76
|
Sikaneta T, Cheung KM, Abdolell M, Tam P, Ting R, Fung J, Roscoe J, Woods E, Le Blanc D, Oreopoulos DG. The Toronto Western Hospital Catheter: One Center's Experience and Review of the Literature. Int J Artif Organs 2018; 29:59-63. [PMID: 16485240 DOI: 10.1177/039139880602900105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background We report our center's experience with the Toronto Western Hospital (TWH) catheter, and discuss our catheter survival and complication rates. Methods Retrospective chart review of patients receiving peritoneal dialysis therapy via a TWH catheter. Catheter complication rates of peritonitis, exit site infection, obstruction, leak, and malfunction were assessed. A catheter was considered failed if removed because of exit site infection, obstruction, or malfunction. All other catheters, even if removed for other reasons, were considered censured. Survival was defined as the period from insertion to failure or censure date, and reported using Kaplan Meier analysis. Results 192 patients with a total of 208 TWH catheters (4,845.3 catheter months) were analyzed. Our overall 1- and 3-year catheter survival rates were identical at 0.9182. Our catheter complication rates (expressed as number of catheter months per event) were 31.3 for peritonitis, 42.9 for exit site infection, 72.3 for obstruction, 538.4 for malfunction, and 969.1 for catheter leak. Our findings were similar to those reported in the literature for TWH and other peritoneal catheters.
Collapse
|
77
|
Hui RWH, Seto WK, Cheung KS, Mak LY, Liu KSH, Fung J, Wong DKH, Lai CL, Yuen MF. Inverse relationship between hepatic steatosis and hepatitis B viremia: Results of a large case-control study. J Viral Hepat 2018; 25:97-104. [PMID: 28772340 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The potential interaction between chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), two of the most prevalent liver diseases worldwide, has not been well defined. We performed liver stiffness (LS) and controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) measurements using transient elastography in 1202 CHB patients. Of these, 601 steatotic patients were matched with nonsteatotic controls in a 1:1 ratio by age, gender, nucleoside analogue treatment status, and treatment duration. Severe fibrosis was defined according to EASL-ALEH criteria, and steatosis was defined as CAP ≥222 dB m-1 . Anthropometric measurements and metabolic-related parameters were recorded. The mean age of the 1202 patients (51.4% male) was 51.8 years. 696 patients (57.9%) were on nucleoside analogues for a median duration of 76.2 months. Among treatment-naïve patients, median serum HBV DNA was lower in steatotic individuals than in controls (3.0 vs 3.4 log IU mL-1 , P < .05), with this inverse relationship remaining significant in multivariate analysis (odds ratio 0.859, 95% CI 0.743-0.994, P < .05). With increased steatosis severity, there was a stepwise decrease in median HBV DNA levels (3.1 and 2.6 log IU mL-1 in no steatosis and severe steatosis, respectively, P = .032). Steatosis was associated with a higher median LS (5.4 kPa vs 5.0 kPa, P < .001). Severe steatosis, when compared to mild/moderate steatosis, was associated with an increased percentage of severe fibrosis (23.2% and 12.6%, respectively, P = .005). We conclude that severe steatosis was associated with increased fibrosis in CHB patients. Increasing steatosis was independently associated with lower serum HBV DNA levels, suggesting its potential negative effects on viral replication.
Collapse
|
78
|
Oates AR, Unger J, Arnold CM, Fung J, Lanovaz JL. The effect of light touch on balance control during overground walking in healthy young adults. Heliyon 2017; 3:e00484. [PMID: 29322107 PMCID: PMC5753755 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2017.e00484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2017] [Revised: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Balance control is essential for safe walking. Adding haptic input through light touch may improve walking balance; however, evidence is limited. This research investigated the effect of added haptic input through light touch in healthy young adults during challenging walking conditions. Sixteen individuals walked normally, in tandem, and on a compliant, low-lying balance beam with and without light touch on a railing. Three-dimensional kinematic data were captured to compute stride velocity (m/s), relative time spent in double support (%DS), a medial-lateral margin of stability (MOSML) and its variance (MOSMLCV), as well as a symmetry index (SI) for the MOSML. Muscle activity was evaluated by integrating electromyography signals for the soleus, tibialis anterior, and gluteus medius muscles bilaterally. Adding haptic input decreased stride velocity, increased the %DS, had no effect on the MOSML magnitude, decreased the MOSMLCV, had no effect on the SI, and increased activity of most muscles examined during normal walking. During tandem walking, stride velocity and the MOSMLCV decreased, while %DS, MOSML magnitude, SI, and muscle activity did not change with light touch. When walking on a low-lying, compliant balance beam, light touch had no effect on walking velocity, MOSML magnitude, or muscle activity; however, the %DS increased and the MOSMLCV and SI decreased when lightly touching a railing while walking on the balance beam. The decreases in the MOSMLCV with light touch across all walking conditions suggest that adding haptic input through light touch on a railing may improve balance control during walking through reduced variability.
Collapse
|
79
|
Cheung KS, Seto WK, Fung J, Mak LY, Lai CL, Yuen MF. Prediction of hepatocellular carcinoma development by aminotransferase to platelet ratio index in primary biliary cholangitis. World J Gastroenterol 2017; 23:7863-7874. [PMID: 29209127 PMCID: PMC5703915 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v23.i44.7863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2017] [Revised: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 09/28/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To investigate the usefulness of aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI) in predicting hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC).
METHODS We identified PBC patients between 2000 and 2015 by searching the electronic medical database of a tertiary center. The hazard ratio (HR) of HCC with different risk factors was determined by Cox proportional hazards model.
RESULTS One hundred and forty-four PBC patients were recruited. Patients were diagnosed at a median age of 57.8 years [interquartile range (IQR): 48.7-71.5 years), and 41 (28.5%) patients had cirrhosis at baseline. The median follow-up duration was 6.9 years (range: 1.0-26.3 years). Twelve patients developed HCC, with an incidence rate of 10.6 cases per 1000 patient-years. The overall 5-, 10- and 15-year cumulative incidences of HCC were 2.3% 95%CI: 0%-4.8%), 8.4% (95%CI: 1.8%-14.5%) and 21.6% (6.8%-34.1%), respectively. Older age (HR = 1.07), cirrhosis (HR = 4.38) and APRI at 1 year after treatment (APRI-r1) > 0.54 (HR = 3.94) were independent factors for HCC development. APRI-r1, when combined with treatment response, further stratified HCC risk (log rank P < 0.05). The area under receiver operating curve of APRI-r1 in predicting HCC was 0.77 (95%CI: 0.64-0.88).
CONCLUSION APRI-r1 can be used to predict the development of HCC in PBC patients. Combination of APRI-r1 with treatment response can further stratify the HCC risk.
Collapse
|
80
|
Cheung KS, Seto WK, Fung J, Mak LY, Lai CL, Yuen MF. Epidemiology and natural history of Wilson’s disease in the Chinese: A territory-based study in Hong Kong between 2000 and 2016. World J Gastroenterol 2017; 23:7716-7726. [PMID: 29209112 PMCID: PMC5703931 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v23.i43.7716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Revised: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 09/28/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To investigate the epidemiology and natural history of Wilson’s disease in the Chinese.
METHODS Data were retrieved via electronic search of hospital medical registry of the Hong Kong Hospital Authority, which covers all the public healthcare services. We identified cases of Wilson’s disease between 2000 and 2016 by the International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-9 code. We analyzed the incidence rate, prevalence and adverse outcomes of Wilson’s disease.
RESULTS We identified 211 patients (male cases 104; female cases 107; median age 27.2 years, IQR: 17.1-38.6 years; duration of follow-up 8.0 years, IQR: 5.0-14.0 years). The average annual incidence rate was 1.44 per million person-years while the prevalence was 17.93 per million. Between 2000 and 2016, there was a decrease in the annual incidence rate from 1.65 to 1.23 per million person-years (P = 0.010), whereas there was an increase in the annual prevalence from 7.80 to 25.20 per million (P < 0.001). Among the 176 cases with hepatic involvement, 38 (21.6%) had cirrhosis, three (1.7%) developed hepatocellular carcinoma, 24 (13.6%) underwent liver transplantations, and 26 (14.8%) died. Seven patients had concomitant chronic viral hepatitis B or C. The 5-year and 10-years rates of overall survival were 92.6% and 89.5%, and for transplant-free survival rates 91.8% and 87.4%, respectively. Cirrhosis and possibly chronic viral hepatitis were associated with poorer overall survival.
CONCLUSION There was a significant increase in the prevalence of Wilson’s disease in Hong Kong. The prognosis was favorable except for those with cirrhosis or concomitant viral hepatitis.
Collapse
|
81
|
Lam YF, Seto WK, Wong D, Cheung KS, Fung J, Mak LY, Yuen J, Chong CK, Lai CL, Yuen MF. Seven-Year Treatment Outcome of Entecavir in a Real-World Cohort: Effects on Clinical Parameters, HBsAg and HBcrAg Levels. Clin Transl Gastroenterol 2017; 8:e125. [PMID: 29072673 PMCID: PMC5666122 DOI: 10.1038/ctg.2017.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: We aimed to determine the levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), hepatitis B virus DNA (HBV DNA), HBsAg, and a novel viral marker (hepatitis B core-related antigen (HBcrAg)); hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) seroconversion and drug resistance rates after 7 years of entecavir treatment in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. Methods: Two hundred and twenty-two Chinese CHB patients on continuous entecavir treatment were recruited. Serologic, virologic, biochemical outcomes, and the occurrence of entecavir signature mutations were determined. Results: The rates of ALT normalization, HBeAg seroconversion, and undetectable HBV DNA were 98.3%, 82.1%, and 98.7%, respectively, after 7 years of entecavir treatment. The genotypic resistance rate was 1.2%. Decline of HBsAg level was modest with a median decline rate of 0.107 log IU/ml/year. Among patients with baseline HBsAg <1,000 IU/ml and annual HBsAg decline rate of ≥0.166 log IU/ml, all have HBsAg of <200 IU/ml (a level highly predictive for HBsAg seroclearance) at year 7. In contrast, in patients with baseline HBsAg ≥1,000 IU/ml and annual HBsAg decline rate of <0.166 log IU/ml, 95.5% had HBsAg of ≥200 IU/ml at year 7. Decline of HBcrAg levels was moderate with a median decline rate of 0.244 log kU/ml/year. Forty-seven patients (32.0%) had undetectable HBcrAg level at year 7. Conclusions: Long-term entecavir therapy continued to have good responses with low drug resistance rate. However, the decline of HBsAg with treatment was suboptimal. HBcrAg level declined at a relatively better rate. Baseline HBsAg level of <1,000 IU/ml and annual decline of 0.166 log IU/ml could be used to predict HBsAg response.
Collapse
|
82
|
Maaroufi A, Vince A, Himatt SM, Mohamed R, Fung J, Opare-Sem O, Workneh A, Njouom R, Al Ghazzawi I, Abdulla M, Kaliaskarova KS, Owusu-Ofori S, Abdelmageed MK, Adda D, Akin O, Al Baqali A, Al Dweik N, Al Ejji K, Al Kaabi S, Al Naamani K, Al Qamish J, Al Sadadi M, Al Salman J, AlBadri M, Al-Busafi SA, Al-Romaihi HE, Ampofo W, Antonov K, Anyaike C, Arome F, Bane A, Blach S, Borodo MM, Brandon SM, Bright B, Butt MT, Cardenas I, Chan HLY, Chen CJ, Chen DS, Chen PJ, Chien RN, Chuang WL, Cuellar D, Derbala M, Elbardiny AA, Estes C, Farag E, Gamkrelidze I, Garcia V, Genov J, Ghandour Z, Ghuloom M, Gomez B, Gunter J, Habeeb J, Hajelssedig O, Hamoudi W, Hrstic I, Hu CC, Huang CF, Hui YT, Jahis R, Jelev D, John AK, Kamel Y, Kao JH, Khamis J, Khattabi H, Khoudri I, Konysbekova A, Kotzev I, Lai MS, Lao WC, Layden J, Lee MH, Lesi O, Li M, Lo A, Loo CK, Lukšić B, Malu AO, Mateva L, Mitova R, Morović M, Murphy K, Mustapha B, Nde H, Nersesov A, Ngige E, Njoya O, Nonković D, Obekpa S, Oguche S, Okolo EE, Omede O, Omuemu C, Ondoa P, Phillips RO, Prokopenko YN, Razavi H, Razavi-Shearer D, Redae B, Reic T, Rinke de Wit T, Rios C, Robbins S, Roberts LR, Sanad SJ, Schmelzer JD, Sharma M, Simonova M, Su TH, Sultan K, Tan SS, Tchernev K, Tsang OTY, Tsang S, Tzeuton C, Ugoeze S, Uzochukwu B, Vi R, Wani HU, Wong VWS, Yacoub R, Yesmembetov KI, Youbi M, Yuen MF, Razavi-Shearer K. Historical epidemiology of hepatitis C virus in select countries-volume 4. J Viral Hepat 2017; 24 Suppl 2:8-24. [PMID: 29105285 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 07/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Due to the introduction of newer, more efficacious treatment options, there is a pressing need for policy makers and public health officials to develop or adapt national hepatitis C virus (HCV) control strategies to the changing epidemiological landscape. To do so, detailed, country-specific data are needed to characterize the burden of chronic HCV infection. In this study of 17 countries, a literature review of published and unpublished data on HCV prevalence, viraemia, genotype, age and gender distribution, liver transplants and diagnosis and treatment rates was conducted, and inputs were validated by expert consensus in each country. Viraemic prevalence in this study ranged from 0.2% in Hong Kong to 2.4% in Taiwan, while the largest viraemic populations were in Nigeria (2 597 000 cases) and Taiwan (569 000 cases). Diagnosis, treatment and liver transplant rates varied widely across the countries included in this analysis, as did the availability of reliable data. Addressing data gaps will be critical for the development of future strategies to manage and minimize the disease burden of hepatitis C.
Collapse
|
83
|
Chan HLY, Chen CJ, Omede O, Al Qamish J, Al Naamani K, Bane A, Tan SS, Simonova M, Cardenas I, Derbala M, Akin O, Phillips RO, Abdelmageed MK, Abdulla M, Adda D, Al Baqali A, Al Dweik N, Al Ejji K, Al Ghazzawi I, Al Kaabi S, Al Sadadi M, Al Salman J, AlBadri M, Al-Busafi SA, Al-Romaihi HE, Ampofo W, Antonov K, Anyaike C, Arome F, Blach S, Borodo MM, Brandon SM, Bright B, Butt MT, Chen DS, Chen PJ, Chien RN, Chuang WL, Cuellar D, Elbardiny AA, Estes C, Farag E, Fung J, Gamkrelidze I, Garcia V, Genov J, Ghandour Z, Ghuloom M, Gomez B, Gunter J, Habeeb J, Hajelssedig O, Hamoudi W, Himatt SM, Hrstic I, Hu CC, Huang CF, Hui YT, Jahis R, Jelev D, John AK, Kaliaskarova KS, Kamel Y, Kao JH, Khamis J, Khattabi H, Khoudri I, Konysbekova A, Kotzev I, Lai MS, Lao WC, Layden J, Lee MH, Lesi O, Li M, Lo A, Loo CK, Lukšić B, Maaroufi A, Malu AO, Mateva L, Mitova R, Mohamed R, Morović M, Murphy K, Mustapha B, Nersesov A, Ngige E, Njouom R, Njoya O, Nonković D, Obekpa S, Oguche S, Okolo EE, Omuemu C, Ondoa P, Opare-Sem O, Owusu-Ofori S, Prokopenko YN, Razavi H, Razavi-Shearer D, Razavi-Shearer K, Redae B, Reic T, Rinke de Wit T, Rios C, Robbins S, Roberts LR, Sanad SJ, Schmelzer JD, Sharma M, Su TH, Sultan K, Tchernev K, Tsang OTY, Tsang S, Tzeuton C, Ugoeze S, Uzochukwu B, Vi R, Vince A, Wani HU, Wong VWS, Workneh A, Yacoub R, Yesmembetov KI, Youbi M, Yuen MF, Nde H. The present and future disease burden of hepatitis C virus infections with today's treatment paradigm: Volume 4. J Viral Hepat 2017; 24 Suppl 2:25-43. [PMID: 29105283 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 07/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Factors influencing the morbidity and mortality associated with viremic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection change over time and place, making it difficult to compare reported estimates. Models were developed for 17 countries (Bahrain, Bulgaria, Cameroon, Colombia, Croatia, Dominican Republic, Ethiopia, Ghana, Hong Kong, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Morocco, Nigeria, Qatar and Taiwan) to quantify and characterize the viremic population as well as forecast the changes in the infected population and the corresponding disease burden from 2015 to 2030. Model inputs were agreed upon through expert consensus, and a standardized methodology was followed to allow for comparison across countries. The viremic prevalence is expected to remain constant or decline in all but four countries (Ethiopia, Ghana, Jordan and Oman); however, HCV-related morbidity and mortality will increase in all countries except Qatar and Taiwan. In Qatar, the high-treatment rate will contribute to a reduction in total cases and HCV-related morbidity by 2030. In the remaining countries, however, the current treatment paradigm will be insufficient to achieve large reductions in HCV-related morbidity and mortality.
Collapse
|
84
|
Fung J, Wong T, Chok K, Chan A, Cheung TT, Dai JWC, Sin SL, Ma KW, Ng K, Ng KTP, Seto WK, Lai CL, Yuen MF, Lo CM. Long-term outcomes of entecavir monotherapy for chronic hepatitis B after liver transplantation: Results up to 8 years. Hepatology 2017; 66:1036-1044. [PMID: 28370215 DOI: 10.1002/hep.29191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2017] [Revised: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Long-term antiviral prophylaxis is required to prevent hepatitis B recurrence for patients with chronic hepatitis B after liver transplantation. We determined the long-term outcome of 265 consecutive chronic hepatitis B liver transplant recipients treated with entecavir monotherapy without hepatitis B immune globulin. Viral serology, viral load, and liver biochemistry were performed at regular intervals during follow-up. The median duration of follow-up was 59 months. The cumulative rates of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) seroclearance were 90% and 95% at 1 and 5 years, respectively. At 1, 3, 5, and 8 years, 85%, 88%, 87.0%, and 92% were negative for HBsAg, respectively, and 95%, 99%, 100%, and 100% had undetectable hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA, respectively. Fourteen patients remained persistently positive for HBsAg, all of whom had undetectable HBV DNA. There was no significant difference in liver stiffness for those who remained HBsAg-positive compared to those who achieved HBsAg seroclearance (5.5 versus 5.2 kPa, respectively; P = 0.52). The overall 9-year survival was 85%. There were 37 deaths during the follow-up period, of which none were due to hepatitis B recurrence. CONCLUSION Long-term entecavir monotherapy is highly effective at preventing HBV reactivation after liver transplantation for chronic hepatitis B, with a durable HBsAg seroclearance rate of 92%, an undetectable HBV DNA rate of 100% at 8 years, and excellent long-term survival of 85% at 9 years. (Hepatology 2017;66:1036-1044).
Collapse
|
85
|
Chen DS, Hamoudi W, Mustapha B, Layden J, Nersesov A, Reic T, Garcia V, Rios C, Mateva L, Njoya O, Al-Busafi SA, Abdelmageed MK, Abdulla M, Adda D, Akin O, Al Baqali A, Al Dweik N, Al Ejji K, Al Ghazzawi I, Al Kaabi S, Al Naamani K, Al Qamish J, Al Sadadi M, Al Salman J, AlBadri M, Al-Romaihi HE, Ampofo W, Antonov K, Anyaike C, Arome F, Bane A, Blach S, Borodo MM, Brandon SM, Bright B, Butt MT, Cardenas I, Chan HLY, Chen CJ, Chen PJ, Chien RN, Chuang WL, Cuellar D, Derbala M, Elbardiny AA, Estes C, Farag E, Fung J, Gamkrelidze I, Genov J, Ghandour Z, Ghuloom M, Gomez B, Gunter J, Habeeb J, Hajelssedig O, Himatt SM, Hrstic I, Hu CC, Huang CF, Hui YT, Jahis R, Jelev D, John AK, Kaliaskarova KS, Kamel Y, Kao JH, Khamis J, Khattabi H, Khoudri I, Konysbekova A, Kotzev I, Lai MS, Lao WC, Lee MH, Lesi O, Li M, Lo A, Loo CK, Lukšić B, Maaroufi A, Malu AO, Mitova R, Mohamed R, Morović M, Murphy K, Nde H, Ngige E, Njouom R, Nonković D, Obekpa S, Oguche S, Okolo EE, Omede O, Omuemu C, Ondoa P, Opare-Sem O, Owusu-Ofori S, Phillips RO, Prokopenko YN, Razavi H, Razavi-Shearer D, Razavi-Shearer K, Redae B, Rinke de Wit T, Robbins S, Roberts LR, Sanad SJ, Sharma M, Simonova M, Su TH, Sultan K, Tan SS, Tchernev K, Tsang OTY, Tsang S, Tzeuton C, Ugoeze S, Uzochukwu B, Vi R, Vince A, Wani HU, Wong VWS, Workneh A, Yacoub R, Yesmembetov KI, Youbi M, Yuen MF, Schmelzer JD. Strategies to manage hepatitis C virus infection disease burden-Volume 4. J Viral Hepat 2017; 24 Suppl 2:44-63. [PMID: 29105286 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 07/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) epidemic was forecasted through 2030 for 17 countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East, and interventions for achieving the Global Health Sector Strategy on viral hepatitis targets-"WHO Targets" (65% reduction in HCV-related deaths, 90% reduction in new infections and 90% of infections diagnosed by 2030) were considered. Scaling up treatment and diagnosis rates over time would be required to achieve these targets in all but one country, even with the introduction of high SVR therapies. The scenarios developed to achieve the WHO Targets in all countries studied assumed the implementation of national policies to prevent new infections and to diagnose current infections through screening.
Collapse
|
86
|
Li J, Mak LY, Wong DKH, Fung J, Seto WK, Lai CL, Yuen MF. The role of interleukin-27 in predicting spontaneous HBeAg seroconversion in chronic hepatitis B infection. Liver Int 2017; 37:1287-1294. [PMID: 28111892 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2016] [Accepted: 01/15/2017] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Hepatitis B e seroconversion, associated with preceding hepatic inflammation, marks the transition from immune active to residual phase in the natural disease history of chronic hepatitis B. Recently, interleukin-27 has been reported to be associated with hepatic inflammation in hepatitis B infection. We aimed to evaluate the role of interleukin-27 in predicting spontaneous e seroconversion in chronic hepatitis B. METHODS A total of 142 treatment-naive hepatitis B patients with positive e antigen were recruited. Interleukin-27, hepatitis B viral DNA levels and liver function parameters, were measured on presentation. Patients who had spontaneous e seroconversion within 3 years of follow-up were compared with those without e seroconversion within the same period of time. Factors predictive of spontaneous e seroconversion were identified. RESULTS Of the 142 patients (M:F=80:62, median age: 31), 44 (31%) had spontaneous e seroconversion within 3 years of follow-up. Multivariate analyses revealed that younger age, lower viral DNA and lower interleukin-27 levels on presentation independently predicted spontaneous e seroconversion: the rate was significantly higher in patients aged <31 (OR: 11.022, 95% CI: 3.658-33.205; P<.001), viral DNA <5 log IU/mL (OR: 2.311, 95% CI: 1.049-5.091; P=.038) and interleukin-27 <67.3 pg/mL (OR: 3.276, 95% CI: 1.257-8.536; P=.015). Among patients with all these three favourable factors on presentation, 77% of them underwent spontaneous e seroconversion within 3 years. CONCLUSIONS Low interleukin-27 levels were associated with early e seroconversion. The combination of baseline interleukin-27 <67.3 pg/mL and viral DNA <5 log IU/mL in young patients was useful for predicting early spontaneous e seroconversion in treatment-naïve chronic hepatitis B patients.
Collapse
|
87
|
Zhang AY, Lai CL, Huang FY, Seto WK, Fung J, Wong DKH, Yuen MF. Deep sequencing analysis of quasispecies in the HBV pre-S region and its association with hepatocellular carcinoma. J Gastroenterol 2017; 52:1064-1074. [PMID: 28353014 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-017-1334-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The association between the evolution of hepatitis B virus (HBV) quasispecies and the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is unknown. METHODS We used deep sequencing to examine the dynamics of HBV quasispecies and their relationship to HCC development. Thirty-two chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients with HCC (HCC group) and 32 matched CHB patients without HCC (controls) were recruited. Fourteen patients from each group had serial sera available up to 9 years before the time of the present study. Deep sequencing of the HBV pre-S regions was performed. HBV quasispecies complexity, diversity, and intrapatient prevalence of pre-S deletions/mutations were analyzed. RESULTS Compared with control patients, HCC patients had a significant greater quasispecies complexity (p = 0.04 at the nucleotide level), greater diversity (p = 0.004 and 0.009 at the nucleotide level and the amino acid level respectively), and a trend of greater complexity at the amino acid level (p = 0.065). HCC patients had a higher intrapatient prevalence of pre-S deletions and point mutations (at codons 4, 27, and 167) compared with the control patients (all p < 0.05). Longitudinal observation in the sera of 14 HCC patients showed that quasispecies complexity (p = 0.027 and 0.024 at the nucleotide level and the amino acid level respectively) and diversity (p = 0.035 and 0.031 at the nucleotide level and the amino acid level respectively) increased as the disease progressed to HCC. CONCLUSIONS Increased HBV quasispecies complexity and diversity in the pre-S region, probably reflecting enhanced virus-host interplay, was associated with disease progression from CHB to HCC.
Collapse
|
88
|
Cheung KS, Seto WK, Fung J, Lai CL, Yuen MF. Epidemiology and Natural History of Primary Biliary Cholangitis in the Chinese: A Territory-Based Study in Hong Kong between 2000 and 2015. Clin Transl Gastroenterol 2017; 8:e116. [PMID: 28858291 PMCID: PMC5587844 DOI: 10.1038/ctg.2017.43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Studies on the epidemiology of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in the Chinese population are lacking. We aimed to determine the epidemiology of PBC in Hong Kong (HK) with a population of 7.3 million. Methods: We retrieved data from the electronic database of the HK Hospital Authority, the only public healthcare provider in Hong Kong. PBC cases between 2000 and 2015 were identified by International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-9 code. We estimated the age-/sex-adjusted incidence rate and prevalence of PBC, and analyzed the adverse outcomes (hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), liver transplantation, and death). Results: One thousand and sixteen PBC patients aged ≥20 years were identified (female-to-male ratio 4:1; median age 60.6 years, interquartile range (IQR) 51.8–72.6 years; median follow-up 5.6 years, IQR 1.6–8.7 years). The average age/sex-adjusted annual incidence rate and prevalence were 8.4 per million person-years and 56.4 per million, respectively. Between 2000 and 2015, the age/sex-adjusted annual incidence rate increased from 6.7 to 8.1 per million person-years (Poisson P=0.002), while age/sex-adjusted prevalence increased from 31.1 to 82.3 per million (Poisson P<0.001). Fifty patients developed HCC, and 49 underwent liver transplantation. Case fatality risk decreased from 10.8 to 6.4% (Poisson P=0.003). The 5- and 10-year overall survival rates were 81.5 and 78.3%, whereas the transplant-free survival rates were 78.0% and 74.3%, respectively. Increasing age, cirrhosis and being treatment-naïve were associated with lower transplant-free survival. Conclusions: There is a considerable increase in the incidence and prevalence of PBC in the Chinese population over the past 16 years, with significant morbidity and mortality.
Collapse
|
89
|
Wong DKH, Seto WK, Cheung KS, Chong CK, Huang FY, Fung J, Lai CL, Yuen MF. Hepatitis B virus core-related antigen as a surrogate marker for covalently closed circular DNA. Liver Int 2017; 37:995-1001. [PMID: 27992681 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2016] [Revised: 12/07/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatitis B virus (HBV) covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) is a key to viral persistence in chronic hepatitis B infection. Serum hepatitis B core-related antigen (HBcrAg) is a novel marker for HBV disease. We aimed to determine whether HBcrAg could be a surrogate marker for intrahepatic cccDNA. METHODS Three hundred and five liver biopsies and the corresponding sera collected from 138 nucleos(t)ide analogues-treated patients were analysed. 124 patients had paired liver biopsies at baseline and 1-year post-treatment, and 43 patients had a third biopsy after 6-12 years of treatment. Serum HBcrAg, HBV DNA and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), and intrahepatic HBV DNA and cccDNA were measured. RESULTS HBcrAg strongly correlated with cccDNA (r=.70), intrahepatic total HBV DNA (r=.67) and serum HBV DNA (r=.69; all P<.0001). In the 130 samples with undetectable serum HBV DNA, HBcrAg was detectable in 101 (78%) samples, and HBcrAg levels still correlated positively with cccDNA (r=.42, P<.0001). At ≥6 years of therapy, the median logarithmic reduction in HBcrAg was 2.7 log kU/mL, which was comparable to the magnitude of reduction in cccDNA. Twenty-one patients had undetectable cccDNA after ≥6 years of treatment, in whom 15 (71%) had detectable HBcrAg (range: 1.2-537 kU/mL). CONCLUSIONS Serum HBcrAg is a reliable surrogate marker for intrahepatic cccDNA. HBcrAg could be a very sensitive marker to reflect the cccDNA content and persistence of disease even with the cccDNA levels below the detection limit of assays.
Collapse
|
90
|
Cheung KS, Seto WK, Fung J, Lai CL, Yuen MF. Prognostic Factors for Transplant-Free Survival and Validation of Prognostic Models in Chinese Patients with Primary Biliary Cholangitis Receiving Ursodeoxycholic Acid. Clin Transl Gastroenterol 2017. [PMID: 28640288 PMCID: PMC5518946 DOI: 10.1038/ctg.2017.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to validate the prognostic models for primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in Chinese patients receiving ursodeoxycholic acid (UCDA), and to compare their performances in predicting the long-term survival. METHODS Chinese patients with PBC from a tertiary center were identified via electronic search of hospital medical registry. Risk factors associated with adverse events (liver transplantation or death from liver-related causes including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and liver decompensation) were determined. Transplant-free survival was defined as survival free of liver-related death or transplantation. RESULTS Of the 144 patients, 41 (28.5%) had baseline cirrhosis. The median age at diagnosis was 57.8 years. During a median follow-up of 7.0 years, 40 patients died (21 liver-related; 19 non-liver-related), 12 developed HCC, and 10 underwent transplantations. The 5-, 10-, and 15-year transplant-free survival probabilities were 91.0%, 78.1%, and 58.9%, respectively. Independent risk factors for adverse events were increasing age (hazard ratio (HR) 1.05), cirrhosis (HR 8.53), and suboptimal treatment response (HR 3.06). Aspartate aminotransferase/platelet ratio index at 1 year (APRI-r1) in combination with treatment response optimized the risk stratification. The performances of the GLOBE, UK-PBC scores, Rotterdam criteria, and APRI-r1 were comparable in predicting adverse events. The area under receiver operating curves within 5, 10, and 15 years were as follows-GLOBE score: 0.83, 0.85, and 0.85, respectively; UK-PBC score: 0.89, 0.83, and 0.79, respectively; Rotterdam criteria: 0.82, 0.76, and 0.80, respectively; APRI-r1: 0.80, 0.83, and 0.77, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The UK-PBC, GLOBE scores, Rotterdam criteria, and APRI-r1 had good and comparable prognostic prediction values for Chinese PBC patients receiving UCDA.
Collapse
|
91
|
Chan HLY, Tsang OTY, Hui YT, Fung J, Lui GCY, Lai CL, Wong GLH, Chan KH, But DYK, Lai MS, Lao WC, Chan CKM, Lam YS, Seto WK, Li C, Yuen MF, Wong VWS. Real-life efficacy and safety of paritaprevir/ritonavir, ombitasvir, and dasabuvir in chronic hepatitis C patients in Hong Kong. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2017; 32:1230-1233. [PMID: 27869328 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.13663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2016] [Revised: 11/02/2016] [Accepted: 11/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM In registration studies, combination therapy of paritaprevir/ritonavir, ombitasvir, and dasabuvir (PrOD) with and without ribavirin for 12-24 weeks can achieve > 90% sustained virological response (SVR) for genotype 1 hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. However, data in Asia is scanty. We aimed to study the efficacy and safety of this combination therapy in chronic hepatitis C patients in Hong Kong. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed data from six local hospitals that have prescribed PrOD with and without ribavirin to patients with genotype 1 chronic HCV infection as part of a global compassionate program. RESULTS Among 41 patients treated, 35 (85%) patients had genotype 1b HCV infection, 6 (15%) had co-infection with human immunodeficiency virus, 35 (85%) failed previous peginterferon and ribavirin therapy, 25 (61%) had compensated liver cirrhosis, and 3 (7%) had liver transplantation. Thirty-five (85%) patients received 12-week treatment and six patients received 24-week treatment; 26 (63%) patients received ribavirin combination. Thirty-nine (95%; 95% confidence interval 88.5-100%) patients had undetectable HCV RNA at 12-week post-treatment, that is, SVR. The two patients who did not develop SVR discontinued treatment prematurely; both of them were treatment experienced with liver cirrhosis complicated by acute renal failure unrelated to the treatment of PrOD and ribavirin. No patient had hepatic decompensation. CONCLUSIONS Paritaprevir/ritonavir, ombitasvir, and dasabuvir with or without ribavirin is effective and safe in patients with genotype 1 HCV infection in real-life clinical setting in Hong Kong.
Collapse
|
92
|
Seto WK, Chan TSY, Hwang YY, Wong DKH, Fung J, Liu KSH, Gill H, Lam YF, Lau EHY, Cheung KS, Lie AKW, Lai CL, Kwong YL, Yuen MF. Hepatitis B reactivation in occult viral carriers undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: A prospective study. Hepatology 2017; 65:1451-1461. [PMID: 28027590 DOI: 10.1002/hep.29022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Revised: 10/10/2016] [Accepted: 12/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation in hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-negative, antibody to hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc)-positive patients after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) has not been prospectively studied. HBsAg-negative, anti-HBc-positive patients with undetectable HBV DNA undergoing allogeneic HSCT were prospectively monitored every 4 weeks. The primary endpoint was HBV reactivation, defined as detectable HBV DNA (≥10 IU/mL). Secondary endpoints included overall survival, HBsAg positivity, and changes in liver biochemistry and antibody to HBsAg levels. Among 297 allogeneic HSCT recipients, 85 (28.7%) were HBsAg-negative, anti-HBc-positive, of whom 62 were recruited and monitored for a median of 48 (4-104) weeks. The 2-year cumulative HBV DNA detectability rate was 40.8%, occurring at a median of 44 (8-100) weeks. Multivariate analysis showed that age ≥50 years (P = 0.004, hazard ratio = 8.2) and chronic graft-versus-host disease (P = 0.010, hazard ratio = 5.3) were significantly associated with HBV reactivation. Other clinical parameters, including baseline antibody to HBsAg status, serial changes in antibody to HBsAg levels, and donor serology, were not associated with HBV reactivation. Patients <50 years old and without chronic graft-versus-host disease, compared with the remaining patient cohort, had a significantly lower 2-year cumulative HBV reactivation rate (5.6% versus 65.0%, P = 0.004). Entecavir successfully suppressed HBV DNA to undetectable levels, with no cases developing biochemical hepatitis. CONCLUSION HBsAg-negative, anti-HBc-positive patients had a high rate of HBV reactivation after allogeneic HSCT, with determinants of HBV reactivation including age ≥50 years and chronic graft-versus-host disease; treatment strategies based on these parameters may prevent HBV reactivation and subsequent complications. (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01481649.) (Hepatology 2017;65:1451-1461).
Collapse
|
93
|
Seto WK, Lau EHY, Wu JTK, Hung IFN, Leung WK, Cheung KS, Fung J, Lai CL, Yuen MF. Effects of nucleoside analogue prescription for hepatitis B on the incidence of liver cancer in Hong Kong: a territory-wide ecological study. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2017; 45:501-509. [PMID: 27976416 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2016] [Revised: 10/27/2016] [Accepted: 11/18/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The temporal relationship between nucleoside analogue therapy for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and liver cancer development has not been evaluated at a population level. AIM To investigate the impact of nucleoside analogue prescription on liver cancer incidence in a CHB-prevalent region. METHODS We obtained territory-wide nucleoside analogue prescription data from 1999, when nucleoside analogue was first available in Hong Kong, to 2012 and the population-based liver cancer incidence data from 1990 to 2012. We compared the liver cancer incidences from 1990 to 1998 and 1999 to 2012 with adjustment for local hepatitis B surface antigen seroprevalence. RESULTS Nucleoside analogue prescription patient headcount increased from 2006 per year in 1999 to 26 411 in 2012. Prescription volume in 2012 was highest among 55-64 years (30.3%), higher than 65-74 years (13.0%) and ≥75 years (5.8%). Age-standardised liver cancer incidence 1999-2012 decreased by 1.88%/year (95% CI 3.34% to 0.42%/year). NA therapy was associated with decline in age-adjusted liver cancer incidence (2.7 per 100 000 persons, P < 0.001, 95% CI 1.4-4.0 per 100 000 persons). Fifty-five to sixty-four years age group had the most significant decline (men: 24.0 per 100 000 persons, P = 0.001, 95% CI 11.4-36.6 per 100 000 persons; women: 8.5 per 100 000 persons, P = 0.009, 95% CI 2.3-14.6 per 100 000 persons). No significant association was noted in age groups 65-74 years and ≥75 years (both P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Nucleoside analogue prescription was associated with a reduction of overall liver cancer incidence in a CHB-prevalent region. The lack of association among individuals of ≥65 years was consistent with the low nucleoside analogue prescription volume in elderly patients, mitigating the impact of CHB treatment on liver cancer.
Collapse
|
94
|
Yap DYH, Seto WK, Fung J, Chok SH, Chan SC, Chan GCW, Yuen MF, Chan TM. Serum and urinary biomarkers that predict hepatorenal syndrome in patients with advanced cirrhosis. Dig Liver Dis 2017; 49:202-206. [PMID: 27876501 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2016.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2016] [Revised: 10/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prediction of hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) remains difficult in advanced cirrhotic patients. AIMS To evaluate use of serum and urine biomarkers to predict HRS. METHODS We prospectively recruited Child's B or C cirrhotic patients with normal serum creatinine, and followed them for 12 weeks for the development of HRS. Serum Cystatin C (CysC), serum and urine Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin (NGAL), serum and urine IL-18, serum N-acetyl-β-d glucosaminidase (NAG), urine kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) and urine liver-type fatty acid binding protein (LFABP) were measured at recruitment (baseline), and their relationship with subsequent HRS investigated. RESULTS 43 patients were included. 12 (27.9%) developed HRS at 7.3±5.1 weeks from baseline. Logistic regression analysis showed that baseline urinary NGAL and urinary KIM-1 were significantly associated with the development of HRS (RR 1.007, 95% CI 1.001-1.012, p=0.014; RR 1.973, 95% CI 1.002-3.886, p=0.049). The cut-off values for NGAL and KIM-1 to predict HRS were 18.72ng/mL and 1.499ng/mL respectively (AUCs 0.84, p=0.005; and 0.78, p=0.008). CONCLUSION Urinary NGAL and KIM-1 could serve as biomarkers to predict HRS in advanced cirrhotic patients.
Collapse
|
95
|
Lai CL, Wong D, Ip P, Kopaniszen M, Seto WK, Fung J, Huang FY, Lee B, Cullaro G, Chong CK, Wu R, Cheng C, Yuen J, Ngai V, Yuen MF. Reduction of covalently closed circular DNA with long-term nucleos(t)ide analogue treatment in chronic hepatitis B. J Hepatol 2017; 66:275-281. [PMID: 27639844 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2016.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2016] [Revised: 08/04/2016] [Accepted: 08/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Hepatitis B virus (HBV) covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA), a mini-chromosome essential for HBV replication, is supposed to be resistant to nucleos(t)ide analogue treatment. We investigated the effect of long-term nucleos(t)ide analogue treatment on cccDNA. METHODS Among 129 patients who had been enrolled in previous international nucleos(t)ide analogue clinical trials and had liver biopsies at baseline and one year after treatment, we recruited 43 patients on long-term continuous treatment for 72 to 145months for a third liver biopsy. Serum HBV DNA, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) levels, total intrahepatic HBV DNA (ihHBV DNA), cccDNA, HBV pregenomic RNA (pgRNA) as well as histologic changes were examined. RESULTS At the time of the third biopsy, serum HBV DNA levels were undetectable in all but one patient. The median levels of HBsAg, ihHBV DNA, and cccDNA were 2.88logIU/ml, 0.03copies/cell, and 0.01copies/cell, respectively. Compared to baseline levels, there was reduction of HBsAg levels by 0.54log (71.46%), ihHBV DNA levels by 2.81log (99.84%), and cccDNA levels by 2.94log (99.89%), with 49% having cccDNA levels below the detection limit. One patient had undetectable HBsAg. The median pgRNA level, measured only in the third biopsy, was 0.021copies/cell, with 40% of patients having undetectable pgRNA. CONCLUSIONS Long-term nucleos(t)ide analogue treatment induced marked depletion of cccDNA in the majority of patients while serum HBsAg levels, though reduced, were detectable in all but one patient. Whether cccDNA depletion is sustained and associated with better patient outcome requires further study. LAY SUMMARY It is generally presumed that a form of hepatitis B virus DNA, called covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA), which hides inside the nuclei of liver cells of patients with chronic hepatitis B, cannot be reduced by antiviral treatment. The present study showed that with prolonged treatment (median period 126months), cccDNA can be markedly reduced, with 49% of liver biopsies having undetectable cccDNA. This suggests that viral replication capacity would be very low after prolonged antiviral treatment.
Collapse
|
96
|
Eghtesad B, Fung J. Thomas Earl Starzl, MD, PhD (1926–2017): Father of Transplantation. Int J Organ Transplant Med 2017; 8:e1. [PMCID: PMC5549009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
|
97
|
Seto WK, Fung J, Cheung KS, Mak LY, Hui RWH, Liu KSH, Lai CL, Yuen MF. Body-mass index is associated with fibrosis regression during long-term nucleoside analogue therapy in chronic hepatitis B. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2016; 44:1071-1079. [PMID: 27659292 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2016] [Revised: 08/18/2016] [Accepted: 08/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Factors influencing changes in liver stiffness measurements during long-term nucleoside analogue therapy for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) have not been thoroughly investigated. AIM To identify determinants of on-treatment fibrosis regression in CHB. METHODS We performed follow-up liver stiffness and controlled attenuation parameter measurements on nucleoside analogue-treated CHB patients with severe liver fibrosis, according to EASL-ALEH criteria, diagnosed by transient elastography in 2006-2008. Anthropometric measurements and different metabolic parameters were recorded. RESULTS Among 257 patients with severe liver fibrosis by initial transient elastography, 123 (47.9%) were recruited for reassessment. Median treatment duration was 87.5 (interquartile range 75.3-102.2) months; 97.5% had undetectable HBV DNA. There was a significant reduction in median liver stiffness from 14.6 to 8.3 kPa (P < 0.001). A total of 29.3% had fibrosis regression, with lower rates of 17.9%, 14.9% and 11.5% noted in patients with body-mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m2 , metabolic syndrome and diabetes, respectively. Absence of BMI ≥25 kg/m2 , diabetes and metabolic syndrome, when compared with presence of any one of these three factors, was associated with increased fibrosis regression (43.1% vs. 16.9%, P = 0.001). Multivariate analysis found a lower BMI to be the only factor independently associated with fibrosis regression (P = 0.034, odds ratio 0.68, 95% CI 0.48-0.97). No association was noted between controlled attenuation parameter measurements and fibrosis regression (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION An increased BMI hindered fibrosis regression in patients with chronic hepatitis B during nucleoside analogue treatment, suggesting that control of metabolic risk factors, in addition to virologic suppression via antiviral therapy, might be needed to halt the fibrogenic process in chronic hepatitis B.
Collapse
|
98
|
Fung J. HBV therapeutic vaccines and cccDNA inhibitors - emergence of a cure. Liver Transpl 2016; 22:52-56. [PMID: 27576205 DOI: 10.1002/lt.24617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2016] [Revised: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 08/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
|
99
|
Levitsky J, O’Leary J, Asrani S, Sharma P, Fung J, Wiseman A, Niemann C. Protecting the Kidney in Liver Transplant Recipients: Practice-Based Recommendations From the American Society of Transplantation Liver and Intestine Community of Practice. Am J Transplant 2016; 16:2532-44. [PMID: 26932352 PMCID: PMC5007154 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.13765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Revised: 02/12/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Both acute and chronic kidney disease are common after liver transplantation and result in significant morbidity and mortality. The introduction of the Model for End-stage Liver Disease score has directly correlated with an increased prevalence of perioperative renal dysfunction and the number of simultaneous liver-kidney transplantations performed. Kidney dysfunction in this population is typically multifactorial and related to preexisting conditions, pretransplantation renal injury, perioperative events, and posttransplantation nephrotoxic immunosuppressive therapies. The management of kidney disease after liver transplantation is challenging, as by the time the serum creatinine level is significantly elevated, few interventions affect the course of progression. Also, immunological factors such as antibody-mediated kidney rejection have become of greater interest given the rising liver-kidney transplant population. Therefore, this review, assembled by experts in the field and endorsed by the American Society of Transplantation Liver and Intestine Community of Practice, provides a critical assessment of measures of renal function and interventions aimed at preserving renal function early and late after liver and simultaneous liver-kidney transplantation. Key points and practice-based recommendations for the prevention and management of kidney injury in this population are provided to offer guidance for clinicians and identify gaps in knowledge for future investigations.
Collapse
|
100
|
Zhang AY, Lai CL, Poon RTP, Huang FY, Seto WK, Fung J, Wong DKH, Yuen MF. Hepatitis B virus full-length genomic mutations and quasispecies in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 31:1638-45. [PMID: 26905957 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.13316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2015] [Revised: 02/01/2016] [Accepted: 02/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Hepatitis B virus (HBV) full-length genomic mutations and quasispecies characteristics in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) were investigated. METHODS Hepatitis B virus DNA was extracted from the tumor and non-tumor tissues of 16 HCC patients. Overlapping DNA fragments covering the entire HBV genome were amplified and sequenced. To study HBV sequence at the quasispecies level, the preS region was amplified and clonally sequenced. HBV mutation profiles, quasispecies complexity and diversity, and phylogenetic characteristics were assessed. RESULTS Fourteen patients had full-length HBV amplification. Hot-spot mutations at HBx aa130-131 and pre-S deletions were detected in 13 (93%) and 6 (43%) patients, respectively. Deletions in the X/preC/C regions were more frequently detected in the tumor than in the non-tumor tissues (P = 0.031). Compared with the non-tumor tissues, the tumor tissues had a lower quasispecies complexity (P = 0.014 and 0.043, at the nucleotide and amino acid levels, respectively) and diversity (P = 0.048 and 0.022, at the nucleotide and amino acid levels, respectively). Phylogenetic analysis showed that HBV sequences derived from tumor and non-tumor tissues were separately clustered, suggesting the occurrence of compartmentalization, which was confirmed by the correlation coefficient testing on both the number and length of branches of viral populations (all P < 0.02). CONCLUSIONS Hepatitis B virus mutation patterns in HCC tumor tissues and non-tumor tissues were different. HBV quasispecies within the preS region were compartmentalized, and tumor tissues had a lower genome complexity and diversity. Our study suggests HBV evolution is conditioned by the differential host cellular environment in HCC tumors.
Collapse
|