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Malham M, Jansson S, Ingels H, Jørgensen MH, Rod NH, Wewer V, Fox MP. Paediatric-onset immune-mediated inflammatory disease is associated with an increased mortality risk-A nationwide study. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2024; 59:1551-1558. [PMID: 38597407 DOI: 10.1111/apt.17994] [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: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paediatric-onset immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (pIMID) show more aggressive phenotypes than when diagnosed in adults. However, data on mortality are often extrapolated from adult studies. AIM To estimate the effect of pIMID on mortality. METHODS In a population-based cohort study using the nationwide Danish healthcare registers, we included all patients diagnosed with pIMID in Denmark from 1980 to 2018. PIMID were defined as ICD codes indicative of autoimmune hepatitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, lupus erythematosus, or vasculitis registered before age 18 years. All-cause mortality was the primary outcome; cause-specific mortality was the secondary outcome. We used Cox survival analysis to estimate hazard ratios (HR), and Aalen survival analysis to estimate rate differences. RESULTS We included 11,581 individuals diagnosed with pIMID and 99,665 reference individuals, accounting for 1,371,994 person-years of follow-up. Median and interquartile (IQR) age at diagnosis was 12.6 (7.9-15.9) years. During follow-up, 152 patients with pIMID and 316 reference individuals died; adjusted HR (aHR) was 3.8 (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.1-4.7). This corresponded to 6.9 (95% CI: 5.3-8.5) additional deaths per 10,000 person-years. The strongest associations were found for gastrointestinal diseases (aHR 22.8; 95% CI 9.6-64.1), gastrointestinal cancers (aHR 19.2; 95% CI 5.0-74.2) and lymphoproliferative disorders (aHR 6.8; 95% CI 2.8-16.8). CONCLUSION Patients diagnosed with pIMID have a fourfold higher risk of mortality when followed into early adulthood compared with reference individuals. This underlines the severe disease course of pIMID and highlights the need for multidisciplinary care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikkel Malham
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescence Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital-Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Copenhagen Centre for Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Children, Adolescents, and Adults, Copenhagen University Hospital-Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Section of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Global Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sabine Jansson
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescence Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital-Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Copenhagen Centre for Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Children, Adolescents, and Adults, Copenhagen University Hospital-Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Helene Ingels
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescence Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marianne Hørby Jørgensen
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescence Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Naja Hulvej Rod
- Section of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Vibeke Wewer
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescence Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital-Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Copenhagen Centre for Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Children, Adolescents, and Adults, Copenhagen University Hospital-Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Matthew P Fox
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Global Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Yang H, Liu Q, Liu H, Kang X, Tian H, Kang Y, Li L, Yang X, Ren P, Kuang X, Wang X, Guo L, Tong M, Ma J, Fan W. Berberine alleviates concanavalin A-induced autoimmune hepatitis in mice by modulating the gut microbiota. Hepatol Commun 2024; 8:e0381. [PMID: 38466881 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000381] [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: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is an immune-mediated liver disease of unknown etiology accompanied by intestinal dysbiosis and a damaged intestinal barrier. Berberine (BBR) is a traditional antibacterial medicine that has a variety of pharmacological properties. It has been reported that BBR alleviates AIH, but relevant mechanisms remain to be fully explored. METHODS BBR was orally administered at doses of 100 mg⋅kg-1⋅d-1 for 7 days to mice before concanavalin A-induced AIH model establishment. Histopathological, immunohistochemical, immunofluorescence, western blotting, ELISA, 16S rRNA analysis, flow cytometry, real-time quantitative PCR, and fecal microbiota transplantation studies were performed to ascertain BBR effects and mechanisms in AIH mice. RESULTS We found that liver necrosis and apoptosis were decreased upon BBR administration; the levels of serum transaminase, serum lipopolysaccharide, liver proinflammatory factors TNF-α, interferon-γ, IL-1β, and IL-17A, and the proportion of Th17 cells in spleen cells were all reduced, while the anti-inflammatory factor IL-10 and regulatory T cell proportions were increased. Moreover, BBR treatment increased beneficial and reduced harmful bacteria in the gut. BBR also strengthened ileal barrier function by increasing the expression of the tight junction proteins zonula occludens-1 and occludin, thereby blocking lipopolysaccharide translocation, preventing lipopolysaccharide/toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/ NF-κB pathway activation, and inhibiting inflammatory factor production in the liver. Fecal microbiota transplantation from BBR to model mice also showed that BBR potentially alleviated AIH by altering the gut microbiota. CONCLUSIONS BBR alleviated concanavalin A-induced AIH by modulating the gut microbiota and related immune regulation. These results shed more light on potential BBR therapeutic strategies for AIH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Yang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Qingqing Liu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Haixia Liu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Xing Kang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Haixia Tian
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Yongbo Kang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, China
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, and Shanxi Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Taiyuan, China
| | - Lin Li
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, China
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, and Shanxi Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xiaodan Yang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Peng Ren
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Xiaoyu Kuang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, and Shanxi Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Taiyuan, China
- Laboratory of Morphology, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong 030619, China
| | - Linzhi Guo
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, and Shanxi Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Taiyuan, China
- Laboratory of Morphology, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong 030619, China
| | - Mingwei Tong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, China
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, and Shanxi Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jieqiong Ma
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, China
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, and Shanxi Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Taiyuan, China
| | - Weiping Fan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, China
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, and Shanxi Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Taiyuan, China
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3
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Plagiannakos CG, Hirschfield GM, Lytvyak E, Roberts SB, Ismail M, Gulamhusein AF, Selzner N, Qumosani KM, Worobetz L, Hercun J, Vincent C, Flemming JA, Swain MG, Cheung A, Chen T, Grbic D, Peltekain K, Mason AL, Montano-Loza AJ, Hansen BE. Treatment response and clinical event-free survival in autoimmune hepatitis: A Canadian multicentre cohort study. J Hepatol 2024:S0168-8278(24)00205-8. [PMID: 38527524 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2024.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Treatment outcomes for people living with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) are limited by a lack of specific therapies, as well as limited well-validated prognostic tools and clinical trial endpoints. We sought to identify predictors of outcome for people living with AIH. METHODS We evaluated the clinical course of people with AIH across 11 Canadian centres. Biochemical changes were analysed using linear mixed-effect and logistic regression. Clinical outcome was dynamically modelled using time-varying Cox proportional hazard modelling and landmark analysis. RESULTS In 691 patients (median age 49 years, 75.4% female), with a median follow-up of 6 years (25th-75th percentile, 2.5-11), 118 clinical events occurred. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) normalisation occurred in 63.8% of the cohort by 12 months. Older age at diagnosis (odd ratio [OR] 1.19, 95% CI 1.06-1.35) and female sex (OR 1.94, 95% CI 1.18-3.19) were associated with ALT normalisation at 6 months, whilst baseline cirrhosis status was associated with reduced chance of normalisation at 12 months (OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.33-0.82). Baseline total bilirubin, aminotransferases, and IgG values, as well as initial prednisone dose, did not predict average ALT reduction. At baseline, older age (hazard ratio [HR] 1.25, 95% CI 1.12-1.40), cirrhosis at diagnosis (HR 3.67, 95% CI 2.48-5.43), and elevated baseline total bilirubin (HR 1.36, 95% CI 1.17-1.58) increased the risk of clinical events. Prolonged elevations in ALT (HR 1.07, 95% CI 1.00-1.13) and aspartate aminotransferase (HR 1.13, 95% CI 1.06-1.21), but not IgG (HR 1.01, 95% CI 0.95-1.07), were associated with higher risk of clinical events. Higher ALT at 6 months was associated with worse clinical event-free survival. CONCLUSION In people living with AIH, sustained elevated aminotransferase values, but not IgG, are associated with poorer long-term outcomes. Biochemical response and long-term survival are not associated with starting prednisone dose. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS Using clinical data from multiple Canadian liver clinics treating autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), we evaluate treatment response and clinical outcomes. For the first time, we apply mixed-effect and time-varying survival statistical methods to rigorously examine treatment response and the impact of fluctuating liver biochemistry on clinical event-free survival. Key to the study impact, our data is 'real-world', represents a diverse population across Canada, and uses continuous measurements over follow-up. Our results challenge the role of IgG as a marker of treatment response and if normalisation of IgG should remain an important part of the definition of biochemical remission. Our analysis further highlights that baseline markers of disease severity may not prognosticate early treatment response. Additionally, the initial prednisone dose may be less relevant for achieving aminotransferase normalisation. This is important for patients and treating clinicians given the relevance and importance of side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gideon M Hirschfield
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Ellina Lytvyak
- Division of Preventive Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Surain B Roberts
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Marwa Ismail
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Aliya F Gulamhusein
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Nazia Selzner
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Lawrence Worobetz
- Department of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Julian Hercun
- Liver Unit, Department of Medicine, Centre Hospitalier De l'Université De Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Catherine Vincent
- Liver Unit, Department of Medicine, Centre Hospitalier De l'Université De Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | | | - Mark G Swain
- Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Angela Cheung
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Tianyan Chen
- Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Canada
| | | | - Kevork Peltekain
- Department of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Andrew L Mason
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Aldo J Montano-Loza
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Bettina E Hansen
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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Slooter CD, van den Brand FF, Lleo A, Colapietro F, Lenzi M, Muratori P, Kerkar N, Dalekos GN, Zachou K, Lucena MI, Robles-Díaz M, Di Zeo-Sánchez DE, Andrade RJ, Montano-Loza AJ, Lytvyak E, Lissenberg-Witte BI, Maisonneuve P, Bouma G, Macedo G, Liberal R, de Boer YS. Lack of complete biochemical response in autoimmune hepatitis leads to adverse outcome: First report of the IAIHG retrospective registry. Hepatology 2024; 79:538-550. [PMID: 37676683 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group retrospective registry (IAIHG-RR) is a web-based platform with subjects enrolled with a clinical diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). As prognostic factor studies with enough power are scarce, this study aimed to ascertain data quality and identify prognostic factors in the IAIHG-RR cohort. METHODS This retrospective, observational, multicenter study included all patients with a clinical diagnosis of AIH from the IAIHG-RR. The quality assessment consisted of external validation of completeness and consistency for 29 predefined variables. Cox regression was used to identify risk factors for liver-related death and liver transplantation (LT). RESULTS This analysis included 2559 patients across 7 countries. In 1700 patients, follow-up was available, with a completeness of individual data of 90% (range: 30-100). During a median follow-up period of 10 (range: 0-49) years, there were 229 deaths, of which 116 were liver-related, and 143 patients underwent LT. Non-White ethnicity (HR 4.1 95% CI: 2.3-7.1), cirrhosis (HR 3.5 95% CI: 2.3-5.5), variant syndrome with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) (HR 3.1 95% CI: 1.6-6.2), and lack of complete biochemical response within 6 months (HR 5.7 95% CI: 3.4-9.6) were independent prognostic factors. CONCLUSIONS The IAIHG-RR represents the world's largest AIH cohort with moderate-to-good data quality and a relevant number of liver-related events. The registry is a suitable platform for patient selection in future studies. Lack of complete biochemical response to treatment, non-White ethnicity, cirrhosis, and PSC-AIH were associated with liver-related death and LT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte D Slooter
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam UMC, AGEM Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Floris F van den Brand
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam UMC, AGEM Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ana Lleo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Colapietro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Lenzi
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Muratori
- Department of Sciences for the Quality of Life, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Nanda Kerkar
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Golisano Children's Hospital, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, USA
| | - George N Dalekos
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN-RARE LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Kalliopi Zachou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN-RARE LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - M Isabel Lucena
- Liver Unit, Gastroenterology Service and Department of Medicine, Vírgen de Victoria University Hospital, University of Málaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - Mercedes Robles-Díaz
- Liver Unit, Gastroenterology Service and Department of Medicine, Vírgen de Victoria University Hospital, University of Málaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - Daniel E Di Zeo-Sánchez
- Liver Unit, Gastroenterology Service and Department of Medicine, Vírgen de Victoria University Hospital, University of Málaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - Raúl J Andrade
- Liver Unit, Gastroenterology Service and Department of Medicine, Vírgen de Victoria University Hospital, University of Málaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - Aldo J Montano-Loza
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Ellina Lytvyak
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Birgit I Lissenberg-Witte
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Patrick Maisonneuve
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, IEO European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Gerd Bouma
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam UMC, AGEM Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Guilherme Macedo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Centro Hospitalar São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rodrigo Liberal
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Centro Hospitalar São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ynto S de Boer
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam UMC, AGEM Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Abstract
The goal of autoimmune hepatitis treatment is to achieve clinical and biochemical remission, which is associated with significantly improved outcomes. Induction treatment with corticosteroids and the subsequent addition of steroid-sparing therapy with gradual tapering of corticosteroids remains the standard of care. Several alternatives to azathioprine and second-line agents, such as mycophenolate mofetil, tacrolimus, cyclosporine, sirolimus, or rituximab, have been evaluated in those with intolerance or inadequate response to standard-of-care therapy. Treatment withdrawal is achievable in less than 20% of patients after 2 years of sustained remission. Liver transplantation should be considered in those with progressive liver disease or those with complications such as hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aparna Goel
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA 94043, USA.
| | - Paul Kwo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA 94043, USA
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Wang L, Hu YF, Yang AY, Du ZX, Liu HL, Zhu P, Li LQ, Zhong YD, Xu ZY, Wang SS, Yang YF. Development and validation of a noninvasive prediction model of autoimmune hepatitis in patients with liver diseases. Scand J Gastroenterol 2024; 59:62-69. [PMID: 37649307 DOI: 10.1080/00365521.2023.2249571] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS There is no golden standard for the diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis which still dependent on liver biopsy currently. So, we developed a noninvasive prediction model to help optimize the diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis. METHODS From January 2017 to December 2019, 1739 patients who had undergone liver biopsy were seen in the second hospital of Nanjing, of which 128 were here for consultation. Clinical, laboratory, and histologic data were obtained retrospectively. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to create a nomogram model that predicting the risk of autoimmune hepatitis. Internal and external validation was both performed to evaluate the model. RESULTS A total of 1288 patients with liver biopsy were enrolled (1184 from the second hospital of Nanjing, the remaining 104 from other centers). After the univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis, nine variables including ALT, IgG, ALP/AST, ALB, ANA, AMA, HBsAg, age, and gender were selected to establish the noninvasive prediction model. The nomogram model exhibits good prediction in diagnosing autoimmune hepatitis with AUROC of 0.967 (95% CI: 0.776-0.891) in internal validation and 0.835 (95% CI: 0.752-0.919) in external validation. CONCLUSIONS ALT, IgG, ALP/AST, ALB, ANA, AMA, HBsAg, age, and gender are predictive factors for the diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis in patients with unexplained liver diseases. The predictive nomogram model built by the nine predictors achieved good prediction for diagnosing autoimmune hepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wang
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- The Second Hospital of Nanjing, Teaching Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yi-Fan Hu
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - An-Yin Yang
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhi-Xiang Du
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | | | - Ping Zhu
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Li-Qiu Li
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan-Dan Zhong
- The Second Hospital of Nanjing, Teaching Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | | | | | - Yong-Feng Yang
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- The Second Hospital of Nanjing, Teaching Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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7
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D'Amato D, Carbone M. Prognostic models and autoimmune liver diseases. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol 2023; 67:101878. [PMID: 38103932 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpg.2023.101878] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune liver diseases (AILDs) are complex diseases with unknown causes and immune-mediated pathophysiology. In primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) disease modifying drugs are available which improve patient quality and quantity of life. In primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) no medical therapy is available and the only accepted treatment is liver transplantation (LT). PBC, PSC and AIH possess features that describe the archetype of patients within each disorder. On the other hand, the classical disorders are not homogeneous, and patients within each diagnosis may present with a range of clinical, biochemical, serological, and histological findings. Singularly, they are considered rare diseases, but together, they account for approximately 20% of LTs in Europe and USA. Management of these patients is complex, as AILDs are relatively uncommon in clinical practice with challenges in developing expertise, disease presentation can be sneaky, clinical phenotypes and disease course are heterogeneous. Prognostic models are key tools for clinicians to assess patients' risk and to provide personalized care to patients. Aim of this review is to discuss challenges of the management of AILDs and how the available prognostic models can help. We will discuss the prognostic models developed in AILDs, with a special focus on the prognostic models that can support the clinical management of patients with AILDs: in PBC models based on ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) response and markers of liver fibrosis; in PSC several markers including biochemistry, disease stage and radiological semiquantitative markers; and finally in AIH, markers of disease stage and disease activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daphne D'Amato
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
| | - Marco Carbone
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy.
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8
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Graf M, Lange CM, Langer MM, Schattenberg JM, Seessle J, Dietz J, Vermehren A, Michael FA, Mondorf A, Zeuzem S, Pathil A, Graf C. Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC)-Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH) Variant Syndrome: Clinical Features, Response to Therapy and Long-Term Outcome. J Clin Med 2023; 12:7047. [PMID: 38002661 PMCID: PMC10672247 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12227047] [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: 08/06/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Standardization of diagnostic criteria of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) variant syndrome (AIH-PBC VS) has not been achieved so far and evidence-based recommendations for monitoring and treatment of the disease are still lacking. Our study aimed to assess the prevalence, biochemical, and serological features, as well as the clinical course, of VS. METHODS We performed a retrospective study including all patients with VS between 1999 and 2020 in four German centers. Data on demographic parameters, biochemical and serological tests, treatment, and outcome were collected. RESULTS Of 90 patients (3.1%) meeting Paris criteria for VS diagnosis, 65.6% showed AIH and PBC histological features, while biochemical Paris criteria were observed comparatively rarely. Further antibodies, which were not part of the diagnostic criteria of VS, were found in a subgroup of patients with available data (ACA: 30.0%; anti-CENP-A: 25.0%; anti-CENP-B: 33.3%; anti-SP100: 21.4%). Biochemical response was more frequently observed in patients treated with a combined therapy of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and immunosuppression (IS). Liver cirrhosis was detected in 31 patients (34.4%) and 25 patients (27.8%) developed clinical manifestations of portal hypertension. CONCLUSIONS Biochemical Paris criteria of VS were rarely detected, thus implying that these cut-off values should be redefined. Regarding pharmacological treatment, combined therapy of UDCA and IS appeared to be more effective than monotherapy with UDCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Graf
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Frankfurt, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (M.G.); (J.D.); (A.V.); (F.A.M.); (A.M.); (S.Z.); (A.P.)
| | - Christian M. Lange
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; (C.M.L.); (M.M.L.)
| | - Mona M. Langer
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; (C.M.L.); (M.M.L.)
| | - Jörn M. Schattenberg
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Center Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany;
| | - Jessica Seessle
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
| | - Julia Dietz
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Frankfurt, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (M.G.); (J.D.); (A.V.); (F.A.M.); (A.M.); (S.Z.); (A.P.)
| | - Annika Vermehren
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Frankfurt, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (M.G.); (J.D.); (A.V.); (F.A.M.); (A.M.); (S.Z.); (A.P.)
| | - Florian A. Michael
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Frankfurt, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (M.G.); (J.D.); (A.V.); (F.A.M.); (A.M.); (S.Z.); (A.P.)
| | - Antonia Mondorf
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Frankfurt, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (M.G.); (J.D.); (A.V.); (F.A.M.); (A.M.); (S.Z.); (A.P.)
| | - Stefan Zeuzem
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Frankfurt, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (M.G.); (J.D.); (A.V.); (F.A.M.); (A.M.); (S.Z.); (A.P.)
| | - Anita Pathil
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Frankfurt, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (M.G.); (J.D.); (A.V.); (F.A.M.); (A.M.); (S.Z.); (A.P.)
| | - Christiana Graf
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Frankfurt, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (M.G.); (J.D.); (A.V.); (F.A.M.); (A.M.); (S.Z.); (A.P.)
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9
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Harrison L, Hoeroldt B, Dhaliwal H, Wadland E, Dube A, Gleeson D. Long-term Outcome of Autoimmune Hepatitis: Consecutive Patient Cohort and Data on the Second Twenty Years. Dig Liver Dis 2023; 55:1515-1520. [PMID: 37455155 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2023.06.014] [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: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mortality rates for autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) vary. Data are lacking beyond 20 years follow-up. AIMS Analysis of a consecutively recruited large AIH cohort from a single non-transplant tertiary centre in England and an overlapping cohort, already followed for ≥ 20 years. METHODS We assessed 330 patients presenting 1987-2016 and 65 patients presenting 1971-96 already followed for 20 years. RESULTS Death/liver transplant rate was 51±4% (all-cause) and 21±4% (liver-related) over 20 years and was independently associated with: decompensation and lower serum ALT at diagnosis; and failure of serum ALT normalisation and higher relapse rate. There was excess mortality over the first year. Patients (n = 65) already followed for twenty years had similar subsequent rates of relapse, disease progression and mortality, to those followed from diagnosis. Azathioprine-intolerant patients (n = 23) switching to Mycophenolate did not have higher mortality over 4(1-17) years, than patients continuing Azathioprine. Following immunosuppression withdrawal (n = 26), six (23% patients) relapsed with no liver-related deaths over 2.3(0-23.1) years. CONCLUSIONS In this consecutive autoimmune hepatitis cohort, mortality was similar to that in national registry studies, disease progression continued after 20 years, and immunosuppression withdrawal did not compromise survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Harrison
- Liver Unit, Northern General Hospital, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Herries Road, Sheffield, S5 7AU, United Kingdom; Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, The University of Sheffield, Medical School, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
| | - Barbara Hoeroldt
- Liver Unit, Northern General Hospital, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Herries Road, Sheffield, S5 7AU, United Kingdom
| | - Harpreet Dhaliwal
- Department of Hepatology, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Cobbett House, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL
| | - Elaine Wadland
- Liver Unit, Northern General Hospital, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Herries Road, Sheffield, S5 7AU, United Kingdom
| | - Asha Dube
- Liver Unit, Northern General Hospital, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Herries Road, Sheffield, S5 7AU, United Kingdom
| | - Dermot Gleeson
- Liver Unit, Northern General Hospital, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Herries Road, Sheffield, S5 7AU, United Kingdom
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10
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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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11
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Andrade RJ, Aithal GP, de Boer YS, Liberal R, Gerbes A, Regev A, Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli B, Schramm C, Kleiner DE, De Martin E, Kullak-Ublick GA, Stirnimann G, Devarbhavi H, Vierling JM, Manns MP, Sebode M, Londoño MC, Avigan M, Robles-Diaz M, García-Cortes M, Atallah E, Heneghan M, Chalasani N, Trivedi PJ, Hayashi PH, Taubert R, Fontana RJ, Weber S, Oo YH, Zen Y, Licata A, Lucena MI, Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D, Björnsson ES. Nomenclature, diagnosis and management of drug-induced autoimmune-like hepatitis (DI-ALH): An expert opinion meeting report. J Hepatol 2023; 79:853-866. [PMID: 37164270 PMCID: PMC10735171 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) can mimic almost all other liver disorders. A phenotype increasingly ascribed to drugs is autoimmune-like hepatitis (ALH). This article summarises the major topics discussed at a joint International Conference held between the Drug-Induced Liver Injury consortium and the International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group. DI-ALH is a liver injury with laboratory and/or histological features that may be indistinguishable from those of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). Previous studies have revealed that patients with DI-ALH and those with idiopathic AIH have very similar clinical, biochemical, immunological and histological features. Differentiating DI-ALH from AIH is important as patients with DI-ALH rarely require long-term immunosuppression and the condition often resolves spontaneously after withdrawal of the implicated drug, whereas patients with AIH mostly require long-term immunosuppression. Therefore, revision of the diagnosis on long-term follow-up may be necessary in some cases. More than 40 different drugs including nitrofurantoin, methyldopa, hydralazine, minocycline, infliximab, herbal and dietary supplements (such as Khat and Tinospora cordifolia) have been implicated in DI-ALH. Understanding of DI-ALH is limited by the lack of specific markers of the disease that could allow for a precise diagnosis, while there is similarly no single feature which is diagnostic of AIH. We propose a management algorithm for patients with liver injury and an autoimmune phenotype. There is an urgent need to prospectively evaluate patients with DI-ALH systematically to enable definitive characterisation of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raúl J Andrade
- Servicio Aparato Digestivo and Servicio de Farmacología Clínica, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA_Plataforma Bionand, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Guruprasad P Aithal
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, Translational Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Ynto S de Boer
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Rodrigo Liberal
- Gastroenterology Department, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | | | - Arie Regev
- Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | | | - Christoph Schramm
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf. Hamburg Center for Translational Immunology. Martin Zeitz Center for Rare Diseases, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - David E Kleiner
- Laboratory of Pathology, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Eleonora De Martin
- APHP, Hôpital Paul Brousse, Centre Hépato-Biliaire, INSERM Unit 1193, FHU Hepatinov, Villejuif, France
| | - Gerd A Kullak-Ublick
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Mechanistic Safety, Global Drug Development, Novartis, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Guido Stirnimann
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital University Hospital and University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Harshad Devarbhavi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, St. John's Medical College Hospital, Bangalore, India
| | - John M Vierling
- Departments of Medicine and Surgery, Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and Division of Abdominal Transplantation, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Michael P Manns
- Hannover Medical School, Centre of ERN RARE-LIVER, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marcial Sebode
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Maria Carlota Londoño
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain; Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Institut d' Investigacions Biomédiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mark Avigan
- Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Office of Surveillance and Epidemiology, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Mercedes Robles-Diaz
- Servicio Aparato Digestivo and Servicio de Farmacología Clínica, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA_Plataforma Bionand, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - Miren García-Cortes
- Servicio Aparato Digestivo and Servicio de Farmacología Clínica, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA_Plataforma Bionand, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - Edmond Atallah
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, Translational Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | | | - Naga Chalasani
- University School of Medicine & Indiana University Health, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Palak J Trivedi
- NIHR Birmingham BRC, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, Liver Unit, University Hospitals Birmingham National Health Service Foundation Trust Queen Elizabeth, Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Paul H Hayashi
- Division of Hepatology and Nutrition, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Richard Taubert
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), Hannover, Germany
| | - Robert J Fontana
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Sabine Weber
- Department of Medicine II, LMU Klinikum Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Ye Htun Oo
- Center for Liver and Gastro Research & National Institute of Health Research Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Birmingham, Centre for Rare Disease and ERN Rare Liver Centre, Liver Transplant and Hepatobiliary Unit, University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Yoh Zen
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London SE5 9RS, UK
| | - Anna Licata
- Medicina Interna ed Epatologia, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - M Isabel Lucena
- Servicio Aparato Digestivo and Servicio de Farmacología Clínica, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA_Plataforma Bionand, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain; Platform ISCiii for Clinical Research and Clinical Trials SCReN UICEC- IBIMA, Málaga, Spain.
| | - Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- MowatLabs, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Diego Vergani
- MowatLabs, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Einar S Björnsson
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Landspitali University Hospital, Reykjavik, Iceland
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12
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Ludz C, Stirnimann G, Semela D, Mertens J, Kremer AE, Filipowicz Sinnreich M, Sokollik C, Bernsmeier C, Bresson-Hadni S, McLin V, Rock N, Braegger C, Posovszky C, Müller P, Cremer M, De Gottardi A, Galante A, Furlano R, Righini-Grunder F, Becker B, Böhm S, Heyland K, Nydegger A, Limoni C, Vergani D, Mieli-Vergani G, Di Bartolomeo C, Cerny A, Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli B. Epidemiology, clinical features and management of autoimmune hepatitis in Switzerland: a retrospective and prospective cohort study. Swiss Med Wkly 2023; 153:40102. [PMID: 37769636 DOI: 10.57187/smw.2023.40102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The Swiss Autoimmune Hepatitis Cohort Study is a nationwide registry, initiated in 2017, that collects retrospective and prospective clinical data and biological samples from patients of all ages with autoimmune hepatitis treated at Swiss hepatology centres. Here, we report the analysis of the first 5 years of registry data. RESULTS A total of 291 patients with autoimmune hepatitis have been enrolled, 30 of whom were diagnosed before 18 years of age and composed the paediatric cohort. Paediatric cohort: median age at diagnosis 12.5 years (range 1-17, interquartile range (IQR) 8-15), 16 (53%) girls, 6 (32%) with type 2 autoimmune hepatitis, 8 (27%) with autoimmune sclerosing cholangitis, 1 with primary biliary cholangitis variant syndrome, 4 (15%) with inflammatory bowel disease and 10 (41%) with advanced liver fibrosis at diagnosis. Adult cohort: median age at diagnosis 54 years (range 42-64, IQR 18-81), 185 (71%) women, 51 (20%) with primary biliary cholangitis variant syndrome, 22 (8%) with primary sclerosing cholangitis variant syndrome, 9 (4%) with inflammatory bowel disease and 66 (32%) with advanced liver fibrosis at diagnosis. The median follow-up time for the entire cohort was 5.2 years (IQR 3-9.3 years). Treatment in children: 29 (97%) children were initially treated with corticosteroids, 28 of whom received combination treatment with azathioprine. Budesonide was used in four children, all in combination with azathioprine. Mycophenolate mofetil was used in five children, all of whom had previously received corticosteroids and thiopurine. Treatment in adults (data available for 228 patients): 219 (96%) were treated with corticosteroids, mostly in combination with azathioprine. Predniso(lo)ne was the corticosteroid used in three-quarters of patients; the other patients received budesonide. A total of 78 (33%) patients received mycophenolate mofetil, 62 of whom had previously been treated with azathioprine. Complete biochemical response was achieved in 13 of 19 (68%) children and 137 of 182 (75%) adults with available follow-up data. All children were alive at the last follow-up, and none had undergone liver transplantation. Five (2%) adults underwent liver transplantation, two of whom had a fulminant presentation. Four (2%) adults with autoimmune hepatitis died (two from liver-associated causes). CONCLUSION Patients with autoimmune hepatitis in Switzerland had clinical features similar to those in other cohorts. The proportion of patients diagnosed with primary biliary cholangitis variant syndrome was higher than expected. Autoimmune hepatitis was managed according to guidelines, except for the use of budesonide in a small proportion of paediatric patients. The outcomes were excellent, but the findings must be confirmed over a longer follow-up period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Ludz
- Facoltà di Scienze Biomediche, Università della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Guido Stirnimann
- Universitätsklinik für Viszerale Chirurgie und Medizin, Inselspital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - David Semela
- Klinik für Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Kantonsspital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | | | - Andreas E Kremer
- Klinik für Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Universitätsspital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Magdalena Filipowicz Sinnreich
- Clinic for Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medizinische Universitätsklinik, Kantonsspital Baselland, Liestal, Switzerland
| | - Christiane Sokollik
- Departement Pädiatrische Gastroenterologie, Hepatologie und Ernährung, Kinderklinik Inselspital Bern, Bern Switzerland
| | - Christine Bernsmeier
- Gastroenterologie/Hepatologie, Universitäres Bauchzentrum Basel Clarunis, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Solange Bresson-Hadni
- Service de Gastroentérologie and Hépatologie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Valérie McLin
- Département de l'Enfant et de l'Adolescent, Centre Suisse des Maladies du Foie de l'Enfant, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Nathalie Rock
- Département de l'Enfant et de l'Adolescent, Centre Suisse des Maladies du Foie de l'Enfant, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Christian Braegger
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Carsten Posovszky
- Nutrition Research Unit, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Müller
- Departement pädiatrische Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Ostschweizer Kinderspital, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Cremer
- Departement für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Kantonsspital Graubünden, Chur, Switzerland
| | - Andrea De Gottardi
- Servizio di Gastroenterologia, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale Ospedale Regionale di Lugano, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Antonio Galante
- Servizio di Gastroenterologia, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale Ospedale Regionale di Lugano, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Raoul Furlano
- University Children's Hospital Basel, Paediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Franziska Righini-Grunder
- Departement pädiatrische Gastroenterologie, Luzerner Kantonsspital/Kinderspital, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Björn Becker
- Departement Innere Medizin, Klinik für Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Kantonsspital Winterthur, Winterthur, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Böhm
- Departement Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Klinik Innere Medizin, Spital Bülach, Bülach, Switzerland
| | - Klaas Heyland
- Departement Kindergastroenterologie, Kantonsspital Winterthur, Winterthur, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Nydegger
- Département femme-mère-enfant, Centre hospitalier universitaire Vaudois, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Costanzo Limoni
- University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Diego Vergani
- MowatLabs, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- MowatLabs, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | | | | | - Benedetta Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli
- Facoltà di Scienze Biomediche, Università della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland
- MowatLabs, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, King's College Hospital, London, UK
- Epatocentro Ticino, Lugano, Switzerland
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13
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Nastasio S, Mosca A, Alterio T, Sciveres M, Maggiore G. Juvenile Autoimmune Hepatitis: Recent Advances in Diagnosis, Management and Long-Term Outcome. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2753. [PMID: 37685291 PMCID: PMC10486972 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13172753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Juvenile autoimmune hepatitis (JAIH) is severe immune-mediated necro-inflammatory disease of the liver with spontaneous progression to cirrhosis and liver failure if left untreated. The diagnosis is based on the combination of clinical, laboratory and histological findings. Prothrombin ratio is a useful prognostic factor to identify patients who will most likely require a liver transplant by adolescence or early adulthood. JAIH treatment consists of immune suppression and should be started promptly at diagnosis to halt inflammatory liver damage and ultimately prevent fibrosis and progression to end-stage liver disease. The risk of relapse is high especially in the setting of poor treatment compliance. Recent evidence however suggests that treatment discontinuation is possible after a prolonged period of normal aminotransferase activity without the need for liver biopsy prior to withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Nastasio
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - Antonella Mosca
- Hepatogastroenterology, Rehabilitative Nutrition, Digestive Endoscopy and Liver Transplant Unit, ERN RARE LIVER, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (A.M.); (T.A.)
| | - Tommaso Alterio
- Hepatogastroenterology, Rehabilitative Nutrition, Digestive Endoscopy and Liver Transplant Unit, ERN RARE LIVER, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (A.M.); (T.A.)
| | - Marco Sciveres
- Pediatric Department and Transplantation, ISMETT, 90133 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Maggiore
- Hepatogastroenterology, Rehabilitative Nutrition, Digestive Endoscopy and Liver Transplant Unit, ERN RARE LIVER, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (A.M.); (T.A.)
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14
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Buechter M, Dorn D, Möhlendick B, Siffert W, Baba HA, Gerken G, Kahraman A. Characteristics and Long-Term Outcome of 535 Patients with Autoimmune Hepatitis-The 20-Year Experience of a High-Volume Tertiary Center. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4192. [PMID: 37445225 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12134192] [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: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and aims: Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a complex and progressive inflammatory liver disease characterized by immune-mediated destruction of the liver parenchyma, hypergammaglobulinemia, the presence of circulating autoantibodies, and good response to immunosuppressive therapy. Since the prevalence of AIH is relatively rare, data on the clinical course and the long-term outcome are scarce. Patients and methods: We retrospectively analyzed the data of 535 well-documented AIH patients treated at the University Hospital Essen between 2000 and 2020. Results: The majority of patients were middle-aged females (75% women, mean age 45 years) with AIH type 1 (97%). Approximately 32% of patients were diagnosed with cirrhosis due to AIH, 29% had concomitant autoimmune (predominantly autoimmune thyroiditis), and 10% had psychiatric diseases, respectively. Skin tumors were the most common malignant diseases (47% of all tumors), while hepatocellular carcinoma rarely occurred (only six cases). Overall long-term mortality and liver-associated mortality were 9.16% and 4.67%, respectively. However, long-term survival was strongly associated with disease remission. Conclusions: Although AIH is a silent disease and cirrhosis is present in many cases, a favorable long-term prognosis can be achieved by consequent immunosuppressive therapy. The incidence of (liver-associated) complications seems to be lower in comparison to other etiologies, such as viral hepatitis or NASH, and mainly depends on the long-term side effects of immunosuppressive therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Buechter
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Clinic of Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45122 Essen, Germany
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Elisabeth Hospital, 58638 Iserlohn, Germany
| | - Dominik Dorn
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Clinic of Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45122 Essen, Germany
| | - Birte Möhlendick
- Institute of Pharmacogenetics, University Clinic of Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45122 Essen, Germany
| | - Winfried Siffert
- Institute of Pharmacogenetics, University Clinic of Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45122 Essen, Germany
| | - Hideo A Baba
- Institute of Pathology, University Clinic of Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45122 Essen, Germany
| | - Guido Gerken
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Clinic of Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45122 Essen, Germany
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Helios Clinic, 42549 Velbert, Germany
| | - Alisan Kahraman
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Clinic of Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45122 Essen, Germany
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Max Grundig Clinic, 77815 Bühl, Germany
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15
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Weltzsch JP, Ziegler A, Lohse A. [Autoimmune hepatitis : From autoantibodies to cirrhosis]. INNERE MEDIZIN (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2023:10.1007/s00108-023-01519-9. [PMID: 37306752 DOI: 10.1007/s00108-023-01519-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH) is an immune-mediated liver disease of unknown origin. Its clinical presentation is heterogeneous and ranges from asymptomatic courses over several years to acute forms with acute liver failure. Accordingly, the diagnosis is only made at the stage of cirrhosis in about one third of affected individuals. Early diagnosis and a consistent, adequate, individualized, immunosuppressive therapy are crucial for the prognosis, which is excellent when treated properly. AIH is rare in the general population and can be easily overlooked due to its variable clinical picture and sometimes difficult diagnosis. AIH should be considered as a differential diagnosis in any unclear acute or chronic hepatopathy. The therapy initially consists of remission induction and subsequently maintenance therapy with (often lifelong) immunosuppressants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Philipp Weltzsch
- I. Med. Klinik und Poliklinik, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Deutschland.
| | - Annerose Ziegler
- I. Med. Klinik und Poliklinik, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Deutschland
| | - Ansgar Lohse
- I. Med. Klinik und Poliklinik, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Deutschland
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Maggiore G, Bernard O, Mosca A, Ballot E, Johanet C, Jacquemin E. Long-term outcomes of patients with type 1 or 2 autoimmune hepatitis presenting in childhood. J Hepatol 2023; 78:979-988. [PMID: 36708813 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.01.013] [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: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS In children with autoimmune hepatitis, uncertainties include outcomes associated with type 2 hepatitis, the possibility of and criteria for attempting withdrawal of treatment, and long-term outcomes. We report our experience on these issues. METHODS From 1973 to 2002, 117 children with type 1 (n = 65) or type 2 (n = 52) hepatitis, excluding fulminant hepatitis, were treated, primarily with prednisone and azathioprine. Median follow-up was 20 years in survivors. RESULTS Normalisation of aminotransferases and prothrombin ratio were observed in 93% and 84% of children, respectively; sustained remission after treatment withdrawal was recorded in 24% of the entire population, with a median follow-up of 7 years. Sustained treatment-free remission was obtained in 11 of 24 children with follow-ups of 4-22 years based on durable normalisation of aminotransferases (without histological assessment). Gastrointestinal bleeding from varices and the emergence of extrahepatic autoimmune disorders occurred in 10 and 22 patients, respectively. Liver transplantation was performed in 23 patients at a median age of 21 years. The 30-year probabilities of overall and native liver survival were 81% and 61%, respectively. No differences were observed between type 1 and 2 hepatitis for any of the component parts of outcome. In the multivariate analysis, a persistent abnormal prothrombin ratio was associated with worse probabilities of overall and native liver survival. CONCLUSIONS In terms of liver outcome, type 2 hepatitis is not different from type 1. Withdrawal of treatment is possible without prior liver histology. A persistent abnormal prothrombin ratio identifies patients who will require liver transplantation in adolescence or early adulthood. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS In children with autoimmune hepatitis, there are conflicting reports on the differences in outcome between type 1 and type 2 hepatitis, and on the possibility of treatment withdrawal, before which liver histology is required; data concerning >10-year overall and native liver survival rates are limited. In this study, we found no differences in outcomes between type 1 and 2 hepatitis; a durable treatment-free state was achieved in 19% of all patients throughout childhood and early adulthood, and in 45% of children for whom treatment withdrawal was attempted without prior liver histology; prothrombin was found to be predictive of 30-year overall and native liver survival. The results allow for a less-strict approach to treatment withdrawal in children, avoiding the risks of a liver biopsy, and they provide a tool to help anticipate the need for liver transplantation before complications occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Maggiore
- Hepatogastroenterology, Rehabilitative Nutrition, Digestive Endoscopy and Liver Transplant Unit, ERN RARE LIVER, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
| | - Olivier Bernard
- Paediatric Hepatology and Liver Transplantation Unit, National Reference Centre for Inflammatory Biliary Diseases and Autoimmune Hepatitis, FILFOIE, ERN RARE LIVER, Bicetre Hospital, APHP, University Paris-Saclay, Le Kremlin-Bicetre, France
| | - Antonella Mosca
- Hepatogastroenterology, Rehabilitative Nutrition, Digestive Endoscopy and Liver Transplant Unit, ERN RARE LIVER, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Eric Ballot
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity, Department of Immunology, St Antoine Hospital, APHP, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | - Catherine Johanet
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity, Department of Immunology, St Antoine Hospital, APHP, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | - Emmanuel Jacquemin
- Paediatric Hepatology and Liver Transplantation Unit, National Reference Centre for Inflammatory Biliary Diseases and Autoimmune Hepatitis, FILFOIE, ERN RARE LIVER, Bicetre Hospital, APHP, University Paris-Saclay, Le Kremlin-Bicetre, France; Inserm U1193, Hepatinov, University Paris-Saclay, Orsay, France
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17
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Genetic Variants Determine Treatment Response in Autoimmune Hepatitis. J Pers Med 2023; 13:jpm13030540. [PMID: 36983720 PMCID: PMC10052918 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13030540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a rare entity; in addition, single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) may impact its course and outcome. We investigated liver-related SNPs regarding its activity, as well as in relation to its stage and treatment response in a Central European AIH cohort. Methods: A total of 113 AIH patients (i.e., 30 male/83 female, median 57.9 years) were identified. In 81, genotyping of PNPLA3-rs738409, MBOAT7-rs626238, TM6SF2-rs58542926, and HSD17B13-rs72613567:TA, as well as both biochemical and clinical data at baseline and follow-up, were available. Results: The median time of follow-up was 2.8 years; five patients died and one underwent liver transplantation. The PNPLA3-G/G homozygosity was linked to a worse treatment response when compared to wildtype [wt] (ALT 1.7 vs. 0.6 × ULN, p < 0.001). The MBOAT7-C/C homozygosity was linked to non-response vs. wt and heterozygosity (p = 0.022). Male gender was associated with non-response (OR 14.5, p = 0.012) and a higher prevalence of PNPLA3 (G/G vs. C/G vs. wt 41.9/40.0/15.0% males, p = 0.03). The MBOAT7 wt was linked to less histological fibrosis (p = 0.008), while no effects for other SNPs were noted. A polygenic risk score was utilized comprising all the SNPs and correlated with the treatment response (p = 0.04). Conclusions: Our data suggest that genetic risk variants impact the treatment response of AIH in a gene-dosage-dependent manner. Furthermore, MBOAT7 and PNPLA3 mediated most of the observed effects, the latter explaining, in part, the predisposition of male subjects to worse treatment responses.
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18
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Gerussi A, Halliday N, Carbone M, Invernizzi P, Thorburn D. Open challenges in the management of autoimmune hepatitis. Minerva Gastroenterol (Torino) 2023; 69:61-83. [PMID: 33267568 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-5895.20.02805-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a rare autoimmune disease of the liver with many open questions as regards its etiopathogenesis, natural history and clinical management. The classical picture of AIH is chronic hepatitis with fluctuating elevation of serum transaminases and Immunoglobulin G levels, the presence of circulating autoantibodies and typical histological features. However, atypical presentations do occur and are not well captured by current diagnostic scores, with important consequences in terms of missed diagnoses and delayed treatments. AIH is treated with corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs but up to 40% of patients do not achieve full biochemical response and are at risk of progressing to cirrhosis and liver failure. Moreover, standard therapies are associated by significant side-effects which may impair the quality of life of patients living with AIH. However, advances in the understanding of the underlying immunology of AIH is raising the prospect of novel therapies and optimization of existing therapeutic approaches to reduce side-effect burdens and potentially restore immunological tolerance. In this review we outlined the clinical characteristics, etiopathogenesis and management of AIH and current challenges in the diagnosis and management of AIH and provided evidence underlying the evolution of diagnostic and clinical management protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Gerussi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Monza-Brianza, Italy - .,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Monza-Brianza, Italy - .,Ancient DNA Lab Dan David Center for Human Evolution and Biohistory Research, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel -
| | - Neil Halliday
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Marco Carbone
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Monza-Brianza, Italy.,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Monza-Brianza, Italy
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Monza-Brianza, Italy.,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Monza-Brianza, Italy
| | - Douglas Thorburn
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
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19
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Dalekos GN, Gatselis NK. Autoimmune serology testing in clinical practice: An updated roadmap for the diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis. Eur J Intern Med 2023; 108:9-17. [PMID: 36400668 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2022.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is in most cases challenging for clinicians as there is not a single specific laboratory or histological marker to diagnose or exclude the presence of the disease. The clinical spectrum of AIH varies from completely asymptomatic to acute-severe or even rarely fulminant hepatic failure, while everybody can be affected irrespective of age, gender, and ethnicity. The old revised and the newer simplified diagnostic scores have been established by the International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group (IAIHG) in 1999 and 2008, respectively, which are based on several clinical, laboratory and histological parameters. Additionally, a thorough differential diagnosis from other diseases mimicking AIH is absolutely indicated. In this context, autoantibodies detection in patients with suspected AIH is mandatory -even though not pathognomonic- not only for AIH diagnosis but furthermore, for AIH classification (AIH-type 1 and AIH-type 2). Although autoimmune serology can be supportive of AIH diagnosis in ≥95% of cases if testing has been performed according to the IAIHG guidelines, this is not the case under real-life circumstances in routine clinical laboratories. Clinicians should be careful both for the importance of the required testing and how to interpret the results and therefore, they should communicate and discuss with the laboratory personnel to achieve the maximum benefit for the patient. Herein, a detailed and updated review of the diagnostic work-up for AIH diagnosis under real-life conditions is given to minimize the underestimation and misdiagnosis of AIH which can result in progression of the disease and unfavourable outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- George N Dalekos
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece.
| | - Nikolaos K Gatselis
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
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20
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Littera R, Perra A, Miglianti M, Piras IS, Mocci S, Lai S, Melis M, Zolfino T, Balestrieri C, Conti M, Serra G, Figorilli F, Firinu D, Onali S, Matta L, Porcu C, Pes F, Fanni D, Manieli C, Vacca M, Cusano R, Trucas M, Cipri S, Tranquilli S, Rassu S, Cannas F, Carta MG, Kowalik MA, Giuressi E, Faa G, Chessa L, Giglio S. The double-sided of human leukocyte antigen-G molecules in type 1 autoimmune hepatitis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1007647. [PMID: 36311782 PMCID: PMC9597675 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1007647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The immunomodulatory effects of HLA-G expression and its role in cancers, human liver infections and liver transplantation are well documented, but so far, there are only a few reports addressing autoimmune liver diseases, particularly autoimmune hepatitis (AIH).
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Littera
- Medical Genetics, R. Binaghi Hospital, Sardegna, Italy
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
- *Correspondence: Roberto Littera, ; Andrea Perra, ; Stefano Mocci, ; Luchino Chessa,
| | - Andrea Perra
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
- Section of Pathology, Oncology and Molecular Pathology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- *Correspondence: Roberto Littera, ; Andrea Perra, ; Stefano Mocci, ; Luchino Chessa,
| | - Michela Miglianti
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Ignazio S. Piras
- Neurogenomics Division, Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Stefano Mocci
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- *Correspondence: Roberto Littera, ; Andrea Perra, ; Stefano Mocci, ; Luchino Chessa,
| | - Sara Lai
- Medical Genetics, R. Binaghi Hospital, Sardegna, Italy
| | - Maurizio Melis
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Teresa Zolfino
- Division of Gastroenterology, Azienda di Rilievo Nazionale ed Alta Specializzazione (ARNAS), S. Michele Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Maria Conti
- Liver Unit, University Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Figorilli
- Division of Gastroenterology, Azienda di Rilievo Nazionale ed Alta Specializzazione (ARNAS), S. Michele Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Davide Firinu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Simona Onali
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Laura Matta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Carmen Porcu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Francesco Pes
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Daniela Fanni
- Division of Pathology, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University Hospital San Giovanni di Dio, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Cristina Manieli
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Azienda di Rilievo Nazionale ed Alta Specializzazione (ARNAS), S. Michele Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Monica Vacca
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberto Cusano
- Biomedical Sector, Center for Advanced Studies, Research and Development (CRS4), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marcello Trucas
- Section of Pathology, Oncology and Molecular Pathology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Selene Cipri
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Stefania Tranquilli
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Federica Cannas
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marta Anna Kowalik
- Section of Pathology, Oncology and Molecular Pathology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Gavino Faa
- Division of Pathology, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University Hospital San Giovanni di Dio, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luchino Chessa
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Liver Unit, University Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
- *Correspondence: Roberto Littera, ; Andrea Perra, ; Stefano Mocci, ; Luchino Chessa,
| | - Sabrina Giglio
- Medical Genetics, R. Binaghi Hospital, Sardegna, Italy
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Centre for Research University Services (CeSAR, Centro Servizi di Ateneo per la Ricerca), University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
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21
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Kayser C, Dutra LA, Dos Reis-Neto ET, Castro CHDM, Fritzler MJ, Andrade LEC. The Role of Autoantibody Testing in Modern Personalized Medicine. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2022; 63:251-288. [PMID: 35244870 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-021-08918-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Personalized medicine (PM) aims individualized approach to prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Precision Medicine applies the paradigm of PM by defining groups of individuals with akin characteristics. Often the two terms have been used interchangeably. The quest for PM has been advancing for centuries as traditional nosology classification defines groups of clinical conditions with relatively similar prognoses and treatment options. However, any individual is characterized by a unique set of multiple characteristics and therefore the achievement of PM implies the determination of myriad demographic, epidemiological, clinical, laboratory, and imaging parameters. The accelerated identification of numerous biological variables associated with diverse health conditions contributes to the fulfillment of one of the pre-requisites for PM. The advent of multiplex analytical platforms contributes to the determination of thousands of biological parameters using minute amounts of serum or other biological matrixes. Finally, big data analysis and machine learning contribute to the processing and integration of the multiplexed data at the individual level, allowing for the personalized definition of susceptibility, diagnosis, prognosis, prevention, and treatment. Autoantibodies are traditional biomarkers for autoimmune diseases and can contribute to PM in many aspects, including identification of individuals at risk, early diagnosis, disease sub-phenotyping, definition of prognosis, and treatment, as well as monitoring disease activity. Herein we address how autoantibodies can promote PM in autoimmune diseases using the examples of systemic lupus erythematosus, antiphospholipid syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren syndrome, systemic sclerosis, idiopathic inflammatory myopathies, autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis, and autoimmune neurologic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiane Kayser
- Rheumatology Division, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Marvin J Fritzler
- Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Luis Eduardo C Andrade
- Rheumatology Division, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil. .,Immunology Division, Fleury Medicine and Health Laboratories, São Paulo, Brazil.
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22
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Dalekos GN, Arvaniti P, Gatselis NK, Gabeta S, Samakidou A, Giannoulis G, Rigopoulou E, Koukoulis GK, Zachou K. Long-term results of mycophenolate mofetil vs. azathioprine use in patients with autoimmune hepatitis. JHEP Rep 2022; 4:100601. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2022.100601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
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23
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Biewenga M, Verhelst X, Baven-Pronk M, Putter H, van den Berg A, Colle I, Schouten J, Sermon F, Van Steenkiste C, van Vlierberghe H, van der Meer A, van Hoek B. Aminotransferases During Treatment Predict Long-Term Survival in Patients With Autoimmune Hepatitis Type 1: A Landmark Analysis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 20:1776-1783.e4. [PMID: 34022454 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2021.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Biochemical remission, important treatment goal in autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), has been associated with better long-term survival. The aim of this study was to determine the independent prognostic value of aminotransferases and immunoglobulin G (IgG) during treatment on long-term transplant-free survival in AIH. METHODS In a multicenter cohort alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and IgG were collected at diagnosis and 6, 12, 24, and 36 months after start of therapy and related to long-term outcome using Kaplan-Meier survival and Cox regression analysis with landmark analysis at these time points, excluding patients with follow-up ending before each landmark. RESULTS A total of 301 AIH patients with a median follow-up of 99 (range, 7-438) months were included. During follow-up, 15 patients required liver transplantation and 33 patients died. Higher AST at 12 months was associated with worse survival (hazard ratio [HR], 1.86; P < .001), while IgG was not associated with survival (HR, 1.30; P = .53). In multivariate analysis AST at 12 months (HR, 2.13; P < .001) was predictive for survival independent of age, AST at diagnosis and cirrhosis. Multivariate analysis for AST yielded similar results at 6 months (HR, 2.61; P = .001), 24 months (HR, 2.93; P = .003), and 36 months (HR, 3.03; P = .010). There was a trend toward a worse survival in patients with mildly elevated aminotransferases (1-1.5× upper limit of normal) compared with patients with normal aminotransferases (P = .097). CONCLUSIONS Low aminotransferases during treatment are associated with a better long-term survival in autoimmune hepatitis. IgG was not associated with survival in first 12 months of treatment. Normalization of aminotransferases should be the treatment goal for autoimmune hepatitis to improve long-term survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maaike Biewenga
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Xavier Verhelst
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, UZ Ghent, member of European Reference Network RARE-LIVER, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Martine Baven-Pronk
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Green Heart Hospital, Gouda, the Netherlands
| | - Hein Putter
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Aad van den Berg
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Groningen, member of European Reference Network RARE-LIVER, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Isabelle Colle
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, ASZ Aalst, Aalst, Belgium
| | - Jeoffrey Schouten
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, AZ Nikolaas, Sint-Niklaas, Belgium
| | - Filip Sermon
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, OLV Aalst, Aalst, Belgium
| | - Christophe Van Steenkiste
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, AZ Maria Middelares Ghent, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Hans van Vlierberghe
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, UZ Ghent, member of European Reference Network RARE-LIVER, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Adriaan van der Meer
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Bart van Hoek
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
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Gender and Autoimmune Liver Diseases: Relevant Aspects in Clinical Practice. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12060925. [PMID: 35743710 PMCID: PMC9225254 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12060925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune liver diseases (AILDs) include autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis. The etiologies of AILD are not well understood but appear to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. AILDs commonly affect young individuals and are characterized by a highly variable clinical course. These diseases significantly influence quality of life and can progress toward liver decompensation or the onset of hepatocellular or cholangiocarcinoma; a significant number of patients eventually progress to end-stage liver disease, requiring liver transplantation. In this review, we focus on the sex characteristics and peculiarities of AILD patients and highlight the relevance of a sex-specific analysis in future studies. Understanding the sex differences underlying AILD immune dysregulation may be critical for developing more effective treatments.
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25
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B cells in autoimmune hepatitis: bystanders or central players? Semin Immunopathol 2022; 44:411-427. [PMID: 35488094 PMCID: PMC9256567 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-022-00937-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
B cells are central for the adaptive immune system to mount successful immune responses not only as antibody producers but also as regulators of cellular immunity. These multifaceted features are also reflected in autoimmunity where autoreactive B cells can fuel disease by production of cytotoxic autoantibodies, presentation of autoantigens to autoreactive T cells, and secretion of cytokines and chemokines that either promote detrimental immune activation or impair regulatory T and B cells. The role of B cells and autoantibodies in autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) have been controversially discussed, with typical autoantibodies and hypergammaglobulinemia indicating a key role, while strong HLA class II association suggests T cells as key players. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on B cells in AIH and how different B cell subpopulations may drive AIH progression beyond autoantibodies. We also discuss recent findings of B cell-directed therapies in AIH.
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26
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Tana MMS, Klepper A, Lyden A, Pisco AO, Phelps M, McGee B, Green K, Feng S, DeRisi J, Crawford ED, Lammert CS. Transcriptomic profiling of blood from autoimmune hepatitis patients reveals potential mechanisms with implications for management. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0264307. [PMID: 35312680 PMCID: PMC8936448 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0264307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a poorly understood, chronic disease, for which corticosteroids are still the mainstay of therapy and most patients undergo liver biopsy to obtain a diagnosis. We aimed to determine if there was a transcriptomic signature of AIH in the peripheral blood and investigate underlying biologic pathways revealed by gene expression analysis. Whole blood RNA from 75 AIH patients and 25 healthy volunteers was extracted and sequenced. Differential gene expression analysis revealed 249 genes that were significantly differentially expressed in AIH patients compared to controls. Using a random forest algorithm, we determined that less than 10 genes were sufficient to differentiate the two groups in our cohort. Interferon signaling was more active in AIH samples compared to controls, regardless of treatment status. Pegivirus sequences were detected in five AIH samples and 1 healthy sample. The gene expression data and clinical metadata were used to determine 12 genes that were significantly associated with advanced fibrosis in AIH. AIH patients with a partial response to therapy demonstrated decreased evidence of a CD8+ T cell gene expression signal. These findings represent progress in understanding a disease in need of better tests, therapies, and biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele May-Sien Tana
- University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- UCSF Liver Center, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Arielle Klepper
- University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Amy Lyden
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | | | - Maira Phelps
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Breann McGee
- University of Indiana, Bloomington, IN, United States of America
| | - Kelsey Green
- University of Indiana, Bloomington, IN, United States of America
| | - Sandy Feng
- University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- UCSF Liver Center, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Joseph DeRisi
- University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Emily Dawn Crawford
- University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Craig S. Lammert
- University of Indiana, Bloomington, IN, United States of America
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Gordon V, Adhikary R, Appleby V, Das D, Day J, Delahooke T, Dixon S, Elphick D, Hardie C, Heneghan MA, Hoeroldt B, Hooper P, Hutchinson J, Jones R, Khan F, Aithal GP, Metcalf J, Nkhoma A, Pelitari S, Prince M, Prosser A, Sathyanarayana V, Saksena S, Vani D, Yeoman A, Abouda G, Nelson A, Gleeson D. Treatment and Outcome of Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH): Audit of 28 UK centres. Liver Int 2022; 42:1571-1584. [PMID: 35286013 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With few data regarding treatment and outcome of patients with AIH outside of large centres we present such a study of patients with AIH in 28 UK hospitals of varying size and facilities. METHODS Patients with AIH were identified in 14 University and 14 District General hospitals; incident cases during 2007-2015 and prevalent cases, presenting 2000-2015. Treatment and outcomes were analysed. RESULTS In 1267 patients with AIH, followed-up for 3.8(0-15) years, 5- and 10-year death/transplant rates were 7.1+0.8% and 10.1+1.3% (all-cause) and 4.0+0.6% and 5.9+1% (liver-related) respectively. Baseline parameters independently associated with death/transplantation for all-causes were: older age, vascular/respiratory co-morbidity, cirrhosis, decompensation, platelet count, attending transplant centre and for liver-related: the last four of these and peak bilirubin All-cause and liver-related death/transplantation was independently associated with: non-treatment with corticosteroids, non-treatment with a steroid-sparing agent (SSA), non-treatment of asymptomatic or non-cirrhotic patients and initial dose of Prednisolone >35mg/0.5mg/kg/day (all-cause only), but not with type of steroid (Prednisolone versus Budesonide) or steroid duration beyond 12-months. Subsequent all-cause and liver-death/transplant rates showed independent associations with smaller percentage fall in serum ALT after 1 and 3-months, but not with failure to normalise levels over 12-months. CONCLUSIONS We observed higher death/transplant rates in patients with AIH who were untreated with steroids (including asymptomatic or non-cirrhotic sub-groups), those receiving higher Prednisolone doses and those who did not receive an SSA. Similar death/transplant rates were seen in those receiving Prednisolone or Budesonide, those continuing steroids after 12-months and patients attaining normal ALT within 12-months versus not.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Guruprasad P Aithal
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases centre and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre at the Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and University of Nottingham
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28
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Lemoinne S, Heurgue A, Bouzbib C, Hanslik B, Gournay J, Nguyen-Khac E, Bureau C, de Lédinghen V, Ganne-Carrié N, Bourlière M. Non-invasive diagnosis and follow-up of autoimmune hepatitis. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2022; 46:101772. [PMID: 34332126 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2021.101772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a liver disease characterised by necrotico-inflammatory lesions of hepatocytes, the presence of specific autoantibodies and response to corticosteroid treatment. AIH must be considered in any patient with acute or chronic liver disease. As there is no pathognomonic sign of AIH, the diagnosis is based on a combination of clinical, biological, immunological and histological findings, after excluding other causes of liver disease. The clinical and biological presentation of AIH is variable and AIH can be associated with an autoimmune biliary disease, primary biliary cholangitis or primary sclerosing cholangitis in an overlap syndrome. For these reasons, diagnosis of AIH can be challenging. Even if liver histology remains essential in the diagnosis of AIH, non-invasive tests can be used at different steps of the management of AIH: diagnosis of AIH, notably diagnosis of an overlap syndrome, assessment of severity of AIH, searching for extra-hepatic disease frequently associated to AIH, evaluation of response to therapy, decision of treatment withdrawal. This review aims to provide practical guidelines for the use of non-invasive tests for the diagnosis and the follow-up of AIH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Lemoinne
- Assistance publique-hopitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Service d'hépatologie, Centre de référence pour les maladies inflammatoires des voies biliaires et les hépatites auto-immunes ( CMR MIVB-H, ERN RARE-LIVER), Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Paris France; Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine (CRSA), Institute of cardiometabolism and Nutrition ( ICAN), Paris, France.
| | - Alexandra Heurgue
- Service d'hépato-gastroentérologie et cancérologie digestive, CHU Reims, Reims, France
| | - Charlotte Bouzbib
- Service d'Hépatologie, Hopital Pitié Salpêtrière, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Bertrand Hanslik
- Centre Montpelliérain des maladies du foie et de l'appareil digestif, Montpellier, France
| | - Jérôme Gournay
- Service d'hépato-gastroentérologie, cancérologie digestive et assistance nutritionnelle, CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Eric Nguyen-Khac
- Service d'hépato-gastroentérologie, CHU Amiens-Picardie, Amiens, France
| | - Christophe Bureau
- Service d'hépatologie, Hôpital Rangueil, CHU Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Victor de Lédinghen
- Service d'hépato-gastroentérologie, Hôpital Haut-Lévêque, CHU Bordeaux, pessac & INSERM U1053, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Nathalie Ganne-Carrié
- Service d'hépatologie, Hôpital Avicenne, APHP, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Bobigny & INSERM UMR 1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Université de Paris, France
| | - Marc Bourlière
- Service d'hépato-gastroentérologie, Hôpital Saint Joseph & INSERM UMR 1252 IRD SESSTIM Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
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Sirbe C, Simu G, Szabo I, Grama A, Pop TL. Pathogenesis of Autoimmune Hepatitis-Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:13578. [PMID: 34948375 PMCID: PMC8703580 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Pediatric autoimmune liver disorders include autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), autoimmune sclerosing cholangitis (ASC), and de novo AIH after liver transplantation. AIH is an idiopathic disease characterized by immune-mediated hepatocyte injury associated with the destruction of liver cells, causing inflammation, liver failure, and fibrosis, typically associated with autoantibodies. The etiology of AIH is not entirely unraveled, but evidence supports an intricate interaction among genetic variants, environmental factors, and epigenetic modifications. The pathogenesis of AIH comprises the interaction between specific genetic traits and molecular mimicry for disease development, impaired immunoregulatory mechanisms, including CD4+ T cell population and Treg cells, alongside other contributory roles played by CD8+ cytotoxicity and autoantibody production by B cells. These findings delineate an intricate pathway that includes gene to gene and gene to environment interactions with various drugs, viral infections, and the complex microbiome. Epigenetics emphasizes gene expression through hereditary and reversible modifications of the chromatin architecture without interfering with the DNA sequence. These alterations comprise DNA methylation, histone transformations, and non-coding small (miRNA) and long (lncRNA) RNA transcriptions. The current first-line therapy comprises prednisolone plus azathioprine to induce clinical and biochemical remission. Further understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms encountered in AIH may depict their impact on clinical aspects, detect biomarkers, and guide toward novel, effective, and better-targeted therapies with fewer side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Sirbe
- 2nd Pediatric Discipline, Department of Mother and Child, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (C.S.); (T.L.P.)
- 2nd Pediatric Clinic, Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children, 400177 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Gelu Simu
- Cardiology Department, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- Cardiology Department, Rehabilitation Hospital, 400066 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Iulia Szabo
- Department of Rheumatology, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Alina Grama
- 2nd Pediatric Discipline, Department of Mother and Child, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (C.S.); (T.L.P.)
- 2nd Pediatric Clinic, Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children, 400177 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Tudor Lucian Pop
- 2nd Pediatric Discipline, Department of Mother and Child, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (C.S.); (T.L.P.)
- 2nd Pediatric Clinic, Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children, 400177 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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30
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Fujita K, Oura K, Tadokoro T, Nakahara M, Tani J, Morishita A, Kobara H, Tsutsui K, Himoto T, Masaki T. Prognosis of probable autoimmune hepatitis patients: a single-center study in Japan. Intern Emerg Med 2021; 16:2155-2162. [PMID: 33783693 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-021-02720-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is an idiopathic inflammatory liver disease with genetic susceptibility and unknown environmental triggers. The gold standard for diagnosis, International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group (IAIHG) scoring system, classifies AIH as definite or probable. Conventional research on probable AIH has focused on the Caucasian population and there is little data pertaining to the Asian population. This study aimed to assess and compare the prognosis of Japanese patients with probable and definite AIH. In the current study, patients with probable and definite AIH diagnosed based on IAIHG scores between 1987 and 2018 were enrolled. As a result, 72 patients with definite AIH and 49 patients with probable AIH were evaluated. Univariate analysis revealed age, fibrosis stage 4, and the fibrosis-4 index were prognostic factors for overall survival. Multivariate analysis indicated that age and liver cirrhosis significantly affected the overall survival. When the cut off albumin-bilirubin score was set appropriately, cirrhosis was differentially diagnosed using albumin-bilirubin score with 100% sensitivity and 70.5% specificity. Classification of probable or definite disease did not alter overall survival with statistical significance. In conclusion, our findings suggest that probable AIH should be managed as definite AIH is managed in Japanese population. The albumin-bilirubin score helps identify liver cirrhosis and is a prognostic biomarker for overall survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koji Fujita
- Department of Gastroenterology and Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, 1750-1 Ikenobe, Miki, Kita, Kagawa, 761-0793, Japan.
| | - Kyoko Oura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, 1750-1 Ikenobe, Miki, Kita, Kagawa, 761-0793, Japan
| | - Tomoko Tadokoro
- Department of Gastroenterology and Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, 1750-1 Ikenobe, Miki, Kita, Kagawa, 761-0793, Japan
| | - Mai Nakahara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, 1750-1 Ikenobe, Miki, Kita, Kagawa, 761-0793, Japan
| | - Joji Tani
- Department of Gastroenterology and Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, 1750-1 Ikenobe, Miki, Kita, Kagawa, 761-0793, Japan
| | - Asahiro Morishita
- Department of Gastroenterology and Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, 1750-1 Ikenobe, Miki, Kita, Kagawa, 761-0793, Japan
| | - Hideki Kobara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, 1750-1 Ikenobe, Miki, Kita, Kagawa, 761-0793, Japan
| | - Kunihiko Tsutsui
- Department of Gastroenterology and Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, 1750-1 Ikenobe, Miki, Kita, Kagawa, 761-0793, Japan
| | - Takashi Himoto
- Department of Medical Technology, Kagawa Prefectural University of Health Sciences, 281-1 Hara, Mure, Takamatsu, Kagawa, 761-0123, Japan.
| | - Tsutomu Masaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, 1750-1 Ikenobe, Miki, Kita, Kagawa, 761-0793, Japan
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Lammert C, Chalasani SN, Atkinson EJ, McCauley BM, Lazaridis KN. Environmental risk factors are associated with autoimmune hepatitis. Liver Int 2021; 41:2396-2403. [PMID: 33978301 PMCID: PMC8496440 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Failure of immunologic homeostasis and resultant hepatocyte destruction in autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is likely the result of environmental triggers within a permissive genetic architecture. AIMS We aimed to identify risk factors associated with AIH in a well-phenotyped AIH cohort. METHODS We prospectively collected environmental questionnaires from 358 AIH cases and 563 healthy controls. Response frequencies were compared using logistic regression, adjusting for age at recruitment, sex and education. RESULTS AIH cases were more likely to ever have a urinary tract infection (UTI) (53.6% vs 33.9%, P < .001) and recurrent UTI (more than 1 per year) (23.5% vs 15.9%, P = .002) compared to controls. Female cases more frequently had ever used oral contraceptives (83.0% vs 73.7%, P = .006), fewer pregnancies (median = 1 vs 3, P < .001) and less often used hormone replacement therapy compared to controls (28.5% vs 60.1%, P < .001). Current smoking was more prevalent in cases (18.9% vs 7.4%, P = .022), yet no difference according to historical smoking behaviours was observed. Finally, cases were less likely to have history of mumps (32.4% vs 53.1%, P = .011) and rheumatic fever (1.1% vs 4.4%, P = .028), but reported higher vaccination frequency to chicken pox (38% vs 28.1%), measles (66.5% vs 39.3%), mumps (58.7% vs 34.6%), rubella (55.3% vs 32.7%), pertussis (59.8% vs 40.1%) and pneumococcus (47.2% VS 39.4%) (P < .002). CONCLUSIONS Environmental factors are important in AIH pathogenesis. Replication of these findings and prospective examination may provide new insight into AIH onset and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig Lammert
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisINUSA
| | - Sai N. Chalasani
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisINUSA
| | - Elizabeth J. Atkinson
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyMayo Clinic College of MedicineRochesterMNUSA
| | - Bryan M. McCauley
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyMayo Clinic College of MedicineRochesterMNUSA
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32
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Trivedi PJ, Hirschfield GM. Recent advances in clinical practice: epidemiology of autoimmune liver diseases. Gut 2021; 70:1989-2003. [PMID: 34266966 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2020-322362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune liver diseases are chronic inflammatory hepatobiliary disorders that when classically defined encompass three distinctive clinical presentations; primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). Meaningful changes in disease epidemiology are reported, with increasing incidence and prevalence of AIH and PSC in Europe, and rising prevalence of PBC across Europe, North America and the Asia-Pacific region. However, there appears to be very significant global variation with contemporary incidence rates of disease per 100 000 ranging from 0.84 to 2.75 for PBC, 0.1 to 4.39 for PSC and 0.4 to 2.39 for AIH. Prevalence corresponds, and per 100 000 estimates for PBC range from 1.91 to 40.2, for PSC between 0.78 and 31.7 and for AIH from 4.8 to 42.9. Population-based studies and multicentre observational cohort series provide improved understanding of the clinical course that patients experience, highlighting variations in presenting phenotypes geographically and temporally. Collectively, while autoimmune liver diseases are rare, the clinical burden is disproportionately high relative to population incidence and prevalence. Age, sex and race also impact clinical outcomes, and patient morbidity and mortality are reflected by high need for gastroenterology, hepatology and organ transplant services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Palak J Trivedi
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Liver Biomedical Research Centre, University of Birmingham College of Medical and Dental Sciences, Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Liver Unit, University Hospitals Birmingham National Health Service Foundation Trust Queen Elizabeth, Birmingham, UK
| | - Gideon M Hirschfield
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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33
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Hames A, Matcham F, Makin I, Day J, Joshi D, Samyn M. Adherence, Mental Health and Illness Perceptions in Autoimmune Liver Disease: Looking Beyond Liver Function Tests. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2021; 73:376-384. [PMID: 33720085 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0000000000003119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Autoimmune liver disease is commonly diagnosed during adolescence; a period associated with a higher prevalence of non-adherence, mental health concerns and worse health outcomes. The aim of the study was to explore adherence patterns, mental health and illness perceptions in young people with autoimmune liver disease. METHODS Young people with autoimmune liver disease attending a multidisciplinary young adult clinic (16-25 years) completed an electronically administered questionnaire battery. Demographics and disease-related data were collected. RESULTS Sixty-eight (37 female), median age 17.9 (range 15-22) years completed the screening. Only 51.5% of patients were in remission (aspartate and alanine aminotransferase <36 IU//l) whereas 73% self-reported their adherence >80%. Compared to patients in remission, those not in remission required more immunosuppression, were more depressed and worried but reported a better understanding of their illness. A small but significant correlation was found between aspartate aminotransferase/alanine aminotransferase and adherence percentage (r = -0.27, P < 0.05 and r = -0.29, P < 0.05 respectively). Age was inversely associated with adherence (r = -0.31, P < 0.05), and older patients were more worried (r = 0.44, P < 0.001) and emotionally affected by the condition (r = 0.32, P < 0.01). Adherence behaviours such as forgetting to take medications (63%), taking medications more frequently before attending appointments (44%) and not having a routine for medications (31%) were prevalent, 7% reported intentional non-adherence. CONCLUSION Sup-optimal adherence to treatment is common in young people with autoimmune liver disease and associated with mental health problems and certain illness perceptions. Routine exploration of adherence beliefs and barriers to adherence in a non-judgmental, collaborative way is essential to improve outcome in this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Hames
- Paediatric Liver, GI and Nutrition service, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
| | - Faith Matcham
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London
| | - Isobel Makin
- Paediatric Liver, GI and Nutrition service, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
| | - Jemma Day
- Paediatric Liver, GI and Nutrition service, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
| | - Deepak Joshi
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Marianne Samyn
- Paediatric Liver, GI and Nutrition service, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Auto-immune hepatitis (AIH) is a rare condition which primarily affects young women. Several diagnostic scoring systems exist based on clinical, biochemical, immunologic and histologic characteristics of AIH. Additionally, prognostic parameters can be identified. The purpose of this literature review is to compare the clinical value, strengths and limitations of these diagnostic and prognostic scoring systems. METHODS A literature search was performed in two databases and selected based on diagnostic and prognostic criteria. Only studies concerning AIH in adults were included. RESULTS The backbone of scoring systems remains the revised AIH criteria published in 1999 and the simplified from 2008. The revised system shows a higher sensitivity, lower specificity and lower diagnostic accuracy compared to the simplified. Limitations to these scoring systems include limited diagnostic accuracy in acute or fulminant liver failure, insufficient inclusion of atypical auto-antibodies and lacking diagnostic power in presence of overlap syndromes. Concerning these overlap syndromes, the Paris criteria show a higher diagnostic accuracy compared to the scoring systems for AIH. Presently, no clinical prognostic scoring systems are available. However, a first system based on response to treatment accurately predicts long-term survival in AIH. CONCLUSION Diagnostic scoring systems are useful in diagnosing AIH and have complementary value. However, they are no substitute for the gold standard of appropriate clinical assessment and are mostly useful in defining cohorts for research purposes. An evolution towards a more dynamic scoring system, using prognostic parameters and the progression of typical features, seems more valuable than the current diagnostic systems.
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Biewenga M, Verhelst XPDMJ, Baven-Pronk MAMC, Putter H, van den Berg AP, van Nieuwkerk KCMJ, van Buuren HR, Bouma G, de Boer YS, Simoen C, Colle I, Schouten J, Sermon F, van Steenkiste C, van Vlierberghe H, van der Meer AJ, Nevens F, van Hoek B. Development and validation of a prognostic score for long-term transplant-free survival in autoimmune hepatitis type 1. United European Gastroenterol J 2021; 9:662-671. [PMID: 34165262 PMCID: PMC8281048 DOI: 10.1002/ueg2.12112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND No prognostic score is currently available for long-term survival in autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) patients. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to develop and validate such a prognostic score for AIH patients at diagnosis. METHODS The prognostic score was developed using uni- & multivariate Cox regression in a 4-center Dutch cohort and validated in an independent 6-center Belgian cohort. RESULTS In the derivation cohort of 396 patients 19 liver transplantations (LTs) and 51 deaths occurred (median follow-up 118 months; interquartile range 60-202 months). In multivariate analysis age (hazard ratio [HR] 1.045; p < 0.001), non-caucasian ethnicity (HR 1.897; p = 0.045), cirrhosis (HR 3.266; p < 0.001) and alanine aminotransferase level (HR 0.725; p = 0.003) were significant independent predictors for mortality or LT (C-statistic 0.827; 95% CI 0.790-0.864). In the validation cohort of 408 patients death or LT occurred in 78 patients during a median follow-up of 74 months (interquartile range: 25-142 months). Predicted 5-year event rate did not differ from observed event rate (high risk group 21.5% vs. 15.7% (95% CI: 6.3%-24.2%); moderate risk group 5.8% versus 4.3% (95% CI: 0.0%-9.1%); low risk group 1.9% versus 5.4% (95% CI: 0.0%-11.4%); C-statistic 0.744 [95% CI 0.644-0.844]). CONCLUSIONS A Dutch-Belgian prognostic score for long-term transplant-free survival in AIH patients at diagnosis was developed and validated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maaike Biewenga
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Hein Putter
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Aad P van den Berg
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Karin C M J van Nieuwkerk
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location VUmc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Henk R van Buuren
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Gerd Bouma
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location VUmc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ynte S de Boer
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location VUmc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Cedric Simoen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, UZ Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Isabelle Colle
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, ASZ Aalst, Aalst, Belgium
| | - Jeoffrey Schouten
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, AZ Nikolaas, Sint-Niklaas, Belgium
| | - Filip Sermon
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, OLV Aalst, Aalst, Belgium
| | - Christophe van Steenkiste
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, AZ Maria Middelares Ghent, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | | | - Frederik Nevens
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, UZ Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bart van Hoek
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
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Sustained Remission After Treatment Withdrawal in Autoimmune Hepatitis: A Multicenter Retrospective Study. Dig Dis Sci 2021; 66:2107-2117. [PMID: 32607807 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-020-06444-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), relapse rates between 25 and 100% after treatment withdrawal have been reported. The optimal strategy for immunosuppressive treatment withdrawal is controversial. AIM To identify the predictive factors of histological remission and to assess the relapse rate after treatment withdrawal in AIH patients with prolonged biochemical response. METHODS Patients with AIH and sustained biochemical remission on first-line treatment were retrospectively included. Histological response was defined as complete regression of interface hepatitis and lobular necrosis and no or minimal portal inflammation and relapse as any elevation of serum aminotransferase or gammaglobulin/IgG levels. RESULTS Sixty-two patients were included. Forty-seven had a biopsy after a median biochemical response of 49.7 months. Twenty-five of them were histological responders. Independent predictors of histological remission were older age (OR = 1.1; CI 95%: 1.0; 1.2), mild-to-moderate fibrosis at diagnosis (OR = 8; CI: 1.4; 47.6) and aspartate aminotransferases < 0.6 × ULN (OR = 7.1; CI: 1.3; 36.7). Thirty-nine patients stopped therapy after a median biochemical response of 48.6 months. Twenty-four of them had a biopsy before treatment withdrawal: 21 were histological responders. The cumulative rate of relapse was 25% at 64 months. CONCLUSIONS This study indicates that older age, mild-to-moderate fibrosis at diagnosis and serum aspartate aminotransferases in the lower range of normal are independent predictors of histological response in AIH with prolonged biochemical response. The relapse rate after treatment withdrawal may be limited to 25% at 64 months when patients are selected on the basis of prolonged biochemical remission and, when available, histological response.
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Wang G, Tanaka A, Zhao H, Jia J, Ma X, Harada K, Wang FS, Wei L, Wang Q, Sun Y, Hong Y, Rao H, Efe C, Lau G, Payawal D, Gani R, Lindor K, Jafri W, Omata M, Sarin SK. The Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver clinical practice guidance: the diagnosis and management of patients with autoimmune hepatitis. Hepatol Int 2021; 15:223-257. [PMID: 33942203 PMCID: PMC8144150 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-021-10170-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Guiqiang Wang
- Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China. .,Peking University International Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | | | - Hong Zhao
- Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,Peking University International Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jidong Jia
- Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiong Ma
- Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kenichi Harada
- Department of Human Pathology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine Kanazawa, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Fu-Sheng Wang
- Fifth Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lai Wei
- Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qixia Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Sun
- Fifth Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Hong
- Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Huiying Rao
- Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Cumali Efe
- Department of Gastroenterology, Harran University, Şanlıurfa, Turkey
| | - George Lau
- Humanity and Health Medical Group, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Diana Payawal
- Department of Hepatology, Cardinal Santos Medical Center, Manila, Philippines
| | - Rino Gani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Keith Lindor
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | | | - Masao Omata
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yamanashi Prefectural Central Hospital, Kofu-City, Yamanashi, Japan.,The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Aghabi YO, Yasin A, Kennedy JI, Davies SP, Butler AE, Stamataki Z. Targeting Enclysis in Liver Autoimmunity, Transplantation, Viral Infection and Cancer. Front Immunol 2021; 12:662134. [PMID: 33953725 PMCID: PMC8089374 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.662134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Persistent liver inflammation can lead to cirrhosis, which associates with significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. There are no curative treatments beyond transplantation, followed by long-term immunosuppression. The global burden of end stage liver disease has been increasing and there is a shortage of donor organs, therefore new therapies are desperately needed. Harnessing the power of the immune system has shown promise in certain autoimmunity and cancer settings. In the context of the liver, regulatory T cell (Treg) therapies are in development. The hypothesis is that these specialized lymphocytes that dampen inflammation may reduce liver injury in patients with chronic, progressive diseases, and promote transplant tolerance. Various strategies including intrinsic and extracorporeal expansion of Treg cells, aim to increase their abundance to suppress immune responses. We recently discovered that hepatocytes engulf and delete Treg cells by enclysis. Herein, we propose that inhibition of enclysis may potentiate existing regulatory T cell therapeutic approaches in patients with autoimmune liver diseases and in patients receiving a transplant. Moreover, in settings where the abundance of Treg cells could hinder beneficial immunity, such us in chronic viral infection or liver cancer, enhancement of enclysis could result in transient, localized reduction of Treg cell numbers and tip the balance towards antiviral and anti-tumor immunity. We describe enclysis as is a natural process of liver immune regulation that lends itself to therapeutic targeting, particularly in combination with current Treg cell approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Zania Stamataki
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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39
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Engel B, Laschtowitz A, Janik MK, Junge N, Baumann U, Milkiewicz P, Taubert R, Sebode M. Genetic aspects of adult and pediatric autoimmune hepatitis: A concise review. Eur J Med Genet 2021; 64:104214. [PMID: 33812046 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmg.2021.104214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH) is a heterogenous, mostly chronic liver disease that affects people of all age groups, women more often than men. The aim of therapy is to prevent cirrhosis, as it mainly accounts for liver-related mortality in patients with AIH. Rates of remission are high in patients with AIH, but life-long immunosuppressive therapy is required. AIH is hypothesized to originate from immunologic reactivity targeted against mostly unknown self-antigens, potentially triggered by viral infections among other factors. While AIH does not follow a Mendelian inheritance pattern, part of the risk of developing AIH or worse disease course, is attributed to specific genetic risk factors. Major associations for the risk of development of AIH were found for HLA-DRB1*03:01 and HLA-DRB1*04:01 in adult AIH in the only genome-wide association study on AIH. However, other potential risk loci in SH2B3, CARD10 and KIR genes were described. This review covers the current knowledge on genetic risk factors in adult and pediatric AIH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bastian Engel
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), Germany.
| | - Alena Laschtowitz
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), Germany
| | - Maciej K Janik
- Liver and Internal Medicine Unit, Department of General, Transplant and Liver Surgery, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), Germany
| | - Norman Junge
- Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Pediatric Kidney, Liver and Metabolic Diseases, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), Germany
| | - Ulrich Baumann
- Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Pediatric Kidney, Liver and Metabolic Diseases, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), Germany
| | - Piotr Milkiewicz
- Liver and Internal Medicine Unit, Department of General, Transplant and Liver Surgery, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland; Translational Medicine Group, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), Germany
| | - Richard Taubert
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), Germany
| | - Marcial Sebode
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), Germany
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic disease characterized by a lymphocyte infiltrate in the liver. For decades, nonspecific immunosuppression has been used to limit chronic liver inflammation. The high risk of relapse, the treatments side effects, and the significant number of refractory patients are the main clinical issues that require efforts to understand AIH immune mechanisms. RECENT FINDINGS The balance between regulatory CD4 T cells, known to control autoimmunity, and effector CD4 T cells, that recognize liver self-antigens and mediate the liver inflammation, appears central in AIH immune mechanisms. Recent advances in the identification of pathogenic auto-reactive CD4 T cells, and of new mechanisms of immune regulatory defects in AIH patients, give new insights into the pathophysiology of this disease. SUMMARY In this review, we propose an overview of the central role of CD4 T cells (both regulatory and pathogenic) in mechanisms of AIH, with a focus on recent advances regarding defective regulatory mechanisms and immune profile of auto-reactive CD4 T cells. These findings may have implication for the orientation of new therapeutic strategies to treat AIH, such as regulatory T-cell infusion or targeting B cells and cytokines released by pathogenic CD4 T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anaïs Cardon
- Université de Nantes, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France
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Rigopoulou EI, Gatselis N, Arvaniti P, Koukoulis GK, Dalekos GN. Alcoholic liver disease and autoimmune hepatitis: Sometimes a closer look under the surface is needed. Eur J Intern Med 2021; 85:86-91. [PMID: 33451888 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2020.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Differential diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) incorporates various liver diseases, including alcoholic liver disease (ALD). We report on clinical, laboratory and outcome characteristics of AIH patients who were initially referred as ALD based on increased alcohol consumption (AIH/ALD). METHODS From 2000-2019, we retrospectively identified 12 AIH/ALD patients [9 males, age: 61 (30-73) years] in our prospective data base of 317 AIH patients. RESULTS AIH diagnosis was based on aminotransferases elevation in 10 patients, high IgG in 8, compatible autoantibody profile in all and typical/compatible histology in all 9 with available biopsy. There were no significant differences of baseline demographics, presentation, cirrhosis at diagnosis, response to treatment and simplified score compared to 45 age- and sex-matched AIH patients without alcohol consumption and 44 age- and sex-matched ALD patients. However, the AIH/ALD cohort was characterized by more frequent progression to cirrhosis, higher liver-related deaths and overall mortality compared to AIH, though similar to the ALD group. AST/ALT ratio>1 seems to bear a good positive (0.84) and negative predictive value (0.88) for ALD and AIH diagnosis, respectively, but cannot help in discriminating the AIH/ALD variant. CONCLUSIONS AIH should not be forgotten in patients with alcohol use when clinical and laboratory features hint towards the diagnosis of AIH/ALD variant as this group seems to have worse outcome compared to those with AIH alone suggesting the need for closer follow-up and surveillance. Reliable autoantibody testing and cautious interpretation of liver histology appear mandatory for AIH diagnosis in these difficult to diagnose cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eirini I Rigopoulou
- Institute of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, 41447 Larissa, Greece; Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Gatselis
- Institute of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, 41447 Larissa, Greece; Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - Pinelopi Arvaniti
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - George K Koukoulis
- Department of Pathology, Medical School, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - George N Dalekos
- Institute of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, 41447 Larissa, Greece; Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece.
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Decompensated Cirrhosis as Presentation of LKM1/LC1 Positive Type 2 Autoimmune Hepatitis in Adulthood. A Rare Clinical Entity of Difficult Management. GASTROENTEROLOGY INSIGHTS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/gastroent12010007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic and aggressive liver disease that rapidly evolves into cirrhosis and end-stage liver disease if not timely diagnosed and treated with immunosuppressive therapy. AIH is classified into type 1 and type 2 according to the autoantibody pattern, with smooth muscle antibodies and/or antinuclear antibodies as serological markers of AIH-1, while antiliver cytosol antibody type 1 and/or antiliver/kidney microsomal antibody type 1 characterize type 2 AIH, which mainly affects children, including infants, and adolescents. Case Summary: We describe a case of type 2 AIH, clinically onset in a 34-year-old woman with decompensated cirrhosis. Only a thorough analysis of the autoantibody profile allowed for a diagnosis of an AIH-2 evolved into cirrhosis. The patient received a moderate corticosteroid therapy without achieving optimal disease control. We discuss the controversial decision of whether or not to treat the patient with immunosuppressive therapy, which should be balanced with the potential risk of infectious and other complications. A review of the literature on the management of patients with autoimmune cirrhosis is also presented. Conclusions: AIH-2 can be clinically onset in adult patients with cirrhosis and its complications, without being preceded by major clinical signs. Due to the difficult management of cirrhosis with immunosuppressive treatments, a patient-tailored strategy with a case-by-case approach is needed to prevent major complications such as infections, potentially precluding liver transplantation the only curative therapy.
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Li Y, Yan L, Wang R, Wang Q, You Z, Li B, Zhang J, Huang B, Chen Y, Li Y, Lian M, Tang R, Qiu D, Gershwin ME, Xiao X, Miao Q, Ma X. Serum Immunoglobulin G Levels Predict Biochemical and Histological Remission of Autoimmune Hepatitis Type 1: A Single-Center Experience and Literature Review. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2021; 62:292-300. [PMID: 33512642 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-021-08833-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is characterized by interface hepatitis, elevated serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels, circulating autoantibodies, and elevated predominantly immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels. The goal in the treatment of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is complete disease remission. Here we took advantage of a large cohort of AIH patients to clarify predictors associated with biochemical and histological remission. Of 705 patients with complete follow-up, 569 (80.7%) patients achieved complete biochemical remission. Lower IgG levels (17.8 vs. 25 g/L, p < 0.001) and less liver cirrhosis (19.3% vs. 33.1%, p < 0.001) at diagnosis were observed in these patients. They also had lower serum IgG levels (13 vs. 18.9 g/L, p < 0.001) after 3 months of treatment. Histological remission was achieved in 69.4% of 160 patients with complete biochemical remission after 3 years of treatment. Patients with histological remission had lower IgG levels (16.2 vs. 20.1 g/L, p = 0.006) and Ishak fibrosis scores (3.4 vs. 4.1, p = 0.010) at diagnosis, and they appeared to achieve biochemical remission more rapidly (1 vs. 3 months, p < 0.001). Of note, patients with histological remission had higher frequency of fibrosis regression than those with persisting histological activity (87.5% vs. 60%, p = 0.004). In conclusion, lower serum IgG levels, less fibrosis in liver histology at diagnosis, and rapid response to immunosuppressive therapy are reliable predictors of biochemical and histological remission. Our study underscores the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- You Li
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Middle Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Li Yan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Middle Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Medicine, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201508, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Middle Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Qixia Wang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Middle Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Zhengrui You
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Middle Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Bo Li
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Middle Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Middle Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Bingyuan Huang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Middle Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Yong Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Middle Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Yikang Li
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Middle Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Min Lian
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Middle Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Ruqi Tang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Middle Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Dekai Qiu
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Middle Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - M Eric Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Xiao Xiao
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Middle Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Qi Miao
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Middle Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Xiong Ma
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Middle Shandong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China.
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Zhang HP, Liu YM, Li Z, Ma YX, Li LJ, Zhao DT, Lou JL, Gao ZH, Yan HP. Clinical characteristics and HLA genotypes in Chinese patients with anti-SLA/LP-positive autoimmune hepatitis. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:153. [PMID: 33569455 PMCID: PMC7867871 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-8036] [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] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background Anti-soluble liver antigen/liver pancreas (anti-SLA/LP) is a highly specific serological marker for the diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). The aim of the present study was to define the clinical characteristics and human leucocyte antigen (HLA) genotypes of Chinese patients with anti-SLA/LP positive AIH. Methods Ninety-one AIH patients who were anti-SLA/LP positive were enrolled in this case control study. Clinical information was obtained through reviewing patients’ clinical notes. High-resolution genotyping of HLA-A, B, C, DRB1, and DQB1 alleles was performed by sequence-based typing polymerase chain reaction on 62 of the 91 patients. Data from 500 healthy patients were used as baseline controls. Results Anti-SLA/LP-positive AIH patients were characterized as follows: adults (age 20–80 years), female (88%), and frequent anti-nuclear antibody positivity (91%). Genetically, compared with the controls, HLA-B*35:01 and C*08:01 were significantly more frequent in patients. The frequencies of HLA-B*08:01, B*40:02, DRB1*04:01, DRB1*04:05, DRB1*14:01, and DRB1*16:02 increased, and the frequency in DRB1*15:01 decreased in patients, but did not reach significance after Bonferroni’s correction. Patients with other autoimmune diseases had a higher DRB1*04:05 and DQB1*04:01 allele carrier frequency than those without. DRB1*04:05 and DQB1*04:01 alleles were found at increased frequency in patients with decompensated liver disease than those with compensated liver disease. Conclusions Chinese anti-SLA/LP-positive AIH patients have some distinct clinical characteristics than other populations reported in the literature. The presence of certain specific HLA alleles could potentially increase the risk of developing anti-SLA/LP-positive AIH or other autoimmune disease and decompensated liver disease in the Chinese population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Ping Zhang
- Clinical Laboratory Center and Clinical Research Center for Autoimmune Liver Disease, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan-Min Liu
- Department of Liver Disease Immunology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhao Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yin-Xue Ma
- Clinical Laboratory Center and Clinical Research Center for Autoimmune Liver Disease, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Li-Juan Li
- Clinical Laboratory Center and Clinical Research Center for Autoimmune Liver Disease, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Dan-Tong Zhao
- Clinical Laboratory Center and Clinical Research Center for Autoimmune Liver Disease, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jin-Li Lou
- Clinical Laboratory Center and Clinical Research Center for Autoimmune Liver Disease, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zu-Hua Gao
- Department of Pathology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Hui-Ping Yan
- Clinical Laboratory Center and Clinical Research Center for Autoimmune Liver Disease, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Renand A, Cervera-Marzal I, Gil L, Dong C, Garcia A, Kervagoret E, Aublé H, Habes S, Chevalier C, Vavasseur F, Clémenceau B, Cardon A, Judor JP, Mosnier JF, Tanné F, Laplaud DA, Brouard S, Gournay J, Milpied P, Conchon S. Integrative molecular profiling of autoreactive CD4 T cells in autoimmune hepatitis. J Hepatol 2020; 73:1379-1390. [PMID: 32649971 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2020.05.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS In most autoimmune disorders, crosstalk of B cells and CD4 T cells results in the accumulation of autoantibodies. In autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), the presence of anti-soluble liver antigen (SLA) autoantibodies is associated with reduced overall survival, but the associated autoreactive CD4 T cells have not yet been characterised. Herein, we isolated and deeply characterised SLA-specific CD4 T cells in patients with AIH. METHODS We used brief ex vivo restimulation with overlapping SLA peptides to isolate and phenotype circulating SLA-specific CD4 T cells, and integrative single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) to characterise their transcriptome and T-cell receptor (TCR) repertoire. Autoreactive TCRs were cloned and used to identify dominant SLA-derived epitopes. SLA-specific CD4 T cells were tracked in peripheral blood through TCR sequencing to identify their phenotypic niche. We further characterised disease-associated peripheral blood T cells by high-content flow cytometry in 42 patients with AIH and 17 controls with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. RESULTS Autoreactive SLA-specific CD4 T cells were only detected in patients with anti-SLA autoantibodies and had a memory PD-1+CXCR5-CCR6-CD27+ phenotype. ScRNA-seq revealed their pro-inflammatory/B-helper profile. SLA81-100 and SLA177-204 contain dominant T-cell epitopes. Autoreactive TCR clonotypes were predominantly found in the memory PD-1+CXCR5-CD4 T cells, which were significantly increased in the blood of patients with AIH and supported B-cell differentiation through IL-21. Finally, we identified specific T-cell phenotypes linked to disease activity and IgG level during AIH. CONCLUSIONS We provide a deep characterisation of rare circulating autoreactive CD4 T cells and identify their peripheral reservoir in AIH. We also propose a specific phenotype of autoreactive T cells related to AIH disease activity, which will be essential to track, delineate, and potentially target these pathogenic cells. LAY SUMMARY One principal characteristic of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), like for many other autoimmune diseases, is the accumulation of autoantibodies produced by B lymphocytes following their interaction with autoreactive CD4 T lymphocytes. In this study, we identified and characterised with high resolution these CD4 T cells. This will be essential to track, delineate, and potentially target them during AIH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amédée Renand
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France
| | - Iñaki Cervera-Marzal
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, Inserm, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, CIML, Marseille, France
| | - Laurine Gil
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, Inserm, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, CIML, Marseille, France
| | - Chuang Dong
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, Inserm, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, CIML, Marseille, France
| | - Alexandra Garcia
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France
| | - Erwan Kervagoret
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France
| | - Hélène Aublé
- Centre d'Investigation Clinique gastro-nutrition, CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Sarah Habes
- Service Hepato-gastro-entérologie et Assistance Nutritionnelle, CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Caroline Chevalier
- Centre d'Investigation Clinique gastro-nutrition, CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Fabienne Vavasseur
- Centre d'Investigation Clinique gastro-nutrition, CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | | | - Anaïs Cardon
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France
| | - Jean-Paul Judor
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France
| | - Jean-François Mosnier
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France; Service Anatomie et Cytologie Pathologiques, CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Florence Tanné
- Service d'hépato gastroentérologie, CHU Cavale Blanche, Brest, France
| | - David-Axel Laplaud
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France; Service de Neurologie et CIC 1413, CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Sophie Brouard
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France
| | - Jérôme Gournay
- Service Hepato-gastro-entérologie et Assistance Nutritionnelle, CHU Nantes, Nantes, France; Institut des Maladies de l'Appareil Digestif, IMAD, CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Pierre Milpied
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, Inserm, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, CIML, Marseille, France
| | - Sophie Conchon
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France.
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Sharma S, Agarwal S, Kaushal K, Anand A, Gunjan D, Yadav R, Saraya A. Presence and type of decompensation affects outcomes in autoimmune hepatitis upon treatment with corticosteroids. JGH OPEN 2020; 5:81-90. [PMID: 33490617 PMCID: PMC7812520 DOI: 10.1002/jgh3.12451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background and Aims Decompensated cirrhosis in autoimmune hepatitis has poor prognosis. Besides liver transplant, treatment for this entity is undefined. We explored the outcomes of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH)‐related decompensated cirrhosis with active disease on treatment with steroids. Methods In this retrospective analysis, clinical data, laboratory parameters, and prognostic scores, such as baseline model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) scores, were compared among patients of AIH with decompensated cirrhosis with mild/no ascites (n = 38), gross ascites (n = 24), and compensated cirrhosis (n = 32) when administered steroids. The primary outcome was transplant‐free survival at 12 months. Biochemical remission rates and other adverse events were also assessed and compared between these groups. Results Steroids were initiated at lower doses (25 mg/day‐mild/no ascites, 20 mg/day‐gross ascites) in patients with decompensated cirrhosis and at 40 mg/day in those with compensated cirrhosis. Transplant‐free survival was 25.4%, 74.6%, and 96.9% (P = 0.001), and biochemical remission occurred in 5.1%, 49.0%, and 64.1% (P = 0.001) at 12 months in patients with gross ascites, mild/no ascites, and compensated cirrhosis, respectively. Infections were seen more frequently in decompensated cirrhosis, while other adverse events were comparable. Among decompensated cirrhosis, those with mild/no ascites had better prognostic scores, fewer posttreatment infections, and more frequent biochemical remission than those with gross ascites, achieving rates comparable to compensated cirrhosis. On multivariate analysis, the MELD score (subdistributional hazards ratio [sHR]; 95% confidence interval: 1.153 [1.07–1.24]; P = 0.001) and ascites (sHR: 2.556 [1.565–5.65]; P = 0.020) predicted survival. Conclusion Type and severity of decompensation affect outcomes in patients with AIH‐related cirrhosis. Those with mild/no ascites have comparable outcomes to those with compensated cirrhosis upon treatment with low‐dose steroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanchit Sharma
- Department of Gastroenterology and Human Nutrition All India Institute of Medical Sciences New Delhi India
| | - Samagra Agarwal
- Department of Gastroenterology and Human Nutrition All India Institute of Medical Sciences New Delhi India
| | - Kanav Kaushal
- Department of Gastroenterology and Human Nutrition All India Institute of Medical Sciences New Delhi India
| | - Abhinav Anand
- Department of Gastroenterology and Human Nutrition All India Institute of Medical Sciences New Delhi India
| | - Deepak Gunjan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Human Nutrition All India Institute of Medical Sciences New Delhi India
| | - Rajni Yadav
- Department of Pathology All India Institute of Medical Sciences New Delhi India
| | - Anoop Saraya
- Department of Gastroenterology and Human Nutrition All India Institute of Medical Sciences New Delhi India
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Chalasani S, Mathur K, Shammas N, Orman E, Vuppalanchi R, Lammert C. Hepatic steatosis is highly prevalent but is not correlated with stiffness in autoimmune hepatitis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e22805. [PMID: 33080756 PMCID: PMC7571921 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000022805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The prevalence and impact of hepatic steatosis among patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is not well described.We conducted a cross-sectional study to determine the prevalence of hepatic steatosis in AIH patients and examined its relationship with hepatic fibrosis using vibration controlled transient elastography. Liver stiffness measurement (LSM), controlled attenuation parameter (CAP), gender, current age, and body mass index (BMI) were collected from 277 AIH patients. Hepatic steatosis was defined as CAP >263 db/m.The study participants were mostly female (82%) with an average age of 49 years and BMI 29.7 kg/m. Mean LSM was 12.5 (standard deviation 13.5) kPa and CAP was 244 (standard deviation 63) db/m. The prevalence of coexisting steatosis was 33.2%, and steatosis did not correlate with LSM (r = 0.05, P = .46). In this study, only gender (females with 31% lower LSM on average compared to males, P = .001) and BMI (each unit increase of BMI resulted in a 1.48% increase on average LSM, P = .01) correlated with LSM. Male gender had significant association with increased LSM, after controlling for age, BMI, and CAP (P = .001).This exploratory study using noninvasive vibration controlled transient elastography revealed hepatic steatosis is highly prevalent in patients with AIH but not associated with liver fibrosis.
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Wang H, Feng X, Yan W, Tian D. Regulatory T Cells in Autoimmune Hepatitis: Unveiling Their Roles in Mouse Models and Patients. Front Immunol 2020; 11:575572. [PMID: 33117375 PMCID: PMC7575771 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.575572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a severe and chronic liver disease, and its incidence has increased worldwide in recent years. Research into the pathogenesis of AIH remains limited largely owing to the lack of suitable mouse models. The concanavalin A (ConA) mouse model is a typical and well-established model used to investigate T cell-dependent liver injury. However, ConA-induced hepatitis is acute and usually disappears after 48 h; thus, it does not mimic the pathogenesis of AIH in the human body. Several studies have explored various AIH mouse models, but as yet there is no widely accepted and valid mouse model for AIH. Immunosuppression is the standard clinical therapy for AIH, but patient side effects and recurrence limit its use. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) play critical roles in the maintenance of immune homeostasis and in the prevention of autoimmune diseases, which may provide a potential therapeutic target for AIH therapy. However, the role of Tregs in AIH has not yet been clarified, partly because of difficulties in diagnosing AIH and in collecting patient samples. In this review, we discuss the studies related to Treg in various AIH mouse models and patients with AIH and provide some novel insights for this research area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xinxia Feng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Yan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dean Tian
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Novel HLA Class I Alleles Outside the Extended DR3 Haplotype Are Protective against Autoimmune Hepatitis. Clin Transl Gastroenterol 2020; 10:e00032. [PMID: 31211758 PMCID: PMC6613860 DOI: 10.14309/ctg.0000000000000032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
HLA class II allele, DRB1*03:01, is the most common genetic risk factor for autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), but other unrecognized HLA related risks exist.
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50
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Castellanos Fernández MI, Cepeda Mullo ME, la Rosa Hernández D, Vega Sánchez H, González Fabian L, Gish RG, Torres González AL, Dorta Guridi Z. Autoimmune Hepatitis in Cuban Patients: A Retrospective Analysis of Clinical and Histological Profiles, Treatments, and Outcomes. CURRENT THERAPEUTIC RESEARCH 2020; 93:100594. [PMID: 32922567 PMCID: PMC7476064 DOI: 10.1016/j.curtheres.2020.100594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Population-based studies on the clinical course and prognosis of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) from Caribbean countries are limited. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to provide information regarding the clinical and laboratory findings, histological profile, treatments, and outcomes of patients with AIH with long-term follow-up in a tertiary referral center. METHODS A retrospective study was performed at the National Institute of Gastroenterology in Havana, Cuba, by enrolling 82 patients with a well-documented, long-term clinical course of AIH. Clinical and laboratory findings, histological profiles, treatments, and outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS At diagnosis, 73 (89%) patients had AIH type 1, 84.1% were women, and their median age was 46.5 years (range, 17-79 years). The median follow-up period was 84 months (interquartile range, 12-276 months). Clinical onset was mild or subclinical in 72% of patients and asymptomatic in 12.2%. At diagnosis, the Hennes's median score was 6 (range, 3-8). Complications were seen in 44 (53.6%) patients, 42 (51.2%) with liver-related complications and 9 (10.9%) without liver-related complications. Cirrhosis was present at diagnosis in 32 (39%) patients. Cirrhosis was subsequently diagnosed in the other 28 patients who were not cirrhotic at diagnosis, over a median follow-up of 12 (IQR, 2-84) months. During follow-up, 6 patients died (7.3%). Cumulative survival at 5 and 10 years was 98.4% and 89%, respectively. A complete biochemical response was achieved in 79% of patients in a mean (SD) of 11.7 (11.6) months. Side effects due to treatment were reported in 76 (92.7%) patients, and no pretreatment factors were found to predict treatment response. CONCLUSIONS These Cuban patients with AIH had acceptable disease remission rate and a prompt treatment response. Although most patients had advanced-stage liver disease at diagnosis or developed during follow-up, the cumulative survival rate was high when patients were receiving and complying with treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Hector Vega Sánchez
- Department of Immunology, National Institute of Gastroenterology, Havana, Cuba
| | | | - Robert G. Gish
- Las Vegas, Nevada Hepatitis B Foundation, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, Nevada
| | | | - Zaily Dorta Guridi
- Department of Hepatology, National Institute of Gastroenterology, Havana, Cuba
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