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Wang J, Xu J, Jiang N, Liu H, Li F, Wang B, Wang J, Chu Z, Tan L, Li S. Case report: A rare case of hereditary hemochromatosis caused by a mutation in the HAMP gene in Fuyang, China. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1417611. [PMID: 39005658 PMCID: PMC11239416 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1417611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Hemochromatosis, also known as siderosis, is a disease caused by excessive iron deposition in human organs and tissues, resulting from iron metabolism disorders. It is clinically characterized by skin pigmentation (bronze color), liver cirrhosis, diabetes, weakness, and fatigue. Additional symptoms may include arthritis, hypothyroidism, heart failure, and sexual hypofunction. Clinical manifestations can vary from person to person, with a few patients showing no clinical manifestations, which makes the diagnosis difficult for clinicians. In this case report, we described hereditary hemochromatosis related to a mutation in the HAMP gene in Fuyang City, China, as a reference for clinicians. Hereditary hemochromatosis is rarely reported in China. Clinicians in China have relatively insufficient knowledge of this disease, which leads to frequent misdiagnosis. In this case report, we describe hereditary hemochromatosis related to HAMP gene mutation in Fuyang City, China, for the clinician's reference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinling Wang
- Department of Hepatology, The Second People's Hospital of Fuyang City, Fuyang, Anhui, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Department of Hepatology, The Second People's Hospital of Fuyang City, Fuyang, Anhui, China
| | - Ning Jiang
- Department of Hepatology, The Second People's Hospital of Fuyang City, Fuyang, Anhui, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Department of Pathology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Fengcheng Li
- Department of Hepatology, The Second People's Hospital of Fuyang City, Fuyang, Anhui, China
| | - Beibei Wang
- Department of Hepatology, The Second People's Hospital of Fuyang City, Fuyang, Anhui, China
| | - Jin Wang
- Department of Hepatology, The Second People's Hospital of Fuyang City, Fuyang, Anhui, China
| | - Ziyu Chu
- Department of Hepatology, The Second People's Hospital of Fuyang City, Fuyang, Anhui, China
| | - Lin Tan
- Department of Hepatology, The Second People's Hospital of Fuyang City, Fuyang, Anhui, China
| | - Shasha Li
- Department of Hepatology, The Second People's Hospital of Fuyang City, Fuyang, Anhui, China
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Männistö VT, Hakkarainen K, Jula A, Lundqvist A, Vihervaara T, Erlund I, Åberg F. Serum ferritin level is associated with liver fibrosis and incident liver-related outcomes independent of HFE genotype in the general population. Scand J Gastroenterol 2024; 59:592-599. [PMID: 38329447 DOI: 10.1080/00365521.2024.2314707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hyperferritinemia reflects iron accumulation in the body and has been associated with metabolic disturbances and alcohol use, and is also a common finding in individuals diagnosed with liver disease. The major genetic regulator of iron metabolism is the HFE gene. METHODS The aim of this this study was to investigate the association between serum ferritin and liver fibrosis using the enhanced liver fibrosis (ELF) test, and the association between ferritin and liver-related outcomes in a Finnish population-based cohort of 6194 individuals (45% male, mean [± standard deviation] age, 52.9 ± 14.9 years; body mass index 26.9 ± 4.7 kg/m2). The effects of HFE variants on these associations were also evaluated. RESULTS Serum ferritin levels were significantly associated with liver fibrosis, as estimated by enhanced liver fibrosis (ELF) test in weighted linear regression analysis. Serum ferritin was significantly associated with both all liver-related outcomes (n = 92) and severe liver-related outcomes (n = 54) in weighted Cox regression analysis (hazard ratio [HR] per 1 SD, 1.11 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.02-1.21]; p = 0.012 and HR 1.11 [95% CI 1.02-1.21]; p = 0.013, respectively). However, there was association neither between HFE risk variants and ELF test nor between HFE risk variants and liver-related outcomes. CONCLUSION Serum ferritin levels were associated with liver fibrosis and incident liver disease, independent of HFE genotype in the general population. Furthermore, data demonstrated that metabolic disturbances and alcohol use were major risk factors for hyperferritinemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ville T Männistö
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Internal Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- Department of Medicine, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | | | - Antti Jula
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Finland
| | | | | | - Iris Erlund
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Finland
| | - Fredrik Åberg
- Transplantation and Liver Surgery Clinic, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Singal M, Mahmoud A, Phatak PD. Clinical characteristics of HFE C282Y/H63D compound heterozygotes identified in a specialty practice: key differences from HFE C282Y homozygotes. Expert Rev Hematol 2024; 17:145-152. [PMID: 38551816 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2024.2337950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with p.C282Y homozygous (p.C282Y) HFE mutations are more likely to develop hemochromatosis (HC) than p.C282Y/p.H63D compound heterozygotes (p.C282Y/H63D). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We conducted a retrospective chart review of 90 p.C282Y and 31 p.C282Y/H63D patients at a referral practice to illustrate the differences in the natural history of the disease in these two HC cohorts. RESULTS Over a median follow-up of 17 years, p.C282Y had higher mean serum ferritin (1105 mg/dL vs. 534 mg/dL, p = 0.001) and transferrin saturations (75.3% vs. 49.5%, p = 0.001) at diagnosis. p.C282Y underwent more therapeutic phlebotomies (TP) till de-ironing (mean 24 vs. 10), had higher mean mobilized iron stores (4759 mg vs. 1932 mg), and required more annual maintenance TP (1.9/year vs. 1.1/year, p = 0.039). p.C282Y/H63D were more likely to have obesity (45.2% vs. 20.2%, p = 0.007) at diagnosis, with a non-significant trend toward consuming more alcohol. There was no significant difference in the development of HC-related complications between the two cohorts. CONCLUSIONS p.C282Y have a higher mobilizable iron and require more TP. p.C282Y/H63D likely require additional insults such as obesity or alcohol use to develop elevated ferritin. De-ironing may mitigate the risk of developing HC-related complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mukul Singal
- Hematology and Oncology, Rochester General Hospital, Rochester, NY, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rochester General Hospital, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Amir Mahmoud
- Internal Medicine Residency Program, Rochester General Hospital, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Pradyumna Dinkar Phatak
- Hematology and Oncology, Rochester General Hospital, Rochester, NY, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rochester General Hospital, Rochester, NY, USA
- Internal Medicine Residency Program, Rochester General Hospital, Rochester, NY, USA
- Mary M Gooley Hemophilia Center, Rochester, NY, USA
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Schaefer B, Pammer LM, Pfeifer B, Neururer S, Troppmair MR, Panzer M, Wagner S, Pertler E, Gieger C, Kronenberg F, Lamina C, Tilg H, Zoller H. Penetrance, cancer incidence and survival in HFE haemochromatosis-A population-based cohort study. Liver Int 2024; 44:838-847. [PMID: 38263707 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Haemochromatosis is characterized by progressive iron overload affecting the liver and can cause cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Most haemochromatosis patients are homozygous for p.C282Y in HFE, but only a minority of individuals with this genotype will develop the disease. The aim was to assess the penetrance of iron overload, fibrosis, hepatocellular carcinoma and life expectancy. METHODS A total of 8839 individuals from the Austrian region of Tyrol were genotyped for the p.C282Y variant between 1997 and 2021. Demographic, laboratory parameters and causes of death were assessed from health records. Penetrance, survival, and cancer incidence were ascertained from diagnosed cases, insurance- and cancer registry data. Outcomes were compared with a propensity score-matched control population. RESULTS Median age at diagnosis in 542 p.C282Y homozygous individuals was 47.8 years (64% male). At genotyping, the prevalence of iron overload was 55%. The cumulative penetrance of haemochromatosis defined as the presence of provisional iron overload was 24.2% in males and 10.5% in females aged 60 years or younger. Among p.C282Y homozygotes of the same ages, the cumulative proportion of individuals without fibrosis (FIB-4 score < 1.3) was 92.8% in males and 96.7% in females. Median life expectancy was reduced by 6.8 years in individuals homozygous for p.C282Y when compared with population-matched controls (p = .001). Hepatocellular carcinoma incidence was not significantly higher in p.C282Y homozygotes than in controls matched for age and sex. CONCLUSION Reduced survival and the observed age-dependent increase in penetrance among p.C282Y homozygotes call for earlier diagnosis of haemochromatosis to prevent complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedikt Schaefer
- Department of Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Lorenz M Pammer
- Department of Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Bernhard Pfeifer
- Division for Digital Medicine and Telehealth, UMIT TIROL-Private University for Health Sciences and Health Technology, Hall (Tyrol), Austria
- Tyrolean Federal Institute for Integrated Care, Tirol Kliniken Gmbh, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Sabrina Neururer
- Division for Digital Medicine and Telehealth, UMIT TIROL-Private University for Health Sciences and Health Technology, Hall (Tyrol), Austria
- Tyrolean Federal Institute for Integrated Care, Tirol Kliniken Gmbh, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Maria R Troppmair
- Department of Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Marlene Panzer
- Department of Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Sonja Wagner
- Department of Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for Iron and Phosphate Biology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Elke Pertler
- Department of Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for Iron and Phosphate Biology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Christian Gieger
- Institute of Epidemiology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
- Research Unit of Molecular Epidemiology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Florian Kronenberg
- Institute of Genetic Epidemiology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Claudia Lamina
- Institute of Genetic Epidemiology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Herbert Tilg
- Department of Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Heinz Zoller
- Department of Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for Iron and Phosphate Biology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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Cooper KM, Delk M, Devuni D, Sarkar M. Sex differences in chronic liver disease and benign liver lesions. JHEP Rep 2023; 5:100870. [PMID: 37791378 PMCID: PMC10542645 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The epidemiology, natural history, and therapeutic responses of chronic liver diseases and liver lesions often vary by sex. In this review, we summarize available clinical and translational data on these aspects of the most common liver conditions encountered in clinical practice, including the potential contributions of sex hormones to the underlying pathophysiology of observed differences. We also highlight areas of notable knowledge gaps and discuss sex disparities in access to liver transplant and potential strategies to address these barriers. Given established sex differences in immune response, drug metabolism, and response to liver-related therapies, emerging clinical trials and epidemiological studies should prioritize dedicated analyses by sex to inform sex-specific approaches to liver-related care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine M. Cooper
- UMass Chan Medical School, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology/Hepatology, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Molly Delk
- University of California San Francisco, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology/Hepatology, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Deepika Devuni
- UMass Chan Medical School, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology/Hepatology, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Monika Sarkar
- University of California San Francisco, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology/Hepatology, San Francisco, CA, United States
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Savatt JM, Johns A, Schwartz MLB, McDonald WS, Salvati ZM, Oritz NM, Masnick M, Hatchell K, Hao J, Buchanan AH, Williams MS. Testing and Management of Iron Overload After Genetic Screening-Identified Hemochromatosis. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2338995. [PMID: 37870835 PMCID: PMC10594145 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.38995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance HFE gene-associated hereditary hemochromatosis type 1 (HH1) is underdiagnosed, resulting in missed opportunities for preventing morbidity and mortality. Objective To assess whether screening for p.Cys282Tyr homozygosity is associated with recognition and management of asymptomatic iron overload. Design, Setting, and Participants This cross-sectional study obtained data from the Geisinger MyCode Community Health Initiative, a biobank of biological samples and linked electronic health record data from a rural, integrated health care system. Participants included those who received a p.Cys282Tyr homozygous result via genomic screening (MyCode identified), had previously diagnosed HH1 (clinically identified), and those negative for p.Cys282Tyr homozygosity between 2017 and 2018. Data were analyzed from April 2020 to August 2023. Exposure Disclosure of a p.Cys282Tyr homozygous result. Main Outcomes and Measures Postdisclosure management and HFE-associated phenotypes in MyCode-identified participants were analyzed. Rates of HFE-associated phenotypes in MyCode-identified participants were compared with those of clinically identified participants. Relevant laboratory values and rates of laboratory iron overload among participants negative for p.Cys282Tyr homozygosity were compared with those of MyCode-identified participants. Results A total of 86 601 participants had available exome sequences at the time of analysis, of whom 52 994 (61.4%) were assigned female at birth, and the median (IQR) age was 62.0 (47.0-73.0) years. HFE p.Cys282Tyr homozygosity was disclosed to 201 participants, of whom 57 (28.4%) had a prior clinical HH1 diagnosis, leaving 144 participants who learned of their status through screening. There were 86 300 individuals negative for p.Cys282Tyr homozygosity. After result disclosure, among MyCode-identified participants, 99 (68.8%) had a recommended laboratory test and 36 (69.2%) with laboratory or liver biopsy evidence of iron overload began phlebotomy or chelation. Fifty-three (36.8%) had iron overload; rates of laboratory iron overload were higher in MyCode-identified participants than participants negative for p.Cys282Tyr homozygosity (females: 34.1% vs 2.1%, P < .001; males: 39.0% vs 2.9%, P < .001). Iron overload (females: 34.1% vs 79.3%, P < .001; males: 40.7% vs 67.9%, P = .02) and some liver-associated phenotypes were observed at lower frequencies in MyCode-identified participants compared with clinically identified individuals. Conclusions and Relevance Results of this cross-sectional study showed the ability of genomic screening to identify undiagnosed iron overload and encourage relevant management, suggesting the potential benefit of population screening for HFE p.Cys282Tyr homozygosity. Further studies are needed to examine the implications of genomic screening for health outcomes and cost-effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alicia Johns
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Geisinger, Danville, Pennsylvania
| | - Marci L. B. Schwartz
- Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, Cardiac Genome Clinic, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Clinical and Metabolic Genetics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Nicole M. Oritz
- Department of Genomic Health, Geisinger, Danville, Pennsylvania
| | - Max Masnick
- Department of Genomic Health, Geisinger, Danville, Pennsylvania
| | | | - Jing Hao
- Department of Genomic Health, Geisinger, Danville, Pennsylvania
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Geisinger, Danville, Pennsylvania
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Banfield LR, Knapp KM, Pilling LC, Melzer D, Atkins JL. Hemochromatosis Genetic Variants and Musculoskeletal Outcomes: 11.5-Year Follow-Up in the UK Biobank Cohort Study. JBMR Plus 2023; 7:e10794. [PMID: 37808392 PMCID: PMC10556271 DOI: 10.1002/jbm4.10794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The iron overload disorder hemochromatosis is primarily caused by the homozygous HFE p.C282Y variant, but the scale of excess related musculoskeletal morbidity is uncertain. We estimated hemochromatosis-genotype associations with clinically diagnosed musculoskeletal outcomes and joint replacement surgeries in the UK Biobank community cohort. A total of 451,143 European ancestry participants (40 to 70 years at baseline) were followed in hospital records (mean 11.5-years). Cox proportional hazards models estimated HFE p.C282Y and p.H63D associations with incident outcomes. Male p.C282Y homozygotes (n = 1294) had increased incidence of osteoarthritis (n = 52, hazard ratio [HR]: 2.12 [95% confidence interval, CI: 1.61 to 2.80]; p = 8.8 × 10-8), hip replacement (n = 88, HR: 1.84 [95% CI: 1.49 to 2.27]; p = 1.6 × 10-8), knee replacement (n = 61, HR: 1.54 [95% CI: 1.20 to 1.98]; p = 8.4 × 10-4), and ankle and shoulder replacement, compared to males with no HFE mutations. Cumulative incidence analysis, using Kaplan-Meier lifetable probabilities demonstrated 10.4% of male homozygotes were projected to develop osteoarthritis and 15.5% to have hip replacements by age 75, versus 5.0% and 8.7% respectively without mutations. Male p.C282Y homozygotes also had increased incidence of femoral fractures (n = 15, HR: 1.72 [95% CI: 1.03 to 2.87]; p = 0.04) and osteoporosis (n = 21, HR: 1.71 [95% CI: 1.11 to 2.64]; p = 0.02), although the latter association was limited to those with liver fibrosis/cirrhosis diagnoses. Female p.C282Y homozygotes had increased incidence of osteoarthritis only (n = 57, HR: 1.46, [95% CI: 1.12 to 1.89]; p = 0.01). Male p.C282Y/p.H63D compound heterozygotes experienced a modest increased risk of hip replacements (n = 234, HR: 1.17 [95% CI: 1.02 to 1.33], p = 0.02), but this did not pass multiple testing corrections. In this large community cohort, the p.C282Y homozygote genotype was associated with substantial excess musculoskeletal morbidity in males. Wider HFE genotype testing may be justified, including in orthopedic clinics serving higher HFE variant prevalence populations. © 2023 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy R Banfield
- The Department of Health and Care Professions, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences University of Exeter Exeter UK
| | - Karen M Knapp
- The Department of Health and Care Professions, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences University of Exeter Exeter UK
| | - Luke C Pilling
- Epidemiology and Public Health Group, The Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences University of Exeter Exeter UK
| | - David Melzer
- Epidemiology and Public Health Group, The Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences University of Exeter Exeter UK
| | - Janice L Atkins
- Epidemiology and Public Health Group, The Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences University of Exeter Exeter UK
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Wang Y, Deng B. Hepatocellular carcinoma: molecular mechanism, targeted therapy, and biomarkers. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2023; 42:629-652. [PMID: 36729264 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-023-10084-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignancy and one of the leading causes of cancer-related death. The biological process of HCC is complex, with multiple factors leading to the broken of the balance of inactivation and activation of tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes, the abnormal activation of molecular signaling pathways, the differentiation of HCC cells, and the regulation of angiogenesis. Due to the insidious onset of HCC, at the time of first diagnosis, less than 30% of HCC patients are candidates for radical treatment. Systematic antitumor therapy is the hope for the treatment of patients with middle-advanced HCC. Despite the emergence of new systemic therapies, survival rates for advanced HCC patients remain low. The complex pathogenesis of HCC has inspired researchers to explore a variety of biomolecular targeted therapeutics targeting specific targets. Correct understanding of the molecular mechanism of HCC occurrence is key to seeking effective targeted therapy. Research on biomarkers for HCC treatment is also advancing. Here, we explore the molecular mechanism that are associated with HCC development, summarize targeted therapies for HCC, and discuss potential biomarkers that may drive therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 Nanjing North Street, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Baocheng Deng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 Nanjing North Street, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning Province, China.
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9
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Cobilinschi CO, Săulescu I, Caraiola S, Nițu AF, Dumitru RL, Husar-Sburlan I, Bălănescu AR, Opriș-Belinski D. A "Mix and Match" in Hemochromatosis-A Case Report and Literature Focus on the Liver. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1586. [PMID: 37763705 PMCID: PMC10534457 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59091586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Hemochromatosis is a genetic disorder characterized by increased iron storage in various organs with progressive multisystemic damage. Despite the reports dating back to 1865, the diagnosis of hemochromatosis poses a challenge to clinicians due to its non-specific symptoms and indolent course causing significant delay in disease recognition. The key organ that is affected by iron overload is the liver, suffering from fibrosis, cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma, complications that can be prevented via early diagnosis and treatment. This review aims to draw attention to the pitfalls in diagnosing hemochromatosis. We present a case with multiorgan complaints, abnormal iron markers and a consistent genetic result. We then examine the relevant literature and discuss hemochromatosis subtypes and liver involvement, including transplant outcome and treatment options. In summary, hemochromatosis remains difficult to diagnose due to its symptom heterogeneity and rarity; thus, further education for practitioners of all disciplines is useful in facilitating its early recognition and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Oana Cobilinschi
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.O.C.); (I.S.); (S.C.); (A.R.B.); (D.O.-B.)
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Sfânta Maria Clinical Hospital Bucharest, 011172 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ioana Săulescu
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.O.C.); (I.S.); (S.C.); (A.R.B.); (D.O.-B.)
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Sfânta Maria Clinical Hospital Bucharest, 011172 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Simona Caraiola
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.O.C.); (I.S.); (S.C.); (A.R.B.); (D.O.-B.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, Colentina Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andra Florina Nițu
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, Sf Maria Clinical Hospital Bucharest, 011172 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Radu Lucian Dumitru
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.O.C.); (I.S.); (S.C.); (A.R.B.); (D.O.-B.)
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, Sf Maria Clinical Hospital Bucharest, 011172 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Ioana Husar-Sburlan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sf Maria Clinical Hospital Bucharest, 011172 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Andra Rodica Bălănescu
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.O.C.); (I.S.); (S.C.); (A.R.B.); (D.O.-B.)
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Sfânta Maria Clinical Hospital Bucharest, 011172 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daniela Opriș-Belinski
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.O.C.); (I.S.); (S.C.); (A.R.B.); (D.O.-B.)
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Sfânta Maria Clinical Hospital Bucharest, 011172 Bucharest, Romania
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10
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Adams PC, Jeffrey GP, Ryan J. Concerns about new proposals for haemochromatosis screening - Authors' reply. Lancet 2023; 402:692. [PMID: 37633668 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(23)01504-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Paul C Adams
- Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada.
| | - Gary P Jeffrey
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - John Ryan
- Royal College of Surgeons of Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
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Allameh A, Niayesh-Mehr R, Aliarab A, Sebastiani G, Pantopoulos K. Oxidative Stress in Liver Pathophysiology and Disease. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1653. [PMID: 37759956 PMCID: PMC10525124 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12091653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver is an organ that is particularly exposed to reactive oxygen species (ROS), which not only arise during metabolic functions but also during the biotransformation of xenobiotics. The disruption of redox balance causes oxidative stress, which affects liver function, modulates inflammatory pathways and contributes to disease. Thus, oxidative stress is implicated in acute liver injury and in the pathogenesis of prevalent infectious or metabolic chronic liver diseases such as viral hepatitis B or C, alcoholic fatty liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Moreover, oxidative stress plays a crucial role in liver disease progression to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Herein, we provide an overview on the effects of oxidative stress on liver pathophysiology and the mechanisms by which oxidative stress promotes liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdolamir Allameh
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 1411713116, Iran; (A.A.); (R.N.-M.); (A.A.)
| | - Reyhaneh Niayesh-Mehr
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 1411713116, Iran; (A.A.); (R.N.-M.); (A.A.)
| | - Azadeh Aliarab
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 1411713116, Iran; (A.A.); (R.N.-M.); (A.A.)
| | - Giada Sebastiani
- Chronic Viral Illness Services, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada;
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Kostas Pantopoulos
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada
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12
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Lin PC, Hsu WY, Lee PY, Hsu SH, Chiou SS. Insights into Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients with Thalassemia: From Pathophysiology to Novel Therapies. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12654. [PMID: 37628834 PMCID: PMC10454908 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Thalassemia is a heterogeneous congenital hemoglobinopathy common in the Mediterranean region, Middle East, Indian subcontinent, and Southeast Asia with increasing incidence in Northern Europe and North America due to immigration. Iron overloading is one of the major long-term complications in patients with thalassemia and can lead to organ damage and carcinogenesis. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies in both transfusion-dependent thalassemia (TDT) and non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia (NTDT). The incidence of HCC in patients with thalassemia has increased over time, as better chelation therapy confers a sufficiently long lifespan for the development of HCC. The mechanisms of iron-overloading-associated HCC development include the increased reactive oxygen species (ROS), inflammation cytokines, dysregulated hepcidin, and ferroportin metabolism. The treatment of HCC in patients with thalassemia was basically similar to those in general population. However, due to the younger age of HCC onset in thalassemia, regular surveillance for HCC development is mandatory in TDT and NTDT. Other supplemental therapies and experiences of novel treatments for HCC in the thalassemia population were also reviewed in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Chin Lin
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807378, Taiwan; (P.-C.L.); (W.-Y.H.); (P.-Y.L.)
- School of Post-Baccalaureate Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807378, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Yi Hsu
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807378, Taiwan; (P.-C.L.); (W.-Y.H.); (P.-Y.L.)
| | - Po-Yi Lee
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807378, Taiwan; (P.-C.L.); (W.-Y.H.); (P.-Y.L.)
| | - Shih-Hsien Hsu
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807378, Taiwan
- Center of Applied Genomics, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807378, Taiwan
| | - Shyh-Shin Chiou
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807378, Taiwan; (P.-C.L.); (W.-Y.H.); (P.-Y.L.)
- Center of Applied Genomics, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807378, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807378, Taiwan
- Division of Laboratory Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807378, Taiwan
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Abstract
Haemochromatosis is one of the most common genetic diseases affecting patients of northern European ancestry. It is overdiagnosed in patients without iron overload and is underdiagnosed in many patients. Early diagnosis by genetic testing and therapy by periodic phlebotomy can prevent the most serious complications, which include liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, and death. This Seminar includes an update on the origins of haemochromatosis; and an overview pathophysiology, genetics, natural history, signs and symptoms, differential diagnoses, treatment with phlebotomy, outcomes, and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul C Adams
- Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada.
| | - Gary Jeffrey
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - John Ryan
- Royal College of Surgeons of Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
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14
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Crawford DHG, Ramm GA, Bridle KR, Nicoll AJ, Delatycki MB, Olynyk JK. Clinical practice guidelines on hemochromatosis: Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver. Hepatol Int 2023; 17:522-541. [PMID: 37067673 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-023-10510-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Darrell H G Crawford
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Grant A Ramm
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Hepatic Fibrosis Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Kim R Bridle
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
- Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation, Brisbane, Australia.
| | - Amanda J Nicoll
- Department of Gastroenterology, Eastern Health, Box Hill, VIC, Australia
- Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Martin B Delatycki
- Bruce Lefroy Centre, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - John K Olynyk
- Department of Gastroenterology, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Murdoch, WA, Australia
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
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15
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Atkins JL, Lucas MR, Pilling LC, Melzer D. Letter to the editor regarding: "A haemochromatosis-causing HFE mutation is associated with SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility in the Czech population" clinica chimica acta 538 (2023) 211-215. Clin Chim Acta 2023; 542:117271. [PMID: 36921681 PMCID: PMC10009995 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2023.117271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Janice L Atkins
- Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter, UK.
| | - Mitchell R Lucas
- Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter, UK
| | - Luke C Pilling
- Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter, UK
| | - David Melzer
- Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter, UK
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16
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Natarajan Y, Patel P, Chu J, Yu X, Hernaez R, El-Serag H, Kanwal F. Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients with Various HFE Genotypes. Dig Dis Sci 2023; 68:312-322. [PMID: 35790703 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-022-07602-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Hereditary hemochromatosis (HH) is associated with increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, HCC risk factors within this population and across various HFE genotypes remain unclear. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients with ≥ 1 HFE genotype test in the Veterans Health Administration. We followed patients until HCC, death, or 6/30/19. We calculated incidence rates (IRs) and used Cox proportional hazards models to estimate HCC risk. In patients with type-1 HH genotypes (C282Y/C282Y or C282Y/H63D), we examined risk factors for HCC. RESULTS We identified 5225 patients: 260 were C282Y/C282Y; 227 were C282Y/H63D; 436 were H63D heterozygous; 535 had other HFE mutations; 3767 without mutation. IR for C282Y/C282Y homozygotes (5.59/1000 PYs) and C282Y/H63D compound heterozygotes (4.12/1000 PYs) were significantly higher than controls (0.92/1000 PYs) with adjusted hazard ratio (adj HR), 95% CI 8.80, 4.17-18.54; and 5.25, 2.24-12.32, respectively. HCC risk was higher in H63D heterozygote than controls (adj HR = 2.82, 95% CI 1.21-6.58); cases were related to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Among patients with HH, age ≥ 65 (adj HR = 2.2, 95% CI 0.47-10.27), diabetes (adj HR 3.74, 95% CI 1.25-11.20) and high baseline aspartate-aminotransferase to platelet ratio-index (APRI, adj HR = 3.91, 95% CI 1.29-11.89) had higher risk. Among patients with high baseline ferritin, persistent ferritin > 250 ng/mL had higher risk. CONCLUSION HCC risk was high in C282Y homozygous and C282Y/H63D patients. These HFE genotypes, older age, diabetes, high APRI/ferritin levels were associated with increased risk. While H63D heterozygous genotype was associated with HCC risk, this association might be due to metabolic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamini Natarajan
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
- Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
| | - Parth Patel
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA.
- Division of Gastroenterology, School of Medicine, Washington University, Saint Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Jinna Chu
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
| | - Xian Yu
- Clinical Epidemiology and Comparative Effectiveness Program, Section of Health Services Research (IQuESt), Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ruben Hernaez
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
- Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
- Clinical Epidemiology and Comparative Effectiveness Program, Section of Health Services Research (IQuESt), Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hashem El-Serag
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
- Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
- Clinical Epidemiology and Comparative Effectiveness Program, Section of Health Services Research (IQuESt), Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Texas Medical Center Digestive Disease Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Fasiha Kanwal
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
- Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
- Clinical Epidemiology and Comparative Effectiveness Program, Section of Health Services Research (IQuESt), Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Texas Medical Center Digestive Disease Center, Houston, TX, USA
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17
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18
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Affiliation(s)
- John K Olynyk
- From the Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fiona Stanley Fremantle Hospital Group, Murdoch, and the School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA (J.K.O.); and the Hepatic Fibrosis Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD (G.A.R.) - all in Australia
| | - Grant A Ramm
- From the Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fiona Stanley Fremantle Hospital Group, Murdoch, and the School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA (J.K.O.); and the Hepatic Fibrosis Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD (G.A.R.) - all in Australia
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19
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Fan P, Zhang S, Wang W, Yang Z, Tan W, Li S, Zhu C, Hu D, Zhou X, Tian Z, Wang Y, Liu F, Huang W, Chen L. The design and implementation of natural population cohort study Biobank: A multiple-center project cooperation with medical consortia in Southwest China. Front Public Health 2022; 10:996169. [PMID: 36530701 PMCID: PMC9751194 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.996169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The West China Hospital of Sichuan University collaborated with regional medical consortia in Sichuan Province to launch a natural population cohort study (NPCS) to investigate the health status of residents and collect public health data in southwest China. Methods Up to 80,000 participants will be enrolled by the NPCS from 11 regional medical consortia over five years. Individuals are invited to visit one of 11 participating medical consortia to fill out questionnaires, receive a free health exam, and donate biospecimens upon enrolment. All participating medical facilities adhered to standard operating procedures for collecting and processing biospecimens to ensure uniformity (serum, lithium heparinized plasma, ethylene diamine tetraacetie acid plasma, and buffy coat). The Electronic Data Capture System, Picture Archiving and Communication System, Laboratory Information Management System, Biospecimen Quality Control System, Biobank Information Management System, and will be used to sort and classify clinical indices, imaging data, laboratory parameters, pre-analytical variables, and biospecimen information, respectively. All quality assurance and quality control procedures in the NPCS biobank adhered to the "DAIDS Guidelines for Good Clinical Laboratory Practice Standards". This project will integrate high-dimensional multi-omics data, laboratory data, clinical data, questionnaire data, and environmental risk factors. Results An estimated 2,240,000 aliquots of the sample will be stored by the end of the study. These samples are linked with comprehensively collected clinical indices, imaging data, and laboratory parameters. Big data analysis can be implemented to create predictive algorithms, explore pathogenesis mechanisms, uncover potential biomarkers, and provide information on public health. Conclusions NPCS will provide an integrative approach to research risk factors and pathogenesis of major chronic or endemic diseases in Sichuan Province and provide key scientific evidence to support the formulation of health management policies in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Fan
- West China Biobanks and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shu Zhang
- West China Biobanks and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Weiya Wang
- Department of Pathology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zongze Yang
- West China Biobanks and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Weiwei Tan
- West China Biobanks and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shujun Li
- West China Biobanks and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chenxing Zhu
- Department of Clinical Research Management, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dan Hu
- Department of Clinical Research Management, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xinran Zhou
- West China Biobanks and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zixuan Tian
- West China Biobanks and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yaxi Wang
- West China Biobanks and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Fang Liu
- Department of Clinical Research Management, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wei Huang
- West China Biobanks and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,West China Centre of Excellence for Pancreatitis, Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,Institutes for Systems Genetics & Immunology and Inflammation, Frontiers Science Centre for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,*Correspondence: Wei Huang
| | - Lei Chen
- Department of Clinical Research Management, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,Lei Chen
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20
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Pilling LC, Atkins JL, Melzer D. Genetic modifiers of penetrance to liver endpoints in HFE hemochromatosis: Associations in a large community cohort. Hepatology 2022; 76:1735-1745. [PMID: 35567766 PMCID: PMC9796074 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The iron overload condition hereditary hemochromatosis (HH) can cause liver cirrhosis and cancer, diabetes, and arthritis. Males homozygous for the p.C282Y missense mutation in the Homeostatin Iron Regulator (HFE) gene have greatest risk; yet, only a minority develop these conditions. We aimed to determine whether common genetic variants influencing iron levels or liver disease risk in the general population also modify clinical penetrance in HFE p.C282Y and p.H63D carriers. METHODS We studied 1294 male and 1596 female UK Biobank HFE p.C282Y homozygous participants of European ancestry with medical records up to 14 years after baseline assessment. Polygenic scores quantified genetic effects of blood iron biomarkers and relevant diseases (identified in the general population). Analyses were also performed in other HFE p.C282Y/p.H63D genotype groups. RESULTS In male p.C282Y homozygotes, a higher iron polygenic score increased the risk of liver fibrosis or cirrhosis diagnoses (odds ratio for the top 20% of iron polygenic score vs. the bottom 20% = 4.90: 95% confidence intervals, 1.63-14.73; p = 0.005), liver cancer, and osteoarthritis but not diabetes. A liver cirrhosis polygenic score was associated with liver cancer diagnoses. In female p.C282Y homozygotes, the osteoarthritis polygenic score was associated with increased osteoarthritis diagnoses and type-2 diabetes polygenic score with diabetes. However, the iron polygenic score was not robustly associated with diagnoses in p.C282Y female homozygotes or in other p.C282Y/p.H63D genotypes. CONCLUSIONS HFE p.C282Y homozygote penetrance to clinical disease in a large community cohort was partly explained by common genetic variants that influence iron and risks of related diagnoses in the general population, including polygenic scores in HH screening and diagnosis, may help in estimating prognosis and treatment planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke C Pilling
- Epidemiology and Public Health GroupUniversity of ExeterExeterUK
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21
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Johnson M, Mortimore G. Genetic haemochromatosis: diagnosis and treatment of an iron overload disorder. Nurs Stand 2022; 37:77-82. [PMID: 36124694 DOI: 10.7748/ns.2022.e11896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Genetic haemochromatosis is a potentially serious iron overload disorder, yet there is a lack of awareness of the condition among the public and many healthcare professionals. In the UK, around one in 150 people have the genetic mutations that cause the condition, meaning that they are at increased risk of developing iron overload. If undiagnosed, prolonged iron overload can lead to liver, heart and endocrine failure and may be fatal; however, early diagnosis, treatment and maintenance can enable patients to have a normal lifespan. This article provides an overview of genetic haemochromatosis, including its types, origins, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, screening and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Johnson
- School of Health and Society Nursing, University of Salford, Salford, England
| | - Gerri Mortimore
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Derby, Derby, England
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22
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LR-3 and LR-4 Lesions Are More Likely to Be Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Transplant Patients with LR-5 or LR-TR Lesions. Dig Dis Sci 2022; 67:5345-5352. [PMID: 35257246 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-022-07428-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) classifies liver nodules from LR-1 to LR-5 based on risk for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It is challenging to know the nature of the LR-3 and LR-4 lesions. AIMS To test our hypothesis that in patients with a definite HCC (LR-5) or treated HCC (LR-TR), a coexisting LR-3 or LR-4 lesion is more likely to represent HCC compared to patients without LR-5 or LR-TR lesions. METHODS We conducted a retrospective study including all adult patients who received liver transplantation in our institution from 1/1/2014 to 3/3/2020 who had any LR-3 or LR-4 lesion on pre-transplant MRI. RESULTS Seventy-eight patients were included in the final cohort (115 LR-3 and LR-4 lesions total). When accompanied by LR-5 or LR-TR lesions, 41% (28/69) of LR-3 lesions were HCC compared to 12% (3/25) when not accompanied by LR-5 LR-TR lesions. When accompanied by LR-5 or LR-TR lesions, 83% (10/12) of LR-4 lesions were HCC, versus 33% (3/9) when not accompanied by LR-5 or LR-TR lesions. In a multivariable analysis of all lesions, the presence of a LR-5 or LR-TR lesion was significantly associated with LR-3 or LR-4 lesions representing HCC (OR 6.4, p = 0.01). CONCLUSION LR-3 and LR-4 lesions are more likely to be HCC in patients with LR-5 or LR-TR lesions. The presence of coexisting definite HCC may be a useful diagnostic feature to improve risk stratification of lesions without typical imaging features of HCC. This may also affect decision-making prior to liver transplant when HCC burden must be accurately determined.
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23
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Atkins JL, Pilling LC, Torti SV, Torti FM, Kuchel GA, Melzer D. Hereditary Hemochromatosis Variant Associations with Incident Nonliver Malignancies: 11-Year Follow-up in UK Biobank. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022; 31:1780-1787. [PMID: 35709753 PMCID: PMC9444929 DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.epi-22-0284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In European ancestry populations, iron overload disorder hereditary hemochromatosis is predominantly caused by HFE p.C282Y and p.H63D mutations. Male p.C282Y homozygotes have markedly increased hepatic malignancy incidence, but risks for other cancers in male and female homozygotes are unclear. METHODS 451,143 UK Biobank European ancestry participants (aged 40-70 years; 54.3% female) were followed (mean 11.6 years) via hospital admissions and national cancer registries. We estimated risks of any incident cancer (other than nonmelanoma and liver cancer) and common incident cancers [bladder, blood (with subanalyses of leukemia and lymphoma), bone, brain, breast, colorectal, kidney, lung, melanoma, esophageal, ovarian, pancreatic, prostate and stomach] in those with p.C282Y and p.H63D genotypes, compared with participants without HFE mutations. RESULTS Male p.C282Y homozygotes (n = 2,890, 12.1% with baseline diagnosed hereditary hemochromatosis) had increased incidence of prostate cancer [6.8% vs. 5.4% without mutations; HR = 1.32; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.07-1.63; P = 0.01; Bonferroni adjusted P = 0.17] during follow-up. In life table estimates from ages 40 to 75 years, 14.4% of male p.C282Y homozygotes are projected to develop prostate cancer (versus 10.7% without mutations, excess 3.8%; 95% CI, 1.3-6.8). No increases in risks were found for other studied cancers in male or female p.C282Y homozygotes, or in any other p.C282Y/p.H63D genotype groups of either sex. CONCLUSIONS In a large community sample of male p.C282Y homozygotes, there is suggestive evidence of increased prostate cancer incidence, with no evidence of excess of other studied (nonliver) cancers. IMPACT Replication of results in other large community genotyped cohorts are needed to confirm if clinical monitoring for prostate cancer is necessary in p.C282Y homozygous males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janice L Atkins
- Epidemiology and Public Health Group, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Luke C Pilling
- Epidemiology and Public Health Group, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Suzy V Torti
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - Frank M Torti
- Department of Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - George A Kuchel
- UConn Center on Aging, University of Connecticut, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - David Melzer
- Epidemiology and Public Health Group, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, United Kingdom
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24
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Zoller H, Schaefer B, Vanclooster A, Griffiths B, Bardou-Jacquet E, Corradini E, Porto G, Ryan J, Cornberg M. EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines on haemochromatosis. J Hepatol 2022; 77:479-502. [PMID: 35662478 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2022.03.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Haemochromatosis is characterised by elevated transferrin saturation (TSAT) and progressive iron loading that mainly affects the liver. Early diagnosis and treatment by phlebotomy can prevent cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, diabetes, arthropathy and other complications. In patients homozygous for p.Cys282Tyr in HFE, provisional iron overload based on serum iron parameters (TSAT >45% and ferritin >200 μg/L in females and TSAT >50% and ferritin >300 μg/L in males and postmenopausal women) is sufficient to diagnose haemochromatosis. In patients with high TSAT and elevated ferritin but other HFE genotypes, diagnosis requires the presence of hepatic iron overload on MRI or liver biopsy. The stage of liver fibrosis and other end-organ damage should be carefully assessed at diagnosis because they determine disease management. Patients with advanced fibrosis should be included in a screening programme for hepatocellular carcinoma. Treatment targets for phlebotomy are ferritin <50 μg/L during the induction phase and <100 μg/L during the maintenance phase.
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Barton JC, Barton JC, Patel N, McLaren GD. Abdominal pain and cirrhosis at diagnosis of hemochromatosis: Analysis of 219 referred probands with HFE p.C282Y homozygosity and a literature review. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0261690. [PMID: 34932603 PMCID: PMC8691644 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In hemochromatosis, causes of abdominal pain and its associations with cirrhosis are poorly understood. METHODS We retrospectively compared characteristics of referred hemochromatosis probands with HFE p.C282Y homozygosity with/without biopsy-proven cirrhosis: sex, age, diabetes, heavy alcohol consumption, abdominal pain/tenderness, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, chronic viral hepatitis, ascites, transferrin saturation (TS), serum ferritin (SF), and iron removed by phlebotomy (QFe). We performed logistic regression on cirrhosis using characteristics identified in univariate comparisons. We performed computerized and manual searches to identify hemochromatosis case series and compiled prevalence data on cirrhosis and abdominal pain and causes of abdominal pain. RESULTS Of 219 probands, 57.1% were men. Mean age was 48±13 y. In 22 probands with cirrhosis, proportions of men, mean age, prevalences of heavy alcohol consumption, abdominal pain, abdominal tenderness, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, and chronic viral hepatitis, and median TS, SF, and QFe were significantly greater than in probands without cirrhosis. Regression analysis revealed three associations with cirrhosis: abdominal pain (p = 0.0292; odds ratio 9.8 (95% CI: 1.2, 76.9)); chronic viral hepatitis (p = 0.0153; 11.5 (95% CI: 1.6, 83.3)); and QFe (p = 0.0009; 1.2 (95% CI: 1.1, 1.3)). Of eight probands with abdominal pain, five had cirrhosis and four had diabetes. One proband each with abdominal pain had heavy alcohol consumption, chronic viral hepatitis B, hepatic sarcoidosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and chronic cholecystitis, cholelithiasis, and sigmoid diverticulitis. Abdominal pain was alleviated after phlebotomy alone in four probands. In 12 previous reports (1935-2011), there was a negative correlation of cirrhosis prevalence and publication year (p = 0.0033). In 11 previous reports (1935-1996), a positive association of abdominal pain prevalence and publication year was not significant (p = 0.0802). CONCLUSIONS Abdominal pain, chronic viral hepatitis, and QFe are significantly associated with cirrhosis in referred hemochromatosis probands with HFE p.C282Y homozygosity. Iron-related and non-iron-related factors contribute to the occurrence of abdominal pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- James C. Barton
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
- Southern Iron Disorders Center, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - J. Clayborn Barton
- Southern Iron Disorders Center, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
| | - Neha Patel
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States of America
| | - Gordon D. McLaren
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States of America
- Department of Veterans Affairs Long Beach Healthcare System, Long Beach, CA, United States of America
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Tian T, Xiao F, Li H, Ding D, Dong W, Hou G, Zhao L, Yang Y, Yang Y, Zhou W. Association between serum iron status and primary liver cancer risk: a Mendelian randomization analysis. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:1533. [PMID: 34790739 PMCID: PMC8576647 DOI: 10.21037/atm-21-4608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Background Serum iron status has been reported as associated with primary liver cancer (PLC) risk. However, whether iron status plays a role in the development of PLC remains inconclusive. Methods Genetic summary statistics of the four biomarkers (serum iron, ferritin, transferrin saturation, and transferrin) of iron status and PLC were retrieved from two independent genome-wide association studies (GWAS) that had been performed in European populations. Two-sample univariate and multivariate Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses were conducted to determine the causal link between iron status and PLC risk. Results No significant horizontal pleiotropy was detected for the four biomarkers according to the Mendelian Randomization Pleiotropy RESidual Sum and Outlier (MR-PRESSO) global test. No evidence of between-single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) heterogeneity and directional pleiotropy was detected by the Cochran’s Q test and MR-Egger regression for serum iron, ferritin, and transferrin. For transferrin saturation, although no heterogeneity was detected, the directional pleiotropy was significant (P value for intercept of MR-Egger regression =0.033). Univariate MR estimates based on inverse variance weighting (IVW) method suggested that there was no causal link between serum iron [odds ratio (OR) =0.71, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.45 to 1.11], ferritin (OR =0.56, 95% CI: 0.16 to 2.04), and transferrin (OR =0.91, 95% CI: 0.72 to 1.15) and PLC risk. We found a significant causal relationship between transferrin saturation and PLC risk (OR =0.45, 95% CI: 0.22 to 0.90), although this link was non-significant in multivariate MR analysis. Conclusions There might be no causal relationship between iron status and PLC risk. However, data from larger sample size and people with different ethnic background were needed to further validate our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Tian
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Xiao
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongdong Li
- No. 960 Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Jinan, China
| | - Dongyang Ding
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Dong
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guojun Hou
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Linghao Zhao
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yun Yang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Yang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weiping Zhou
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
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Adams PC, Richard L, Weir M, Speechley M. Survival and development of health conditions after iron depletion therapy in C282Y-linked hemochromatosis patients. CANADIAN LIVER JOURNAL 2021; 4:381-390. [PMID: 35989887 PMCID: PMC9235120 DOI: 10.3138/canlivj-2021-0016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2021] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We report long-term survival and development of selected health conditions in Ontario-based referred and screened C282Y homozygotes for hemochromatosis treated by phlebotomy compared with an untreated control group known to be without HFE mutations. METHODS Patient characteristics and outcomes (all-cause mortality, liver cancer, diabetes, cirrhosis, hip or knee joint replacement, and osteoarthritis) were ascertained using a linked health administrative database held at ICES. Outcomes were assessed between groups without the outcome at baseline using Cox proportional hazards regression adjusted for age and sex. All C282Y homozygotes with elevated serum ferritin were treated by phlebotomy to reach serum ferritin of 50 µg/L. Our cohort included 527 C282Y homozygotes (311 men, 216 women, mean age 48 years) and 12,879 control participants (5,667 men and 7,212 women). RESULTS C282Y homozygotes had an increased risk of all-cause mortality (aHR 1.44 [1.19-1.75], p <0.001); hepatocellular carcinoma (aHR 8.30 [3.97-17.34], p <0.001); hip or knee joint replacement (aHR 3.06 [2.46-3.81], p <0.001); osteoarthritis (aHR 1.72 [1.47-2.01], p <0.001); and cirrhosis (aHR 3.87 [3.05-4.92], p <0.001). C282Y homozygotes did not have an increased risk for diagnosis of diabetes) (aHR 0.84 [0.67-1.07], p = 0.16) during follow-up (median 17.7 y). CONCLUSIONS C282Y homozygotes experience higher death and complication rates than individuals without HFE mutations, despite treatment by phlebotomy. Diabetes did not increase after phlebotomy therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul C Adams
- Department of Medicine, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Matthew Weir
- Department of Medicine, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- ICES Western, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark Speechley
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
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Abstract
Genomic information is poised to play an increasing role in clinical care, extending beyond highly penetrant genetic conditions to less penetrant genotypes and common disorders. But with this shift, the question of clinical utility becomes a major challenge. A collaborative effort is necessary to determine the information needed to evaluate different uses of genomic information and then acquire that information. Another challenge must also be addressed if that process is to provide equitable benefits: the lack of diversity of genomic data. Current genomic knowledge comes primarily from populations of European descent, which poses the risk that most of the human population will be shortchanged when health benefits of genomics emerge. These two challenges have defined my career as a geneticist and have taught me that solutions must start with dialogue across disciplinary and social divides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wylie Burke
- Department of Bioethics and Humanities, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA;
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Singh M, McKeen D. Supporting vulnerable physicians at high risk from COVID-19 during the pandemic: a call for action. Can J Anaesth 2021; 68:943-952. [PMID: 33709261 PMCID: PMC7951940 DOI: 10.1007/s12630-021-01956-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mandeep Singh
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Management, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada. .,Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Management, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, 399 Bathurst Street, McL 2-405, Toronto, ON, M5T 2S8, Canada. .,Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Dolores McKeen
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Anesthesia, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Department of Anesthesia, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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Kramer V, Papazova I, Thoma A, Kunz M, Falkai P, Schneider-Axmann T, Hierundar A, Wagner E, Hasan A. Subjective burden and perspectives of German healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2021; 271:271-281. [PMID: 32815019 PMCID: PMC7437642 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-020-01183-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Healthcare workers (HCW) face tremendous challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. Little is known about the subjective burden, views, and COVID-19 infection status of HCWs. The aim of this work was to evaluate the subjective burden, the perception of the information policies, and the agreement on structural measures in a large cohort of German HCW during the COVID-19 pandemic. This country-wide anonymous online survey was carried out from April 15th until May 1st, 2020. 25 content-related questions regarding the subjective burden and other dimensions were evaluated. We evaluated different dimensions of subjective burden, stress, and perspectives using 5-point Likert-scale questions. Moreover, the individual COVID-19 infection status, the amount of people infected in circle of friends and acquaintances and the hours working overtime were assessed. A total of 3669 HCWs provided sufficient responses for analyses. 2.8% of HCWs reported to have been tested positive for COVID-19. Nurses reported in principle higher ratings on all questions of subjective burden and stress than doctors and other hospital staff. Doctors (3.6%) and nurses (3.1%) were more likely to be tested positive for COVID-19 than other hospital staff (0.6%, Chi (2) 2 = 17.39, p < 0.0005). HCWs who worked in a COVID-19 environment reported higher levels of subjective burden and stress compared to all other participants. Working in a COVID-19 environment increased the likelihood to be tested positive for COVID-19 (4.8% vs. 2.3%, Chi (1) 2 = 12.62, p < 0.0005) and the severity of the subjective burden. During the COVID-19 pandemic, nurses experience more stress than doctors. Overall, German HCWs showed high scores of agreement with the measures taken by the hospitals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Kramer
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, University of Augsburg, BKH Augsburg, Dr.-Mack-Str. 1, 86156, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Irina Papazova
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LMU University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Andreas Thoma
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, University of Augsburg, BKH Augsburg, Dr.-Mack-Str. 1, 86156, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Miriam Kunz
- Department of Medical Psychology and Sociology, Medical Faculty, University of Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Peter Falkai
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LMU University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Anke Hierundar
- Department of Anaesthesiology, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Elias Wagner
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LMU University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Alkomiet Hasan
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, University of Augsburg, BKH Augsburg, Dr.-Mack-Str. 1, 86156, Augsburg, Germany.
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LMU University Hospital, Munich, Germany.
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Spadera L, Viola P, Pisani D, Scarpa A, Malanga D, Sorrentino G, Madini E, Laria C, Aragona T, Leopardi G, Maggiore G, Ciriolo M, Boccuto L, Pizzolato R, Abenavoli L, Cassandro C, Ralli M, Cassandro E, Chiarella G. Sudden olfactory loss as an early marker of COVID-19: a nationwide Italian survey. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2021; 278:247-255. [PMID: 32749606 PMCID: PMC7399588 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-020-06252-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The presence of many asymptomatic COVID-19 cases may increase the risks of disease dissemination, mainly for physicians. There are numerous reports on the frequent findings of sudden anosmia or hyposmia, before or at the same time of the typical COVID-19 symptoms onset. The aim of this study was to verify the association of olfactory impairment and COVID-19, providing a basis for subsequent research in the field of COVID-19 clinical heterogeneity. METHODS We developed a 15-item online questionnaire on "Sudden Olfactory Loss (SOL) and COVID-19" that was administered during March 2020 to Italian general practitioners registered to a social media group. RESULTS One hundred and eighty responses were received. SOL was identified as a significant sign of infection in COVID-19 patients, mainly aged between 30 and 40 years, even in the absence of other symptoms. SOL was present as an initial symptom in 46.7% of subjects, and in 16.7%, it was the only symptom. Among the COVID-19 confirmed cases, SOL occurred as the only symptom in 19.2% of patients. CONCLUSION SOL could represent a possible early symptom in otherwise asymptomatic COVID-19 subjects. Subjects affected by SOL should be considered as potential COVID-19 cases. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucrezia Spadera
- Otolaryngology, San Leonardo Hospital, Castellammare di Stabia, Naples, Italy
| | - Pasquale Viola
- Unit of Audiology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Regional Centre for Cochlear Implants and ENT Diseases, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Davide Pisani
- Unit of Audiology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Regional Centre for Cochlear Implants and ENT Diseases, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Alfonso Scarpa
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Donatella Malanga
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy
- Interdepartmental Center of Services (CIS), University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Gerardo Sorrentino
- Otolaryngology, San Leonardo Hospital, Castellammare di Stabia, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Carla Laria
- Unit of Audiology, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductives and Odontostomatologic Sciences, University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Marco Ciriolo
- Unit of Audiology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Regional Centre for Cochlear Implants and ENT Diseases, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Luigi Boccuto
- Greenwood Genetic Center, Greenwood, SC USA
- Clemson University, Clemson, SC USA
| | - Raffaella Pizzolato
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts, Medical School, Worcester, MA USA
| | - Ludovico Abenavoli
- Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | - Massimo Ralli
- Department of Sense Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Ettore Cassandro
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Chiarella
- Unit of Audiology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Regional Centre for Cochlear Implants and ENT Diseases, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy
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Pfenninger EG, Kaisers UX. [Provisioning of personal protective equipment in hospitals in preparation for a pandemic]. Anaesthesist 2020; 69:909-918. [PMID: 32936348 PMCID: PMC7493059 DOI: 10.1007/s00101-020-00843-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND At the beginning of the SARS-CoV‑2 outbreak, personal protective equipment (PPE) was scarce worldwide, leading to the treatment of patients partially without sufficient protection for the medical personnel. In order to be prepared for a new epidemic or pandemic or a "second wave" of COVID-19 outbreak and to meet a renewed deficiency of PPE, considerations were made on how personnel and patients can be better protected by appropriate provisioning. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to develop a tool to predict the necessary amount of PPE to be in stock at a transregional university hospital for a certain period of time during a pandemic. MATERIAL AND METHODS The consumption of PPE needed for every patient was calculated based on the following data of the Ulm University Hospital: the total consumption of healthcare workers' PPE for April 2020 recorded by the materials management department and the number of patients suffering from COVID-19 and their treatment days. From the amount of PPE necessary for every patient in the intensive care unit (ICU) or in an infection ward, a PPE calculator was created in which the estimated amount of PPE can be calculated with the input variables "patients in intensive care unit", "patients in infection ward" and "treatment days". To validate the PPE calculator, the actual consumption of PPE for May 2020 at the Ulm University hospital was compared to the theoretically calculated demand by the PPE calculator. RESULTS In April 2020 PPE consisting of 18 different items were kept in stock at Ulm University Hospital and in total 1,995,500 individual items were used. 22 intensive care patients with 257 nursing days and in the infection ward 39 patients with 357 nursing days were treated for COVID-19 disease, leading to a total of 603.2 man-days. A total of 34,550 KN95 masks, 1,558,780 gloves and 1100 goggles or protective visors were used, with a daily average of 49 NK95 masks and 2216 gloves required per ICU patient. In May 2020, 6 ICU patients and 19 patients in infection wards were treated for COVID-19 with 34 nursing days in intensive care and 201 nursing days in infection wards. The use of PPE material was 39% lower than in the previous month but in absolute terms 82% and on average 39% higher than calculated. CONCLUSION The developed tool allows our hospital to estimate the necessary amount of PPE to be kept in stock for future pandemics. By taking local conditions into account this tool can also be helpful for other hospitals.
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Affiliation(s)
- E G Pfenninger
- Stabsstelle Katastrophenschutz, Klinikum der Universität Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 29, 89081, Ulm, Deutschland.
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