Similar recovery of liver function after response to all-oral HCV therapy in patients with cirrhosis with and without HIV coinfection

Among patients with cirrhosis, recovery of liver function after SVR to all-oral direct-acting antivirals (DAA) in HIV/HCV coinfection could be different to that in HCV monoinfection. Because of this, we compared the changes in several markers of liver function between HCV-monoinfected and HIV/HCV-coinfected patients with cirrhosis who achieved SVR12 to DAA combinations. In this retrospective cohort study, cirrhotics included in the HEPAVIR-DAA and GEHEP-MONO cohorts were selected if they had SVR12 to all-oral DAAs. Patients treated with atazanavir were excluded. Liver function improvement was defined as Child-Pugh-Turcotte (CPT) decrease ≥1 and/or MELD decrease ≥2 between baseline and SVR12. Liver function worsening was defined as a CPT increase ≥1 and/or MELD increase ≥2 and/or decompensations between baseline and SVR12. We included 490 patients, 270 (55%) of them with HIV coinfection. Liver function improved in 50 (56%) HCV-infected individuals and in 82 (57%) HIV/HCV-coinfected patients (P = 0.835). Liver function worsened in 33 (15%) HCV-monoinfected patients and in 33 (13%) HIV/HCV-coinfected patients (P = 0.370). Factors independently related with liver function improvement were male gender [adjusted OR (AOR) 2.1 (95% confidence interval, 95% CI: 1.03-4.2), P = 0.040], bilirubin < 1.2 mg/dL (AOR 1.8 [95% CI: 1.004-3.3], P = 0.49), and INR < 1.3 (AOR 2.4 [95% CI: 1.2-5.0], P = 0.019) at baseline. After multivariate analysis, albumin < 3.5 g/dL was associated with liver function worsening (AOR 6.1 [95% CI: 3-12.5], P < 0.001). Liver function worsening and improvement rates after responding to DAA are similar among HCV-monoinfected and HIV/HCV-coinfected cirrhotics. Gender, INR, bilirubin, and albumin levels were associated with liver function changes after response to DAAs.

Early emergence of opportunistic infections after starting direct-acting antiviral drugs in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients

Varicella-zoster virus and hepatitis B virus reactivations have been reported after starting interferon-free direct-acting antiviral agent (DAA) combinations. HIV/HCV-coinfected patients could be a high-risk group for the reactivation of latent infections. Because of these, we report the occurrence of severe infections after starting DAA regimens in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients. Individuals included in the HEPAVIR-DAA (NCT02057003) cohort were selected if they had received all-oral DAA combinations. A retrospective review of clinical events registered between the start of DAAs and 12 months after SVR12 was carried out. Overall, 38 (4.5%) of 848 patients presented infections. The incidence (95% confidence interval) of infections was 4.6 (3.3-6.3) cases per 100 person-years. The median (Q1-Q3) time to the infection since baseline was 23 (7.3-33) weeks. Five (13%) of the patients with infections died; four of them had cirrhosis. The frequency of previous AIDS was 21 (54%) for patients with infections and 324 (40%) for those without infections (P = 0.084). The median (Q1-Q3) nadir CD4 cell count of individuals with and without infections was 75 (53-178) and 144 (67-255) cells/μL, respectively (P = 0.047). Immunodepression-associated infections were observed in 9 (1.1%) patients. All of them had suppressed HIV replication with antiretroviral therapy. In conclusion, severe infections are relatively common among HIV/HCV-coinfected patients receiving all-oral DAA combinations. Some unusual reactivations of latent infections in patients with suppressed HIV replication seem to be temporally linked with DAA use.

Executive summary: Consensus document of GEHEP of the Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC), along with SOCIDROGALCOHOL, SEPD and SOMAPA on hepatitis C virus infection management in drug users

The micro-elimination of HCV infection in drug users (DU) in our area is a priority in order to achieve the overall elimination of this disease. Coordinated action between specialists in addiction treatment, microbiologists and physicians who treat HCV infection is required to implement infection screening, to achieve universal access to treatment and to prevent new infections and reinfections. The objective of this document was to come to a consensus on the screening, hospital referral, treatment, follow-up and prevention of HCV infection in DU by an expert panel from GEHEP/SEIMC and three scientific societies of addiction treating physicians: SEPD, SOCIDROGALCOHOL and SOMAPA.

Efficacy of Sofosbuvir and Velpatasvir, With and Without Ribavirin, in Patients With Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 3 Infection and Cirrhosis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

In phase 3 trials and real-world settings, smaller proportions of patients with genotype 3 hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and cirrhosis have a sustained virologic response 12 weeks after treatment (SVR12) with the combination of sofosbuvir and velpatasvir than in patients without cirrhosis. It is unclear whether adding ribavirin to this treatment regimen increases SVRs in patients with genotype 3 HCV infection and cirrhosis.

METHODS

We performed a phase 2 trial of 204 patients with genotype 3 HCV infection and compensated cirrhosis (mean age 51 ± 7.4 years) at 29 sites in Spain from August 19, 2016 through April 18, 2017. Patients were assigned to groups given sofosbuvir and velpatasvir for 12 weeks (n = 101) or sofosbuvir and velpatasvir plus ribavirin for 12 weeks (n = 103). The primary efficacy end point was SVR12.

RESULTS

The overall rates of SVR12 were 91% (92 of 101; 95% CI 84-96) for the sofosbuvir-velpatasvir group and 96% (99 of 103; 95% CI 90-99) for the sofosbuvir-velpatasvir plus ribavirin group. In the sofosbuvir-velpatasvir group, a smaller proportion of patients with baseline resistance-associated substitutions (RASs) in nonstructural protein 5A (NS5A) achieved an SVR12 (84%) than did patients without (96%). In the sofosbuvir-velpatasvir plus ribavirin group, baseline RASs had less effect on the proportion of patients with an SVR12 (96% for patients with baseline RASs; 99% for patients without). The most common adverse events (which occurred in ≥10% of patients) were asthenia (12%) in the sofosbuvir-velpatasvir group and asthenia (27%), headache (24%), and insomnia (12%) in the sofosbuvir-velpatasvir plus ribavirin group.

CONCLUSIONS

Consistent with findings from previous studies, a high rate of patients (91% and 96%) with genotype 3 HCV infection and compensated cirrhosis achieved an SVR12 with sofosbuvir and velpatasvir, with or without ribavirin. Of patients treated with sofosbuvir and velpatasvir without ribavirin, fewer patients with baseline NS5A RASs achieved an SVR12 compared with patients without baseline NS5A. ClinicalTrials.govNCT02781558.

Impact of interferon-free regimens on the glomerular filtration rate during treatment of chronic hepatitis C in a real-life cohort

Little data are available on renal toxicity exerted by direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) in real life. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of direct-acting antivirals against hepatitis C virus infection currently used in Spain and Portugal on the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in clinical practise. From an international, prospective multicohort study, patients treated with DAAs for at least 12 weeks and with eGFR ≥30 mL/min per 1.73 m² at baseline were selected. eGFR was determined using the CKD-EPI formula. A total of 1131 patients were included; 658 (58%) were HIV/HCV-coinfected patients. Among the 901 patients treated for 12 weeks, median (interquartile range) eGFR was 100 (87-107) at baseline vs 97 (85-105) mL/min per 1.73 m² at week 12 of follow-up (FU12) post-treatment (P < .001). For HIV-coinfected subjects who received tenofovir plus a ritonavir-boosted HIV protease inhibitor (PI/r), baseline vs FU12 eGFR were 104 (86-109) vs 104 (91-110) mL/min per 1.73 m² (P = .913). Among subjects receiving ombitasvir/paritaprevir with or without dasabuvir, eGFR did not show any significant change. Of 1100 subjects with eGFR >60 mL/min per 1.73 m² at baseline, 22 (2%) had eGFR <60 mL/min per 1.73 m² at FU12, but none presented with eGFR <30 mL/min per 1.73 m² . In conclusion, eGFR slightly declines during therapy with all-oral DAAs and this effect persists up to 12 weeks after stopping treatment in subjects with normal to moderately impaired renal function, regardless of HIV status. Concomitant use of tenofovir plus PI/r does not seem to have an impact on eGFR.

Changes in Liver Steatosis After Switching From Efavirenz to Raltegravir Among Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Patients With Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Background

Antiretroviral drugs with a lower potential to induce hepatic steatosis in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection need to be identified. We compared the effect of switching efavirenz (EFV) to raltegravir (RAL) on hepatic steatosis among HIV-infected patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) receiving EFV plus 2 nucleoside analogues.

Methods

HIV-infected patients on EFV plus tenofovir/emtricitabine or abacavir/lamivudine with NAFLD were randomized 1:1 to switch from EFV to RAL (400 mg twice daily), maintaining nucleoside analogues unchanged, or to continue with EFV plus 2 nucleoside analogues. At baseline, eligible patients should show controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) values ≥238 dB/m. Changes in hepatic steatosis at 48 weeks of follow-up over baseline levels were measured by CAP.

Results

Overall, 39 patients were included, and 19 of them were randomized to switch to RAL. At week 48, median CAP for the RAL group was 250 (Q1-Q3, 221-277) dB/m and 286 (Q1-Q3, 269-314) dB/m for the EFV group (P = .035). The median decrease in CAP values was -20 (Q1-Q3, -67 to 15) dB/m for the RAL arm and 30 (Q1-Q3, -17 to 49) dB/m for the EFV group (P = .011). CAP values <238 dB/m at week 48 were observed in 9 (47%) patients on RAL and 3 (15%) individuals on EFV (P = .029).

Conclusions

After 48 weeks, HIV-infected individuals switching EFV to RAL showed decreases in the degree of hepatic steatosis, as measured by CAP, compared with those continuing with EFV. In addition, the proportion of patients without significant hepatic steatosis after 48 weeks was greater for those who switched to RAL.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT01900015.

Paritaprevir/ritonavir/ombitasvir plus dasabuvir in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients with genotype 1 in real-life practice

Background Data on the efficacy, safety, and concomitant use with other drugs of the combination ritonavir-boosted paritaprevir/ombitasvir plus dasabuvir (PrOD) in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients in real life are limited. The objectives of this study were to analyze these topics in HIV/HCV-coinfected subjects bearing HCV genotype 1 (GT1). Methods One hundred and eighty-two HIV/HCV-coinfected patients with GT1 (87 1a, 71 1b, 23 other) treated with PrOD, plus ribavirin (RBV) in 119 cases, in routine clinical practice were analyzed. The main variable of efficacy was sustained virological response (SVR) 12 weeks after completing therapy in an intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis and that of safety treatment discontinuation because of adverse effects. Factors associated with SVR were analyzed with a modified ITT (mITT) strategy. Results One hundred and seventy-two (94%) patients attained SVR, 3 (2%) experienced a relapse and two (1%) discontinued therapy due to adverse events. The rates of SVR in subjects with GT 1a and 1b by mITT were, respectively, 97% and 98%. Sixty-five (98%) out of 66 patients with cirrhosis and 107 (98%) out of 110 (p = 1) non-cirrhotics achieved SVR. Fifty-five (95%) patients on concomitant darunavir therapy developed SVR vs. 117 (99%) (p = 0.105) of those without DRV. RBV dose was reduced in 13 (11%) patients and permanently discontinued in 2 (2%), with no impact on SVR. Conclusions PrOD is highly effective and well tolerated in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients with GT1 in routine clinical practice. RBV is often required. However, RBV dose reduction or discontinuation is uncommonly needed and do not impair the SVR rate.

Bacterial translocation and clinical progression of HCV-related cirrhosis in HIV-infected patients

The aim of the study was to evaluate whether bacterial translocation (BT) predicts the clinical outcome in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients with compensated cirrhosis. A cohort of 282 HIV/HCV-coinfected patients with cirrhosis and no previous liver decompensation (LD) was recruited. Serum levels of the DNA sequences encoding the well-conserved 16S rRNA subunit (16S rDNA), the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and soluble CD14 (sCD14) at diagnosis of cirrhosis were measured. Primary endpoint was the emergence of the first LD and/or death of any cause. Secondary endpoints were LD, liver-related death (LRD) and death of any cause. After a median (Q1-Q3) follow-up of 51 (27-72) months, 67 patients (24%; 95% CI: 19-29) developed their first LD or died during follow-up. Baseline levels of 16S rDNA, LPS and sCD14 were not associated with the probability of developing the primary endpoint of the study. The mean (SD) survival time free of LD and/or death according to levels of 16S rDNA (<83, 83-196, 197-355, >355 [copies/μL]) was 78 (5), 72 (5), 81 (4) and 82 (4) months, respectively (P = .5). The corresponding figures for LPS (<0.1, 0.1-0.6, 0.6-1.5, > 1.5 [IU/mL]) were 76 (5), 71 (5), 77 (5) and 81 (4) months, respectively (P = .4). Baseline levels of BT serum markers were not associated with any of the secondary endpoints analysed in the study. Thus, BT does not seem to be a relevant predictor of clinical outcome in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients with compensated cirrhosis.

Availability of hepatitis C diagnostics and therapeutics in European and Eurasia countries

BACKGROUND

Treatment with direct acting antiviral agents (DAAs) has provided sustained virological response rates in >95% of patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. However treatment is costly and market access, reimbursement and governmental restrictions differ among countries. We aimed to analyze these differences among European and Eurasian countries.

METHODS

A survey including 20-item questionnaire was sent to experts in viral hepatitis. Countries were evaluated according to their income categories by the World Bank stratification.

RESULTS

Experts from 26 countries responded to the survey. As of May 2016, HCV prevalence was reported as low (≤1%) in Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, UK; intermediate (1-4%) in Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Italy, Kosovo, Greece, Kazakhstan, Romania, Russia, Serbia and high in Georgia (6.7%). All countries had national guidelines except Albania, Kosovo, Serbia, Tunisia, and UK. Transient elastography was available in all countries, but reimbursed in 61%. HCV-RNA was reimbursed in 81%. PegIFN/RBV was reimbursed in 54% of the countries. No DAAs were available in four countries: Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Serbia, and Tunisia. In others, at least one DAA combination with either PegIFN/RBV or another DAA was available. In Germany and the Netherlands all DAAs were reimbursed without restrictions: Sofosbuvir and sofosbuvir/ledipasvir were free of charge in Georgia.

CONCLUSION

Prevalence of HCV is relatively higher in lower-middle and upper-middle income countries. DAAs are not available or reimbursed in many Eurasia and European countries. Effective screening and access to care are essential for reducing liver-related morbidity and mortality.

Changes in liver steatosis evaluated by transient elastography with the controlled attenuation parameter in HIV-infected patients

OBJECTIVES

There are scant data on the progression of hepatic steatosis (HS) in HIV infection. We therefore evaluated changes in HS over time in HIV-infected patients using the controlled attenuation parameter (CAP).

METHODS

A prospective cohort of 326 HIV-infected patients was included in this study. All patients underwent a CAP measurement. Changes in steatosis were evaluated by calculating the median (Q1-Q3) difference between baseline and 12-month CAP values.

RESULTS

The median (Q1-Q3) CAP was 221 (196-252) dB/m at baseline and 224 (198-257) dB/m at the 12-month visit (P = 0.617). Significant steatosis, that is, CAP ≥ 238 dB/m, was observed in 76 individuals (37%) at baseline and in 80 (39%) at the 12-month visit (P = 0.683). The following variables were associated with ΔCAP: plasma HIV RNA [< 50 vs. ≥ 50 HIV-1 RNA copies/mL: median (Q1-Q3) ΔCAP, 4 (-21, 27) vs. -21 (-49, 4) dB/m, respectively; P = 0.024]; body mass index (BMI) [no increase vs. increase: -13 (-40, 4) vs. 14 (-6, 32) dB/m, respectively; P < 0.001]; triglycerides [no increase vs. increase: -1 (-30, 22) vs. 15 (-3, 40) dB/m, respectively; P = 0.001]; fasting plasma glucose [not impaired vs. impaired: -4 (-31, 16) vs. 30 (15, 49) dB/m, respectively; P < 0.001]; and raltegravir [no vs. yes: 5 (-20, 29) vs. -11 (-37.5, 15) dB/m, respectively; P = 0.018]. The only factor independently associated with ΔCAP was BMI [B (standard error): 9.03 (1.9); P < 0.001].

CONCLUSIONS

Increases in CAP values over a period of 12 months in HIV-infected patients were strongly associated with elevations in BMI. Other metabolic factors and antiretroviral drugs were not predictors of CAP changes independent of BMI.

Rural habitat as risk factor for hepatitis E virus seroconversion in HIV-infected patients: A prospective longitudinal study

Our objective was to determine the incidence and clinical manifestations of acute hepatitis E virus (HEV) in HIV-infected patients. A prospective longitudinal study including HIV-infected HEV-seronegative patients was conducted; HEV seroconversion (to IgG and/or IgM) was the main outcome variable. All patients were tested for HEV antibodies every 3-6 months. For patients who developed HEV seroconversion, a data collection protocol was followed to identify associated clinical manifestations and analytical alterations. A total of 627 patients (89.9%) were followed during a median of 11.96 months (IQR: 8.52-14.52 months) and formed the study population. Forty-one patients developed detectable anti-HEV antibodies (7.2 cases per 100 patients/year). Our study found a high incidence of HEV in HIV-infected patients in southern Spain strongly associated with a rural habitat.

Week 4 response predicts sustained virological response to all-oral direct-acting antiviral-based therapy in cirrhotic patients with hepatitis C virus genotype 3 infection

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine the predictive capacity of response at treatment week (TW) 4 for the achievement of sustained virological response 12 weeks after the scheduled end of therapy date (SVR₁₂) to treatment against hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 3 (GT3) infection with all-oral direct-acting antiviral (DAA) -based regimens.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From a prospective multicohort study, HCV GT3-infected patients who completed a course of currently recommended DAA-based therapy at 33 Spanish hospitals and who had reached the SVR₁₂ evaluation time-point were selected. TW4 HCV-RNA levels were categorized as target-not-detected (TND), below the lower limit of quantification (LLOQ_TD) and ≥LLOQ.

RESULTS

A total of 123 patients were included, 86 (70%) received sofosbuvir/ daclatasvir±ribavirin, 27 (22%) received sofosbuvir/ ledipasvir/ ribavirin and 10 (8.1%) received sofosbuvir/ ribavirin, respectively. In all, 114 (92.7%) of the 123 patients presented SVR₁₂ in an on-treatment approach, but nine (7.3%) patients relapsed, all of them had presented cirrhosis at baseline. In those who achieved TND, LLOQ_TD and ≥LLOQ, SVR₁₂ was observed in 81/83 (98%; 95% CI 91.5%-99.7%), 24/28 (85.7%; 95% CI 67.3%-96%) and 9/12 (75%; 95% CI 42.8%-94.5%), respectively; p_{(linear association)} 0.001. Corresponding numbers for subjects with cirrhosis were: 52/54 (96.3%; 95% CI 87.3%-95.5%), 14/18 (77.8%; 95% CI 52.4%-93.6%) and 7/10 (70%; 95% CI 34.8%-93.3%); p 0.004.

CONCLUSIONS

TW4-response indicates the probability of achieving SVR₁₂ to currently used DAA-based therapy in HCV genotype 3-infected individuals with cirrhosis. This finding may be useful to tailor treatment strategy in this setting.

Fat mass and obesity-associated gene variations are related to fatty liver disease in HIV-infected patients

OBJECTIVES

Fatty liver disease (FLD) is frequently observed in HIV-infected patients. Obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are strongly associated with FLD. Because genetic variants within the fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO) gene have been associated with both pathologies, our aim was to evaluate the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the FTO, previously related to obesity or T2DM, with FLD in HIV-infected patients.

METHODS

FLD was defined as a value of the controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) ≥ 238 dB/m, obtained by transient elastography. Four SNPs within FTO intron 1 (rs11642841, rs8050136, rs9939609 and rs9940128) were genotyped in 421 individuals using a custom Golden Gate protocol. The results were replicated in a validation sample consisting of a further 206 HIV-infected patients. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted in the entire population.

RESULTS

Three SNPs (rs8050136, rs9939609 and rs9940128) were associated with FLD, with rs9940128 showing the strongest association. This polymorphism also showed an association with FLD in the validation sample. In total, rs9940128 was genotyped in 627 HIV-infected patients, including 267 (42.6%) FLD-diagnosed individuals. The frequency of FLD among rs9940128 AA carriers was 55.7% (63 of 113 individuals) and that in patients without this genotype was 39.7% (204 of 514 individuals) [P = 0.009; adjusted odds ratio 1.88; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.17-3.01].

CONCLUSIONS

Variations within FTO may be predictors of FLD in HIV-infected patients independently of metabolic factors.

News on Viral Hepatitis in HIV: Update from the 2016 GEHEP Conference

The II Conference of the Group for the Study of Viral Hepatitis (GEHEP) (29 September-1 October, Spain) updated epidemiological, diagnostic and treatment aspects on viral hepatitis. The conference was mostly focused on the latest news related to HCV infection, including the successes achieved since the implementation of direct-acting antiviral agents for HCV therapy, but also in the new, future challenges for a real HCV eradication. The scenario for chronic HCV infection has dramatically changed in the last two years and most patients have been cured after 12 weeks of therapy with minimal side effects. However, as the experience of treatment increases, new challenges have emerged for the maximum optimization and success of therapy. Moreover, different issues need to be resolved for a real HCV eradication (i.e. unmasking HCV infection, prevention and diagnosis of HCV reinfections, diagnostic tools for treatment optimization). The latest advances in the knowledge on these topics were presented and discussed at this conference. Also, some interesting studies related to viral hepatitis E were addressed. This review summarizes some of the major findings reported and discussed during the GEHEP Conference.

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in HIV Infection

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is one of the most frequent chronic hepatic conditions worldwide. The spectrum of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease goes from hepatic steatosis to steatohepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Risk factors for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease are metabolic, mainly obesity and the accompanying consequences. Treatment and prevention of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease should target those metabolic abnormalities. The frequency of and the factors associated with hepatic steatosis in HIV infection seem to be similar to those reported in the general population, though direct comparisons are lacking. Hepatic steatosis in HIV infection may also be secondary to antiretroviral drugs or HCV-related factors in HCV-coinfected subjects. However, more recent data suggest that hepatic steatosis in HIV infection represents true non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. As such, management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in HIV infection should follow the same principles as in the general population.

Liver stiffness predicts the response to direct-acting antiviral-based therapy against chronic hepatitis C in cirrhotic patients

The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the impact of liver stiffness (LS) on the response to direct-acting antiviral (DAA)-based therapy against hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in cirrhotic patients. Those patients included in two Spanish prospective cohorts of patients receiving therapy based on at least one DAA, who showed a baseline LS ≥ 12.5 kPa and who had reached the scheduled time point for sustained virological response evaluation 12 weeks after completing therapy (SVR12) were analysed. Pegylated interferon/ribavirin-based therapy plus an HCV NS3/4A protease inhibitor (PR-PI group) was administered to 198 subjects, while 146 received interferon-free regimens (IFN-free group). The numbers of patients with SVR12 according to an LS < 21 kPa versus ≥21 kPa were 59/99 (59.6%) versus 46/99 (46.5%) in the PR-PI group (p = 0.064) and 41/43 (95.3%) versus 90/103 (87.4%) in the IFN-free group (p = 0.232). Corresponding figures for the relapse rates in those who presented end-of-treatment response (ETR) were 3/62 (4.8%) versus 10/56 (17.9%, p = 0.024) and 1/42 (2.4%) versus 8/98 (8.2%, p = 0.278), respectively. In a multivariate analysis adjusted for age, sex and use of interferon, a baseline LS ≥ 21 kPa was identified as an independent predictor of relapse [adjusted odds ratio, AOR (95% confidence interval, CI): 4.228 (1.344-13.306); p = 0.014] in those patients with ETR. LS above 21 kPa is associated with higher rates of relapse to DAA-based therapy in HCV-infected patients with cirrhosis in clinical practice. LS could help us to tailor the duration and composition of DAA-based combinations in cirrhotic subjects, in order to minimise the likelihood of relapse.

Hepatic safety of maraviroc in patients with HIV-1 and hepatitis C and/or B virus: 144-week results from a randomized, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

In the primary 48-week analysis of a hepatic safety trial in patients with HIV-1 coinfected with HBV and/or HCV, maraviroc-containing treatment regimens were not associated with increased hepatotoxicity.

METHODS

In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicentre study, patients received maraviroc twice daily (n=70) or placebo (n=67) with concomitant antiretroviral therapy for 144 weeks (Clinicaltrials.gov identifier, NCT01327547). The primary end point was the proportion of patients with protocol-defined Grade 3/4 alanine aminotransferase (ALT) abnormalities through week 48. Key secondary end points included 144-week analysis of Grade 3/4 ALT abnormalities and liver fibrosis by enhanced liver fibrosis (ELF) testing, hepatic elastography and an optional biopsy substudy.

RESULTS

Through 144 weeks of treatment, two (maraviroc) and three (placebo) patients met the protocol-defined Grade 3/4 ALT end point. Similar to the 48-week results, there were no statistically significant differences between groups in change from baseline in ELF or hepatic elastography. However, decreased elastography scores were noted in the maraviroc group. Blinded pathologist review suggested that 2 of 11 paired biopsies (both on maraviroc) showed signs of decreased fibrosis. One (maraviroc) and two (placebo) patients experienced treatment-related hepatobiliary adverse events (AEs). Five patients in the maraviroc group discontinued because of treatment-related AEs versus three in the placebo group. One death in the maraviroc group and two deaths in the placebo group were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of maraviroc did not increase hepatotoxicity in this population through 144 weeks. Further investigation regarding possible beneficial effects of maraviroc on liver fibrosis may be warranted.

High frequency of potential interactions between direct-acting antivirals and concomitant therapy in HIV/hepatitis C virus-coinfected patients in clinical practice

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to analyse the frequency and degree of potential drug-drug interactions (DDIs) between direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) and concomitant medication used by HIV/hepatitis C virus (HCV)-coinfected patients, including antiretroviral therapy (ART) and other drugs.

METHODS

All patients with HIV infection and viraemic HCV genotype 1, 3 or 4 coinfection attending a tertiary care centre in Spain (November 2014 to November 2015) were included in the study. DDIs were classified as major, i.e. drugs should not be co-administered, or minor, i.e. close monitoring, dosage alteration or change in timing may be required if drugs are co-administered, following the http://www.hep-druginteractions.org database recommendations.

RESULTS

A total of 244 patients were included in the study, of whom 224 (92%) were previous injecting drug users. Major DDIs were found for: paritaprevir-r/ombitasvir plus dasabuvir (3D), in 60 (44%) of 138 individuals with genotype 1; paritaprevir-r/ombitasvir (2D), in 22 (37%) of 60 individuals with genotype 4; sofosbuvir/ledipasvir (SOF/LDV), in four (2%) of 198 patients with genotype 1 or 4; simeprevir (SMV) plus SOF, in 160 (81%) of 198 patients with genotype 1 or 4; daclatasvir (DCV) plus SOF, in seven (3%) of 244 patients with genotype 1, 3 or 4 (P < 0.001). Minor DDIs were found for: 3D, in 123 (89%) individuals with genotype 1; 2D, in 52 (87%) individuals with genotype 4; SOF/LDV, in 154 (78%) patients with genotype 1 or 4; SMV plus SOF, in 129 (65%) patients with genotype 1 or 4; DCV plus SOF, in 149 (61%) patients with genotype 1, 3 or 4 (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Drug-drug interactions between DAAs and ART or other commonly prescribed medications are frequently found among HIV/HCV-coinfected patients. Potential major and minor DDIs are more frequent with 3D, 2D and SMV plus SOF regimens.

Changes in the response to treatment against chronic hepatitis C between 1999 and 2015: data from a prospective cohort

BACKGROUND

The drug options and strategies for treatment against hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection have changed considerably in the last few years. The aim of this study was to compare the changes in the proportion of nonresponders and patients who achieved a sustained virologic response (SVR) from 1999 to 2015 in one single cohort.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 522 patients treated against chronic hepatitis C were included prospectively. The time periods were 1999-2002 [interferon (IFN)/ribavirin (RBV)], 2002-2009 (pegylated-IFN/RBV), 2010-2011 (use of IL28B genotype), 2012-2014 (pegylated-IFN/RBV/direct-acting antivirals) and 2015 (IFN-free direct-acting antiviral-based therapy).

RESULTS

The numbers of nonresponders in the study periods in chronological order were as follows: 14 (40%), 76 (21.3%), 7 (8%), 10 (13%), and 0; P=1.1×10 and r=0.837. The corresponding numbers of patients who achieved SVR were 9 (25.7%), 14 (40.9%), 44 (50.6%), 51 (66.2%), and 64 (90.1%), P=3.3×10 and r=0.997. Characteristics that may impair SVR, such as advanced fibrosis, genotype 1 infection, HIV coinfection, or treatment experience, did not decrease in the last time periods.

CONCLUSION

The proportion of nonresponders was significantly reduced using the IL28B genotype as a predictive tool and direct-acting antivirals further improved treatment outcome. Concomitantly, the rates of SVR showed a linear increase.

HCV epidemiology in high-risk groups and the risk of reinfection

Injecting risk behaviours among people who inject drugs (PWID) and high-risk sexual practices among men who have sex with men (MSM) are important routes of hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission. Current direct-acting antiviral treatment offers unique opportunities for reductions in HCV-related liver disease burden and epidemic control in high-risk groups, but these prospects could be counteracted by HCV reinfection due to on-going risk behaviours after successful treatment. Based on existing data from small and heterogeneous studies of interferon-based treatment, the incidence of reinfection after sustained virological response range from 2-6/100 person years among PWID to 10-15/100 person years among human immunodeficiency virus-infected MSM. These differences mainly reflect heterogeneity in study populations with regards to risk behaviours, but also reflect variations in study designs and applied virological methods. Increasing levels of reinfection are to be expected as we enter the interferon-free treatment era. Individual- and population-level efforts to address and prevent reinfection should therefore be undertaken when providing HCV care for people with on-going risk behaviour. Constructive strategies include acknowledgement, education and counselling, harm reduction optimization, scaled-up treatment including treatment of injecting networks, post-treatment screening, and rapid retreatment of reinfections.

No evidence of firstly acquired acute hepatitis C virus infection outbreak among HIV-infected patients from Southern Spain: a multicentric retrospective study from 2000-2014

Background

Acute hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection (AHCVI) outbreaks have been described recently within defined areas worldwide among HIV-infected homosexual men. This study aims to describe the cumulative frequency and incidence of firstly acquired AHCVI in an HIV-infected population in Southern Spain.

Methods

This is a retrospective study conducted at the Infectious Diseases Units of eight hospitals in Andalusia, Southern Spain. Primary AHC was considered as HCV immunoglobulin G antibody seroconversion. The time of infection was considered the moment between the last negative and the first positive HCV antibody determination.

Results

A total of 23 cases of primary AHCVI have been detected from 2000 to 2014. Incidence rates [IR; 95 % confidence interval (CI)] were 0.036 (2.272–0.054) per 100 person-years (py) in the overall population over a follow-up period of 64170 py. Of the 22 (95.7 %) male subjects, 21 (95.5 %) had acquired AHCVI by homosexual contact, the IR (95 % CI) was 0.039 (0.024–0.06) per 100 py in this subpopulation. There was no evidence of an increase of AHCVI IR. The incidence of AHCVI was slightly lower between 2000 and 2004 as compared to 2005–2009 [IR ratio (IRR) of 8.8 (95 % CI: 1.279–378.794; p = 0.01)] but reached a plateau afterwards [IRR between 2010 and 2014 versus 2005–2009: 0.727 (0.286–1.848; p = 0.5)]. The median (Q1-Q3) time between the last negative anti-HCV and the first positive anti-HCV determination was 4.7 (1.9–11.2) months. Peak (Q1-Q3) ALT and total bilirubin values during AHCVI were 496 (291–656) IU/mL and 1.15 (0.9–1.98) mg/dL, respectively.

Conclusions

In contrast to what has been reported from other areas, the incidence of primary AHCVI in the HIV-infected population is stable in Southern Spain and there is no evidence of an epidemic, in spite of the high prevalence of HIV/HCV-coinfection in this area.

Common haplotypes in CD209 promoter and susceptibility to HIV-1 infection in intravenous drug users

INTRODUCTION

CD209 is a receptor expressed in the dendritic cells involved in recognition of oligosaccharides present in several pathogens with a relevant impact on human health. SNPs located in the promoter region have been associated with HIV-1 susceptibility, although this finding has not been replicated in other populations. The objective of this study is to evaluate the association of CD209 promoter haplotypes with risk of HIV-1 infection in a cohort of Spanish male intravenous drug users (IDU) infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and to characterize the phenotypic effects of the associated variants.

METHODS

We genotyped 4 SNPs of CD209 promoter in 295 HCV males exposed to HIV-1 infection by IDU, 165 HIV-1-infected and 130 exposed uninfected (EUI) and 142 healthy controls (HC). We have cloned the promoter variants in a reporter vector and evaluated the promoter activities in a cell culture model. CD209 mRNAs were measured in PBMC.

RESULTS

Single-marker analysis revealed no significant allelic association with the risk of HIV-1 infection by parenteral route. Nevertheless, one haplotype was significantly overrepresented in EUI compared with HIV-1 positive patients and was associated with HIV-1 status (P=0.0008; OR: 0.43). Functional experiments suggested that the protective haplotype displayed lower transcriptional activity in vitro (P<0.05) and this was correlated with lower CD209 mRNA expression in PBMC (P=0.014).

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that the promoter haplotypes of CD209 influence the risk of HIV-1 acquisition in IDU and that this association is correlated with the mRNA expression level.

Hepatic Safety of Rilpivirine/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate Fixed-Dose Single-Tablet Regimen in HIV-Infected Patients with Active Hepatitis C Virus Infection: The hEPAtic Study

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of transaminase elevations (TE) and total bilirubin elevations (TBE) during the first year of therapy with a single tablet regimen including RPV/FTC/TDF (EPA) in HIV/hepatitis C virus (HCV)-coinfected subjects in clinical practice.

METHODS

In a retrospective analysis, HIV/HCV-coinfected subjects who started EPA at 17 centres throughout Spain were included as cases. Subjects who started an antiretroviral therapy (ART) other than EPA during the study period at the same hospitals were randomly selected as controls in a 1:2 ratio. Primary outcome variables were grade (G) 3-4 TE and G4 TBE.

RESULTS

Of the 519 subjects included, 173 individuals started EPA. Nine (5.2%) subjects of the EPA group and 49 (14.2%) controls were naïve to ART. The median (Q1-Q3) follow-up was 11.2 (9.7-13.9) months. TE was observed in 2 [1.2%; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.14%-4.1%] subjects receiving EPA and 11 (3.2%; 95%CI: 1.6%-5.6%) controls (p = 0.136), all events were G3. No patient discontinued ART due to TE. One (0.6%; 95%CI: 0.01%-3.1%) subject on EPA and 8 (2.3%; 95%CI: 1%-4.5%) subjects in the control group developed TBE (p = 0.141), without developing any other hepatic event during follow-up. Three (2.3%) subjects with cirrhosis versus 10 (3.1%) without cirrhosis showed G3-4 TE (p = 0.451).

CONCLUSION

The frequency of severe liver toxicity in HIV/HCV-coinfected subjects receiving EPA under real-life conditions is very low, TE were generally mild and did not lead to drug discontinuation. All these data suggest that EPA can be safely used in this particular subpopulation.

KIR2DS2 as predictor of thrombocytopenia secondary to pegylated interferon-alpha therapy

Our aim was to evaluate the killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) as a marker for the development of thrombocytopenia secondary to Peg-interferon (IFN) therapy in a cohort of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/hepatitis C virus (HCV) co-infected patients. Patients were naive to HCV treatment, receiving a first course of Peg-IFN/Ribavirin combination therapy. Total platelet count (cells ml^-1) was determined at each visit, determining platelet decline from baseline to weeks 1, 2, 4, 8 and 12 after starting therapy. The end point of the study was development of thrombocytopenia, defined as a platelet count of <1 50 000 cells ml^-1. Fifty-eight HIV/HCV co-infected patients were included in the study, of whom 20 (34.4%) developed thrombocytopenia. The absence of KIR2DS2 was associated with higher and faster rate of thrombocytopenia (54.2% vs 22.5%; P=0.012; 6.6 vs 10.3 weeks; P=0.008). The absence of KIR2DS2 was associated with a greater decline in platelet count and development of thrombocytopenia during Peg-IFN treatment in HIV/HCV co-infected patients.

Liver Toxicity of Current Antiretroviral Regimens in HIV-Infected Patients with Chronic Viral Hepatitis in a Real-Life Setting: The HEPAVIR SEG-HEP Cohort

OBJECTIVE

To assess the current frequency of ART-associated grade 3-4 transaminase elevations (TE) and grade 4 total bilirubin elevations (TBE) in HIV-infected patients with chronic hepatitis B and/or C, who start a new regimen of ART.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 192 pre-treated or treatment-naive HIV infected patients with HBV and/or HCV-coinfection who started ART in eight Southern Spanish centers from July/2011-December/2013, were followed for 12 months in this prospective study.

RESULTS

Forty-one (21.4%) subjects had been naïve to ART, median (IQR) follow-up was 11.6 (5.6-12.9) months. The most frequently initiated NRTI were tenofovir/emtricitabine [49 patients (25.5%)]. Eighty-nine (46.4%) patients started a ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitor and 77 (40.1%) individuals a NNRTI. Raltegravir and maraviroc were initiated in 24 (12.5%) and 9 (4.7%) individuals. Ten [5.21%; 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.53%-9.37%] patients presented grade 3 TE, while 8 (4.17%; 95%CI: 1.82%-8.04%) subjects showed grade 4 TBE. No episodes of grade 4 TE or ART discontinuation due to hepatotoxic events were observed. The use of ritonavir-boosted atazanavir was the only independent predictor for grade 4 TBE [adjusted odds ratio: 7.327 (95%CI: 1.417-37.89); p = 0.018] in an analysis adjusted for age, sex and baseline HIV-RNA levels, while no factor could be independently associated with grade 3-4 TE.

CONCLUSIONS

Currently, the frequency of severe ART-associated TE and TBE under real-life conditions in patients with chronic viral hepatitis is similar to what has been reported previously. However, episodes of grade 4 TE are less frequent and severe TE appears to be of lesser concern.

Progression of liver stiffness predicts clinical events in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients with compensated cirrhosis

Background

Our objective was to assess the predictive value of the changes of liver stiffness (LS) for clinical outcome in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients with compensated liver cirrhosis and a LS value < 40 kPa.

Methods

Prospective cohort of 275 HIV/HCV-coinfected patients with cirrhosis, no previous liver decompensation (LD) and LS < 40 kPa. The time from diagnosis to LD and/or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the predictors of this outcome were evaluated. Significant progression of LS was defined as an increase ≥ 30 % over the baseline value at any time during the follow-up.

Results

After a median (Q1-Q3) follow-up of 32 (20–48) months, 19 (6.9 %, 95 % CI: 3.8 %–9.9 %) patients developed a first LD and/or HCC. At the end of the follow-up, 247 (90 %) patients had undergone a further LS examination. Of them, 77 (31 %) patients had a significant progression of LS. The mean (SD) survival time free of LD and/or HCC was 67 (3) and 77 (1) months in patients with or without significant progression of LS (p = 0.01). Significant progression of LS was an independent predictor of LD and/or HCC (Adjusted Hazard Ratio 4.63; 95 % confidence interval: 1.34–16.02; p = 0.015).

Conclusions

Significant progression of LS is associated with a higher risk of clinical events in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients with compensated cirrhosis and LS < 40 kPa.

Longitudinal evaluation of hepatitis C viral persistence in HIV-infected patients with spontaneous hepatitis C clearance

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) viral persistence in patients with spontaneous viral clearance is controversial. Several studies have shown HCV-RNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and/or liver tissue among patients who have cleared the virus spontaneously, suggesting that viral persistence is a common situation that could involve the entire population studied. Thus, our aim was to evaluate HCV-RNA persistence in PBMCs and hepatocytes in subjects infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). A total of 1508 patients were prospectively followed and tested for anti-HCV antibodies and HCV-RNA to identify the patients who achieved spontaneous viral clearance. In all of the patients, the persistence of HCV-RNA in PBMCs was evaluated longitudinally during 2 years of follow-up. Fifty-nine patients fulfilled the inclusion/exclusion criteria and were included in the study. HCV-RNA was not detected in the PBMCs at baseline [59 PBMCs samples tested; 0 %; 95 % confidence interval (CI): 0-3.3 %] or during the follow-up (147 PBMCs samples tested; 0 %; 95 % CI: 0-2.02 %). Our study shows that HCV viral persistence is not a frequent occurrence in HIV-infected patients who have spontaneously resolved an HCV infection. Thus, the lack of serum HCV-RNA should continue to be addressed as the standard of healing.

Hepatitis C virus reinfection after sustained virological response in HIV-infected patients with chronic hepatitis C

OBJECTIVES

To assess the incidence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) reinfections after therapy-induced clearance in HIV-coinfected patients with prior chronic hepatitis C.

METHODS

Eighty-four HIV-infected subjects, who had previously achieved sustained virological response (SVR) after being treated of chronic hepatitis C, were analyzed. In all of them, at least yearly HCV RNA determinations were carried out during a median (range) of 34 (12-146) months.

RESULTS

Seventy-two (86%) subjects had been people who inject drugs (PWID), of whom 11 (15%) continued to use snorted or injected drugs during the follow-up. Four (4.76%) patients showed HCV reinfection (incidence 1.21 [95% confidence interval: 0.3-3.09] cases per 100 person-years). These patients maintained risk factors for HCV infection. In three cases, HCV genotype switched. Phylogenetic analysis of the remaining case suggested reinfection from his sexual partner.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of HCV reinfection in the overall population of HIV-coinfected patients who achieved SVR after being treated against chronic hepatitis C is low. A low frequency of risk behavior is the main factor accounting for this modest rate of reinfection. The possibility of reinfection should not be considered a reason against treatment of HCV infection with direct acting antivirals in PWID.

Impact of HIV infection on sustained virological response to treatment against hepatitis C virus with pegylated interferon plus ribavirin

It is commonly accepted that human immunodeficiency (HIV) coinfection negatively impacts on the rates of sustained virological response (SVR) to therapy with pegylated interferon plus ribavirin (PR). However, this hypothesis is derived from comparing different studies. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of HIV coinfection on SVR to PR in one single population. In a multicentric, prospective study conducted between 2000 and 2013, all previously naïve hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients who started PR in five Spanish hospitals were analyzed. SVR was evaluated 24 weeks after the scheduled end of therapy. Of the 1046 patients included in this study, 413 (39%) were coinfected with HIV. Three hundred and forty-one (54%) HCV-monoinfected versus 174 (42%) HIV/HCV-coinfected patients achieved SVR (p < 0.001). The corresponding figures for undetectable HCV RNA at treatment week 4 were 86/181 (47%) versus 59/197 (30%), p < 0.001. SVR was observed in 149 (69%) HCV genotype 2/3-monoinfected subjects versus 91 (68%) HIV/HCV genotype 2/3-coinfected subjects (p = 0.785). In the HCV genotype 1/4-infected population, 188 (46%) monoinfected patients versus 82 (30%) with HIV coinfection (p < 0.001) achieved SVR. In this subgroup, absence of HIV coinfection was independently associated with higher SVR [adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval): 2.127 (1.135-3.988); p = 0.019] in a multivariate analysis adjusted for age, sex, baseline HCV RNA load, IL28B genotype, fibrosis stage, and type of pegylated interferon. HIV coinfection impacts on the rates of SVR to PR only in HCV genotype 1/4-infected patients, while it has no effect on SVR in the HCV genotype 2/3-infected subpopulation.

Efficacy of and risk of bleeding during pegylated interferon plus ribavirin treatment in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients with pretreatment thrombocytopenia

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of and the risk of major bleeding during pegylated interferon (peg-IFN)/ribavirin (RBV) treatment among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/hepatitis C virus (HCV)-coinfected patients according to the pretreatment platelet count. Two hundred and seventy-four HCV/HIV-coinfected, previously naïve individuals with compensated cirrhosis enrolled in one Spanish prospective cohort who received peg-IFN/RBV were included in this study. The frequency of severe bleeding and sustained virological response (SVR) rate were compared between patients with a pretreatment platelet count ≤70,000/mm(3) and >70,000/mm(3), respectively. Sixty-one (22 %) patients had a baseline platelet count ≤70,000/mm(3). The median (Q1-Q3) pretreatment platelet count was 58,000 (49,000-65,000) cells/mm(3) in the platelet ≤70,000 group and 129,000 (102,500-166,000) cells/mm(3) in the platelet >70,000 group (p < 0.0001). Seventeen (28 %) subjects of the platelet ≤70,000 group and 71 (33 %) patients of the platelet >70,000 group achieved SVR (p = 0.4). Only 2 (3.2 %) patients in the platelet ≤70,000 group developed a severe hemorrhagic event, specifically esophageal variceal bleeding. The efficacy of therapy with peg-IFN/RBV in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients with low pretreatment platelet counts is comparable to that found in the overall subset of subjects with compensated cirrhosis. The frequency of severe hemorrhagic events related with this therapy is low in this population.

Safety, efficacy and indications of prescription of maraviroc in clinical practice: Factors associated with clinical outcomes

Maraviroc is approved for treatment-experienced HIV+ adults in twice-daily administration. Limited data are available on safety, efficacy and use in routine clinical practice, outside of restrictive clinical trials. This retrospective multicenter (27 centers) study included 667 subjects starting a regimen with maraviroc. The primary endpoint was plasma HIV-RNA <50copies/mL and CD4(+) cell count change at 48 and 96weeks (FDA snapshot analysis). 94.4% had CCR5 tropism (58.3% Trofile™, 29.2% population genotype, and 12% genotyping proviral DNA). Half of the subjects received the drug in scenarios or dosages outside the initial approval. Maraviroc was prescribed for salvage in 346 (51.9%) individuals, as a switch strategy due to toxicity in 135 (38.7%), for immune discordance in 75 (11.2%), and for simplification in 48 (7.2%). After salvage therapy, 223 (64.5%) subjects had HIV-RNA <50copies/mL at 48weeks, and 178 (51.4%) at 96weeks. Darunavir/r was included in 224 (64.7%) subjects and associated with higher rates of virological and immunologic efficacy (p<0.001). In multivariate analysis MSM (OR 2.25; 95%CI 1.29-3.94) and baseline HIV-RNA <100,000copies/mL (OR 1.96; 1.06-3.70) were associated with virological suppression. An increase in CD4(+) counts was seen at 48 and 96weeks in subjects with immune discordance (p<0.001). Maraviroc was used once-daily in 142 (21.3%) subjects overall, and 68 (57.4%) in switch/simplification. No new safety signals were identified. Besides in salvage regimens, maraviroc was frequently used in switch due to toxicity, simplification, and immune discordance. The efficacy in salvage in clinical practice was higher than in phase III clinical trials, likely due to availability of new active drugs in the regimen. These results increase our understanding of the efficacy, safety, and conditions of prescription of maraviroc beyond the initial registrational trials and the early manufacturer pharmacovigilance programs.

Decreasing prevalence of HCV coinfection in all risk groups for HIV infection between 2004 and 2011 in Spain

While hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection seems to be expanding among HIV-infected men who have sex with men (MSM), the rate of coinfection in intravenous drug users (IDU) is assumed to remain constant. We evaluated the serial prevalence of HIV/HCV coinfection across all risk groups for HIV infection in Spain. We used data from 7045 subjects included in the multicentre, prospective Spanish Cohort of Adult HIV-infected Patients (CoRIS) between 2004 and 2011. We analysed risk factors for HIV/HCV coinfection by logistic regression analyses. The prevalence of HIV/HCV coinfection decreased from 25.3% (95% CI, 23.1-27.5) in 2004-2005 to 8.2% (95% CI, 6.9-9.5) in 2010-2011. This trend was consistently observed from 2004 to 2011 among all risk groups: IDU, 92.4% to 81.4%; MSM, 4.7% to 2.6%; heterosexual men, 13.0-8.9%; and heterosexual women, 14.5-4.0% (all P < 0.05). Strongest risk factors for HIV/HCV coinfection were IDU (OR, 54.9; 95% CI, 39.4-76.4), birth decade 1961-1970 (OR, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.1-3.7) and low educational level (OR, 2.4; 95% CI, 1.6-3.5). Hence, the prevalence of HIV/HCV coinfection decreased in Spain between 2004 and 2011. This decline was observed across all risk groups and is likely to be explained by a declining burden of HCV in the general population.

Low risk of liver decompensation among human immunodeficiency virus/hepatitis C virus-coinfected patients with mild fibrosis in the short term

Liver fibrosis is used to make decisions about the timing of therapy against hepatitis C virus (HCV) in routine clinical practice, which should be based on the short-term likelihood of liver decompensations. Thus, we aimed at evaluating the risk of decompensations and death among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/HCV-coinfected individuals according to their baseline fibrosis classified by either liver biopsy or liver stiffness measurement (LSM). Patients coinfected with HIV/HCV, naive or without sustained virological response to HCV therapy, were included in this cohort. Fibrosis was classified by biopsy in 683 patients and by LSM in 1046 individuals. Reference categories were fibrosis stage 0 and LSM <6 kPa. For patients with biopsy, the adjusted subhazard ratio for decompensations and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) by fibrosis stage were as follows: stage 1, 2.3 (0.27-20.3), P = 0.443; stage 2, 2.8 (0.33-24), P = 0.345; stage 3, 4.91 (0.60-41), P = 0.137; stage 4, 9.89 (1.25-79.5), P = 0.030. For patients with LSM, the adjusted subhazard ratio and 95% CI by LSM category were as follows: 6-9.4 kPa, 1.89 (0.18-20.3), P = 0.599; 9.5-14.5 kPa, 6.59 (0.73-59.2), P = 0.092; ≥14.6 kPa, 59.5 (8.3-427), P < 0.0001. Regarding the risk of death, the adjusted hazard ratio and 95% CI for death by fibrosis stage were as follows: stage 1, 1.3 (0.4-4.11), P = 0.677; stage 2, 2.68 (0.86-8.36), P = 0.090; stage 3, 2.58 (0.82-8.15), P = 0.106; stage 4, 4.35 (1.43-13.3), P = 0.010. For patients with LSM, the adjusted hazard ratio and 95% CI for death by LSM were as follows: 6-9.4 kPa, 1.7 (0.63-4.79), P = 0.288; 9.5-14.5 kPa, 3.38 (1.2-9.5), P = 0.021; ≥14.6 kPa, 12.7 (4.9-33.6), P < 0.0001.

CONCLUSION

Patients coinfected with HIV/HCV without advanced fibrosis are at very low risk of decompensations in the short term; deferral of HCV therapy for a few years and monitoring fibrosis progression is a safe option until cheaper, more effective, and more convenient HCV treatment becomes widely available.

Boceprevir or Telaprevir Based Triple Therapy against Chronic Hepatitis C in HIV Coinfection: Real-Life Safety and Efficacy

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Clinical trials of therapy against chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection including boceprevir (BOC) or telaprevir (TVR) plus pegylated interferon and ribavirin (PR) have reported considerably higher response rates than those achieved with PR alone. This study sought to evaluate the efficacy and safety of triple therapy including BOC or TVR in combination with PR in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients under real-life conditions.

METHODS

In a multicentre study conducted in 24 sites throughout five European countries, all HIV/HCV-coinfected patients who initiated a combination of BOC or TVR plus PR and who had at least 60 weeks of follow-up, were analyzed. Sustained virologic response 12 weeks after the scheduled end of therapy date (SVR12) and the rate of discontinuations due to adverse events (AE) were evaluated.

RESULTS

Of the 159 subjects included, 127 (79.9%) were male, 45 (34.4%) were treatment-naïve for PR and 60 (45.4%) showed cirrhosis. SVR12 was observed in 31/46 (67.4%) patients treated with BOC and 69/113 (61.1%) patients treated with TVR. Overall discontinuations due to AE rates were 8.7% for BOC and 8% for TVR. Grade 3 or 4 hematological abnormalities were frequently observed; anemia 7%, thrombocytopenia 17.2% and neutropenia 16.4%.

CONCLUSION

The efficacy and safety of triple therapy including BOC or TVR plus PR under real-life conditions of use in the HIV/HCV-coinfected population was similar to what is observed in clinical trials. Hematological side effects are frequent but manageable.

Association of complement receptor 2 polymorphisms with innate resistance to HIV-1 infection

HIV-1 induces activation of complement through the classical and lectin pathways. However, the virus incorporates several membrane-bound or soluble regulators of complement activation (RCA) that inactivate complement. HIV-1 can also use the complement receptors (CRs) for complement-mediated antibody-dependent enhancement of infection (Ć-ADE). We hypothesize that hypofunctional polymorphisms in RCA or CRs may protect from HIV-1 infection. For this purpose, 139 SNPs located in 19 RCA and CRs genes were genotyped in a population of 201 Spanish HIV-1-exposed seronegative individuals (HESN) and 250 HIV-1-infected patients. Two SNPs were associated with infection susceptibility, rs1567190 in CR2 (odds ratio (OR) = 2.27, P = 1 × 10(-4)) and rs2842704 in C4BPA (OR = 2.11, P = 2 × 10(-4)). To replicate this finding, we analyzed a cohort of Italian, sexually HESN individuals. Although not significant (P = 0.25, OR = 1.57), similar genotypic proportions were obtained for the CR2 marker rs1567190. The results of the two association analyses were combined through a random effect meta-analysis, with a significant P-value of 2.6 x 10(-5) (OR = 2.07). Furthermore, we found that the protective CR2 genotype is correlated with lower levels CR2 mRNA as well as differences in the ratio of the long and short CR2 isoforms.

High prevalence of antibodies against hepatitis E virus in HIV-infected patients with unexplained liver disease

OBJECTIVE

To look for evidence of hepatitis E virus (HEV) exposure in HIV-infected patients with unexplained elevations of liver stiffness (LS).

METHODS

Case-control study conducted in 31 HIV-infected patients with unexplained elevations of LS and in 31 HIV-controls with normal LS, matched by age, sex and CD4 cell-counts. Serum HEV antibodies were tested by two ELISA procedures and by Immunoblot. We defined exposure to HEV as the detection of serum HEV antibodies by at least one of the two ELISA assays, provided that it was confirmed by Immunoblot. A real-time PCR RNA assay was conducted in all plasma samples to identify subjects with active HEV infection.

RESULTS

Exposure to HEV was demonstrated, according to the criteria used in this study, in 9 (29%) of the cases, whereas it was shown in 5 (16%) of the controls (p=.3). Serum HEV RNA was detected in none of the controls and in only in one case. This patient had a documented chronic hepatitis E with progression to cirrhosis.

CONCLUSIONS

HEV antibodies are frequently found in HIV-infected patients with unexplained liver disease.

[Prevalence and genotype distribution changes in hepatitis C virus co-infection among human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients]

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of hepatitisC is decreasing among new diagnoses of HIV/HCV coinfection in Spain. The increasing use of the HCV treatment could have changed the HCV genotype distribution. The aim of this study is to analyze changes in the prevalence of HCV coinfection and in HCV genotype distribution among HIV-infected patients.

METHODS

A serial cross-sectional study was conducted that included all HIV-infected patients who attended the Outpatient Clinic of a hospital in Andalusia, between September 2008 and February 2009 (first period), and between January 2013 and June 2013 (second period).

RESULTS

A total of 520 and 651 patients were included in the first and second period, respectively. The risk factors of HCV infection in the first vs. second period were: IDU, 319 (61%) vs. 348 (53%); heterosexual contact, 111 (21%) vs. 135 (21%); homosexual men, 76 (15%) vs. 114 (22%) (P=.006). The prevalence of HCV antibody per period was: 358 (69%) vs. 380 (58%) (P=<.001), and for the HCV-RNA was 255 (49%) vs. 240 (37%) (P=<.001). In both periods, the HCV genotype distribution was: 1, 137 (60%) vs. 138 (59%); 3, 45 (20%) vs. 42 (18%); 4, 42 (18%) vs. 47 (20%) (P=.881).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of HCV infection in HIV-infected patients has decreased in our area, including overall exposure to HCV virus and active infection during the last 5 years. However, the HCV genotype distribution has not changed.

Impact of IL28B genotype on first-week response to telaprevir-based therapy in HIV-HCV coinfection

BACKGROUND

IL28B genotype predicts response to treatment against HCV with pegylated interferon/ribavirin (PR) and impacts on the outcome of therapy including telaprevir (TVR). This study aimed to determine the influence of the favourable IL28B genotype on early viral kinetics during therapy with TVR/PR in HIV-HCV-coinfected patients.

METHODS

All HIV-HCV genotype 1 coinfected subjects who received TVR/PR for at least 4 weeks were included from populations prospectively followed in 22 centres throughout Germany, Switzerland and Spain.

RESULTS

Of the 129 subjects included, 38 (29.5%) presented with IL28B genotype CC and 94 (72.9%) were treatment-experienced. A total of 96 (73.8%) patients showed undetectable plasma HCV RNA at treatment week (W)4: 30 (78.9%) of the IL28B-CC carriers and 65 (71.4%) of the non-CC carriers (P=0.377). Among treatment-naive patients, proportions of undetectable HCV RNA among IL28B-CC versus non-CC carriers were 8/9 (88.9%) versus 3/9 (33.3%; P=0.016) and 14/17 (82.4%) versus 11/18 (61.1%; P=0.164) at W2 and W4. The decrease of HCV RNA at W2 and W4 was similar among the IL28B carriers.

CONCLUSIONS

IL28B genotype does not predict W4 response to TVR/PR in HIV-HCV-coinfected patients, regardless of their treatment history. However, there is evidence of an impact on response during the first weeks in treatment-naive patients.

High hepatitis E virus seroprevalence with absence of chronic infection in HIV-infected patients

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The seroprevalence of the hepatitis E virus (HEV) and its chronicity rate in the HIV-infected population has not been well established. As a result, the magnitude of this emerging disease in this population cannot be established.

METHODS

Prospective study that included HIV-infected patients followed up between September 2012 and May 2013. All included patients were tested for anti-HEV IgG/IgM. In patients with confirmed anti-HEV IgG/IgM positivity, RT-PCR was performed. In patients where HEV RNA was amplified, a second RT-PCR assay was performed 6 months later to identify transient or chronic HEV infections.

RESULTS

Eight hundred and ninety-four HIV-infected patients were enrolled in the study. Of these patients, 399 (44.6%) were monoinfected with HIV; 462 (51.6%) were co-infected with HIV/HCV; 12 (1.3%) were co-infected with HIV/HBV; and 21 (2.3%) were co-infected with HIV/HCV/HBV. In 88 patients, anti-HEV IgG/IgM was detected (seroprevalence: 9.8% [95% CI: 8.02%-11.9%]). In five patients (0.5%; 95% CI: 0.2%-1.2%), HEV RNA was detected; 5.7% (95% CI: 2.1%-12.1%) of the patients were anti-HEV IgG/IgM positive. None of these patients showed detectable HEV RNA six months later.

CONCLUSION

HEV infection is frequent in HIV-infected patients but developing a chronic HEV infection may be considered an uncommon liver disease in this population.

Latest pharmacotherapy options for treating hepatitis C in HIV-infected patients

INTRODUCTION

Hepatitis C virus (HCV)/HIV-coinfected patients are at an increased risk of progression of liver disease. Consequently, they benefit most from sustained virological response (SVR) to treatment against HCV. However, SVR rates to pegylated IFN plus ribavirin are disappointingly low in HIV/HCV coinfection. Nevertheless, therapy against HCV is rapidly changing due to the advent of directly acting antiviral drugs against HCV (DAA). Now, high SVR rates can be obtained in HIV/HCV coinfection with DAA regimens.

AREAS COVERED

Data on DAAs in advanced stages of development in HIV/HCV coinfection, those that have entered Phase III clinical trials in this particular subset, are summarized. A search of clintrials.gov was done to identify DAAs entering Phase III trials that included HIV/HCV-coinfected patients.

EXPERT OPINION

HCV cure is possible in a high proportion of HIV-coinfected patients with currently available DAA. Caveats of first-generation DAAs are mostly solved by next-generation DAAs. Thus, all-oral regimens under development may be close to the ideal HCV therapy for HIV-coinfected patients. However, the elevated cost of newer DAAs can limit their access.