = 19). The E group received a focused didactic lecture and periodic e-mail reminders with immediate feedback. We compared knowledge scores before and after the intervention. Chart audits were conducted to evaluate the residents' behavior.

RESULTS

A total of 103 (42%) residents responded to the survey. The survey indicated that residents lacked the necessary knowledge and risk assessment skills concerning HBV in patients with DM. In the controlled trial of the E intervention, both groups had similar baseline knowledge scores. The E group had a significant increase in the immediate postintervention knowledge scores from a mean of 29% at baseline to 70% (P < 0.001) that was sustained 6 months postintervention (65%; P < 0.001). In the C group, 6-month postintervention scores were not different from baseline (38% vs 29%). No significant differences were observed in documentation skills.

CONCLUSIONS

A combined educational program was effective in enhancing knowledge about HBV and vaccination in DM but had limited influence on physicians' practice. Further study incorporating system changes along with educational initiatives is required to improve clinical practice.

Multicenter experience using simeprevir and sofosbuvir with or without ribavirin to treat hepatitis C genotype 1 in patients with cirrhosis

Interferon (IFN)-free regimens are needed to treat hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Combined simeprevir (SMV) and sofosbuvir (SOF) with or without ribavirin (RBV) results in high sustained virological response (SVR) rates along with minimal adverse events (AEs) in patients with hepatitis C genotype 1 (HCV GT1). The aim of this study was to report on the virological response, safety, and tolerability of SOF and SMV with or without RBV in compensated and decompensated patients with cirrhosis with HCV GT1 infection. Patients treated with standardized clinical protocol utilizing SMV+SOF with or without RBV at three transplant centers were retrospectively reviewed. A total of 119 patients (61% male, 87% white, 69% subtype 1a, 30% Child-Pugh-Turcott [CPT]-B liver cirrhosis [LC], and 82% were treatment experienced) received treatment and were followed for a median of 38 weeks (range, 12-58). Sustained virological response (SVR) at week 12 (SVR12) was achieved in 78% (92 of 118) of patients (95% confidence interval: 69-85). Lower pretreatment Model for End Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score was a predictor of SVR12 (P = 0.018). Baseline viral load, previous treatment status, RBV use, or GT1 subtype did not impact SVR 12. The majority of patients with SVR12 showed stability or improvement in MELD score. Treatment was very well tolerated with mild degrees of AEs.

CONCLUSIONS

The regimen of SMV+SOF with or without RBV for 12 weeks was very well tolerated and resulted in high SVR12 rates (78%) in HCV GT1 patients with LC. SVR12 was inversely related to pretreatment MELD. SVR12 had favorable short-term impact on MELD score. Long-term impact on disease stability is yet to be determined. Longer treatment duration or the use of different regimen may still be needed in this population.

Multicenter experience using simeprevir and sofosbuvir with or without ribavirin to treat hepatitis C genotype 1 after liver transplant

Treatment with an all-oral interferon-free antiviral regimen using simeprevir and sofosbuvir with or without ribavirin (RBV) for 12 weeks resulted in high sustained virologic response (SVR) rates along with minimal adverse events in non-liver transplant (LT) patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1 infection. This is the first multicenter report on the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of this regimen in LT recipients. A total of 123 patients (76% male, 74% white, 60% genotype 1a, 30% METAVIR F3-F4, 4% decompensation, 11% cholestatic recurrence, 7% had kidney transplant, and 82% previously failed pegylated interferon/RBV-based regimens) received treatment and were followed for a median of 30 weeks (range 12-53 weeks). The median time from LT to treatment was 32 months (range 2-317 months). Tacrolimus was the primary immunosuppression in 91% of patients. Minimal immunosuppression dose adjustments were required. An SVR 12 weeks after treatment completion (SVR12) was achieved in 90% of patients (95% confidence interval 84%-96%). In patients with genotype 1a infection, the SVR12 rate was significantly lower in those with METAVIR F3-F4 (71%) compared to those with F0-F2 (91%). Half of the patients achieved undetected HCV RNA at treatment week 4, and their SVR12 rate was significantly higher (96%) compared to those with detectable HCV RNA (83%). Treatment was very well tolerated with mild degrees of adverse events, except for one death possibly due to drug-induced lung injury. In the 25 patients who received RBV, 72% developed anemia requiring intervention.

CONCLUSION

An all-oral interferon-free antiviral regimen using simeprevir and sofosbuvir with or without RBV for 12 weeks was very well tolerated and resulted in excellent SVR12 rates in LT recipients with HCV genotype 1 infection.

Prevalence and outcomes of cystic lesion of the pancreas in immunosuppressed patients with solid organ transplantation

BACKGROUND

Solid organ transplant recipients have an increased risk of cancer due to immunosuppressive therapy. Pancreatic cystic lesions are increasingly being detected, some with malignant potential. We aimed to determine the prevalence of these lesions and describe their clinical course in these patients.

METHODS

We identified the presence of pancreatic cystic lesions in a retrospective cohort of 3188 consecutive solid organ transplant recipients from 2000 to 2013 and compared lesion characteristics at initial and follow-up imaging, when available.

RESULTS

Lesion prevalence was 11.4% (365/3188), and increased with age. Median diameter of the largest lesions was 7mm (range: 1-31mm). We noted worrisome features in two patients (0.54%) at the time of cyst diagnosis. Of 155 patients who underwent follow-up imaging, the cysts size remained stable in 80%, increased in 16%, and decreased in 4%. Two patients (1.3%) developed features concerning for cancer. One underwent pancreatic surgery, and pathology confirmed the presence of high-grade dysplasia. The other continued with conservative management due to multiple comorbidities.

CONCLUSIONS

Pancreatic cystic lesions are common in solid organ transplant recipients. In lesions without high-risk features, the development of features worrisome for cancer is rare. These lesions can be managed conservatively, and their presence should not affect transplant eligibility.

Diagnostic performance of magnetic resonance elastography in staging liver fibrosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of individual participant data

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) is a noninvasive tool for staging liver fibrosis. We conducted a meta-analysis of individual participant data collected from published studies to assess the diagnostic accuracy of MRE for staging liver fibrosis in patients with chronic liver diseases (CLD).

METHODS

Through a systematic literature search of multiple databases (2003-2013), we identified studies on diagnostic performance of MRE for staging liver fibrosis in patients with CLD with native anatomy, using liver biopsy as the standard. We contacted study authors to collect data on each participant's age, sex, body mass index (BMI), liver stiffness (measured by MRE), fibrosis stage, staging system used, degree of inflammation, etiology of CLD, and interval between MRE and biopsy. Through a pooled analysis, we calculated cluster-adjusted area under the receiver-operating curve, sensitivity, and specificity of MRE for any fibrosis (≥stage 1), significant fibrosis (≥stage 2), advanced fibrosis (≥stage 3), and cirrhosis (stage 4).

RESULTS

We analyzed data from 12 retrospective studies, comprising 697 patients (mean age, 55 ± 13 y; 59.4% male; mean BMI, 26.9 ± 6.7 kg/m(2); 92.1% with <1 year interval between MRE and biopsy; and 47.1% with hepatitis C). Overall, 19.5%, 19.4%, 15.5%, 15.9%, and 29.7% patients had stage 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 fibrosis, respectively. The mean area under the receiver-operating curve values (and 95% confidence intervals) for the diagnosis of any (≥stage 1), significant (≥stage 2), advanced fibrosis (≥stage 3), and cirrhosis, were as follows: 0.84 (0.76-0.92), 0.88 (0.84-0.91), 0.93 (0.90-0.95), and 0.92 (0.90-0.94), respectively. A similar diagnostic performance was observed in stratified analysis based on sex, obesity, and etiology of CLD. The overall rate of failure of MRE was 4.3%.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on a pooled analysis of data from individual participants, MRE has a high accuracy for the diagnosis of significant or advanced fibrosis and cirrhosis, independent of BMI and etiology of CLD. Prospective studies are warranted to better understand the diagnostic performance of MRE.

Avoiding stay in the intensive care unit after liver transplantation: a score to assign location of care

Select liver transplantation (LT) recipients in our program are transferred from operating room to postanesthesia care unit for recovery and extubation with transfer to the ward, completely eliminating an intensive care unit (ICU) stay. Developing a reliable method to determine patients suitable for fast-tracking would be of practical benefit to centers considering this practice. The aim of this study was to create a fast-tracking probability score that could be used to predict successful assignment of care location after LT. Recipient, donor and operative characteristics were assessed for independent association with successful fast-tracking to create a probability score. Of the 1296 LT recipients who met inclusion criteria, 704 (54.3%) were successfully fast-tracked and 592 (45.7%) were directly admitted to the ICU after LT. Based on nine readily available variables at the time of LT, we created a scoring system that classified patients according to the likelihood of being successfully fast-tracked to the surgical ward, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.790 (95% CI: 0.765-0.816). This score was validated in an independent group of 372 LT with similar AUC. We describe a score that can be used to predict successful fast-tracking immediately after LT using readily available clinical variables.

Inferior long-term outcomes of liver-kidney transplantation using donation after cardiac death donors: single-center and organ procurement and transplantation network analyses

Limited data are available for outcomes of simultaneous liver-kidney (SLK) transplantation using donation after cardiac death (DCD) donors. The outcomes of 12 DCD-SLK transplants and 54 SLK transplants using donation after brain death (DBD) donors were retrospectively compared. The baseline demographics were similar for the DCD-SLK and DBD-SLK groups except for the higher liver donor risk index for the DCD-SLK group (1.8 ± 0.4 versus 1.3 ± 0.4, P = 0.001). The rates of surgical complications and graft rejections within 1 year were comparable for the DCD-SLK and DBD-SLK groups. Delayed renal graft function was twice as common in the DCD-SLK group. At 1 year, the serum creatinine levels and the iothalamate glomerular filtration rates were similar for the groups. The patient, liver graft, and kidney graft survival rates at 1 year were comparable for the groups (83.3%, 75.0%, and 82.5% for the DCD-SLK group and 92.4%, 92.4%, and 92.6% for the DBD-SLK group, P = 0.3 for all). The DCD-SLK group had worse patient, liver graft, and kidney graft survival at 3 years (62.5%, 62.5%, and 58.9% versus 90.5%, 90.5%, and 90.6%, P = 0.03 for all) and at 5 years (62.5%, 62.5%, and 58.9% versus 87.4%, 87.4%, and 87.7%, P < 0.05 for all). An analysis of the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network database showed inferior 1- and 5-year patient and graft survival rates for DCD-SLK patients versus DBD-SLK patients. In conclusion, despite comparable rates of surgical and medical complications and comparable kidney function at 1 year, DCD-SLK transplantation was associated with inferior long-term survival in comparison with DBD-SLK transplantation.