Hepatitis D virus infection among hepatitis B virus surface antigen positive individuals in Upper Egypt: Prevalence and clinical features

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

About 248 million people are chronic HBV surface antigen carriers in the world. Hepatitis D virus (HDV) infection present in more than 15 million people worldwide. HDV needs hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) to help its replication. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of HDV infection among HBsAg positive individuals and to determine the clinical, laboratory and virological characters of HDV infected patients.

METHODS

This study was prospective cross-sectional analytic one including 186 HBsAg positive cases. Anti-HBc total, IgM and HBV PCR were done for all of these cases. Anti-HDV ELISA analysis was done for all cases. Positive samples for Anti-HDV by ELISA were then tested by HDV PCR.

RESULTS

Of the 186 HBsAg positive cases, 80 were reactive for anti-HDV antibodies, resulting in an overall anti-HDV seropositivity of 43%. Higher prevalence of liver cirrhosis (43.8%), HCC on top of cirrhosis (8.8%) were found in anti-HDV positive compared to anti-HDV negative cases (17.9%) and (3.8%) respectively (p value<0.001). Portal hypertension and Child-Pugh grade B, C were significantly higher in anti-HDV-positive cases as compared to the anti-HDV-negative ones (47.5% versus 18.9%) and (11.3% versus 6.6%); (16.3% versus 3.8%) respectively (p value<0.001 for each). HDV RNA was positive in 25 out of 80 anti-HDV-positive cases (31.3%).

CONCLUSION

Anti-HDV was seropositive in 43% among HBsAg positive cases in Upper Egypt. HDV RNA was positive by PCR in 25 out of 80 anti-HDV-positive cases (31.3%). HDV prevalence using PCR was 25/186 (13.4%) in Upper Egypt.

Colorectal cancer in Arab world: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

The incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) is increasing among young individuals in the Arab world as well as in other regions of the world.

AIM

To explore the incidence and prevalence of CRC in the Arab world.

METHODS

The PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, EBSCO and Wiley databases were searched to retrieve relevant articles irrespective of the language or the publication year. The search terms were "("colon OR rectum OR sigmoid OR rectal OR colonic OR colorectal") AND ("cancer OR malignancy OR malignant OR neoplasm") AND ("Jordan" OR "United Arab Emirates" OR "Bahrain" OR "Tunisia" OR "Algeria" OR "Djibouti" OR "Saudi Arabia" OR "Sudan" OR "Syria" OR "Somalia" OR "Iraq" OR "Oman" OR "Palestine" OR "Qatar" OR "Comoros" OR "Kuwait" OR "Lebanon" OR "Libya" OR "Egypt" OR "Morocco" OR "Mauritania" OR "Yemen"). Reviews, meta-analyses, and articles containing nonoriginal data were excluded. Retrieved articles were screened, and relevant data were extracted. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis.

RESULTS

Nine studies were included. Five of the studies provided information regarding the prevalence of CRC. The prevalence of CRC was 0.72% in Saudi Arabia and 0.78% in the United Arab Emirate, while in Egypt, it ranged from 0.4% to 14%. Four studies showed information regarding the incidence. The annual incidence rate of CRC in Qatar was 7.5/100000/year. In Egypt, the crude incidence rate (CIR) in males was 3.1 for colon cancer and 1 for rectal cancer, while in females, it was 2.3 for colon cancer and 0.8 for rectal cancer. The age-standardized rate for CRC incidence in 2003 was 36.90 for males, 26.50 for females, and 30.49 for both sexes in Saudi Arabia. In 2016, the CIRs in Saudi Arabia were 3.6 and 2.1 in females for colon cancer and rectal cancer, respectively, while in males, it was 3.3 and 2.8 for colon cancer and rectal cancer, respectively. One study in Egypt revealed that 25% of CRC cases occurred among individuals younger than 40 years old.

CONCLUSION

There is a considerable prevalence of CRC in some Arab countries. More studies are needed to explore the incidence and prevalence of CRC in the rest of the Arab world.

Role of vitamin D deficiency as a risk factor for infections in cirrhotic patients

BACKGROUND

Vitamin D plays a role in innate and acquired immunity. The risk for bacterial infections is increased in cirrhotic patients due to low levels of vitamin D. This study aimed to determine serum 25-(OH) vitamin D levels among cirrhotic patients in the presence and absence of infections and correlate this level with liver disease severity.

METHODS

This cross-sectional analytic study recruited 87 hospitalised cirrhotic patients who were divided into the following groups: group with evidence of infection (45 cases) and group without infection (42 cases). Urine analysis, ascetic fluid study and chest X-rays were performed to find the site of infection. Serum 25-(OH) vitamin D was also measured.

RESULTS

Vitamin D levels were lower in the cirrhotic with infection group than in the cirrhotic without infection group (17.3 ± 2.5 vs. 41.1 ± 3.1, respectively) (P-value < 0.001). Approximately 71.4% cirrhotic patients without infection had sufficient vitamin D levels, while 60% of cirrhotic patients with infection had insufficient vitamin D levels, and 28.9% had vitamin D deficiency (P-value < 0.001). Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis was the most common infection (62.2%). The cutoff point of vitamin D levels for cirrhotic patients with infection was 21 ng/mL.

CONCLUSION

Vitamin D deficiency was found to be an independent predictor of infection in cirrhotic patients suggesting that vitamin D supplementation may be useful in these patients. No significant correlations were found between the vitamin D level and the Child-Pugh class and MELD score among the infected group and non-infected group.

Types and microbiological spectrum of infections in patients with cirrhosis: A single-centre experience in Upper Egypt

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Egypt has a high prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) and high morbidity and mortality related to cirrhosis complications. Patients with cirrhosis have an increased risk of bacterial infections. Approximately 25-35% of cirrhotics had infections at admission or during hospitalisation. Data on infection among cirrhotics in Egypt are limited. This study aimed to determine the frequency and microbiological spectrum of infections in cirrhotics and possible risk factors.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital. The frequency and microbiological spectrum of infections in cirrhotics were determined. The risk factors for infection were evaluated.

RESULTS

Of the 100 patients with liver cirrhosis, 61% had infection. Ascitic fluid infection (AFI) was the most common infection (44.3%), followed by urinary tract infection (UTI) (21.3%), respiratory tract infection (RTI) (19.7%), gastroenteritis (6.6%) and skin infection (4.9%). The only risk factor for infection among cirrhotics was diabetes mellitus (DM) (p=0.047). The mean value of mid-arm muscle circumference was significantly lower in the infected group (p=0.047). Among all the cirrhotics, 32.0% had mild to moderate malnutrition and 52.0% had severe malnutrition. The frequency of infection was higher in severe malnutrition (71.2%).

CONCLUSIONS

The frequency of infections among cirrhotics was 61%. Many types of infections including AFI, RTI, UTI and skin infections were present in patients with liver cirrhosis, but AFI was the most common. DM was the only risk factor for infection, and independent predictors for infection were elevated WBC count and C-reactive protein levels. The frequency of infection was related to the degree of malnutrition.

Six-minute walk test before and after large-volume paracentesis in cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites: A pilot study

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Functional impairment is common among cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites, and improvement in functional impairment is an expected issue after paracentesis. The six-minute walk test (6MWT) is considered an objective test for functional activity. No published data have evaluated the 6MWT among cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites before and after large-volume paracentesis. The research aim was to assess the feasibility of performing the 6MWT among cirrhotic patients who had refractory ascites before and after large-volume paracentesis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-one cirrhotic inpatients with refractory ascites were subjected to pulmonary function tests (forced expiratory volume in one second [FEV1], forced vital capacity [FVC], FEV1/FVC) and diffusion lung capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) before and 48 h after therapeutic large-volume paracentesis. Dyspnoea as assessed by the Borg scale and functional capacity as assessed by the 6MWT were also evaluated.

RESULTS

Prior to paracentesis, the mean values of FVC and FEV1 were lower than the predicted values, and a significant increase was observed after paracentesis. There was improvement in the mean DLCO values after paracentesis (P < 0.05). Regarding the 6MWT, significant increases in the walked distance (6MWD) (310.7 ± 73 vs. 348.7 ± 72.3 m) and oxygen saturation after paracentesis (P = 0.001) were observed. Significant improvement in the dyspnoea scale also occurred after paracentesis (P = 0.001). A significant positive correlation between the 6MWD before paracentesis and serum albumin levels was demonstrated (r = 0.373, P = 0.039).

CONCLUSION

We found a decrease in pulmonary function and the 6MWD in patients who had refractory ascites, which improved significantly following large-volume paracentesis. The 6MWT is useful in detecting impaired functional capacity among cirrhotic patients.

Renal failure after upper-gastrointestinal bleeding among cirrhotic patients in Upper Egypt

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Renal dysfunction is a common and serious problem in patients with advanced liver disease. The study aims to assess the incidence, risk factors and short-term prognosis of renal failure after upper-gastrointestinal bleeding among cirrhotic patients in Upper Egypt.

METHODS

We recruited 159 cirrhotic patients with 168 episodes of upper-gastrointestinal bleeding from Tropical Medicine and Gastroenterology Department, Assiut University Hospital. For all participants, the following were conducted: clinical evaluation, abdominal ultrasonography (US) examination, laboratory investigations and upper endoscopy. Risk factors of renal failure were identified using univariate, then multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

The incidence of renal failure among bleeding episodes was 28%. Higher risk of renal failure among cirrhotic patients with upper-gastrointestinal bleeding was observed with shock (odds ratio (OR) 0.171, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.047:0.624), bacterial infection (OR 0.310, 95% CI 107:897), Child-Pugh class C (OR 2.79, 95% CI 1.018:7.62), higher serum bilirubin (OR 0.122, 95% CI 0.000:0.002), lower serum albumin (OR -0.188, 95% CI -0.288:-0.056) and raised baseline blood urea (OR 0.181, 95% CI 0.003:0.017) and serum creatinine (OR 0.533, 95% CI 0.002:0.004). Mortality among patients with renal failure was 31.9%.

CONCLUSION

Renal failure is a frequent event among cirrhotic patients with upper-gastrointestinal bleeding and there are many contributing factors for its development. Mortality is relatively high among patients with renal failure in cirrhotics with upper-gastrointestinal bleeding.

Multidisciplinary decision making in the management of hepatocellular carcinoma: A hospital-based study

BACKGROUND/AIMS

To evaluate the short-term outcome of the decision taken by the Hepatoma Board for the treatment of Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a prospective descriptive study involving 74 patients with HCC diagnosed by the known criteria. The decisions taken by the Hepatoma Board for the 74 patients were as follows: 1- surgical resection (7 patients), 2- local ablative therapy (LAT) (22 patients), 3- conventional transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) (24 patients), and 4- palliative supportive care (21 patients).

RESULTS

The short-term mortality rate was 25.7% of the total patients. The success rate was nearly equal in LAT (68.2%) and surgery (71.4%), whereas the success rate was approximately 33.3% in TACE. There was no difference in the mean total bilirubin level before and after LAT, surgery, or TACE (p>0.05 for each). There was a significant decrease in the mean serum albumin level after TACE (p=0.000). There was a decrease in the mean alpha fetoprotein level after surgery and LAT (p=0.033) for surgery and (p=0.048) for LAT.

CONCLUSION

The management of HCC is better performed through a multidisciplinary team decision. Surgery has comparable outcome to LAT but is more invasive. According to our local experience, conventional TACE has a success rate of 33.3%.

Attitude of Upper Egypt Health-Care Professionals Toward Living Liver Donation and Transplantation

BACKGROUND

In Egypt, there is no legislation for deceased donor transplant; therefore, programs provide living donation only. One possible barrier against living liver donation may be the attitude of the health-care professional. This study aimed to (1) assess the level of knowledge and attitude toward liver donation and transplantation among health-care professional in an University Hospital in Upper Egypt and (2) analyze the variables that affect such an attitude.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a cross-sectional survey study with 300 health-care professionals.

RESULTS

The mean (standard deviation) age was 27.4 (5.3) years. Two hundred (66.7%) were females, and 257 (85.7%) were Muslims. A total of 222 (74%) were residents in University Hospitals. Of the sample, 104 (34.7%) would donate a living liver part, 122 (40.7%) discussed the matter of organ donation and transplantation with their family, and 134 (44.7%) did not discuss this issue with their family. About 40% knew the attitude of their religion toward organ donation. Most (94.7%) health professionals were <40 years and did not know the attitude of their religion toward this issue. Single persons had more correct information regarding living organ donation and transplantation. More Muslims know the attitude of their religion toward living organ donation and transplantation.

CONCLUSIONS

Independent predictors of accepting living liver donation are being younger, knowledge of religion attitude, and media coverage satisfaction ( P = 0.006, odd ratio [OR] = 0.2; P = 0.000, OR = 0.39; and P = 0.016; OR = 0.38).

Button hole hernioplasty: A new technique for treatment of umblical hernia in cirrhotic patients. A prospective follow up study

BACKGROUND

Surgical treatment of umbilical hernia in cirrhotic patients is still an interesting topic in many studies to achieve the best method of treatment. These patients are liable to many surgical and medical risks.

AIMS

to evaluate the surgical outcome as well as the postoperative course of Button hole hernioplasty as a simple, safe, and effective new technique for hernia repair in cirrhotic patients.

METHODS

Forty cirrhotic patients with uncomplicated umbilical hernia were included in this study through collaboration between Departments of General Surgery and Tropical Medicine and Gastroenterology, Assiut University Hospital, Assiut, during one year period. Patients were categorized according to the severity of liver cirrhosis into three groups (A, B, and C). Patients were subjected to an elective hernioplasty after adjustment of the disturbed medical and biochemical factors.

RESULTS

There was a significant difference in operative time, hospital stay, and prothrombine (time and concentration) among the three groups (p < 0.05). The three parameters were longest in group C when compared to the other two groups. No severe complications were recorded except in only one case. Also, no recurrence, no morbidities or deaths were recorded after 6 months follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Button hole hernioplasty is a new simple surgical technique for treatment of umbilical hernia in cirrhotic patients with no significant complications.

Egyptian protocol for living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) during SARS-CoV-2 pandemic

Background

The current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic may negatively impact the care of liver transplant candidates and recipients.

Main body of the abstract

Accordingly, each country must have its national guidelines based on the current situation and according to available tools. Liver Transplantation Scientific Committee of Waiting List Project in Egypt was established in 13 April 2020. One of the major objectives of this Scientific Committee is the preparation of national protocol for Transplant Centers in Egypt to deal with living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) during SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

Conclusions

The protocol highlights basic hospital requirements for LDLT during SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, the patient selection from the waiting list, management of patients on the waiting list, and post-transplant management.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s43066-020-00074-4.