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Lang C, Jaksch P, Hoda MA, Lang G, Staudinger T, Tschernko E, Zapletal B, Geleff S, Prosch H, Gawish R, Knapp S, Robak O, Thalhammer F, Indra A, Koestenberger M, Strassl R, Klikovits T, Ali K, Fischer G, Klepetko W, Hoetzenecker K, Schellongowski P. Lung transplantation for COVID-19-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome in a PCR-positive patient. THE LANCET. RESPIRATORY MEDICINE 2020; 8:1057-1060. [PMID: 32857987 PMCID: PMC7447215 DOI: 10.1016/s2213-2600(20)30361-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Fuereder T, Berghoff AS, Heller G, Haslacher H, Perkmann T, Strassl R, Berger JM, Puhr HC, Kreminger J, Moik F, Schubert L, Starzer AM, Steindl A, Winkler S, Preusser M, Tobudic S. SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence in oncology healthcare professionals and patients with cancer at a tertiary care centre during the COVID-19 pandemic. ESMO Open 2020; 5:e000889. [PMID: 32878898 PMCID: PMC7470513 DOI: 10.1136/esmoopen-2020-000889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background During the COVID-19 outbreak, healthcare professionals (HCP) are at the frontline of clinical management and at increased risk for infection. The SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence of oncological HCP and their patients has significant implications for oncological care. Methods HCP and patients with cancer at the Division of Oncology, Medical University of Vienna were included between 21 March and 4 June and tested for total antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 employing the Roche Elecsys Anti-SARS-CoV-2 immunoassay. Reactive samples were confirmed or disproved by the Abbott SARS-CoV-2 IgG test. Additionally, a structured questionnaire regarding basic demographic parameters, travel history and COVID-19-associated symptoms had to be completed by HCP. Results 146 subjects (62 HCP and 84 patients with cancer) were enrolled. In the oncological HCP cohort, 20 (32.3%) subjects were medical oncologists, 28 (45.2%) nurses at our ward and 14 (22.6%) fulfil other functions such as study coordinators. In the patient cohort, most individuals are on active anticancer treatment (96.4%). 26% of the HCP and 6% of the patients had symptoms potentially associated with COVID-19 since the end of February 2020. However, only in 2 (3.2%) HCP and in 3 (3.6%) patients, anti-SARS-Cov-2 total antibodies were detected. The second assay for anti-SARS-Cov-2 IgG antibodies confirmed the positive result in all HCP and in 2 (2.4%) patients, suggesting an initial assay’s unspecific reaction in one case. In individuals with a confirmed test result, an active COVID-19 infection was documented by a positive SARS-CoV-2 RNA PCR test. Conclusion Specific anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies were found solely in persons after a documented SARS-CoV-2 viral infection, thus supporting the test methods’ high sensitivity and specificity. The low prevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in our cohorts indicates a lack of immunity against SARS-CoV-2. It highlights the need for continued strict safety measures to prevent uncontrolled viral spread among oncological HCPs and patients with cancer.
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Mayer FJ, Ratzinger F, Schmidt RLJ, Greiner G, Landt O, Am Ende A, Corman VM, Perkmann-Nagele N, Watkins-Riedel T, Petermann D, Abadir K, Zweimüller-Mayer J, Strassl R. Development of a fully automated high throughput PCR for the detection of SARS-CoV-2: The need for speed. Virulence 2020; 11:964-967. [PMID: 32726172 PMCID: PMC7549918 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2020.1798041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, testing for coronavirus is performed with time and personnel consuming PCR assays. The aim of this study was to evaluate the sensitivity, specificity and capacity of a fully automated, random access high-throughput real-time PCR-based diagnostic platform for the detection of SARS-CoV-2. The NeuMoDx N96 system displayed an equal or better detection rate for SARS-CoV-2 compared with the LightCycler 480II system and showed a specificity of 100%. The median PCR run time for all 28 PCR runs was 91 (IQR 84-97) minutes. The capacity of the NeuMoDx N96 could easily surpass the capacity of most currently used molecular test systems and significantly reduce the turn-around time.
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Doberer K, Schiemann M, Strassl R, Haupenthal F, Dermuth F, Görzer I, Eskandary F, Reindl‐Schwaighofer R, Kikić Ž, Puchhammer‐Stöckl E, Böhmig GA, Bond G. Torque teno virus for risk stratification of graft rejection and infection in kidney transplant recipients-A prospective observational trial. Am J Transplant 2020; 20:2081-2090. [PMID: 32034850 PMCID: PMC7496119 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.15810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The nonpathogenic and ubiquitous torque teno virus (TTV) is associated with immunosuppression in solid organ transplant recipients. Studies in kidney transplant patients proposed TTV quantification for risk stratification of graft rejection and infection. In this prospective trial (DRKS00012335) 386 consecutive kidney transplant recipients were subjected to longitudinal per-protocol monitoring of plasma TTV load by polymerase chain reaction for 12 months posttransplant. TTV load peaked at the end of month 3 posttransplant and reached steady state thereafter. TTV load after the end of month 3 was analyzed in the context of subsequent rejection diagnosed by indication biopsy and infection within the first year posttransplant, respectively. Each log increase in TTV load decreased the odds for rejection by 22% (odds ratio [OR] 0.78, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.62-0.97; P = .027) and increased the odds for infection by 11% (OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.06-1.15; P < .001). TTV was quantified at a median of 14 days before rejection was diagnosed and 27 days before onset of infection, respectively. We defined a TTV load between 1 × 106 and 1 × 108 copies/mL as optimal range to minimize the risk for rejection and infection. These data support the initiation of an interventional trial assessing the efficacy of TTV-guided immunosuppression to reduce infection and graft rejection in kidney transplant recipients.
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Doberer K, Bond G, Kläger J, Regele H, Strassl R, Reindl-Schwaighofer R, Scheriau G, Wahrmann M, Kikić Ž, Faé I, Fischer G, Böhmig GA, Eskandary F. Immunoadsorption Combined with Membrane Filtration to Counteract Early Treatment-Refractory Antibody-Mediated Rejection. Blood Purif 2020; 49:576-585. [PMID: 32191942 DOI: 10.1159/000506504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Immunoadsorption (IA) represents a therapeutic option for acute antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR) after kidney transplantation. The addition of membrane filtration (MF) to enhance elimination of macromolecular components that potentially contribute to rejection, such as key complement component C1q and alloreactive IgM, may be an effective strategy to further improve its therapeutic efficiency. RESULTS Here we present 4 consecutive patients with episodes of HLA donor-specific antibody-positive ABMR nonresponsive to cycles of 6-16 sessions of IA treatment. Rejection episodes were characterized by severe microvascular injury (high-grade microcirculation inflammation and/or signs of thrombotic microangiopathy) and evidence of intense complement activation in peritubular capillaries (diffuse C4d-positivity). IA combined with MF led to substantial morphologic improvement (follow-up biopsies: g + ptc and C4d scores ≤1) and stabilization of allograft function. CONCLUSIONS Our findings provide evidence for an effect of combination of IA + MF in refractory early acute/active ABMR in kidney transplant recipients.
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Strassl R, Doberer K, Rasoul-Rockenschaub S, Herkner H, Görzer I, Kläger JP, Schmidt R, Haslacher H, Schiemann M, Eskandary FA, Kikić Ž, Reindl-Schwaighofer R, Puchhammer-Stöckl E, Böhmig GA, Bond G. Torque Teno Virus for Risk Stratification of Acute Biopsy-Proven Alloreactivity in Kidney Transplant Recipients. J Infect Dis 2020; 219:1934-1939. [PMID: 30668796 PMCID: PMC6534191 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiz039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Drug-induced immunosuppression in kidney transplant recipients is crucial to prevent allograft rejection, but increases risk for infectious disease. Immunologic monitoring to tailor immunosuppressive drugs might prevent alloreactivity and adverse effects simultaneously. The apathogenic torque teno virus (TTV) reflects the immunocompetence of its host and might act as a potential candidate for a holistic monitoring. Methods We screened all 1010 consecutive patients from the prospective Vienna Kidney Transplant Cohort Study for availability of allograft biopsies and adequately stored sera for TTV quantification by polymerase chain reaction. Results Patients with acute biopsy-proven alloreactivity according to the Banff classification (n = 33) showed lower levels of TTV in the peripheral blood compared to patients without rejection (n = 80) at a median of 43 days before the biopsy. The risk for alloreactivity decreased by 10% per log level of TTV copies/mL (risk ratio, .90 [95% confidence interval, .84–.97]; P = .005). TTV levels >1 × 106 copies/mL exclude rejection with a sensitivity of 94%. Multivariable generalized linear modeling suggests an independent association between TTV level and alloreactivity. Conclusions TTV is a prospective biomarker for risk stratification of acute biopsy-proven alloreactivity in kidney transplant recipients and might be a potential tool to tailor immunosuppressive drug therapy.
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Weseslindtner L, Hedman L, Wang Y, Strassl R, Helanterä I, Aberle SW, Bond G, Hedman K. Longitudinal assessment of the CXCL10 blood and urine concentration in kidney transplant recipients with BK polyomavirus replication-a retrospective study. Transpl Int 2020; 33:555-566. [PMID: 31981424 PMCID: PMC7216881 DOI: 10.1111/tri.13584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 11/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In kidney transplant recipients (KTRs), BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) replication may progress to polyomavirus‐associated nephropathy (PVAN). In this retrospective study, we assessed the chemokine CXCL10 in urine and blood samples consecutively acquired from 85 KTRs who displayed different stages of BKPyV replication and eventually developed PVAN. In parallel to progression toward PVAN, CXCL10 gradually increased in blood and urine, from baseline (prior to virus replication) to BKPyV DNAuria (median increase in blood: 42.15 pg/ml, P = 0.0156), from mere DNAuria to low‐ and high‐level BKPyV DNAemia (median increase: 52.60 and 87.26 pg/ml, P = 0.0010 and P = 0.0002, respectively) and peaked with histologically confirmed PVAN (median increase: 145.00 pg/ml, P < 0.0001). CXCL10 blood and urine levels significantly differed among KTRs with respect to simultaneous presence of human cytomegalovirus (P < 0.001) as well as in relation to the clinical severity of respective BKPyV DNAemia episodes (P = 0.0195). CXCL‐10 concentrations were particularly lower in KTRs in whom BKPyV DNAemia remained without clinical evidence for PVAN, as compared to individuals who displayed high decoy cell levels, decreased renal function and/or biopsy‐proven PVAN (median blood concentration: 266.97 vs. 426.42 pg/ml, P = 0.0282). In conclusion, in KTRs CXCL10 rises in parallel to BKPyV replication and correlates with the gradual development of PVAN.
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Liimatainen H, Weseslindtner L, Strassl R, Aberle SW, Bond G, Auvinen E. Next-generation sequencing shows marked rearrangements of BK polyomavirus that favor but are not required for polyomavirus-associated nephropathy. J Clin Virol 2019; 122:104215. [PMID: 31783265 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2019.104215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND BKPyV is associated with polyomavirus-associated nephropathy (PVAN), a major cause of graft rejection in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). Mutations occur in the transcriptional control region (TCR) of BKPyV, but whether they are required for the development of PVAN is not completely understood. To this end, we characterized BKPyV TCRs from KTRs to assess whether TCR mutations are associated with PVAN. STUDY DESIGN We analyzed urine and plasma samples of fifteen KTRs with biopsy-confirmed PVAN, presumptive PVAN, or probable PVAN in order to explore the contents of the BKPyV virome. BKPyV TCRs were amplified and deep sequenced to characterize the viral strains. Alterations in block structures and transcription factor binding sites were investigated. RESULTS The majority of sequences in both urine and plasma samples represented archetype BKPyV TCR. Minor populations harboring rearranged TCRs were detected in all patient groups. In one biopsy-confirmed PVAN patient rearranged TCRs predominated, and in another patient half of all reads represented rearranged sequences. CONCLUSIONS Although archetype BKPyV predominated in most patients, highest proportions and highest numbers of rearranged strains were detected in association with PVAN. TCR mutations seem not necessary for the development of PVAN, but immunosuppression may allow increased viral replication giving rise to TCR variants with enhanced replication efficiency.
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Wang Y, Strassl R, Helanterä I, Aberle SW, Bond G, Hedman K, Weseslindtner L. Multiplex analysis of Human Polyomavirus diversity in kidney transplant recipients with BK virus replication. J Clin Virol 2019; 120:6-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2019.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Strassl R, Schiemann M, Doberer K, Görzer I, Puchhammer-Stöckl E, Eskandary F, Kikic Ž, Gualdoni GA, Vossen MG, Rasoul-Rockenschaub S, Herkner H, Böhmig GA, Bond G. Quantification of Torque Teno Virus Viremia as a Prospective Biomarker for Infectious Disease in Kidney Allograft Recipients. J Infect Dis 2019; 218:1191-1199. [PMID: 30007341 PMCID: PMC6490304 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiy306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Drug-induced immunosuppression following kidney transplantation is crucial to prevent allograft rejection, but increases risk for infectious disease. Tailoring of drug dosing to prevent both rejection and infection is greatly desirable. The apathogenic and ubiquitous torque teno virus (TTV) reflects immunocompetence of the host and might be a potential candidate for immunologic monitoring. Methods To assess TTV as an infection biomarker, virus load was prospectively quantified in peripheral blood of 169 consecutive renal allograft recipients at the Medical University Vienna. Results Patients with infection showed higher TTV levels compared to patients without infection (4.2 × 108 copies/mL [interquartile range, IQR, 2.7 × 107–1.9 × 109] vs 2.9 × 107 [IQR 1.0 × 106–7.2 × 108]; P = .006). Differences in TTV load became evident almost 3 months before infection (median 77 days, IQR 19–98). Each log level of TTV copies/mL increased the odds ratio for infection by 23% (95% confidence interval 1.04–1.45; P = .014). TTV >3.1 × 109 copies/mL corresponded to 90% sensitivity to predict infections. Logistic regression demonstrated independent association between TTV levels and infection. Conclusions TTV quantification predicts infection after kidney transplantation and might be a potential tool to tailor immunosuppressive drug therapy.
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Schuster C, Mayer FJ, Wohlfahrt C, Marculescu R, Skoll M, Strassl R, Pavo N, Popow-Kraupp T, Hülsmann M, Bauer M, Aichelburg MC, Rieger A, Goliasch G. Acute HIV Infection Results in Subclinical Inflammatory Cardiomyopathy. J Infect Dis 2019; 218:466-470. [PMID: 29608697 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiy183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The impact of excess viral RNA on myocardial function and morphology in the setting of acute human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection remains unknown. In this study, 49 patients with acute HIV infection showed increased levels of N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide, a surrogate of myocardial function, which decreased with viral suppression and normalization of systemic inflammation (79 pg/mL vs 28 pg/mL; P < .001). A comparable change was seen with levels of troponin T, a marker of morphologic myocardial damage (4.9 ng/L vs 1.5 ng/L; P < .001). In conclusion, we observed significant functional and morphological myocardial impairment during acute HIV infection, fueled by inflammatory activation and extensive viral replication, resulting in a reversible subclinical inflammatory cardiomyopathy.
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Eskandary F, Dumler A, Regele H, Kainz A, Doberer K, Strassl R, Bond G, Wahrmann M, Böhmig G. P203 Late antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR) after kidney transplantation – Role of the eGFR slope within the first year after biopsy as a surrogate endpoint predicting graft failure. Hum Immunol 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2019.07.256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Eder M, Strassl R, Beinhardt S, Stättermayer AF, Kozbial K, Lagler H, Holzmann H, Trauner M, Hofer H. High seroprevalence of anti-Hepatitis E antibodies in Austrian patients with autoimmune hepatitis. Liver Int 2019; 39:640-645. [PMID: 30431228 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Increasing numbers of autochthonous hepatitis E virus infections have been reported in Europe. Chronic infections have been shown in immune-compromised patients after solid organ transplantation. Hepatitis E virus might be a possible trigger for autoimmune hepatitis and might cause disease flares or relapses in the further course of disease. Aim of this study was to investigate the presence of hepatitis E virus antibodies and hepatitis E virus RNA, and to analyse their impact on immunosuppressive treatment in patients with autoimmune hepatitis. METHODS Sera from 92 autoimmune hepatitis patients (73/79.3% female, age: 42.2 ± 16.3 years [mean ± SD]) were tested. Patients were scored according to the simplified and revised scoring systems of the International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group. The prevalence of anti- hepatitis E virus antibodies (Beijing Wantai Biological Pharmacy Enterprises Co., Ltd, Beijing, China) and hepatitis E virus RNA was determined. RESULTS 19/20.7% autoimmune hepatitis patients tested positive for hepatitis E virus-IgG, which was higher than in previous reports of healthy Austrian individuals (12.4%, P = 0.031); hepatitis E virus RNA was not detectable in any patient. Anti-hepatitis E virus positive patients were older (49.5 ± 9.5 vs 40.4 ± 17.2 years [mean ± SD], P = 0.033) but did not differ in laboratory findings at diagnosis (AST: 14.6 [1.3-70.6] vs 9.5 [0.7-62.7] × ULN [median/range]; P = 0.387, alanine aminotransferase: 18.3 [1.6-62.7] vs. 12.9 [0.8-62.6] × ULN; P = 0.511; IgG: 1.4 [1.0-2.5] vs 1.3 [0.6-3.8] g/dL × ULN; P = 0.278) nor in alanine aminotransferase levels after six months (0.7 [0.5-2.4] vs 1.0 U/L × ULN [0.1-22.4]; P = 0.077). CONCLUSIONS No chronic hepatitis E virus infection was observed in our cohort of autoimmune hepatitis patients. Anti- hepatitis E virus-IgG positive patients were older and the seroprevalence was nearly twice as high as reported previously in healthy Austrian individuals, suggesting that hepatitis E virus-infection might act as trigger for the development of autoimmune hepatitis.
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Czitober H, Meixner M, Strassl R, Umek H. Zur Aktivitätsbeurteilung der fibrösen Knochendysplasie mittels Szintigraphie und Thermographie. Nuklearmedizin 2018. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1624753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
ZusammenfassungBei fünf Patienten mit verifizierter fibröser Knochendysplasie verschiedener Lokalisation wurden röntgenologische, szintigraphische und thermographische Befunde miteinander verglichen.Das Röntgenbild zeigt häufig einseitig lokalisierte, charakteristische Knochenveränderungen, die mit einer Asymmetrie des betreffenden Skelettabschnittes einhergehen.Diesem Befund entspricht im Szintigramm eine deutlich erhöhte Aktivitätsanreicherung, die thermographisch mit einer erhöhten Wärmeabstrahlung korreliert.Ein Stillstand des Knochenumbaues, wie er für das Erwachsenenalter gefordert wird, konnte von uns nicht beobachtet werden.Während eine Aussage über Stillstand oder Progredienz der Erkrankung röntgenologisch nur retrospektiv getroffen werden kann, bieten sich Szintigraphie und Thermographie als unspezifische Parameter zur Erfassung der Aktivität des Prozesses an.
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Görzer I, Jaksch P, Strassl R, Klepetko W, Puchhammer-Stöckl E. Association between plasma Torque teno virus level and chronic lung allograft dysfunction after lung transplantation. J Heart Lung Transplant 2016; 36:366-368. [PMID: 27876413 DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2016.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2016] [Revised: 10/13/2016] [Accepted: 10/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
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Schneider M, Matiqi T, Kundi M, Rieder FJJ, Andreas M, Strassl R, Zuckermann A, Jungbauer C, Steininger C. Clinical significance of the single nucleotide polymorphism TLR2 R753Q in heart transplant recipients at risk for cytomegalovirus disease. J Clin Virol 2016; 84:64-69. [PMID: 27723526 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2016.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2016] [Revised: 08/11/2016] [Accepted: 10/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) is a significant component of innate immunity against cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection but information on the clinical significance of the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) (R753Q) is conflicting. OBJECTIVES The inconsistent observations of the immunological and clinical significance of the TLR2 R753Q polymorphism for CMV infection indicates the influence of confounders. STUDY DESIGN The presence of the TLR2 polymorphism was determined by a genotyping assay of 175 HTX patients and 281 healthy blood donors and evaluated in relation to selected virological and clinical parameters. RESULTS Relative frequency of TLR2 polymorphism was similar in HTX patients and blood donors (homozygous wild-type, 94.3% vs. 94.0%; heterozygous, 5.1% vs. 5.7%; homozygous mutated, <1%). CMV viremia was detectable in 108 (61.7%) of HTX patients. The TLR2 polymorphism was neither associated with occurrence or level of CMV infection nor with survival, graft failure or rejection, or CMV serostatus of patient before transplantation. Nevertheless, CMV viremia occurred in 83.1% of R+/D+, 77.1% of R+/D-, and 64.3% of R-/D+ patients. Time of first CMV viremia was in R-/D+ patients later than in CMV-seropositive patients (median, 182days versus 23 days; P<0.001) corresponding to the duration of antiviral prophylaxis in R-/D+ patients. CONCLUSIONS The TLR2 R753Q polymorphism is extremely rare in the general population and HTX patients. Screening for this risk factor of CMV disease may not be cost-effective in contrast to testing for CMV viremia.
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Weseslindtner L, Macheleidt I, Eischeid H, Strassl R, Hofer H, Popow-Kraupp T, Dienes HP, Holzmann H, Odenthal M. Micro RNAs mir-106a, mir-122 and mir-197 are increased in severe acute viral hepatitis with coagulopathy. Liver Int 2016; 36:353-60. [PMID: 26352910 DOI: 10.1111/liv.12961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2015] [Accepted: 09/03/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The severity of acute viral hepatitis, which may be caused by several distinct viruses, varies among individual patients. In rare cases, severe hepatic injury with sudden loss of liver function may occur, which is clinically indicated by the occurrence of coagulopathy or encephalopathy. As the molecular mechanisms of this liver injury are largely unknown, we investigated extracellular micro RNA (miRNA) profiles in 54 patients acutely infected with one of four different hepatotropic viruses, in order to identify those miRNAs which indicate severe viral hepatitis associated with coagulopathy. METHODS First, the profile of miRNAs was extensively analysed using a microarray-based approach in highly characterized 24 patients, matched in terms of sex, age and level of liver enzymes, as well as in three healthy controls. The cohort included samples from 18 patients with moderate and six individuals with severe hepatitis, indicated by abnormal prothrombin time and higher alanine aminotransferase and bilirubin levels. miRNAs found to be upregulated in severe hepatitis were then quantified by real-time PCR in the expanded cohort of 54 patients. RESULTS Comprehensive microarray-based miRNA profiling identified upregulation of mir-106a, mir-122 and mir-197 in patients with severe acute viral hepatitis with coagulopathy, as compared to patients who did not develop coagulopathy. mir-106a, mir-122 and mir-197 were then proven to be significantly upregulated in patients with severe acute viral hepatitis by quantitative real-time PCR (P < 0.01, Mann-Whitney U-test). CONCLUSIONS mir-106a, mir-122 and mir-197 could be potential markers for severe acute viral hepatitis associated with coagulopathy.
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Aichelburg MC, Weseslindtner L, Mandorfer M, Strassl R, Rieger A, Reiberger T, Puchhammer-Stöckl E, Grabmeier-Pfistershammer K. Association of CMV-Specific T Cell-Mediated Immunity with CMV DNAemia and Development of CMV Disease in HIV-1-Infected Individuals. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0137096. [PMID: 26322514 PMCID: PMC4556191 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0137096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 08/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among HIV-1-infected individuals, cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation and disease occur in the setting of advanced immunosuppression. The value of a standardized assessment of CMV-specific T-cell mediated immunity by the CMV QuantiFERON assay (CMV-QFT) has not yet been thoroughly investigated in HIV-1-infected subjects. METHODS Prospective, longitudinal study in 153 HIV-1-infected subjects with a CD4+ T cell count < 350/μL who simultaneously underwent CMV-QFT, CMV serology testing and CMV-DNA quantification. Factors associated with CMV-QFT were evaluated. Clinical screening for CMV manifestations was then performed every 3 months. RESULTS Among the 141 CMV IgG-seropositive individuals the CMV-QFT assay yielded reactive results in 84% (118/141), negative results in 15% (21/141) and indeterminate (negative mitogen IFN-gamma response) results in 1% (2/141) of subjects. The mean actual CD4+ T cell count was significantly higher in CMV-QFT reactive subjects, when compared to CMV-QFT non-reactive individuals (183 ± 102 vs. 126 ± 104 cells/μL, P = 0.015). A significantly lower proportion of CMV-QFT reactive vs. non-reactive patients displayed CMV DNAemia > 100 copies/mL (23% (27/118) vs. 48% (11/23), P = 0.02). Furthermore, a statistically significant inverse association between mitogen IFN-gamma response and CMV-DNAemia > 1000 copies/mL was observed (P < 0.001). During the observational period, 5 CMV end-organ manifestations were observed. In three of the CMV cases the CMV-QFT yielded indeterminate results. CONCLUSIONS While CMV-QFT reactivity indicates CMV-specific immunity, indeterminate results due to negative mitogen IFN-gamma response might reflect HIV-1-induced immunodeficiency. Thus, dependency upon CD4+ T cell count should be considered when interpreting CMV-QFT results.
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Strassl R, Rutter K, Stättermayer AF, Beinhardt S, Kammer M, Hofer H, Ferenci P, Popow-Kraupp T. Real-Time PCR Assays for the Quantification of HCV RNA: Concordance, Discrepancies and Implications for Response Guided Therapy. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0135963. [PMID: 26274922 PMCID: PMC4537232 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0135963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 07/29/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Monitoring of chronic Hepatitis C (CHC) treatment relies on HCV RNA quantification by means of real-time PCR methods. Assay specific analytical sensitivities may impact therapy management. METHODS Comparative analysis between three commercial assays (Roche COBAS AmpliPrep/COBAS TaqMan Version 1 (CAP/CTM Ver. 1), Version 2 (CAP/CTM Ver. 2) and the Abbott RealTime HCV (ART) assay) was performed on 247 available samples taken at key decision time points during antiviral therapy of 105 genotype 1 patients (triple therapy: n = 70; dual therapy: n = 35). RESULTS Overall concordance of HCV RNA measurements was high between the two Roche systems (89%; n = 220/247) but lower between the Roche assays and the ART (CAP/CTM Ver. 1 vs ART: 77.3%; n = 191/247 and CAP/CTM v.2 vs ART: 80.1%; n = 198/247). Most discrepancies were noted in week 4/8 samples with residual viremia ( CONCLUSION An abbreviated course of treatment can safely be applied in patients with residual viremia (
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Strassl R, Reiberger T, Honsig C, Payer BA, Mandorfer M, Grabmeier-Pfistershammer K, Rieger A, Kundi M, Grundtner P, Peck-Radosavljevic M, Popow-Kraupp T. Viral determinants predicting hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) seroclearance in HIV-/HBV-coinfected patients. J Viral Hepat 2014; 21:508-16. [PMID: 24112778 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2012] [Accepted: 07/01/2013] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this retrospective study was the identification of clinically useful viral determinants for the prediction of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) seroclearance and sustained virological response in hepatitis B virus/human immunodeficiency virus (HBV-/HIV)-coinfected patients receiving HBV-active combined antiretroviral therapy (cART). Quantification of HBsAg, HBeAg and HBV DNA before and after initiation of HBV-active cART in a cohort of 59 HIV-/HBV-coinfected patients was performed. Calculations of receiver operating characteristics (ROC) and Kaplan-Meier analysis were used for the identification of predictors of HBsAg seroclearance for HBeAg-positive [HBeAg(+); n = 36] and HBeAg-negative [HBeAg(-);n = 23] patients. HBeAg(+) patients with an HBsAg on-treatment decline ≥ 1 log IU/mL per year achieved higher HBsAg loss rates (P = 0.0294), whereas the quantification of HBeAg had no predictive value for HBsAg seroclearance. Among HBeAg(-) patients, a pretreatment baseline cut-off level of HBsAg ≤ 100 IU/mL was highly predictive for HBsAg seroclearance. No significant influence of the HBV genotype on HBsAg seroclearance was observed among the entire cohort. Quantitative determination of HBsAg provides a clinically useful viral parameter for the prediction of HBsAg seroclearance both in HBeAg(+) and HBeAg(-) HIV-/HBV-coinfected patients receiving HBV-active cART.
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Mandorfer M, Payer BA, Niederecker A, Lang G, Aichelburg MC, Strassl R, Boesecke C, Rieger A, Trauner M, Peck-Radosavljevic M, Reiberger T. Therapeutic potential of and treatment with boceprevir/telaprevir-based triple-therapy in HIV/chronic hepatitis C co-infected patients in a real-world setting. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2014; 28:221-7. [PMID: 24796757 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2013.0359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the therapeutic potential of telaprevir (TPV)/boceprevir (BOC)-based triple-therapy in a complete cohort of HIV/chronic hepatitis C co-infected patients (HIV/HCV). Moreover, a case series of four HIV/HCV genotype (HCV-GT)1 patients with rapid virologic response (RVR), who received only 28 weeks of BOC-based triple-therapy (BOCW28), was reported. 290/440 HIV-positive patients with positive HCV serology had at least one visit during the past 2 years, 142/290 had target detectable HCV-RNA with 64% (82/142) carrying HCV-GT1. While 18 HIV/HCV-GT1 displayed contraindications, 45% (64/142) of HIV/HCV were eligible for triple-therapy. Insufficiently controlled HIV-infection despite combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) (HIV-RNA <50 copies/mL: 73% vs. 22%; p<0.001) and liver cirrhosis (31% vs. 8%; p=0.025) were overrepresented among patients with contraindications for triple-therapy. Low treatment uptake rates (39% (25/64)) during the first 2 years of triple-therapy availability suggest that its benefit in HIV/HCV co-infected patients might fall short of expectations. Modification of cART or TPV dose adjustment would have been necessary in 61% and 84% of HIV/HCV-GT1 on cART eligible for triple-therapy using TPV and BOC, respectively, suggesting that drug-drug interactions with cART complicate management in the majority of patients. All four BOCW28 patients achieved a sustained virologic response. Prospective studies are necessary to validate our observations on the shortening of treatment duration in HIV/HCV-GT1 with RVR.
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Görzer I, Jaksch P, Haloschan M, Strassl R, Klepetko W, Puchhammer Stöckl E. Level and Kinetics of Plasma Torque Teno Virus DNA After Lung Transplantation as a Marker To Guide Immunosuppressive Therapy. J Heart Lung Transplant 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2014.01.220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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Stättermayer AF, Strassl R, Maieron A, Rutter K, Stauber R, Strasser M, Beinhardt S, Datz C, Scherzer TM, Steindl-Munda P, Gschwantler M, Trauner M, Hofer H, Ferenci P. Polymorphisms of interferon-λ4 and IL28B - effects on treatment response to interferon/ribavirin in patients with chronic hepatitis C. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2014; 39:104-11. [PMID: 24205831 DOI: 10.1111/apt.12547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2013] [Revised: 10/15/2013] [Accepted: 10/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The IL28B genotype in rs12979860 predicts success of peginterferon/ribavirin (PEG/RBV) therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC). Recently, a dinucleotide frame shift variant in ss469415590 (TT or ΔG) was described, which generates the novel interferon lambda 4 protein (IFNL4). IFNL4 ss469415590 (ΔG) allele carriers have an impaired clearance of HCV infection and response to IFN-α therapy. In this study, we compared the role of IFNL4 polymorphism with the two commonly used IL28B SNPs rs12979860 and rs8099917 on response to PEG/RBV in patients with CHC. AIM To compare the role of IFNL4 polymorphism with the two commonly used IL28B SNPs rs12979860 and rs8099917 on response to PEG/RBV in patients with CHC. METHODS A total of 754 PEG/RBV patients treated (male/female = 484/270; Caucasians: 98.8%; mean age: 42.8 [CI 95%: 42.0-43.6] y; genotype (GT)1: n = 435, GT2: n = 23, GT3: n = 185, GT4: n = 114) were investigated. Liver fibrosis was assessed by liver biopsy in 456 patients. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in ss469415590, rs12979860 and rs8099917 were analysed by RT-PCR system. RESULTS Of the patients, 12.9% (n = 97) had the ss469415590 ΔG/ΔG genotype (IFNL4), 51.3% (n = 387) were heterozygous (TT/ΔG) and 35.8% (n = 270) had TT/TT. IFNL4 polymorphism was independently associated with SVR in GT1 (OR: 2.539, CI 95%: 1.629-3.021, P < 0.001) and GT4 (OR: 12.573, CI 95%: 3.427-46.133, P < 0.001), but not in GT3 (OR: 1.514, CI 95%: 0.933-2.458, P = 0.093). IFNL4 correlated strongly with rs12979860 (ρ = 0.988, P < 0.001), but only moderately with rs8099917 (ρ = 0.598, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS These findings underscore the role of IFNL4 for treatment response in patients with CHC genotypes 1 and 4. However, due to its strong correlation with rs12979860 in IL28B, there is no benefit in additional testing for IFNL4 for treatment prediction in Caucasian patients. By contrast, IFNL4 improves prediction of response to interferon-based therapies, if SNP rs8099917 is used.
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Vanura K, Rieder F, Kastner MT, Biebl J, Sandhofer M, Le T, Strassl R, Puchhammer-Stöckl E, Perkmann T, Steininger CF, Stamatopoulos K, Graninger W, Jäger U, Steininger C. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients have a preserved cytomegalovirus-specific antibody response despite progressive hypogammaglobulinemia. PLoS One 2013; 8:e78925. [PMID: 24194956 PMCID: PMC3806856 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0078925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2013] [Accepted: 09/17/2013] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is characterized by progressive hypogammaglobulinemia predisposing affected patients to a variety of infectious diseases but paradoxically not to cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease. Moreover, we found reactivity of a panel of CLL recombinant antibodies (CLL-rAbs) encoded by a germ-line allele with a single CMV protein, pUL32, despite differing antibody binding motifs. To put these findings into perspective, we studied prospectively relative frequency of viremia, kinetics of total and virus-specific IgG over time, and UL32 genetic variation in a cohort of therapy-naive patients (n=200). CMV-DNA was detected in 3% (6/200) of patients. The decay of total IgG was uniform (mean, 0.03; SD, 0.03) and correlated with that of IgG subclasses 1-4 in the paired samples available (n=64; p<0.001). Total CMV-specific IgG kinetics were more variable (mean, 0,02; SD, 0,06) and mean decay values differed significantly from those of total IgG (p=0.034). Boosts of CMV-specific antibody levels were observed in 49% (22/45) of CMV-seropositive patients. In contrast, VZV- and EBV-specific IgG levels decayed in parallel with total IgG levels (p=0.003 and p=0.001, respectively). VZV-specific IgG even became undetectable in 18% (9/50) of patients whereas CMV-specific ones remained detectable in all seropositive patients. The observed CMV-specific IgG kinetics were predicated upon the highly divergent kinetics of IgG specific for individual antigens - glycoprotein B-specific IgG were boosted in 51% and pUL32-specific IgG in 32% of patients. In conclusion, CLL patients have a preserved CMV-specific antibody response despite progressive decay of total IgG and IgG subclasses. CMV-specific IgG levels are frequently boosted in contrast to that of other herpesviruses indicative of a higher rate of CMV reactivation and antigen-presentation. In contrast to the reactivity of multiple different CLL-rAbs with pUL32, boosts of humoral immunity are triggered apparently by other CMV antigens than pUL32, like glycoprotein B.
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Bejvl I, Weseslindtner L, Strassl R, Jaksch P, Kundi M, Klepetko W, Puchhammer-Stöckl E. Analysis of plasma surfactant protein D levels in lung transplant recipients. Transpl Infect Dis 2013; 15:645-51. [DOI: 10.1111/tid.12132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2012] [Revised: 01/14/2013] [Accepted: 03/08/2013] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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