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Gatselis NK, Lyberopoulou A, Lygoura V, Giannoulis G, Samakidou A, Vaiou A, Antoniou K, Triantafyllou K, Stefos A, Georgiadou S, Sagris D, Sveroni D, Gabeta S, Ntaios G, Norman GL, Dalekos GN. Calprotectin serum levels on admission and during follow-up predict severity and outcome of patients with COVID-19: A prospective study. Eur J Intern Med 2024; 122:78-85. [PMID: 37953124 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2023.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Calprotectin reflects neutrophil activation and is increased in various inflammatory conditions including severe COVID-19. However, serial serum calprotectin measurements in COVID-19 patients are limited. We assessed prospectively, calprotectin levels as biomarker of severity/outcome of the disease and a COVID-19 monitoring parameter in a large cohort of consecutive COVID-19 patients. METHODS Calprotectin serum levels were measured in 736 patients (58.2 % males; median age 63-years; moderate disease, n = 292; severe, n = 444, intubated and/or died, n = 50). Patients were treated with combined immunotherapies according to our published local algorithm. The endpoint was the composite event of intubation due to severe respiratory failure (SRF)/COVID-19-related mortality. RESULTS Median (interquartile range) calprotectin levels were significantly higher in patients with severe disease [7(8.2) vs. 6.1(8.1)μg/mL, p = 0.015]. Calprotectin on admission was the only independent risk factor for intubation/death (HR=1.473, 95 %CI=1.003-2.165, p = 0.048) even after adjustment for age, sex, body mass index, comorbidities, neutrophils, lymphocytes, neutrophil to lymphocytes ratio, ferritin, and CRP. The area under the curve (AUC, 95 %CI) of calprotectin for prediction of intubation/death was 0.619 (0.531-0.708), with an optimal cut-off at 13 μg/mL (sensitivity: 44 %, specificity: 79 %, positive and negative predictive values: 13 % and 95 %, respectively). For intubated/died patients, paired comparisons from baseline to middle of hospitalization and subsequently to intubation/death showed significant increase of calprotectin (p = 0.009 and p < 0.001, respectively). Calprotectin alteration had the higher predictive ability for intubation/death [AUC (95 %CI):0.803 (0.664-0.943), p < 0.001]. CONCLUSIONS Calprotectin levels on admission and their subsequent dynamic alterations could serve as indicator of COVID-19 severity and predict the occurrence of SRF and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos K Gatselis
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Aggeliki Lyberopoulou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Lygoura
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - George Giannoulis
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Anna Samakidou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Antonia Vaiou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Katerina Antoniou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Katerina Triantafyllou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Aggelos Stefos
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Sarah Georgiadou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Sagris
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Dafni Sveroni
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Stella Gabeta
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - George Ntaios
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Gary L Norman
- Research and Development, Headquarters & Technology Center Autoimmunity, Werfen, San Diego, CA 92131, USA
| | - George N Dalekos
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece.
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Arvaniti P, Giannoulis G, Lygoura V, Gatselis NK, Gabeta S, Rigopoulou E, Koukoulis GK, Zachou K, Dalekos GN. FibroMeter scores are predictive noninvasive markers of advanced and significant liver fibrosis in patients with chronic viral hepatitis or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. Ann Gastroenterol 2023; 36:661-669. [PMID: 38023979 PMCID: PMC10662069 DOI: 10.20524/aog.2023.0841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background FibroMeter and FibroMeter vibration-controlled transient elastography (FibroMeter VCTE) were assessed in a Greek cohort of patients with chronic viral hepatitis (CVH) B and C or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) to evaluate their accuracy in predicting advanced liver fibrosis against other well-validated noninvasive markers. Methods Group 1: n=83 CVH and group 2: n=38 MASLD patients underwent liver biopsy and transient elastography (TE) on the same day as sera collection. FibroMeter scores APRI and FIB-4 were calculated in all 121 patients, while MASLD fibrosis score (MFS) was also calculated in group 2. Results In CVH, FibroMeter VCTE performed equivalently to TE and better than the other markers in predicting advanced (≥F3) and significant (≥F2) fibrosis (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC] 0.887, P<0.001 for F3; AUC 0.766 P<0.001 for F2). FibroMeter Virus (cutoff 0.61) had lower sensitivity (20%) but performed equivalently to APRI and FIB-4. In MASLD, all markers but APRI performed equivalently in predicting advanced fibrosis. FibroMeter VCTE >0.2154 had the same sensitivity (100%) and specificity (81%) as TE (cutoff >7.1 kPa). FibroMeter MASLD >0.25 performed equivalently to MFS and FIB4, but with higher specificity (100%). Both FibroMeter and FibroMeter VCTE correlated with liver histology but not with liver enzymes. Conclusions FibroMeter VCTE predicts accurately advanced fibrosis in CVH and MASLD, irrespectively of transaminase levels. FibroMeter Virus can be applied only as an alternative marker in CVH, while FibroMeter MASLD performs equally to TE and calculated scores (MFS, FIB-4) in predicting advanced fibrosis in MASLD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pinelopi Arvaniti
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa (Pinelopi Arvaniti, George Giannoulis, Vasiliki Lygoura, Nikolaos K. Gatselis, Stella Gabeta, Eirini Rigopoulou, Kalliopi Zachou, George N. Dalekos)
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa (Pinelopi Arvaniti, George Giannoulis, Vasiliki Lygoura, Nikolaos K. Gatselis, Stella Gabeta, Eirini Rigopoulou, Kalliopi Zachou, George N. Dalekos)
| | - George Giannoulis
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa (Pinelopi Arvaniti, George Giannoulis, Vasiliki Lygoura, Nikolaos K. Gatselis, Stella Gabeta, Eirini Rigopoulou, Kalliopi Zachou, George N. Dalekos)
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa (Pinelopi Arvaniti, George Giannoulis, Vasiliki Lygoura, Nikolaos K. Gatselis, Stella Gabeta, Eirini Rigopoulou, Kalliopi Zachou, George N. Dalekos)
| | - Vasiliki Lygoura
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa (Pinelopi Arvaniti, George Giannoulis, Vasiliki Lygoura, Nikolaos K. Gatselis, Stella Gabeta, Eirini Rigopoulou, Kalliopi Zachou, George N. Dalekos)
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa (Pinelopi Arvaniti, George Giannoulis, Vasiliki Lygoura, Nikolaos K. Gatselis, Stella Gabeta, Eirini Rigopoulou, Kalliopi Zachou, George N. Dalekos)
| | - Nikolaos K. Gatselis
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa (Pinelopi Arvaniti, George Giannoulis, Vasiliki Lygoura, Nikolaos K. Gatselis, Stella Gabeta, Eirini Rigopoulou, Kalliopi Zachou, George N. Dalekos)
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa (Pinelopi Arvaniti, George Giannoulis, Vasiliki Lygoura, Nikolaos K. Gatselis, Stella Gabeta, Eirini Rigopoulou, Kalliopi Zachou, George N. Dalekos)
| | - Stella Gabeta
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa (Pinelopi Arvaniti, George Giannoulis, Vasiliki Lygoura, Nikolaos K. Gatselis, Stella Gabeta, Eirini Rigopoulou, Kalliopi Zachou, George N. Dalekos)
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa (Pinelopi Arvaniti, George Giannoulis, Vasiliki Lygoura, Nikolaos K. Gatselis, Stella Gabeta, Eirini Rigopoulou, Kalliopi Zachou, George N. Dalekos)
| | - Eirini Rigopoulou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa (Pinelopi Arvaniti, George Giannoulis, Vasiliki Lygoura, Nikolaos K. Gatselis, Stella Gabeta, Eirini Rigopoulou, Kalliopi Zachou, George N. Dalekos)
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa (Pinelopi Arvaniti, George Giannoulis, Vasiliki Lygoura, Nikolaos K. Gatselis, Stella Gabeta, Eirini Rigopoulou, Kalliopi Zachou, George N. Dalekos)
| | - George K. Koukoulis
- Department of Pathology, Medical School, University of Thessaly (George K Koukoulis), Larissa, Greece
| | - Kalliopi Zachou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa (Pinelopi Arvaniti, George Giannoulis, Vasiliki Lygoura, Nikolaos K. Gatselis, Stella Gabeta, Eirini Rigopoulou, Kalliopi Zachou, George N. Dalekos)
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa (Pinelopi Arvaniti, George Giannoulis, Vasiliki Lygoura, Nikolaos K. Gatselis, Stella Gabeta, Eirini Rigopoulou, Kalliopi Zachou, George N. Dalekos)
| | - George N. Dalekos
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa (Pinelopi Arvaniti, George Giannoulis, Vasiliki Lygoura, Nikolaos K. Gatselis, Stella Gabeta, Eirini Rigopoulou, Kalliopi Zachou, George N. Dalekos)
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa (Pinelopi Arvaniti, George Giannoulis, Vasiliki Lygoura, Nikolaos K. Gatselis, Stella Gabeta, Eirini Rigopoulou, Kalliopi Zachou, George N. Dalekos)
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Dalekos GN, Arvaniti P, Gatselis NK, Gabeta S, Samakidou A, Giannoulis G, Rigopoulou E, Koukoulis GK, Zachou K. Long-term results of mycophenolate mofetil vs. azathioprine use in patients with autoimmune hepatitis. JHEP Rep 2022; 4:100601. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2022.100601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
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Dalekos GN, Arvaniti P, Gatselis NK, Samakidou A, Gabeta S, Rigopoulou E, Koukoulis GK, Zachou K. First Results From a Propensity Matching Trial of Mycophenolate Mofetil vs. Azathioprine in Treatment-Naive AIH Patients. Front Immunol 2022; 12:798602. [PMID: 35087524 PMCID: PMC8787111 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.798602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/Aims As previous real-world studies and meta-analyses have shown that mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) might have better efficacy than azathioprine (AZA) in autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), we conducted a propensity matching study to assess the efficacy and safety of MMF vs. AZA. Methods All 126 consecutive treatment-naive adult AIH patients, diagnosed and followed in our department since 2016, were included. Patients received prednisolone 0.5-1 mg/kg/day plus either AZA 1-2 mg/kg/day or 1.5-2 g/day MMF. The tapering of prednisolone was identical between groups. Results After propensity matching score and adjustment for known factors affecting response to treatment and outcome, 64 patients were included in the study (MMF = 32 and AZA = 32). Rates of non-response, complete biochemical response (CBR) at 6 and 12 months, and prednisolone withdrawal (6 months, 12 months, and end of follow-up) were identical between groups. However, MMF treatment was significantly associated with CBR at the end of follow-up [odds ratio (OR) 11.259; 95% CI: 1.3-97.4, p = 0.028]. AZA patients were more prone to stop treatment due to AZA intolerance/insufficient response (p = 0.0001). At the end of follow-up, the overall efficacy of each schedule was also significantly higher in the MMF group compared to the AZA group (p = 0.0001). Conclusion We showed for the first time in a propensity matching study that MMF can be used as first-line therapy in AIH as attested by the significantly higher CBR at end of follow-up compared to AZA. Whether this better efficacy is also associated with higher histological remission rates and sustained CBR off immunosuppression needs further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- George N. Dalekos
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Pinelopi Arvaniti
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Nikolaos K. Gatselis
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Anna Samakidou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Stella Gabeta
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Eirini Rigopoulou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - George K. Koukoulis
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Kalliopi Zachou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
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Dalekos GN, Stefos A, Georgiadou S, Lygoura V, Michail A, Ntaios G, Samakidou A, Giannoulis G, Gabeta S, Vlychou M, Petinaki E, Leventogiannis K, Giamarellos-Bourboulis EJ, Gatselis NK. Lessons from pathophysiology: Use of individualized combination treatments with immune interventional agents to tackle severe respiratory failure in patients with COVID-19. Eur J Intern Med 2021; 88:52-62. [PMID: 33820686 PMCID: PMC7997723 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2021.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Aims Infection by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) may lead to the development of severe respiratory failure. In hospitalized-patients, prompt interruption of the virus-driven inflammatory process by using combination treatments seems theoretically of outmost importance. Our aim was to investigate the hypothesis of multifaceted management of these patients. Methods A treatment algorithm based on ferritin was applied in 311 patients (67.2% males; median age 63-years; moderate disease, n=101; severe, n=210). Patients with ferritin <500ng/ml received anakinra 2-4mg/kg/day ± corticosteroids (Arm A, n=142) while those with ≥500ng/ml received anakinra 5-8mg/kg/day with corticosteroids and γ-globulins (Arm B, n=169). In case of no improvement a single dose of tocilizumab (8mg/kg; maximum 800mg) was administered with the potential of additional second and/or third pulses. Treatment endpoints were the rate of the development of respiratory failure necessitating intubation and the SARS-CoV-2-related mortality. The proposed algorithm was also validated in matched hospitalized-patients treated with standard-of-care during the same period. Results In overall, intubation and mortality rates were 5.8% and 5.1% (0% in moderate; 8.6% and 7.6% in severe). Low baseline pO2/FiO2 and older age were independent risk factors. Comparators had significantly higher intubation (HR=7.4; 95%CI: 4.1-13.4; p<0.001) and death rates (HR=4.5, 95%CI: 2.1-9.4, p<0.001). Significant adverse events were rare, including severe secondary infections in only 7/311 (2.3%). Conclusions Early administration of personalized combinations of immunomodulatory agents may be life-saving in hospitalized-patients with COVID-19. An immediate intervention (the sooner the better) could be helpful to avoid development of full-blown acute respiratory distress syndrome and improve survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- George N Dalekos
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece.
| | - Aggelos Stefos
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - Sarah Georgiadou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Lygoura
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - Anastasia Michail
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - George Ntaios
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - Anna Samakidou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - George Giannoulis
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - Stella Gabeta
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - Marianna Vlychou
- Diagnostic Radiology Department, General University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - Efthymia Petinaki
- Department of Microbiology, General University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Leventogiannis
- 4th Department of Internal Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, 124 62 Athens, Greece
| | | | - Nikolaos K Gatselis
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece
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Rigopoulou EI, Gatselis NK, Galanis K, Lygoura V, Gabeta S, Zachou K, Dalekos GN. The changing epidemiology of hepatitis B in Greece. Ann Gastroenterol 2021; 34:431-437. [PMID: 33948070 PMCID: PMC8079866 DOI: 10.20524/aog.2021.0614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The epidemiology of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection has changed in recent years as a result of various factors. Our aim was to assess the epidemiological characteristics and the evolution of the HBV infection in a well-defined area of Greece. Method Prospectively collected data from 1910 consecutive patients (60.8% male, age: 50.1 years) with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) followed from 1999-2016 were analyzed. Results Of the patients evaluated, 90.6% were of Greek and 8% of Albanian origin. Vertical/intrafamilial transmission during early childhood (56.8%) and traditional practices (17.2%) were the most common infection sources. Several areas with higher rates of CHB were identified. At first evaluation, 68.8% had chronic infection, 21.7% chronic hepatitis, 6.1% cirrhosis and 3.4% hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Comparison between 2 periods (1999-2010 and 2011-2016) revealed older age and longer disease duration at first presentation (P<0.001 for both) to be more common during 2011-2016, while patients of foreign nationality doubled during this period. There was a trend towards more advanced disease stage at first assessment during 2011-2016. Patients after 2011 had lower rates of virological and biochemical breakthrough (P<0.001 for both) during treatment with new antivirals. In addition, fewer patients progressed to cirrhosis (P=0.02) and HCC (P=0.04). Conclusions CHB continues to be a major health problem in Central Greece, as highlighted by the preservation of high prevalence areas and a tendency towards an increase of chronic liver disease burden longitudinally. Our data highlight the need for scaling-up prevention and treatment strategies, especially in at-risk populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eirini I Rigopoulou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Greece
| | - Nikolaos K Gatselis
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Galanis
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Lygoura
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Greece
| | - Stella Gabeta
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Greece
| | - Kalliopi Zachou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Greece
| | - George N Dalekos
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Greece
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Gatselis NK, Tornai T, Shums Z, Zachou K, Saitis A, Gabeta S, Albesa R, Norman GL, Papp M, Dalekos GN. Golgi protein-73: A biomarker for assessing cirrhosis and prognosis of liver disease patients. World J Gastroenterol 2020; 26:5130-5145. [PMID: 32982114 PMCID: PMC7495033 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v26.i34.5130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reliable biomarkers of cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), or progression of chronic liver diseases are missing. In this context, Golgi protein-73 (GP73) also called Golgi phosphoprotein-2, was originally defined as a resident Golgi type II transmembrane protein expressed in epithelial cells. As a result, GP73 expression was found primarily in biliary epithelial cells, with only slight detection in hepatocytes. However, in patients with acute or chronic liver diseases and especially in HCC, the expression of GP73 is significantly up-regulated in hepatocytes. So far, few studies have assessed GP73 as a diagnostic or prognostic marker of liver fibrosis and disease progression.
AIM To assess serum GP73 efficacy as a diagnostic marker of cirrhosis and/or HCC or as predictor of liver disease progression.
METHODS GP73 serum levels were retrospectively determined by a novel GP73 ELISA (QUANTA Lite® GP73, Inova Diagnostics, Inc., Research Use Only) in a large cohort of 632 consecutive patients with chronic viral and non-viral liver diseases collected from two tertiary Academic centers in Larissa, Greece (n = 366) and Debrecen, Hungary (n = 266). Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)/Platelets (PLT) ratio index (APRI) was also calculated at the relevant time points in all patients. Two hundred and three patients had chronic hepatitis B, 183 chronic hepatitis C, 198 alcoholic liver disease, 28 autoimmune cholestatic liver diseases, 15 autoimmune hepatitis, and 5 with other liver-related disorders. The duration of follow-up was 50 (57) mo [median (interquartile range)]. The development of cirrhosis, liver decompensation and/or HCC during follow-up were assessed according to internationally accepted guidelines. In particular, the surveillance for the development of HCC was performed regularly with ultrasound imaging and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) determination every 6 mo in cirrhotic and every 12 mo in non-cirrhotic patients.
RESULTS Increased serum levels of GP73 (> 20 units) were detected at initial evaluation in 277 out of 632 patients (43.8%). GP73-seropositivity correlated at baseline with the presence of cirrhosis (96.4% vs 51.5%, P < 0.001), decompensation of cirrhosis (60.3% vs 35.5%, P < 0.001), presence of HCC (18.4% vs 7.9%, P < 0.001) and advanced HCC stage (52.9% vs 14.8%, P = 0.002). GP73 had higher diagnostic accuracy for the presence of cirrhosis compared to APRI score [Area under the curve (AUC) (95%CI): 0.909 (0.885-0.934) vs 0.849 (0.813-0.886), P = 0.003]. Combination of GP73 with APRI improved further the accuracy (AUC: 0.925) compared to GP73 (AUC: 0.909, P = 0.005) or APRI alone (AUC: 0.849, P < 0.001). GP73 levels were significantly higher in HCC patients compared to non-HCC [22.5 (29.2) vs 16 (20.3) units, P < 0.001) and positively associated with BCLC stage [stage 0: 13.9 (10.8); stage A: 17.1 (16.8); stage B: 19.6 (22.3); stage C: 32.2 (30.8); stage D: 45.3 (86.6) units, P < 0.001] and tumor dimensions [very early: 13.9 (10.8); intermediate: 19.6 (18.4); advanced: 29.1 (33.6) units, P = 0.004]. However, the discriminative ability for HCC diagnosis was relatively low [AUC (95%CI): 0.623 (0.570-0.675)]. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the detection of GP73 in patients with compensated cirrhosis at baseline, was prognostic of higher rates of decompensation (P = 0.036), HCC development (P = 0.08), and liver-related deaths (P < 0.001) during follow-up.
CONCLUSION GP73 alone appears efficient for detecting cirrhosis and superior to APRI determination. In combination with APRI, its diagnostic performance can be further improved. Most importantly, the simple GP73 measurement proved promising for predicting a worse outcome of patients with both viral and non-viral chronic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos K Gatselis
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa 41110, Greece
- Institute of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Larissa 41447, Greece
| | - Tamás Tornai
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Debrecen, Faculty of Medicine, Debrecen H-4032, Hungary
| | - Zakera Shums
- Department of Research and Development, Inova Diagnostics, Inc., San Diego, CA 92131, United States
| | - Kalliopi Zachou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa 41110, Greece
- Institute of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Larissa 41447, Greece
| | - Asterios Saitis
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa 41110, Greece
| | - Stella Gabeta
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa 41110, Greece
| | - Roger Albesa
- Department of Research and Development, Inova Diagnostics, Inc., San Diego, CA 92131, United States
| | - Gary L Norman
- Department of Research and Development, Inova Diagnostics, Inc., San Diego, CA 92131, United States
| | - Mária Papp
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Debrecen, Faculty of Medicine, Debrecen H-4032, Hungary
| | - George N Dalekos
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa 41110, Greece
- Institute of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Larissa 41447, Greece
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8
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Arvaniti P, Giannoulis G, Gabeta S, Zachou K, Koukoulis GK, Dalekos GN. Belimumab is a promising third-line treatment option for refractory autoimmune hepatitis. JHEP Rep 2020; 2:100123. [PMID: 32671332 PMCID: PMC7340979 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2020.100123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Revised: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a disease of unknown aetiology with a favourable response to immunosuppression. However, in the clinic, it appears that <50% of patients achieve complete response on standard treatment. Serum B cell-activating factor (BAFF) levels are elevated in patients with AIH and are likely to contribute to disease pathogenesis. Given that belimumab, a BAFF inhibitor, has been shown to be effective in other autoimmune diseases, we investigated its use as a third-line add-on treatment option in patients with advanced AIH who did not respond to conventional treatment. Methods Herein, we report for the first time two patients, a 27-year-old female and a 58-year-old male, both with AIH-related compensated cirrhosis at diagnosis, who were refractory to standard immunosuppressive therapies and received add-on third-line therapy with belimumab. Results Both patients achieved a complete response and remained in remission while receiving low-dose corticosteroids. No adverse events related to belimumab and/or disease decompensation were observed. Conclusions These preliminary findings indicate belimumab as a promising treatment option for patients with AIH and refractory and advanced liver-related fibrosis. Lay summary A small proportion of patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) are refractory to standard treatments; these patients bear the highest probability of developing decompensated cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma because third-line treatment options are not well established. In this case study, we showed that third-line add-on therapy with belimumab, a B cell-activating factor inhibitor, could be an alternative and promising treatment option in patients with advanced AIH who did not respond to conventional treatment. Belimumab is a B cell-activating factor inhibitor that has been proposed for the treatment of autoimmune hepatitis. In 2 patients with autoimmune hepatitis, belimumab led to complete response and remission. No adverse events related to belimumab and/or disease decompensation were observed.
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Key Words
- AIH, autoimmune hepatitis
- ALT, alanine aminotransferase
- ANA, antinuclear antibody
- AST, aminotransferase
- AZA, azathioprine
- Autoimmune hepatitis
- B cells
- BAFF
- BAFF, B cell-activating factor
- Belimumab
- CR, complete response
- DCs, dendritic cells
- EBV, Epstein–Barr virus
- GGT, gamma-glutamyl transferase
- LSM, liver stiffness measurements
- MMF, mycophenolate mofetil
- SLE, systemic lupus erythematosus
- TNF, tumour necrosis factor
- Treatment
- Tregs, regulatory T cells
- ULN, upper limit of normal
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Affiliation(s)
- Pinelopi Arvaniti
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - George Giannoulis
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - Stella Gabeta
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - Kalliopi Zachou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece.,Institute of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, 41447 Larissa, Greece
| | - George K Koukoulis
- Department of Pathology, Medical School, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - George N Dalekos
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece.,Institute of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, 41447 Larissa, Greece
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9
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Lim TY, Gonsalkorala E, Cannon MD, Gabeta S, Penna L, Heaton ND, Heneghan MA. Successful pregnancy outcomes following liver transplantation is predicted by renal function. Liver Transpl 2018. [PMID: 29537127 DOI: 10.1002/lt.25034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Liver transplantation (LT) is a successful treatment for both acute liver failure and end-stage liver disease. The number of women of reproductive age undergoing LT is increasing. Pregnancy outcomes are favorable, but there is still a lack of prognostic markers. We aimed to identify factors predictive of adverse pregnancy outcomes in LT recipients. An analysis of all pregnancies occurring in LT recipients from 1989 to 2016 at King's College Hospital was performed. Clinical data of 162 conceptions in 93 women were reviewed. Descriptive and regression analyses were done to examine associations between laboratory markers and hepatological scores with pregnancy outcomes of live birth and preterm birth. Median age at LT was 23 years (range, 1-41 years), with a median age at conception of 30 years (range, 18-47 years). The live birth rate was 75% (n = 121). Of live births, 35% (n = 39/110 available) were delivered preterm. Preconception creatinine levels were higher in patients who had a preterm birth (85 versus 74 μmol/L; P = 0.008), with a preconception estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <90 mL/minute significantly associated with preterm delivery (P = 0.04). Progressive decline in eGFR predicted outcome, with gestational length declining with increasing chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage: CKD 0-1 = 39 weeks (median), CKD 2 = 37 weeks, and CKD 3 = 35 weeks. The risk of preterm birth was greatest in women with an eGFR <60 mL/minute (P = 0.004). Moreover, hypertension-related complications during pregnancy, such as gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, or eclampsia, were also associated with prematurity (P = 0.01). Women taking steroid-based immunosuppression had an increased risk of infection during pregnancy or postpartum (15% versus 4%; P = 0.02). In conclusion, although the majority of women have a successful pregnancy outcome after LT, preconception renal function predicts pregnancy outcome and steroids increase risk of infection during pregnancy or postpartum. Liver Transplantation 24 606-615 2018 AASLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiong Y Lim
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom.,King's Liver Pregnancy Research Group, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Enoka Gonsalkorala
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom.,King's Liver Pregnancy Research Group, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mary D Cannon
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom.,King's Liver Pregnancy Research Group, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stella Gabeta
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom.,King's Liver Pregnancy Research Group, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Leonie Penna
- Department of Obstetrics, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nigel D Heaton
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael A Heneghan
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom.,King's Liver Pregnancy Research Group, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
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Zachou K, Gabeta S, Gatselis NK, Norman GL, Dalekos GN. Cartilage oligomeric matrix protein on the spot for liver fibrosis evaluation: Too early or too late? Eur J Intern Med 2017; 43:e48-e49. [PMID: 28502865 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2017.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Revised: 05/04/2017] [Accepted: 05/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kalliopi Zachou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Thessaly University, Larissa, Greece
| | - Stella Gabeta
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Thessaly University, Larissa, Greece
| | - Nikolaos K Gatselis
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Thessaly University, Larissa, Greece
| | - Gary L Norman
- Inova Diagnostics, Inc., San Diego, CA, United States
| | - George N Dalekos
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Thessaly University, Larissa, Greece.
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11
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Zachou K, Gabeta S, Shums Z, Gatselis NK, Koukoulis GK, Norman GL, Dalekos GN. COMP serum levels: A new non-invasive biomarker of liver fibrosis in patients with chronic viral hepatitis. Eur J Intern Med 2017; 38:83-88. [PMID: 28100410 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2017.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Revised: 12/22/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Recently we have shown that cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), a fibrillar collagen assembly regulator, is strongly associated with cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma progression. Therefore, we assessed whether serum COMP levels can be used as a non-invasive fibrosis marker in patients with chronic viral hepatitis (CVH) and compared this marker with standard methods for disease stage assessment [histology, transient elastography (TE), APRI, FIB-4]. METHODS Sera from 116 CVH patients, 66 HBV [24 female; median age 53(22-76)] and 50 HCV [21 female; median age 48.5(25-69)] were investigated by COMP-ELISA. APRI and FIB-4 score was calculated in all along with TE. Liver biopsy was performed in 61. Patients were divided into two groups (F1/F2 and F3/F4) according to Metavir score. RESULTS 55/116 (47%) CVH patients were classified in F3/F4-group according to TE [14.3(9.3-75)kPa]. APRI score was >1.5 in 21/116 and FIB-4>3.25 in 20/116. Liver histology revealed 24/61 (39%) patients with significant fibrosis (stage 3-4), while 12/61 (19.7%) had cirrhosis. COMP levels correlated with TE measurements (r=0.5; p<0.001) and APRI score (r=0.23; p<0.02). The diagnostic accuracy of COMP in detecting cirrhosis was as good as TE, APRI and FIB-4 index (AUC 0.884) with sensitivity and specificity of 83.3% and 83.7% (cut-off 11.5U/L). CONCLUSIONS COMP serum levels performed as well as TE, APRI and FIB4 score in detecting cirrhosis in CVH patients, suggesting COMP as a sensitive non-invasive, easy to perform biomarker of liver fibrosis. Further studies are needed in order to validate our findings in CVH patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalliopi Zachou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Thessaly University, Larissa, Greece
| | - Stella Gabeta
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Thessaly University, Larissa, Greece
| | - Zakera Shums
- Inova Diagnostics, Inc., San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Nikolaos K Gatselis
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Thessaly University, Larissa, Greece
| | - George K Koukoulis
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Gary L Norman
- Inova Diagnostics, Inc., San Diego, CA, United States
| | - George N Dalekos
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Thessaly University, Larissa, Greece.
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12
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Zachou K, Gatselis NK, Arvaniti P, Gabeta S, Rigopoulou EI, Koukoulis GK, Dalekos GN. A real-world study focused on the long-term efficacy of mycophenolate mofetil as first-line treatment of autoimmune hepatitis. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2016; 43:1035-47. [PMID: 26991238 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2015] [Revised: 10/20/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Front-line therapy with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) in autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) has shown high on-treatment remission rates. AIM To study prospectively in a real-world fashion the long-term outcome of a large group of consecutive treatment-naïve AIH patients. METHODS Between 2000 and 2014, 158 patients were recruited but only 131 were eligible for treatment (109 MMF/prednisolone; 22 prednisolone ± azathioprine). Long-term data on outcome after drug withdrawal were evaluated. Patients stopped treatment after having achieved complete response (normal transaminases and IgG) for at least the last 2 years. RESULTS At diagnosis, 31.6% of patients had cirrhosis and 72.8% insidious presentation. A total of 102 of 109 (93.6%) responded initially to MMF within 2 (1-18) months. A total of 78 of 109 (71.6%) had complete response on treatment and 61 of 78 (78.2%) maintained remission off prednisolone. MMF-treated patients had increased probability of complete response compared to those receiving azathioprine (P = 0.03). Independent predictors of complete response were lower ALT at 6 months (P = 0.001) and acute presentation (P = 0.03). So far, treatment withdrawal was feasible in 40/109 patients and 30 (75%) are still in remission after 24 (2-129) months. Remission maintenance was associated with longer MMF treatment (P = 0.005), higher baseline ALT (P < 0.02), lower IgG on 6 months (P = 0.004) and histological improvement. CONCLUSIONS Mycophenolate mofetil proved to be an efficient first-line treatment for AIH, achieving so far the highest rates of remission maintenance off treatment (75%) ever published for at least a median of 2 years, although the remission criteria used were strict. However, the risk of potential bias and overestimation of intervention benefits from MMF cannot be completely excluded as this is a real world and not a randomised controlled trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Zachou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - N K Gatselis
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - P Arvaniti
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - S Gabeta
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - E I Rigopoulou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - G K Koukoulis
- Department of Pathology, Medical School, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - G N Dalekos
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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13
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Lyberopoulou A, Chachami G, Gatselis NK, Kyratzopoulou E, Saitis A, Gabeta S, Eliades P, Paraskeva E, Zachou K, Koukoulis GK, Mamalaki A, Dalekos GN, Simos G. Low Serum Hepcidin in Patients with Autoimmune Liver Diseases. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0135486. [PMID: 26270641 PMCID: PMC4535884 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0135486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2015] [Accepted: 07/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepcidin, a liver hormone, is important for both innate immunity and iron metabolism regulation. As dysfunction of the hepcidin pathway may contribute to liver pathology, we analysed liver hepcidin mRNA and serum hepcidin in patients with chronic liver diseases. Hepcidin mRNA levels were determined in liver biopsies obtained from 126 patients with HCV (n = 21), HBV (n = 23), autoimmune cholestatic disease (primary biliary cirrhosis and primary sclerosing cholangitis; PBC/PSC; n = 34), autoimmune hepatitis (AIH; n = 16) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD; n = 32). Sera sampled on the biopsy day from the same patients were investigated for serum hepcidin levels. Hepatic hepcidin mRNA levels correlated positively with ferritin and negatively with serum γ-GT levels. However, no correlation was found between serum hepcidin and either ferritin or liver hepcidin mRNA. Both serum hepcidin and the serum hepcidin/ferritin ratio were significantly lower in AIH and PBC/PSC patients’ sera compared to HBV, HCV or NAFLD (P<0.001 for each comparison) and correlated negatively with serum ALP levels. PBC/PSC and AIH patients maintained low serum hepcidin during the course of their two-year long treatment. In summary, parallel determination of liver hepcidin mRNA and serum hepcidin in patients with chronic liver diseases shows that circulating hepcidin and its respective ratio to ferritin are significantly diminished in patients with autoimmune liver diseases. These novel findings, once confirmed by follow-up studies involving bigger size and better-matched disease subgroups, should be taken into consideration during diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune liver diseases.
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Aged
- Cholangitis, Sclerosing/blood
- Cholangitis, Sclerosing/genetics
- Cholangitis, Sclerosing/pathology
- Diagnosis, Differential
- Down-Regulation
- Female
- Ferritins/blood
- Hepatitis B/blood
- Hepatitis B/genetics
- Hepatitis B/pathology
- Hepatitis C/blood
- Hepatitis C/genetics
- Hepatitis C/pathology
- Hepatitis, Autoimmune/blood
- Hepatitis, Autoimmune/genetics
- Hepatitis, Autoimmune/pathology
- Hepcidins/blood
- Hepcidins/genetics
- Humans
- Liver/metabolism
- Liver/pathology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/blood
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/genetics
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/pathology
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease/blood
- Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease/genetics
- Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease/pathology
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Affiliation(s)
- Aggeliki Lyberopoulou
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
- Institute for Research & Technology—Thessaly (IRETETH), Larissa, Greece
| | - Georgia Chachami
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
- Institute for Research & Technology—Thessaly (IRETETH), Larissa, Greece
| | - Nikolaos K. Gatselis
- Department of Medicine & Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Eleni Kyratzopoulou
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Immunobiotechnology, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece
| | - Asterios Saitis
- Department of Medicine & Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Stella Gabeta
- Department of Medicine & Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Petros Eliades
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Immunobiotechnology, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece
| | - Efrosini Paraskeva
- Laboratory of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Kalliopi Zachou
- Department of Medicine & Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - George K. Koukoulis
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Avgi Mamalaki
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Immunobiotechnology, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece
| | - George N. Dalekos
- Department of Medicine & Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
- * E-mail: (GS); (GND)
| | - George Simos
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
- Institute for Research & Technology—Thessaly (IRETETH), Larissa, Greece
- * E-mail: (GS); (GND)
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Zachou K, Sarantopoulos A, Gatselis NK, Vassiliadis T, Gabeta S, Stefos A, Saitis A, Boura P, Dalekos GN. Hepatitis B virus reactivation in hepatitis B virus surface antigen negative patients receiving immunosuppression: A hidden threat. World J Hepatol 2013; 5:387-392. [PMID: 23898372 PMCID: PMC3724967 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v5.i7.387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2013] [Accepted: 06/21/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To present the characteristics and the course of a series of anti-hepatitis B virus core antibody (HBc) antibody positive patients, who experienced hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation after immunosuppression.
METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated in our tertiary centers the medical records of hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg) negative patients who suffered from HBV reactivation after chemotherapy or immunosuppression during a 3-year period (2009-2011). Accordingly, the clinical, laboratory and virological characteristics of 10 anti-HBc (+) anti-HBs (-)/HBsAg (-) and 4 anti-HBc (+)/antiHBs (+)/HBsAg (-) patients, who developed HBV reactivation after the initiation of chemotherapy or immunosuppressive treatment were analyzed. Quantitative determination of HBV DNA during reactivation was performed in all cases by a quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction kit (COBAS Taqman HBV Test; cut-off of detection: 6 IU/mL).
RESULTS: Twelve out of 14 patients were males; median age 74.5 years. In 71.4% of them the primary diagnosis was hematologic malignancy; 78.6% had received rituximab (R) as part of the immunosuppressive regimen. The median time from last chemotherapy schedule till HBV reactivation for 10 out of 11 patients who received R was 3 (range 2-17) mo. Three patients (21.4%) deteriorated, manifesting ascites and hepatic encephalopathy and 2 (14.3%) of them died due to liver failure.
CONCLUSION: HBsAg-negative anti-HBc antibody positive patients can develop HBV reactivation even 2 years after stopping immunosuppression, whereas prompt antiviral treatment on diagnosis of reactivation can be lifesaving.
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Gatselis NK, Zachou K, Norman GL, Gabeta S, Papamichalis P, Koukoulis GK, Dalekos GN. Clinical significance of the fluctuation of primary biliary cirrhosis-related autoantibodies during the course of the disease. Autoimmunity 2013; 46:471-9. [PMID: 23777462 DOI: 10.3109/08916934.2013.801461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is a chronic cholestatic disease characterized by the presence of antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA). PBC-specific antinuclear antibodies (ANA) have been characterized and associated with disease progression and outcome. We evaluated the clinical significance of the presence and serial changes in titers of AMA, PBC-specific ANA (anti-gp210, anti-sp100) and anti-chromatin antibodies. Over a median (IQR) period of 35 (36) months, 512 specimens were collected from 110 patients. Autoantibodies were detected by commercial ELISAs (INOVA Diagnostics). Biochemical, clinical, and histological status were included at initial presentation and during follow-up visits. The Mayo risk score was calculated as a prognostic index at each time point. Liver biopsy findings were classified according to Ludwig's classification and biochemical response to ursodeoxycholic acid was evaluated according to Pares. At baseline, AMA IgG and IgA, anti-gp210 IgG, anti-sp100 IgG and anti-chromatin IgG were detected in 92/110 (83.6%), 57/110 (51.8%), 5/110 (4.5%), 14/110 (12.7%), and 0/110 (0%) patients, respectively. Positivity for all autoantibodies apart from anti-chromatin, at baseline visit (n = 110 patients), in all tested sera (n = 512) as well as increased autoantibodies titers during follow-up were associated with biochemically and/or histologically advanced disease. A decrease of anti-sp100 titers but not of anti-gp210 titers during follow-up was associated with improvement of Mayo risk score (p = 0.025) and response to ursodeoxycholic acid (p = 0.016). These results suggest that detection of AMA and PBC-specific ANA was correlated with disease severity. Serial changes of anti-sp100 titers and not of anti-gp210 titers might prove useful for monitoring the disease course and treatment outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos K Gatselis
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Thessaly , Larissa , Greece
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Zografos TA, Gatselis N, Zachou K, Liaskos C, Gabeta S, Koukoulis GK, Dalekos GN. Primary biliary cirrhosis-specific autoantibodies in first degree relatives of Greek primary biliary cirrhosis patients. World J Gastroenterol 2012; 18:4721-8. [PMID: 23002341 PMCID: PMC3442210 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v18.i34.4721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2012] [Revised: 03/31/2012] [Accepted: 04/09/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To determine the prevalence and significance of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC)-specific autoantibodies in first-degree relatives (FDRs) of Greek PBC patients.
METHODS: The presence of antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA) and PBC-specific antinuclear antibodies (ANA) were determined using indirect immunofluorescence assays, dot-blot assays, and molecularly based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays in 101 asymptomatic for liver-related symptoms FDRs of 44 PBC patients. In order to specify our results, the same investigation was performed in 40 healthy controls and in a disease control group consisting of 40 asymptomatic for liver-related symptoms FDRs of patients with other autoimmune liver diseases namely, autoimmune hepatitis-1 or primary sclerosing cholangitis (AIH-1/PSC).
RESULTS: AMA positivity was observed in 19 (only 4 with abnormal liver function tests) FDRs of PBC patients and none of the healthy controls. The prevalence of AMA was significantly higher in FDRs of PBC patients than in AIH-1/PSC FDRs and healthy controls [18.8%, 95% confidence interval (CI): 12%-28.1% vs 2.5%, 95% CI: 0.1%-14.7%, P = 0.01; 18.8%, 95% CI: 12%-28.1% vs 0%, 95% CI: 0%-10.9%, P = 0.003, respectively]. PBC-specific ANA positivity was observed in only one FDR from a PSC patient. Multivariate analysis showed that having a proband with PBC independently associated with AMA positivity (odds ratio: 11.24, 95% CI: 1.27-25.34, P = 0.03) whereas among the investigated comorbidities and risk factors, a positive past history for urinary tract infections (UTI) was also independently associated with AMA detection in FDRs of PBC patients (odds ratio: 3.92, 95% CI: 1.25-12.35, P = 0.02).
CONCLUSION: In FDRs of Greek PBC patients, AMA prevalence is significantly increased and independently associated with past UTI. PBC-specific ANA were not detected in anyone of PBC FDRs.
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Gatselis NK, Zachou K, Norman GL, Tzellas G, Speletas M, Gabeta S, Germenis A, Koukoulis GK, Dalekos GN. IgA antibodies against deamidated gliadin peptides in patients with chronic liver diseases. Clin Chim Acta 2012; 413:1683-8. [PMID: 22643316 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2012.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2012] [Revised: 05/22/2012] [Accepted: 05/22/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS IgA antibodies against tissue-transglutaminase (anti-tTG-IgA) and IgA and IgG antibodies against deamidated gliadin peptides (anti-DGP-IgA and anti-DGP-IgG) are considered specific for celiac disease (CD) whereas, patients with chronic liver disorders have an increased risk of latent CD development. We investigated the prevalence and clinical significance of anti-DGP-IgA, anti-DGP-IgG and anti-tTG-IgA in a large cohort of patients with chronic liver diseases. METHODS 668 patients without gastrointestinal symptoms (426 viral hepatitis, 94 autoimmune liver diseases, 61 alcoholic disease, 46 non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, 41 with other liver disorders) were investigated by ELISAs (INOVA Diagnostics). Patients positive for at least one autoantibody invited for a small-intestinal biopsy and HLA-DQ typing. RESULTS Anti-DGP-IgA were detected in 8.5%, anti-DGP-IgG in only one (0.15%, P<0.001) and anti-tTG-IgA in 5.8% of patients (P=0.05). Fifty-two were anti-DGP-IgA(+)/anti-tTG-IgA(-), 34 anti-DGP-IgA(-)/anti-tTG-IgA(+), and 5 anti-DGP-IgA(+)/anti-tTG-IgA(+). Anti-DGP-IgA positivity was associated with older age (P<0.05), cirrhosis (P<0.05) and increased IgA (P<0.05) whereas, anti-tTG-IgA only with cirrhosis (P<0.05). Histology and HLA-typing compatible with CD was revealed in 4/14 anti-DGP-IgA(+)/anti-tTG-IgA(-), 0/13 anti-DGP-IgA(-)/anti-tTG-IgA(+) and 2/2 anti-DGP-IgA(+)/anti-tTG-IgA(+). All 6 patients diagnosed with CD were anti-DGP-IgA(+) and only 2 anti-tTG-IgA(+). CONCLUSIONS Although a significant number of patients had detectable CD-related autoantibodies, anti-DGP-IgA test seems better than anti-tTG-IgA for unmasking occult forms of CD in patients with chronic liver disorders. The known good performance for CD diagnosis of anti-DGP-IgG test was not confirmed in this specific group of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos K Gatselis
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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Argyraki CK, Gabeta S, Zachou K, Boulbou M, Polyzos A, Dalekos GN. Favourable outcome of life-threatening infectious-related haemophagocytic syndrome after combination treatment with corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulin infusions. Eur J Intern Med 2011; 22:e155-7. [PMID: 22075310 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2011.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2011] [Accepted: 07/19/2011] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Occult hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is characterized by undetectable serum HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) but detectable HBV-DNA in serum or liver. AIMS To determine the prevalence and clinical impact of occult HBV in autoimmune liver diseases as similar data are missing. METHODS One hundred and ninety-six sera samples from HBsAg-negative patients, including 66 autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), 93 primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and 37 primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), were investigated for HBV-DNA using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) before treatment initiation. One hundred and three serial samples from 38 AIH patients under immunosuppression and 282 selected blood donors (HBsAg negative; antibodies to HBV-core antigen positive) were also investigated. Fourteen available paraffin-embedded AIH liver samples were also investigated for HBV-DNA by nested-PCR. RESULTS Hepatitis B virus DNA was detected in the serum of 24/196 patients (12.2%) and 0/282 donors (P=0.0000). Nine patients had AIH (13.6%), eight had PBC (8.6%) and seven had PSC (18.9%) (P=0.0000 vs healthy). HBV-DNA detection in AIH livers was higher than in serum. HBV-DNA was associated neither with HBV markers nor with epidemiological, laboratory and clinical data. Serial testing of AIH patients revealed two HBV-DNA-negative patients before treatment becoming positive during treatment, while all HBV-DNA-positive patients before immunosuppression became negative. CONCLUSION Based mainly on serum HBV-DNA, we found a significant proportion of autoimmune liver disease patients with occult HBV compared with donors. However, taking into account our results in a small number of liver tissues, it should be emphasized that occult HBV could be even higher when both serum and liver specimens are investigated. Occult HBV does not seem to affect the clinical and laboratory features of the diseases, while AIH patients with occult HBV under immunosuppression do not deteriorate during follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah P Georgiadou
- Department of Medicine, Academic Liver Unit, Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Occult hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is characterized by undetectable serum HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) but detectable HBV-DNA in serum or liver. AIMS To determine the prevalence and clinical impact of occult HBV in autoimmune liver diseases as similar data are missing. METHODS One hundred and ninety-six sera samples from HBsAg-negative patients, including 66 autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), 93 primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and 37 primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), were investigated for HBV-DNA using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) before treatment initiation. One hundred and three serial samples from 38 AIH patients under immunosuppression and 282 selected blood donors (HBsAg negative; antibodies to HBV-core antigen positive) were also investigated. Fourteen available paraffin-embedded AIH liver samples were also investigated for HBV-DNA by nested-PCR. RESULTS Hepatitis B virus DNA was detected in the serum of 24/196 patients (12.2%) and 0/282 donors (P=0.0000). Nine patients had AIH (13.6%), eight had PBC (8.6%) and seven had PSC (18.9%) (P=0.0000 vs healthy). HBV-DNA detection in AIH livers was higher than in serum. HBV-DNA was associated neither with HBV markers nor with epidemiological, laboratory and clinical data. Serial testing of AIH patients revealed two HBV-DNA-negative patients before treatment becoming positive during treatment, while all HBV-DNA-positive patients before immunosuppression became negative. CONCLUSION Based mainly on serum HBV-DNA, we found a significant proportion of autoimmune liver disease patients with occult HBV compared with donors. However, taking into account our results in a small number of liver tissues, it should be emphasized that occult HBV could be even higher when both serum and liver specimens are investigated. Occult HBV does not seem to affect the clinical and laboratory features of the diseases, while AIH patients with occult HBV under immunosuppression do not deteriorate during follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah P Georgiadou
- Department of Medicine, Academic Liver Unit, Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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Gabeta S, Norman GL, Gatselis N, Liaskos C, Papamichalis PA, Garagounis A, Zachou K, Rigopoulou EI, Dalekos GN. IgA anti-b2GPI antibodies in patients with autoimmune liver diseases. J Clin Immunol 2008; 28:501-11. [PMID: 18551357 DOI: 10.1007/s10875-008-9211-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2008] [Accepted: 05/19/2008] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recently, we reported a high prevalence of immunoglobulin G and/or immunoglobulin M anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL) in patients with autoimmune liver diseases, namely, autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), which were independent of the respective isotypes of antibodies against beta2-glycoprotein I (anti-b2GPI). Immunoglobulin A (IgA) aCL and IgA anti-b2GPI are the least studied of the three specific isotypes either in antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) or in other conditions. METHODS Therefore, we investigated the prevalence and clinical significance of IgA anti-b2GPI and IgA aCL by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays in another set of Caucasian patients with autoimmune liver diseases (59 AIH, 96 PBC, and 37 PSC). The disease controls group consisted of 50 hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients, 50 hepatitis B virus (HBV), 30 alcoholic liver disease (ALD), 30 non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and 110 healthy controls. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION IgA anti-b2GPI prevalence was higher in AIH (50.8%) compared to PBC (p = 0.005), PSC (p = 0.008), NASH (p = 0.004), ALD (p = 0.01), and HCV (p = 0.002). The titers were also significantly higher in AIH compared to any other group of the study. IgA aCL prevalence was higher in AIH (33.9%) compared to PBC (p = 0.005), PSC (p = 0.014), NASH (p = 0.001), ALD (p = 0.004), and HCV (p < 0.001). IgA anti-b2GPI or IgA aCL were not associated with APS features in patients with liver autoimmunity. Of note, IgA anti-b2GPI and IgA aCL were associated with clinical and biochemical markers of disease severity in AIH and PBC. We demonstrated a high prevalence and high titers of IgA anti-b2GPI in patients with AIH compared to any other liver disease of the study. CONCLUSION IgA anti-b2GPI and IgA aCL were associated with the severity and biochemical activity of AIH and PBC, but long-term prospective studies are needed to address whether this new finding is of clinical importance in AIH and PBC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Gabeta
- Department of Medicine, Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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Papamichalis PA, Zachou K, Koukoulis GK, Veloni A, Karacosta EG, Kypri L, Mamaloudis I, Gabeta S, Rigopoulou EI, Lohse AW, Dalekos GN. The revised international autoimmune hepatitis score in chronic liver diseases including autoimmune hepatitis/overlap syndromes and autoimmune hepatitis with concurrent other liver disorders. J Autoimmune Dis 2007; 4:3. [PMID: 17603886 PMCID: PMC1933536 DOI: 10.1186/1740-2557-4-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2007] [Accepted: 06/29/2007] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We conducted a study in order to determine the usefulness and diagnostic value of International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group (IAHG) score in non-autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) hepatic disorders as well as in AIH/overlap syndromes and in cases with coexistence of AIH and other liver diseases. METHODS We applied the IAHG score in 423 patients with liver diseases excluding patients with AIH, AIH/overlap syndromes and AIH with concurrent other liver disease namely, patients with chronic hepatitis B (n = 109), chronic hepatitis C (n = 95), chronic hepatitis D (n = 4), alchoholic liver disease (n = 28), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (n = 55), autoimmune cholestatic liver diseases (n = 77), liver disorders of undefined origin (n = 32) and with miscellaneous hepatic disorders (n = 23). 24 patients with AIH associated with any kind of liver disorder including 10 patients with AIH/overlap syndromes and 14 AIH with concurrent other liver disease were also investigated. 43 patients with AIH consisted the control group. RESULTS The specificity of the score was 98.1% while the sensitivity in unmasking AIH in patients with either AIH/overlap syndromes or AIH with concurrent other liver diseases was only 50% and 78.6%. In the binary logistic regression model, the presence of other autoimmune diseases (p < 0.001), the total histological score (p < 0.001) and positivity for autoantibodies (p < 0.05) were identified as independent predictors for the presnce of AIH/ovea syndromes o AI with concurren other liver diseass. CONCLUSION The IAHG scoring system has very good specificity for excluding AIH in patients with chronic liver diseases but not that sensitivity in order to unmask AIH/overlap syndromes or AIH with concurrent other liver diseases. The presence of other autoimmune diseases or autoantibody markers in the absence of hepatitis viral markers should alarm physicians for the possible presence of AIH either as "pure" AIH or in association with other liver disorders (AIH/overlap syndromes or AIH with concurrent other liver diseases). Under these conditions, liver histology seems essential and it must always be included in the work up of hepatic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis A Papamichalis
- Dept of Medicine, Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Thessaly, 22 Papakiriazi str, Larissa 41222, Greece
- Dept. of Medicine, Academic Liver Unit, Medical School, University of Thessaly, 22 Papakiriazi str, Larissa 41222, Greece
| | - Kalliopi Zachou
- Dept of Medicine, Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Thessaly, 22 Papakiriazi str, Larissa 41222, Greece
- Dept. of Medicine, Academic Liver Unit, Medical School, University of Thessaly, 22 Papakiriazi str, Larissa 41222, Greece
| | - George K Koukoulis
- Dept. of Pathology, Medical School, University of Thessaly, 22 Papakiriazi str, Larissa 41222, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Veloni
- Dept. of Medicine, Academic Liver Unit, Medical School, University of Thessaly, 22 Papakiriazi str, Larissa 41222, Greece
| | - Efthimia G Karacosta
- Dept. of Medicine, Academic Liver Unit, Medical School, University of Thessaly, 22 Papakiriazi str, Larissa 41222, Greece
| | - Lampros Kypri
- Dept. of Medicine, Academic Liver Unit, Medical School, University of Thessaly, 22 Papakiriazi str, Larissa 41222, Greece
| | - Ioannis Mamaloudis
- Dept. of Medicine, Academic Liver Unit, Medical School, University of Thessaly, 22 Papakiriazi str, Larissa 41222, Greece
| | - Stella Gabeta
- Dept of Medicine, Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Thessaly, 22 Papakiriazi str, Larissa 41222, Greece
| | - Eirini I Rigopoulou
- Dept. of Medicine, Academic Liver Unit, Medical School, University of Thessaly, 22 Papakiriazi str, Larissa 41222, Greece
| | - Ansgar W Lohse
- Dept. of Medicine I, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - George N Dalekos
- Dept of Medicine, Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Thessaly, 22 Papakiriazi str, Larissa 41222, Greece
- Dept. of Medicine, Academic Liver Unit, Medical School, University of Thessaly, 22 Papakiriazi str, Larissa 41222, Greece
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Gabeta S, Norman GL, Liaskos C, Papamichalis PA, Zografos T, Garagounis A, Rigopoulou EI, Dalekos GN. Diagnostic relevance and clinical significance of the new enhanced performance M2 (MIT3) ELISA for the detection of IgA and IgG antimitochondrial antibodies in primary biliary cirrhosis. J Clin Immunol 2007; 27:378-87. [PMID: 17514501 DOI: 10.1007/s10875-007-9092-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2007] [Accepted: 03/08/2007] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Antimitochondrial antibodies (AMAs) are the serological hallmark of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC). We evaluated the sensitivity and specificity of a new M2 enhanced performance enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) (MIT3) for the detection of IgG- and IgA-specific isotypes of AMA in PBC patients including a number of PBC patients negative for AMA by indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) as well as in patients with diverse, non-PBC disorders. We also investigated the clinical significance of IgG and IgA AMA in PBC. METHODS One hundred and three Greek PBC patients including 27 with AMA IIF-negative at the time of the investigation, 29 with autoimmune hepatitis-1 (AIH-1), 12 with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), 26 with hepatitis C virus (HCV), 15 with hepatitis B virus (HBV), and 29 healthy were investigated for AMA (IgG and IgA) using the MIT3-based ELISAs (INOVA Diagnostics, San Diego, CA). The samples were also tested by conventional anti-M2 ELISA (INOVA Diagnostics, Inc.). RESULTS The IgG MIT3-based ELISA significantly increased AMA detection in the cohort of PBC patients, over 26% of whom were AMA IIF-negative, from 63.1% by the conventional anti-M2, and 73.7% by IIF to 79.6% by MIT3-based ELISA (p<0.001). IgA AMAs were detected in 47.6% patients. Overall, IgG/IgA AMAs were detected in 84/103 (81.6%). IgG MIT3-based ELISA detected 12/27 IIF AMA-negative samples (44.4%), while IgG/IgA MIT3-based ELISAs detected 13/27 IIF AMA-negative patients (48.1%). The specificities of MIT3-based ELISAs (IgG and IgA) were 82.8% and 89.7%, respectively, in AIH-1, 100% and 93.3%, respectively, in HBV, 100% in PSC, and 96% and 93.3%, respectively, in HCV. Patients positive for IgG AMA had significantly more severe disease as shown by worse histology and elevated biochemical markers; IgG and IgA AMA titers were associated positively with the Mayo risk score but none of the isotypes were able to predict disease outcome. CONCLUSIONS The new IgG and IgA MIT3-based ELISAs seem to have higher specificity and sensitivity for AMA detection than IIF and the conventional anti-M2. Interestingly, these assays were able to unmask AMA presence in almost half of the AMA-negative samples by IIF. These findings may suggest the use of MIT3-based ELISAs as first-line investigation for AMA detection, particularly, when the laboratories are unfamiliar with the use and interpretation of the IIF patterns of AMA. The presence of IgG AMA seems to characterize PBC patients with more severe disease, but both IgG and IgA isotypes of AMAs were not predictive markers of disease outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Gabeta
- Department of Medicine, Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Larissa Medical School, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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