Transjugular aspiration liver biopsy performed by hepatologists trained in HVPG measurements is safe and provides important diagnostic information

BACKGROUND

Transjugular liver biopsy (TJLB) represents an alternative to percutaneous liver biopsy especially in patients with impaired coagulation and ascites.

AIMS

To describe safety and diagnostic yield of aspiration TJLB performed by hepatologists experienced in hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) measurements.

METHODS

445 TJLB of 399 patients between 01/2007-12/2016 were retrospectively assessed.

RESULTS

Histological diagnosis was obtained in 423 (95.1%) biopsies - including 11 (100%) patients with acute liver failure and 34 (97.1%) patients after liver transplantation. A median number of 5 portal tracts (interquartile range:2-9) was obtained. HVPG negatively correlated with sample length (Spearman ρ = -0.310; p < 0.001) and number of portal tracts (ρ = -0.212; p < 0.001). Among n = 151 patients with unknown etiology of liver disease, etiology was successfully identified on liver histology in 126 patients (83.4%). Complications occurred in 28 biopsies (6.3%) including 25 (5.6%) minor and 3 (0.7%) major complications. No deaths due to TJLB were observed. Neither the presence of ascites (6.6% complications) nor of coagulopathy (platelets<50G/L and/or prothrombin time<50%; 4.8% complications) increased the risk for complications.

CONCLUSIONS

TJLB performed by hepatologists experienced in HVPG measurements is safe - even in patients with ascites or coagulopathy. TJLB has good diagnostic value for histological evaluation of liver disease and acute liver failure.

Programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1)-targeted immunotherapy in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: efficacy and safety data from an international multicentre real-world cohort

BACKGROUND

Programmed cell death protein-1-targeted immunotherapy has shown promising results in phase II studies of hepatocellular carcinoma.

AIM

To evaluate safety and efficacy of nivolumab and pembrolizumab in an international, multicentre, real-world cohort of patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma.

METHODS

Sixty-five patients treated with nivolumab (n = 34) or pembrolizumab (n = 31) between July 10, 2015 and December 31, 2018 (data cut-off) across six centres in Austria and Germany were retrospectively analysed.

RESULTS

Child-Pugh class A/B/C was 32 (49%)/28 (43%)/5 (8%). Immunotherapy was used as systemic first-/second-/third-/fourth-line treatment in 9 (14%)/27 (42%)/26 (40%)/3 (5%) patients. Fifty-four patients had at least one follow-up imaging and were, therefore, available for radiological response assessment. The overall response and disease control rates were 12% and 49% respectively. Of 52 evaluable patients, four (8%) had hyperprogressive disease. Median time to progression was 5.5 (95% CI, 3.5-7.4) months, median progression-free survival was 4.6 (95% CI, 3.0-6.2) months, and median overall survival was 11.0 (95% CI, 8.2-13.8) months. Most common adverse events were infections (n = 7), rash (n = 6), pruritus (n = 3), fatigue (n = 3), diarrhoea (n = 3) and hepatitis (n = 3). Efficacy and safety results were comparable between Child-Pugh A and B patients; however, median overall survival (OS) was shorter in Child-Pugh B patients (16.7 vs 8.6 months; P = 0.065). There was no difference in terms of efficacy and adverse events between patients who received immunotherapy as first-/second-line and third-/fourth-line respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Programmed cell death protein-1-targeted immunotherapy with nivolumab or pembrolizumab showed promising efficacy and safety in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma, including subjects with Child-Pugh stage B and patients with intensive pretreatment.

Association of Platelet Count and Mean Platelet Volume with Overall Survival in Patients with Cirrhosis and Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Platelets have been reported to influence tumor biology and may promote metastasis. Traditionally, thrombocytopenia, a hallmark of cirrhosis, was associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. However, the impact of platelet count on outcome in patients with established HCC is not well studied.

METHODS

Outcomes of patients with cirrhosis diagnosed with HCC between 1995 and 2013 (derivation cohort) and 2000-2016 (validation cohort) who were not eligible for surgical treatment and did not receive antiplatelet therapy were retrospectively studied. Thrombocytopenia was defined as platelet count < 150 g/L. High mean platelet volume (MPV) was defined as ≥median value of the respective cohort (derivation cohort: ≥11 fL; validation cohort: ≥10.6 fL).

RESULTS

Among 626 patients with unresectable HCC, thrombocytopenia was present in 378 (60.4%) and was associated with favorable baseline tumor characteristics: lower diameter of the largest nodule (5.6 ± 3.2 vs. 7.6 ± 4.2 cm), less extrahepatic spread (9.5 vs. 20.2%, both p < 0.001), less macrovascular invasion (21.2 vs. 31.0%, p = 0.005), and lower BCLC stages (63.0 vs. 73.4% BCLC C/D; p = 0.007) as compared to patients with normal platelet count. On univariate analysis, thrombocytopenia and larger MPV were associated with longer overall survival (OS) (thrombocytopenia: median OS [95% CI], 11.5 [9.3-13.8] vs. 5.5 [3.8-7.1] months; p = 0.001; MPV ≥11 fL: 11.7 [9.1-14.2] vs. 6.0 [4.4-7.6] months; p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, the combined variable of thrombocytopenia and larger MPV was independently associated with longer OS (HR [95% CI], 0.80 [0.65-0.98]; p = 0.029). These results were confirmed in an independent external validation cohort of 525 patients with cirrhosis and HCC. Again, patients with thrombocytopenia and high MPV had significantly longer OS (15.3 [11.7-18.9] vs. 9.3 [7.4-11.2] months; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Thrombocytopenia and higher MPV are associated with better outcome in patients with advanced HCC. These findings may prompt further clinical research on additive antiplatelet therapy in the prevention and management of HCC.

Prevalence and Predictors of Hepatic Steatosis in Patients with HIV/HCV Coinfection and the Impact of HCV Eradication

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-induced metabolic abnormalities and antiretroviral therapy (ART), genetic factors, most importantly the rs738409 C > G p.I148M variant in the patatin-like phospholipase domain containing 3 (PNPLA3)-gene, as well as hepatitis C virus (HCV) coinfection may all cause hepatic steatosis (HS). However, recent studies suggest a protective effect of HCV infection on HS. Thus, we evaluated HS prior and after HCV eradication in an HIV/HCV-coinfected cohort at the Medical University of Vienna between January 2014 and June 2017. Two hundred forty-seven patients underwent liver stiffness measurement and controlled attenuation parameter (CAP)-based steatosis assessment. A subcohort of 138 patients also had follow-up CAP measurement after HCV eradication by direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). A CAP value ≥248 dB/m defined HS and all CAP values were adapted to compensate for body mass index (BMI) and diabetes mellitus. Among all 247 HIV/HCV-coinfected patients, HS was prevalent in 31%, mean age was 43.3 years, 75% were male, the main ethnicity was Caucasian (96%), and mean BMI was 23.33 kg/m². Independent risk factors for HS were BMI, years exposed to HIV, PNPLA3 G-alleles, and protease inhibitor (PI) intake. Notably, a significant increase in CAP (from 225 ± 52.9 to 235 ± 50.7 dB/m; p = 0.047) was observed after HCV eradication, whereas patients on PI-containing ART experienced a significant decrease in CAP. Overall, one-third of HIV/HCV-coinfected patients are affected by HS with PI-based ART and PNPLA3 impacting on HS prevalence. While HCV eradication by DAAs increased HS, as assessed by CAP, future studies should account for metabolic syndrome and evaluate whether changes in CAP-based steatosis assessments correspond to a clinically relevant outcome.

High efficacy of interferon-free therapy for acute hepatitis C in HIV-positive patients

Background

The treatment of acute hepatitis C (AHC) with direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) is considered a cornerstone of hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination strategies, especially in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals at high risk of onward transmission.

Objective

Optimal treatment regimens and duration for AHC in HIV-coinfected patients remain to be established. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of DAA treatment regimens in the setting of AHC.

Methods

All HIV-positive patients with a diagnosis of AHC according to the European AIDS Treatment Network (NEAT) consensus attending our clinic after 2014 were included. DAA treatment regimens and duration were based on current recommendations for chronic hepatitis C (CHC) at treatment initiation.

Results

Thirty-eight HIV/AHC patients (median age 42.0 years), mostly men who have sex with men (92%), were started on interferon-free regimens. HCV-genotype (GT) was predominately GT-1a (65%). The following DAA regimens were prescribed: ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir/dasabuvir (42%; 16/38), glecaprevir/pibrentasvir (29%; 11/38), sofosbuvir/ledipasvir (13%; 5/38), ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir (5%; 2/38), grazoprevir/elbasvir (5%; 2/38) and sofosbuvir/velpatasvir (5%; 2/38). All HIV/AHC patients achieved sustained virologic response 12 weeks after end of treatment (SVR12) (100%; 38/38). DAA-related adverse events were rare.

Conclusion

Interferon-free DAA regimens (including 34% pan-genotypic regimens) yielded 100% SVR12 in HIV/AHC individuals if treatment durations similar to CHC are applied.

Ascitic fluid polymorphic nuclear cell count impacts on outcome of cirrhotic patients with ascites

Background

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is defined as an ascitic polymorphonuclear cell count (A-PMN) > 250 cells/µl.

Objective

We aimed to investigate the prognostic value of ascitic fluid cell counts in patients without SBP.

Patients and methods

A total of 178 patients were included and stratified by ascitic cell counts at index paracentesis: A-LEUK-low (<250/µl), A-LEUK-intermediate (250-500/µl) and A-LEUK-SBP (>500/µl) for leukocytes; A-PMN-low (<125/µl), A-PMN-intermediate (125-250/µl) and A-PMN-SBP (>250/µl) for PMN cells.

Results

One-year mortality was comparable between group A-LEUK-SBP (53.9%) and patients with subclinical cell counts (34.5% for A-LEUK-low, 43.5% for A-LEUK-intermediate, log-rank p = 0.547). However, we observed an increase in one-year mortality already in group A-PMN-intermediate with 75% and A-PMN-SBP with 80.9% (vs 40.5% for A-PMN-low, log-rank p = 0.016).Importantly, increases of A-PMN cell counts between two paracenteses were associated with increased mortality: per 100 cells/µl increase of absolute A-PMN cell count: hazard ratio (HR): 1.03 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01-1.06), p = 0.005; per 5% increase of relative PMN cell count: HR: 1.15 (95% CI: 1.06-1.26), p = 0.001.

Conclusion

Patients with PMN cell counts of 125-250/µl are at high risk for mortality, which was very similar to SBP patients with PMN cell counts >250/µl. This highlights the need for preventive strategies. The prognostic value of changes in relative ascitic PMN cell counts should be evaluated in future studies.

Treatment with metformin is associated with a prolonged survival in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most lethal cancers. Nutrition- and life style-associated risk factors are increasingly prevalent. Metformin, the mainstay of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)-treatment, reduces the risk of hepatocarcinogenesis. However, its influence on the prognosis of patients with HCC has not been investigated on a large scale, yet.

METHODS

Five thousand and ninety-three patients treated for HCC between 2000 and 2016 at three referral centres were included in this retrospective multicentre study. The aim of this study was to assess whether treatment with metformin for T2DM is associated with a prolonged overall survival (OS) in patients diagnosed with HCC.

RESULTS

Among 5093 patients with HCC, 1917 patients (37.6%) were diagnosed with T2DM, of which 338 (17.6%) received treatment with metformin. Compared to diabetic patients not treated with metformin, patients on metformin had a significantly better hepatic function (Child-Pugh-Score A: 69.2% vs 47.4%, P < 0.001) and underwent significantly more often tumour resection (22.1% vs 16.5%, P = 0.024). Patients on metformin had a significantly longer median OS (mOS) compared to diabetic patients not treated with metformin (22 vs 15 months, P = 0.019). The prolongation of survival was most significant in patients treated with surgery. Using a propensity score match (PSM), patients were adjusted for hepatic function and initial therapy. In the matched cohorts, mOS remained significantly longer in metformin-treated patients (22 vs 16 months, P = 0.021). Co-treatment of metformin and sorafenib was associated with a survival disadvantage.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with metformin was associated with an improved survival in patients with T2DM and HCC. This effect was most pronounced in patients at potentially curative tumour stages.

Short- and long-term effects of transarterial chemoembolization on portal hypertension in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma

Background

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) affects hepatic perfusion, and might have an impact on portal pressure in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Objective

The objective of this article is to report the secondary outcome “hepatic hemodynamics” from the AVATACE trial, a prospective randomized, placebo-controlled trial on the efficacy of conventional TACE in combination with bevacizumab or placebo.

Methods

Hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) was measured at baseline (prior to first TACE), within nine days (“acute effects”), two months (“intermediate effects”) and six months (“long-term effects”) after the first TACE.

Results

Of 28 patients with early-intermediate stage HCC, n = 20 (71%) had clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH, HVPG ≥ 10 mmHg) at baseline (median, 12 (interquartile range (IQR): 9–19) mmHg). TACE had neither “acute effects” nor “intermediate effects” on HVPG. However, in 13 patients with available HVPG measurement at month 6, there was a significant increase in HVPG (median, 16 (IQR: 11–19) mmHg) compared with baseline (median, 10 (IQR: 5–12) mmHg; p = 0.007). Portal hypertension-related complications occurred exclusively in patients with CSPH (8 (40%) vs 0).

Conclusions

Repeated TACE was associated with a significant long-term increase in HVPG. This should be considered when deciding whether to continue with TACE or switch to systemic treatment, since CSPH drives the development of complications.

Controlled attenuation parameter does not predict hepatic decompensation in patients with advanced chronic liver disease

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Assessment of hepatic steatosis by transient elastography (TE)-based controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) might predict hepatic decompensation. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of CAP in patients with compensated advanced chronic liver disease (cACLD) and decompensated cirrhosis (DC).

METHODS

A total of 430 patients who underwent TE (liver stiffness ≥10 kPa) and CAP measurements were included in this retrospective analysis. Half of patients (n = 189) underwent simultaneous HVPG measurement. In cACLD patients, first hepatic decompensation was defined by new onset of ascites, hepatic encephalopathy or variceal bleeding. In patients with DC, the following events were considered as further hepatic decompensation: requirement of paracentesis, admission for/development of grade 3/4 hepatic encephalopathy, variceal (re-)bleeding or liver-related death.

RESULTS

First hepatic decompensation occurred in 25 of 292 (9%) cACLD patients, while 46 of 138 (33%) DC patients developed further hepatic decompensation during a median follow-up of 22 and 12 months respectively. CAP was not predictive of first (cACLD; per 10 dB/m; hazard ratio [HR]: 0.97, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 0.91-1.03, P = 0.321) or further hepatic decompensation (DC; HR: 0.99, 95% CI: 0.94-1.03, P = 0.554) in adjusted analysis. Using the well-established CAP cut-off of ≥248 dB/m for hepatic steatosis, the incidence of first (cACLD; P = 0.065) and further hepatic decompensation (DC; P = 0.578) was similar in patients with hepatic steatosis or without. Serum albumin levels (per mg/dL; HR: 0.83, 95% CI: 0.77-0.89, P < 0.001) and MELD-Na (per point; HR: 1.15, 95% CI: 1.04-1.28, P = 0.006) in cACLD and MELD-Na (per point; HR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.05-1.19, P < 0.0001) in DC patients were the only parameters independently associated with first and further hepatic decompensation, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Controlled attenuation parameter does not predict the development of first (cACLD)/further (DC) hepatic decompensation, while serum albumin levels and MELD-Na are of prognostic value.

Point Shear Wave Elastography for Non-invasive Assessment of Liver Fibrosis in Patients with Viral Hepatitis

Elastography point quantification (ElastPQ) is a new ultrasound-based shear wave elastography method for non-invasive assessment of liver fibrosis. We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of ElastPQ in patients with chronic viral hepatitis. Fibrosis stage (F) was determined by transient elastography (F0/F1: <7.1 kPa, F2: 7.1-9.4 kPa, F3: 9.5-12.4 kPa, F4: ≥12.5 kPa). Area under the receiver operator characteristics curve (AUROC) analysis was performed to assess ElastPQ cutoffs for significant fibrosis (≥F2) and cirrhosis (F4). Paired transient elastography and ElastPQ measurements were obtained from 217 patients (mean age ± SEM: 49 ± 0.79 years, 68.2% male, F0/F1: n = 98 [45.0%], F2: 47 [21.6%], F3: 22 [10.1%], F4: 50 [22.9%]). AUROC for ≥F2 was 0.843 (95% confidence interval: 0.791-0.895), and for F4, 0.933 (95% confidence interval: 0.894-0.972). The optimal ElastPQ cutoff for F2 was 6.68 kPa (sensitivity: 80.7%, specificity: 70.4%, positive predictive value: 78.5%, negative predictive value: 72.3%), and for F4 11.28 kPa (sensitivity: 86.0%, specificity: 85.6%, positive predictive value: 60.52%, negative predictive value: 97.16%). In conclusion, ElastPQ represents an accurate tool for non-invasive staging of liver fibrosis in patients with viral hepatitis.

Association Between Grade of Acute on Chronic Liver Failure and Response to Terlipressin and Albumin in Patients With Hepatorenal Syndrome

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Type 1 hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) is the most high-risk type of renal failure in patients with cirrhosis. Terlipressin and albumin are effective treatments for type 1 HRS. However, the effects of acute on chronic liver failure (ACLF) grade on response to treatment are not clear. We aimed to identify factors associated with response to treatment with terlipressin and albumin in patients with type 1 HRS (reduction in serum level of creatinine to below 1.5 mg/dL at the end of treatment) and factors associated with death within 90 days of HRS diagnosis (90-day mortality).

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of 4 different cohorts of consecutive patients with HRS treated with terlipressin and albumin from February 2007 through January 2016 at medical centers in Europe (total, 298 patients). We analyzed demographic, clinical, and laboratory data collected before and during treatment; patients were followed until death, liver transplantation, or 90 days after HRS diagnosis.

RESULTS

Response to treatment was observed in 53% of patients. Of patients with grade 1 ACLF, 60% responded to treatment; among those with grade 2 ACLF, 48% responded, and among those with grade 3 ACLF, 29% responded (P < .001 for comparison between grades). In multivariate analysis, baseline serum level of creatinine (odds ratio, 0.23; P = .001) and ACLF grade (odds ratio, 0.63; P = .01) were independently associated with response to treatment. Patient age (hazard ratio [HR], 1.05; P < .001), white blood cell count (HR, 1.51; P = .006), ACLF grade (HR, 2.06; P < .001), and no response to treatment (HR, 0.41; P < .001) associated with 90-day mortality.

CONCLUSION

In a retrospective analysis of data from 4 cohorts of patients treated for type 1 HRS, we found ACLF grade to be the largest determinant of response to terlipressin and albumin. ACLF grade affects survival independently of response to treatment. New therapeutic strategies should be developed for patients with type 1 HRS and extrarenal organ failure.

Impact of patatin-like phospholipase domain containing 3 rs738409 G/G genotype on hepatic decompensation and mortality in patients with portal hypertension

BACKGROUND

The rs738409 C>G p.I148M variant in the patatin-like phospholipase domain containing 3 (PNPLA3)-gene promotes triglyceride accumulation in hepatocytes and hepatic stellate cell activation and has previously been linked to hepatic steatosis/liver fibrosis.

AIM

To investigate its impact on hepatic decompensation and (liver-related) mortality in patients who had already developed portal hypertension. Moreover, we assessed its link with hepatic steatosis as evaluated by controlled attenuation parameter.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis in prospectively characterised patients with viral hepatitis/fatty liver disease-induced portal hypertension (hepatic venous pressure gradient [HVPG] ≥ 6 mm Hg) diagnosed at the Medical University of Vienna who underwent HVPG measurement (until 2013; n = 372; longitudinal study) or simultaneous HVPG and controlled attenuation parameter measurement (2014-2017; n = 153; cross-sectional study).

RESULTS

While survival was similar between PNPLA3-C/C and -C/G patients, we observed substantially increased mortality in PNPLA3-G/G patients. PNPLA3-G/G had no impact on mortality in the subgroup of patients with viral hepatitis; however, we observed a strong independent association between PNPLA3-G/G and hepatic decompensation (adjusted subdistribution hazard ratio [aSHR]: 2.1, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.1-4; P = 0.024) as well as mortality (overall: aSHR: 2.2, 95% CI: 1.22-3.98; P = 0.009; liver-related: aSHR: 2.2, 95% CI: 1.08-4.46; P = 0.029) in patients with fatty liver disease. Interestingly, even in the subgroup of patients who had already progressed to clinically significant portal hypertension (HVPG ≥ 10 mm Hg), PNPLA3-G/G substantially increased mortality (aSHR: 2.33, 95% CI: 1.27-4.29; P = 0.006). PNPLA3-genotype had no influence on controlled attenuation parameter or the prevalence of values ≥248 dB/m.

CONCLUSION

PNPLA3-G/G-genotype seems to double the risks of hepatic decompensation and (liver-related) mortality in patients with portal hypertension due to fatty liver disease. Further studies are warranted to investigate potential underlying pathophysiological mechanisms unrelated to hepatic steatosis.

Anticoagulation in non-malignant portal vein thrombosis is safe and improves hepatic function

Background

Non-malignant portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is common in patients with advanced liver disease. Anticoagulation (AC) increases the chances of recanalization and may improve liver function in patients with cirrhosis.

Aim

We retrospectively assessed the course of non-malignant PVT in patients receiving AC.

Methods

Parameters related to hepatic injury (aspartate aminotransferase [AST]/alanine aminotransferase [ALT]), severity of disease (ascites) and synthesis function (albumin) as well as AC, rates of PVT regression/progression and AC-associated complications were documented.

Results

Among 122 patients with PVT, 51 patients with non-malignant PVT (27 incomplete, 24 complete) were included, 12 patients (25%) received long-term AC therapy (≥9 months) as compared to 36 patients without long-term AC. We observed a trend towards higher regression rates with long-term AC of 58% (vs. 28% without AC; p = 0.08) and lower progression rates of 25% (vs. 42% without AC; p = 0.15). In the subgroup of patients with decompensation prior to PVT diagnosis (n = 39), long-term AC (n = 10, 25.6%) resulted in a significantly higher rate of PVT regression/resolution (70% vs. 24%, p = 0.031). Interestingly, AST/ALT tended to decrease (−19%/−16%) and the proportion of patients with ascites became lower (−33%) with long-term AC (without AC: ±0%). Furthermore, there was a significant improvement in albumin levels (+9%/+3.6 g/dl) when compared to patients without long-term AC (−2%/−0.8 g/dl; p = 0.04). Additionally, 10 patients were treated with direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) for splanchnic vein thrombosis. Importantly, there were no AC-associated bleeding events in patients with conventional AC and one bleeding event in patients with DOAC treatment (10%).

Conclusion

Our findings support anticoagulation in patients with non-malignant PVT, since AC seems safe and associated with superior PVT regression rates and might also decrease hepatic injury and improve liver synthesis.

Betablockers do not increase efficacy of band ligation in primary prophylaxis but they improve survival in secondary prophylaxis of variceal bleeding

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic band ligation (EBL) is used for primary (PP) and secondary prophylaxis (SP) of variceal bleeding. Current guidelines recommend combined use of non-selective beta-blockers (NSBBs) and EBL for SP, while in PP either NSBB or EBL should be used.

AIM

To assess (re-)bleeding rates and mortality in cirrhotic patients receiving EBL for PP or SP for variceal bleeding.

METHODS

(Re-)bleeding rates and mortality were retrospectively assessed with and without concomitant NSBB therapy after first EBL in PP and SP.

RESULTS

Seven hundred and sixty-six patients with oesophageal varices underwent EBL from 01/2005 to 06/2015. Among the 284 patients undergoing EBL for PP, n = 101 (35.6%) received EBL only, while n = 180 (63.4%) received EBL + NSBBs. In 482 patients on SP, n = 163 (33.8%) received EBL only, while n = 299 (62%) received EBL + NSBBs. In PP, concomitant NSBB therapy neither decreased bleeding rates (log-rank: P = 0.353) nor mortality (log-rank: P = 0.497) as compared to EBL alone. In SP, similar re-bleeding rates were documented in EBL + NSBB vs EBL alone (log-rank: P = 0.247). However, EBL + NSBB resulted in a significantly lower mortality rate (log-rank: P<0.001). A decreased risk of death with EBL + NSBB in SP (hazard ratio, HR: 0.50; P<0.001) but not of rebleeding, transplantation or further decompensation was confirmed by competing risk analysis. Overall NSBB intake reduced 6-months mortality (HR: 0.53, P = 0.008) in SP, which was most pronounced in patients without severe/refractory ascites (HR: 0.37; P = 0.001) but not observed in patients with severe/refractory ascites (HR: 0.80; P = 0.567).

CONCLUSIONS

EBL alone seems sufficient for PP of variceal bleeding. In SP, the addition of NSBB to EBL was associated with an improved survival within the first 6 months after EBL.

Transferrin as a predictor of survival in cirrhosis

Patients with cirrhosis frequently present with high serum ferritin and low transferrin concentrations, reflecting impaired liver function and inflammation. Recent studies have shown that transferrin and its saturation with iron are Model for End-Stage Liver Disease-independent predictors of mortality in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure or decompensated cirrhosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic utility of serum iron parameters in relation to markers of liver function and immune activation. Clinical, demographic, and biochemical data were retrospectively analyzed from a cohort of 1255 consecutive patients with cirrhosis (age ≥ 18 years) who presented from August 1, 2004 until December 31, 2014 at the University Hospital of Innsbruck. Patients with malignancies at diagnosis including hepatocellular carcinoma were excluded. Survival analysis was carried out by Cox regression by using baseline laboratory parameters, and findings were validated in an independent patient cohort. During a median follow-up of 2.4 years, 193 deaths occurred and 254 patients underwent liver transplantation. In patients with transferrin < 180 mg/dL, 3-month, 1-year, and 5-year transplant-free survival estimates were significantly lower (91.7%, 79.0%, and 30.5%) when compared with the group of patients with transferrin ≥ 180 mg/dL (98.9%, 95.5%, and 68.0%, P < 0.001). Transferrin predicted transplant-free survival independently of Model for End-Stage Liver Disease-sodium (MELD-Na) and C-reactive protein (CRP) in multivariate regression analysis including all patients. When patients with alcoholic or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease were excluded, transferrin was in addition an albumin-independent predictor of transplant-free survival. In conclusion, the association of transferrin with transplant-free survival is independent of MELD-Na score and CRP. In patients without fatty liver disease, transferrin also predicts survival independently of albumin. Liver Transplantation 24 343-351 2018 AASLD.

Acid-base disorders in liver disease

Alongside the kidneys and lungs, the liver has been recognised as an important regulator of acid-base homeostasis. While respiratory alkalosis is the most common acid-base disorder in chronic liver disease, various complex metabolic acid-base disorders may occur with liver dysfunction. While the standard variables of acid-base equilibrium, such as pH and overall base excess, often fail to unmask the underlying cause of acid-base disorders, the physical-chemical acid-base model provides a more in-depth pathophysiological assessment for clinical judgement of acid-base disorders, in patients with liver diseases. Patients with stable chronic liver disease have several offsetting acidifying and alkalinising metabolic acid-base disorders. Hypoalbuminaemic alkalosis is counteracted by hyperchloraemic and dilutional acidosis, resulting in a normal overall base excess. When patients with liver cirrhosis become critically ill (e.g., because of sepsis or bleeding), this fragile equilibrium often tilts towards metabolic acidosis, which is attributed to lactic acidosis and acidosis due to a rise in unmeasured anions. Interestingly, even though patients with acute liver failure show significantly elevated lactate levels, often, no overt acid-base disorder can be found because of the offsetting hypoalbuminaemic alkalosis. In conclusion, patients with liver diseases may have multiple co-existing metabolic acid-base abnormalities. Thus, knowledge of the pathophysiological and diagnostic concepts of acid-base disturbances in patients with liver disease is critical for therapeutic decision making.

Non-selective beta-blocker treatment does not impact on kidney function in cirrhotic patients with varices

GOALS AND BACKGROUND

Non-selective beta-blockers (NSBBs) are used for bleeding prophylaxis in cirrhotic patients with gastroesophageal varices (GEVs). Recent data suggested that NSBB treatment might increase the risk of renal dysfunction in patients with refractory ascites due to an impaired response to acute haemodynamic stress.

STUDY

Retrospective longitudinal assessment of kidney function in a cohort of cirrhotic patients with GEVs with vs. without NSBB therapy. Serum creatinine (SCre), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI), new onset of large volume ascites and TIPS-/transplant-free survival were compared.

RESULTS

Among 176 patients, 93 patients received NSBBs, while 83 did not. Most patients were male (77.8%), had alcoholic aetiology (52.3%) and compensated cirrhosis (51.1% Child-A, MELD: 12.1 ± 3.8). Over a 3-year follow-up, renal function was comparable between patients with and without NSBB treatment. Incidence of AKI was similar in NSBB vs. no-NSBB patients (p = .323). Even in potential risk groups (ascites, MAP <90 mmHg, baseline creatinine > ULN, hyponatraemia, MELD score ≥15 points, Child-Pugh B/C), there was no difference in SCre or eGFR with vs. without NSBBs (p = n.s. at 74/78 and 76/78 of analysed time points). However, multivariate analysis revealed that the presence of ascites (HR: 3.901, 95%CI: 1.352-11.251; p = .012) and pre-existing renal impairment (HR: 4.315, 95%CI: 1.054-17.672; p = .042) were independent risk factors for AKI. Importantly, NSBB use (HR: 0.319, 95%CI: 0.120-0.848; p = .022) was independently associated with improved TIPS-/transplant-free survival.

CONCLUSIONS

In our cohort of unselected, mostly compensated cirrhotic patients with GEVs, NSBB treatment was neither associated with worsening of kidney function nor with increased incidence of AKI. On the contrary, NSBB treatment improved TIPS-/transplant-free survival.

Progress in eradication of HCV in HIV positive patients with significant liver fibrosis in Vienna

Aim

We aimed to investigate the efficacy of interferon and ribavirin-free sofosbuvir/ledipasvir (SOF/LDV) and ritonavir boosted paritaprevir/ombitasvir with or without dasabuvir (2D/3D) regimens in a real-life cohort of human immunodeficiency virus/hepatitis C virus (HIV/HCV) coinfected patients. The study focused on efficacy, need for changes in antiretroviral therapy (ART) due to drug-drug interaction (DDI), and treatment-associated changes in liver stiffness.

Methods

In this study 36 patients (n = 21 SOF/LDV and n = 15 2D/3D) were retrospectively analyzed. Depending on the genotype the following treatment regimens were used: HCV genotype (GT)-1: either SOF/LDV or 3D, no patient with HCV-GT2 was included, HCV-GT3: SOF/LDV, HCV-GT4: 2D.

Results

Approximately one third (35.3%) of patients were treatment-experienced and 13.9% had cirrhosis. Antiretroviral therapy had to be changed in 38.1% of SOF/LDV and 60% of 2D/3D patients prior to anti-HCV treatment due to expected DDIs. We observed sustained virologic response (SVR) rates of 100% in patients treated with SOF/LDV (19/19) and 2D/3D (14/14). One 2D/3D patient was lost to follow-up, while two SOF/LDV patients died during therapy from non-treatment-related causes. They were excluded from the analysis. Between baseline and follow-up liver stiffness decreased from 11.4 to 8.3 kPa (p = 0.008) and from 8.1 to 5.7 kPa (p = 0.001) in SOF/LDV and 2D/3D patients, respectively.

Conclusions

We confirmed the excellent HCV eradication rates >95% in a real-life cohort of HIV/HCV coinfected patients treated with SOF/LDV and 2D/3D. We observed no HCV relapse or breakthrough. More patients treated with 2D/3D required a change in ART than patients treated with SOF/LDV. Additionally, HCV eradication led to a rapid decline in liver stiffness.

Interferon-free regimens improve portal hypertension and histological necroinflammation in HIV/HCV patients with advanced liver disease

BACKGROUND

HIV/HCV co-infected patients show accelerated fibrosis progression and higher risk for complications of portal hypertension (PHT).

AIM

To assess the effects of interferon-free therapy on portal pressure, liver histology and plasma biomarkers in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients with PHT.

METHODS

Twenty-two patients with paired hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) measurements prior and after successful treatment (SVR) with interferon-free regimens were included. Liver stiffness was assessed by transient elastography and biopsies were scored according to METAVIR. Plasma biomarkers were determined by ELISA.

RESULTS

Overall, HVPG decreased from 10.7 ± 4.1 mmHg at baseline to 7.4 ± 4.2 mmHg after HCV treatment (Δ:-3.3 ± 2.7 mmHg; p < 0.001). In patients with clinically significant PHT (HVPG≥10 mmHg, n = 11), HVPG decreased from 14.1 ± 2.9 to 10.4 ± 3.9 mmHg (Δ:-3.7 ± 3.3 mmHg; p = 0.004) and a haemodynamic response (HVPG decrease ≥10%) was observed in 73%. In 64% of patients with subclinical PHT (HVPG 6-9 mmHg, n = 11), portal pressure normalised at SVR. Mean liver stiffness decreased from 20.8 kPa to 11.5 kPa (Δ:-8.8 ± 7.4 kPa; p < 0.001). Fifty percent (7/14) of patients with cirrhosis were re-classified as METAVIR ≤F3 and all patients with decompensated cirrhosis improved their Child-Pugh stage. After successful HCV treatment, 39% still had persistent histological necroinflammatory activity (METAVIR A1), which correlated with less HVPG response and more steatosis. While most biomarkers improved with SVR, METAVIR A1 patients had significantly higher plasma levels of fibrogenic (PDGF, TGF-β) and angiogenic (VEGF, Angiopoietin1) biomarkers.

CONCLUSIONS

Interferon-free therapy reduces PHT and halts histological necroinflammatory activity in the majority of HIV/HCV-coinfected patients after SVR, which may lead to re-compensation of liver function in cirrhosis. Biomarkers could identify patients with persisting hepatic necroinflammation.

Interferon-free regimens improve health-related quality of life and fatigue in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients with advanced liver disease: A retrospective study

Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is impaired in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients (HIV/HCV) and further decreased by interferon (IFN)-based therapies. We aimed to investigate the impact of IFN- and ribavirin (RBV)-free therapies on HRQoL and fatigue.Thirty-three HIV/HCV-coinfected patients who underwent HCV therapy with sofosbuvir in combination with daclatasvir or ledipasvir were retrospectively studied and compared to 17 patients who received boceprevir (BOC)/PEGIFN/RBV. HRQoL (mental [MCS] and physical [PCS] component score) and fatigue were assessed using the SF-36 (Short Form 36 Health Survey) and the FSS (Fatigue Severity Scale), respectively. HRQoL/fatigue was evaluated at baseline (BL), midway, and 12 weeks after the end of treatment (FU).At BL, both domains of HRQoL as well as the severity of fatigue were significantly impaired in HIV/HCV, when compared to a healthy population. Already during treatment, IFN/RBV-free therapy improved physical health (PCS: 41.4 ± 9.7 vs. 47.0 ± 11.2; P < 0.01) and reduced fatigue (37.8 ± 14.0 vs. 31.9 ± 15.2; P = 0.01), whereas we observed a substantial worsening of both factors in patients treated with BOC/PEGIFN/RBV. Since these improvements were maintained, patients treated with IFN/RBV-free therapy reported an improvement in physical health (PCS: 41.4 ± 9.7 vs. 45.8 ± 12.7; P < 0.01) and fatigue (37.8 ± 14.0 vs. 30.9 ± 14.8; P = 0.04) at FU. While AIDS-patients had a higher severity of fatigue at BL and showed a reduction of fatigue (42.5 ± 14.0 vs. 31.6 ± 15.7; P = 0.01), mental health only improved in patients without AIDS (MCS: 35.7 ± 5.3 vs.40.7 ± 6.4; P = 0.04). HIV/HCV with severe fatigue at BL (>median BL-FSS) showed most pronounced improvements in severity of fatigue (49.7 ± 7.0 vs. 32.0 ± 16.7; P < 0.01).In contrast to IFN-based regimens, highly effective and well-tolerated IFN-/RBV-free regimens improve HRQoL (especially physical health) and fatigue already during treatment. All patients with HIV/HCV coinfection should be considered for HCV treatment; however, patients with severe fatigue should be prioritized.

The Impact of PNPLA3 rs738409 SNP on Liver Fibrosis Progression, Portal Hypertension and Hepatic Steatosis in HIV/HCV Coinfection

BACKGROUND

Faster fibrosis progression and hepatic steatosis are hallmarks of HIV/HCV coinfection. A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of the PNPLA3-gene is associated with development of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and a worse outcome in alcoholic liver disease. However, the role of PNPLA3 rs738409 SNP on liver fibrosis and steatosis, portal hypertension, and virological response in HIV/HCV coinfection remains unclear.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study PNPLA3 (rs738409) and IL28B (rs12979860) SNPs were determined in 177 HIV/HCV coinfected patients. Liver fibrosis and steatosis-staged by liver biopsy and transient elastography using the Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP)-and portal hypertension (hepatic venous pressure gradient, HVPG) were compared across PNPLA3 genotypes.

RESULTS

75 (42.4%) patients tested positive for a PNPLA3 minor/major risk allele (G/C:66; G/G:9) showed comparable fibrosis stages (median F2 vs. F2; p = 0.292) and similar amounts of hepatic steatosis (CAP: 203.5 ± 41.9 vs. 215.5 ± 59.7 dB/m; p = 0.563) as compared to patients without a PNPLA3 risk allele. Advanced liver fibrosis was neither associated with PNPLA3 (p = 0.253) nor IL28B-genotype (p = 0.628), but with HCV-GT3 (p = 0.003), higher BMI (p = 0.008) and higher age (p = 0.007). Fibrosis progression rate (0.27 ± 0.41 vs. 0.20 ± 0.26 units/year; p = 0.984) and HVPG (3.9 ± 2.6 vs. 4.4 ± 3.0 mmHg; p = 0.472) were similar in patients with and without PNPLA3 risk alleles. SVR rates to PEGIFN/RBV therapy were similar across PNPLA3 genotypes.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of a PNPLA3 risk allele had no independent impact on liver disease or virological response rates to PEGIFN/RBV therapy in our cohort of HIV/HCV coinfected patients.