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Kanda T, Li TC, Takahashi M, Nagashima S, Primadharsini PP, Kunita S, Sasaki-Tanaka R, Inoue J, Tsuchiya A, Nakamoto S, Abe R, Fujiwara K, Yokosuka O, Suzuki R, Ishii K, Yotsuyanagi H, Okamoto H. Recent advances in hepatitis E virus research and the Japanese clinical practice guidelines for hepatitis E virus infection. Hepatol Res 2024; 54:1-30. [PMID: 38874115 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.14062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Acute hepatitis E was considered rare until reports emerged affirming the existence of hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotypes 3 and 4 infections in Japan in the early 2000s. Extensive studies by Japanese researchers have highlighted the pivotal role of pigs and wild animals, such as wild boars and deer, as reservoirs for HEV, linking them to zoonotic infections in Japan. Currently, when hepatitis occurs subsequent to the consumption of undercooked or grilled pork, wild boar meat, or offal (including pig liver and intestines), HEV infection should be considered. Following the approval of anti-HEV immunoglobulin A antibody as a diagnostic tool for hepatitis E by Japan's Health Insurance System in 2011, the annual number of diagnosed cases of HEV infection has surged. Notably, the occurrence of post-transfusion hepatitis E promoted nationwide screening of blood products for HEV using nucleic acid amplification tests since 2020. Furthermore, chronic hepatitis E has been observed in immunosuppressed individuals. Considering the significance of hepatitis E, heightened preventive measures are essential. The Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development Hepatitis A and E viruses (HAV and HEV) Study Group, which includes special virologists and hepatologists, held a virtual meeting on February 17, 2024. Discussions encompassed pathogenesis, transmission routes, diagnosis, complications, severity factors, and ongoing and prospective vaccination or treatments for hepatitis E. Rigorous assessment of referenced studies culminated in the formulation of recommendations, which are detailed within this review. This comprehensive review presents recent advancements in HEV research and Japanese clinical practice guidelines for HEV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuo Kanda
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Uonuma Institute of Community Medicine, Niigata University Medical and Dental Hospital, Minamiuonuma, Japan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Tian-Cheng Li
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaharu Takahashi
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Shigeo Nagashima
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Putu Prathiwi Primadharsini
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kunita
- Center for Experimental Medicine, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Reina Sasaki-Tanaka
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Jun Inoue
- Division of Gastroenterology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Atsunori Tsuchiya
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Shingo Nakamoto
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chuo-ku, Chiba, Japan
| | - Ryuzo Abe
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Oita University, Oita, Japan
| | - Keiichi Fujiwara
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chuo-ku, Chiba, Japan
| | - Osamu Yokosuka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chuo-ku, Chiba, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Suzuki
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koji Ishii
- Department of Quality Assurance and Radiological Protection, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yotsuyanagi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Advanced Clinical Research Center, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Applied Immunology, Hospital of the Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Okamoto
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
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Yoshida Y, Ito A, Eto H, Suzuki A, Abe T, Endo K, Kakisaka K, Oikawa T, Kuroda H, Miyasaka A, Matsumoto T, Takahashi M, Okamoto H. Seroprevalence and incidence of hepatitis E virus infection in the general population of Iwate prefecture, Japan: A retrospective cohort study. Hepatol Res 2024; 54:24-31. [PMID: 37635642 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
AIM Hepatitis E virus (HEV) causes subclinical or acute self-limiting hepatitis. We surveyed the current seroprevalence and incidence of HEV infection among the general population in Iwate Prefecture, Japan, where the endemic infection is presumed to be low. METHODS Between 2014 and 2016, we recruited individuals from Iwate Prefecture, Japan, who visited a general medical work-up program. Serum anti-HEV antibody and HEV RNA were measured twice, with an interval of 2 years. Anti-HEV antibody was measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and HEV RNA with reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS Study participants comprised 1284 Japanese (650 men and 634 women) with age ranging 20-89 years. A total of 90 participants were found to be positive for anti-HEV immunoglobulin G on the first visit, with a prevalence of 7.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] 5.6%-8.4%). Seroprevalence was higher in men than in women (10.1% vs. 3.7%, p < 0.001), and in those aged in their 50s-80s than in those aged in their 20s-40s (p = 0.006). Positive seroconversion indicating new HEV infection was found in seven of 1194 seronegative participants (0.59%; 95% CI 0.15%-1.0%), indicating the incidence of HEV infection to be 272 per 100 000 person-years (95% CI 109-561). CONCLUSIONS Our observations suggest that the incidence of HEV infection is high and that it is a leading cause of hepatitis virus infection in Iwate Prefecture, Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuichi Yoshida
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Asami Ito
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Hisashi Eto
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Akiko Suzuki
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Tamami Abe
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Kei Endo
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Keisuke Kakisaka
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Takayoshi Oikawa
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Hidekatsu Kuroda
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Akio Miyasaka
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Takayuki Matsumoto
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Masaharu Takahashi
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Okamoto
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Japan
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Okumura H, Miyamoto A, Suzuki F, Takaya H. Acute Hepatitis E Infection during Chemotherapy for Lung Cancer: A Case Report. Chemotherapy 2023; 68:155-159. [PMID: 37166305 DOI: 10.1159/000530802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Acute hepatitis E, one of the causes of acute liver injury, has been increasingly diagnosed in developed countries in recent years. Misdiagnosis of acute hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection as drug-induced liver injury (DILI) may lead to discontinuation of effective chemotherapy. Thus, viral hepatitis, including hepatitis E, must be ruled out in the diagnosis of DILI. A 78-year-old woman with lung adenocarcinoma and multiple bone metastases received maintenance therapy with pemetrexed + pembrolizumab for a year. Increased aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase levels, indicating acute liver injury, were observed. Initially, DILI was suspected, and she was given medications to lower the levels of hepatic enzymes. She was later admitted to the hospital with the chief complaint of general malaise and anorexia. Serum aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase levels were markedly elevated (381 and 854 U/L, respectively). Acute HEV infection was diagnosed based on the detection of serum HEV immunoglobulin A antibodies. The patient received liver support therapy, and the serum hepatic enzymes recovered to normal levels. Chemotherapy was resumed without any subsequent relapse of hepatic enzyme elevation. When DILI is suspected during chemotherapy, exclusion of viral hepatitis is mandatory, which can be achieved by measuring markers of hepatitis viruses, including HEV, and examining the patient's detailed medical history.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Okumura
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Toranomon Hospital (Branch), Kawasaki-shi, Japan
| | - Atsushi Miyamoto
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Toranomon Hospital (Branch), Kawasaki-shi, Japan
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Respiratory Centre, Toranomon Hospital, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Fumitaka Suzuki
- Department of Hepatology, Toranomon Hospital, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hisashi Takaya
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Toranomon Hospital (Branch), Kawasaki-shi, Japan
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Liu R, Tan C, Wu J, Xu Y, Li X, Zhong Z, Li S, Qiu Y, Feng B. Characterization of genotype IV hepatitis E virus-like particles expressed in E.coli. Heliyon 2023; 9:e15284. [PMID: 37095953 PMCID: PMC10122030 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e15284] [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: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
HEV (Hepatitis E virus) is an infectious disease transmitted between humans and animals, which poses a severe threat to the biological safety and property throughout the world. The disease is especially severe in patients with potential liver cirrhosis and women during pregnancy. There is no specific and thorough HEV treatment at present. The development of hepatitis E virus vaccine is vital to the prevention of viral hepatitis worldwide. Since HEV cannot grow adequately in vitro, vaccine developed by devitalized virus particles does not work. Exploration of HEV-like structures is essential for the development of functional vaccines against HEV infection. ORF2 encodes the structural proteins of HEV, some of which can automatically assemble into virus-like particles (VLP) in this experiment, the recombinant capsid protein p27 was expressed in E. coli and the VLP formed by p27 was used to immunize mice. The results showed that the VLP formed by recombinant P27 had similar particle size to that of HEV; the immune dose produced by p27 was positively correlated with the immune effect. Compared with other genetic engineering subunit vaccines, P27 protein has a better application prospect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rushi Liu
- Laboratory of Medical Molecular and Immunological Diagnostics, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Chufan Tan
- Laboratory of Medical Molecular and Immunological Diagnostics, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Junwen Wu
- Nanya Middle School of Changsha, Changsha, 410129, China
| | - Ye Xu
- Laboratory of Medical Molecular and Immunological Diagnostics, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Xiaofeng Li
- Laboratory of Medical Molecular and Immunological Diagnostics, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Zhihong Zhong
- Laboratory of Medical Molecular and Immunological Diagnostics, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Sang Li
- Laboratory of Medical Molecular and Immunological Diagnostics, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Yilan Qiu
- School of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Corresponding author.
| | - Bo Feng
- The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, 410008, China
- Corresponding author.
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Prevalence of hepatitis E virus and its association with adverse pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women in China. J Clin Virol 2023; 158:105353. [PMID: 36527809 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2022.105353] [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: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection has become a global concern, especially in pregnant women. However, the association between HEV prevalence and age, gravidity and parity of pregnant women remains unclear. METHODS Pregnant women (n=19,762) were enrolled for HEV prevalence and associated adverse pregnancy outcomes investigation in Qujing City, Yunnan Province of China from May 2019 to December 2020. RESULTS The seroprevalence of HEV was 11.6% (2,297/19,762; 95% CI:11.2%-12.1%). About 11.4% (2,247/19,762; 95% CI:10.9%-11.8%) were positive for anti-HEV IgG antibody, 0.1% (22/19,762; 95% CI:0.1%-0.2%) were positive for anti-HEV IgM antibody, and 0.1% (28/19,762; 95% CI:0.1%-0.2%) were positive for both anti-HEV IgM and IgG antibodies. Sixty-one out of 2,297 anti-HEV-antibodies-positive pregnant women were positive for HEV RNA. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that all HEV isolates from pregnant women belong to genotype 4. Age, gravidity and parity are associated with increased prevalence of HEV. Pregnant women positive for HEV-IgG antibody bear a higher risk for an adverse pregnancy history and liver injury with elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels than anti-HEV-negative pregnant women. Furthermore, seropositive pregnant women suffered a higher adverse maternal outcomes risk (crude odds ratio [cOR]=1.29; 95% CI: 1.16-1.43; adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=1.40, 95% CI: 1.25-1.55 for anti-HEV-IgG-positive pregnant women and cOR=1.38, 95% CI: 1.02-1.86; aOR=1.43, 95% CI: 1.05-1.95 for anti-HEV-IgM-positive pregnant women) and fetal outcomes risk (cOR=1.80, 95% CI: 1.61-2.01; aOR=1.77, 95% CI: 1.57-1.99) than anti-HEV-negative pregnant women. Adverse pregnancy outcomes of HEV infection are aggravated by age, gravidity and parity. CONCLUSION In this study, we demonstrated high prevalence of HEV in pregnancy women in China, and HEV infection can cause various adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes.
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Geng Y, Shi T, Wang Y. Epidemiology of Hepatitis E. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1417:33-48. [PMID: 37223857 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-99-1304-6_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is globally prevalent with relatively high percentages of anti-HEV immunoglobulin G-positive individuals in the populations of developing and developed countries. There are two distinct epidemiological patterns of hepatitis E. In areas with high disease endemicity, primarily developing countries in Asia and Africa, this disease is caused mainly by genotypes HEV-1 or HEV-2; both genotypes transmit predominantly through contaminated water and occur as either outbreaks or sporadic cases of acute hepatitis. The acute hepatitis has the highest attack rate in young adults and is particularly severe among pregnant women. In developed countries, sporadic cases of locally acquired HEV-3 or HEV-4 infection are observed. The reservoir of HEV-3 and HEV-4 is believed to be animals, such as pigs, with zoonotic transmission to humans. The affected persons are often elderly, and persistent infection has been well documented among immunosuppressed persons. A subunit vaccine has been shown to be effective in preventing clinical disease and has been licensed in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yansheng Geng
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of Hebei Province, School of Public Health, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Tengfei Shi
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of Hebei Province, School of Public Health, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Youchun Wang
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, China.
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Li B, Wu H, Miao Z, Hu L, Zhou L, Lu Y. Codon Usage of Hepatitis E Viruses: A Comprehensive Analysis. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:938651. [PMID: 35801104 PMCID: PMC9253588 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.938651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging zoonotic pathogen with multiple species and genotypes, which may be classified into human, animal, and zoonotic HEV. Codon usage bias of HEV remained unclear. This study aims to characterize the codon usage of HEV and elucidate the main drivers influencing the codon usage bias. A total of seven HEV genotypes, HEV-1 (human HEV), HEV-3 and HEV-4 (zoonotic HEV), HEV-8, HEV-B, HEV-C1, and HEV-C2 (emerging animal HEV), were included in the study. Complete coding sequences, ORF1, ORF2, and ORF3, were accordingly obtained in the GenBank. Except for HEV-8, the other six genotypes tended to use codons ending in G/C. Based on the analysis of relatively synonymous codon usage (RSCU) and principal component analysis (PCA), codon usage bias was determined for HEV genotypes. Codon usage bias differed widely across human, zoonotic, and animal HEV genotypes; furthermore, it varied within certain genotypes such as HEV-4, HEV-8, and HEV-C1. In addition, dinucleotide abundance revealed that HEV was affected by translation selection to form a unique dinucleotide usage pattern. Moreover, parity rule 2 analysis (PR2), effective codon number (ENC)-plot, and neutrality analysis were jointly performed. Natural selection played a leading role in forming HEV codon usage bias, which was predominant in HEV-1, HEV-3, HEV-B and HEV-C1, while affected HEV-4, HEV-8, and HEV-C2 in combination with mutation pressure. Our findings may provide insights into HEV evolution and codon usage bias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingzhe Li
- Department of Epidemiology, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Han Wu
- Department of Epidemiology, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ziping Miao
- Institute of Communicable Diseases Prevention and Control, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, China
| | - Linjie Hu
- Department of Epidemiology, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu Zhou
- Department of Epidemiology, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yihan Lu
- Department of Epidemiology, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yihan Lu,
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Subclinical hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection detected by nucleic acid amplification test on blood donation: short-term positivity for immunoglobulin G class of antibody against HEV. Clin J Gastroenterol 2022; 15:750-754. [PMID: 35507275 DOI: 10.1007/s12328-022-01635-3] [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: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
A case of subclinical hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection was detected by nucleic acid amplification test on blood donation. The patient was followed-up until day 220 after the blood donation but showed no symptoms throughout the observation period. Aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase levels reached the maximum values on day 37 with a slight increase but remained in normal ranges from day 67 to 220. The quantity of HEV RNA at the initial examination on day 13 was 1.1 × 102 copies/mL, which increased to 2.8 × 103 copies/mL by day 37. It was not detected from day 67 to 220. Immunoglobulin G class antibody to HEV (anti-HEV IgG) was below the cut-off value until day 37 and exceeded the cut-off value to positive on day 67, accompanied by normalization of liver function and negative conversion of HEV RNA. Thereafter, the titer decreased gradually, falling below the cut-off value on day 163, and continuing negative until day 220. Although the persistent duration of anti-HEV IgG positive is believed to be generally long, it was within only 126 days for this subclinical case. Further investigation is needed to determine whether short-term positivity for anti-HEV IgG is typical in subclinical HEV infection.
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Koyama M, Yamazaki T, Joshita S, Ito A, Ono K, Watanabe T, Yamashita Y, Sugiura A, Kobayashi M, Sato Y, Takahashi M, Okamoto H, Umemura T. An Autopsy Case of Primary Biliary Cholangitis with Histological Submassive Hepatic Necrosis Caused by Acute Hepatitis E Virus Infection. Intern Med 2021; 60:1863-1870. [PMID: 33518570 PMCID: PMC8263169 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.6337-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
A 59-year-old woman who had been diagnosed with cirrhotic primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) 5 years earlier was admitted for severe jaundice (total bilirubin: 30.1 mg/dL). We suspected that her cirrhotic PBC had deteriorated acutely for some reason. Her general condition deteriorated quickly, and she passed away on day 18 of admission. Hepatitis E virus (HEV)-IgA antibodies were positive, and Genotype 3b HEV involvement was confirmed from a blood sample taken on admission. Histopathological findings revealed cirrhosis and submassive loss and necrosis of hepatocytes. Clinicians should consider the possibility of acute HEV infection as a trigger for acute PBC exacerbation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mizuki Koyama
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Tomoo Yamazaki
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Satoru Joshita
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Akihiro Ito
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Kazuyuki Ono
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Takayuki Watanabe
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Yuki Yamashita
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Ayumi Sugiura
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Mikiko Kobayashi
- Department of Pathology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Sato
- Department of Pathology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Masaharu Takahashi
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Okamoto
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Takeji Umemura
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Japan
- Department of Life Innovation, Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Shinshu University, Japan
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Li H, Zhang Y, Ma Z, Liu Z, Ikram A, Liu L, Zhao G, Pan Q, Baloch Z. HEV prevalence and potential risk factors in a large multi-ethnic youth cohort in China. Virol J 2021; 18:3. [PMID: 33407606 PMCID: PMC7789705 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-020-01470-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This cohort study was designed to investigate the prevalence of and potential risk factors of HEV infection in a large multi-ethnic youth cohort in China. METHODS Blood samples were collected from participants (n = 6269) and serum was isolated. All serum samples were tested for anti-HEV IgG, anti-HEV IgM antibodies using commercial enzyme immunoassay kits (Wantai Biological Pharmacy Enterprise, Beijing, China). RESULTS The overall rate of anti-HEV IgG and anti-HEV IgM prevalence was 4.78% and 0.14%, 0.03% were positive for both anti-HEV IgG and anti-HEV IgM antibodies. Anti-HEV IgG positivity is significantly higher in females (5.27%) compared to males (4.14%) (P = 0.028). Anti-HEV IgG prevalence is significantly (P = 0.0001) higher in Dong (17.57%), Miao (12.23%), Yi (11.04%), Gelao (9.76%), and Bai (10.00%) compared to other ethnic groups. It is significantly higher in Guizhou (11.4%), Sichuan (10.1%), Yunnan (9.3%), and Guangxi (6.9%) than that other province. We found that ethnicity and provincial background are significantly associated with HEV infection in this cohort. CONCLUSION This study provides comprehensive information on HEV prevalence in multi-ethnic populations in China. However, our study only focused on a youth population from different provinces of China. Future studies are recommended to investigate HEV prevalence in other age groups of the ethnic populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huixia Li
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioengineering of State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Biomedical Research Center, Northwest Minzu University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yinxia Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioengineering of State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Biomedical Research Center, Northwest Minzu University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zhongren Ma
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioengineering of State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Biomedical Research Center, Northwest Minzu University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zewen Liu
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioengineering of State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Biomedical Research Center, Northwest Minzu University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Aqsa Ikram
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioengineering of State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Biomedical Research Center, Northwest Minzu University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Lijiang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioengineering of State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Biomedical Research Center, Northwest Minzu University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Guoqin Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioengineering of State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Biomedical Research Center, Northwest Minzu University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Qiuwei Pan
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioengineering of State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Biomedical Research Center, Northwest Minzu University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zulqarnain Baloch
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China.
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A Nationwide Survey of Hepatitis E Virus Infection and Chronic Hepatitis in Heart and Kidney Transplant Recipients in Japan. Transplantation 2020; 104:437-444. [PMID: 31205267 PMCID: PMC7004465 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000002801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Background. Recently, chronic hepatitis E has been reported in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients in European countries. Previously, we clarified the prevalence of hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection in Japanese liver transplant recipients and identified 2 chronic hepatitis E patients infected by blood transfusion. However, the rate of HEV infection in recipients of SOTs other than liver in Japan remains unclear, so we conducted a nationwide survey to clarify the prevalence of chronic HEV infection in Japanese heart and kidney transplant recipients. Methods. A total of 99 heart and 2526 kidney transplant recipients in 17 hospitals in Japan were examined for the presence of the IgG class of anti-HEV antibodies as well as for serum HEV RNA. Results. The prevalence of anti-HEV IgG among heart and kidney transplant recipients was 7.07% (7/99) and 4.08% (103/2526), respectively. One heart transplant patient (1.01%) and 11 kidney transplant patients (0.44%) were found to be positive for HEV RNA. The HEV isolates from all viremic patients were typed as genotype 3. Four patients developed chronic hepatitis E after transplantation. Three patients were treated with ribavirin; their liver enzymes normalized, and HEV RNA became negative immediately. Sustained virologic response was achieved in all cases. Conclusions. This is the first nationwide survey of HEV infection in Japanese heart and kidney transplant recipients. The prevalence of anti-HEV IgG and HEV RNA in heart and kidney transplant recipients in Japan was lower than that in European countries. Of note, 42% of viremic transplant patients developed chronic hepatitis.
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Kitaura S, Wakabayashi Y, Okazaki A, Okada Y, Okamoto K, Ikeda M, Okugawa S, Moriya K. The First Case Report of Acute Symptomatic HEV Genotype 4 Infection in an HIV-positive Patient in Japan. Intern Med 2020; 59:1655-1658. [PMID: 32269193 PMCID: PMC7402963 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.4505-20] [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: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a common cause of acute hepatitis. Four major genotypes of HEV have been studied, with genotype 4 being the predominant genotype across Asia. We herein describe the case of a 50-year-old man with a history of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection who was admitted with acute transaminitis. Serum anti-HEV-IgA and HEV-RNA were detected at the time of presentation and further testing revealed HEV genotype 4. To the best of our knowledge, this represents the first clinical case report of acute symptomatic HEV genotype 4 infection in an HIV-positive patient in Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Kitaura
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Wakabayashi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Japan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Teikyo University, Japan
| | - Aiko Okazaki
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Japan
| | - Yuta Okada
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Japan
| | - Koh Okamoto
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Japan
| | - Mahoko Ikeda
- Department of Infection Control and Prevention, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shu Okugawa
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Japan
| | - Kyoji Moriya
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Japan
- Department of Infection Control and Prevention, The University of Tokyo, Japan
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13
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Kamimura H, Setsu T, Arao Y, Hirokawa H, Sawaguri H, Watanabe F, Komoro Y, Sakamaki A, Tsuchiya A, Takamura M, Ikarashi M, Aoyagi Y, Kikuta R, Watanabe K, Nakayama H, Tamura T, Terai S. Ten years' experience in Niigata Prefecture Liver Disease Consultation Center. KANZO 2020; 61:245-254. [DOI: 10.2957/kanzo.61.245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroteru Kamimura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Science, Niigata University
- Niigata University Hospital Center for Liver Diseases
| | - Toru Setsu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Science, Niigata University
- Niigata University Hospital Center for Liver Diseases
| | - Yoshihisa Arao
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Science, Niigata University
- Niigata University Hospital Center for Liver Diseases
| | | | | | | | - Yuko Komoro
- Niigata University Hospital Center for Liver Diseases
| | - Akira Sakamaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Science, Niigata University
| | - Atsunori Tsuchiya
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Science, Niigata University
| | - Masaaki Takamura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Science, Niigata University
| | - Masato Ikarashi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, JA Niigata Medical Center Hospital
| | - Yutaka Aoyagi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, JA Niigata Medical Center Hospital
| | - Rei Kikuta
- Division Health Promotion, Niigata Prefecture
| | | | | | - Tsutomu Tamura
- Division of Virology Niigata Prefectural Institute of Public Health and Environmental Sciences
| | - Shuji Terai
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Science, Niigata University
- Niigata University Hospital Center for Liver Diseases
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Wilhelm B, Waddell L, Greig J, Young I. Systematic review and meta-analysis of the seroprevalence of hepatitis E virus in the general population across non-endemic countries. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0216826. [PMID: 31173594 PMCID: PMC6555507 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0216826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E virus (HEV) has commonly been associated with large waterborne outbreaks of human jaundice in endemic areas but it has been increasingly recognised as a cause of sporadic human cases of jaundice in non-endemic areas, in individuals with no history of travel. Zoonotic exposure is widely hypothesized to be an important potential transmission route in these sporadic human cases. Serosurveys conducted to determine the frequency of HEV human exposure report wide ranges in prevalence across studies and locations. Our study objective was to compute meta-analysis summary estimates of human seroprevalence of HEV IgG within countries considered HEV non-endemic, where possible, and to determine whether this varied significantly across these countries, as well as investigating the role of potential HEV seroprevalence predictors such as population age structure. MATERIALS AND METHODS A broad literature search was conducted in six electronic databases. Citations were appraised, and relevant data extracted using forms designed and pre-tested a priori. Meta-analysis and meta-regression were conducted in R, with HEV IgG seroprevalence in blood donors or the general population being the outcome of interest, and country, assay, population age and sex structure, and chronological time investigated as predictors of the outcome. RESULTS From 4163 unique citations initially captured, data were extracted from 135 studies investigating HEV serology in blood donors or the general population, of 31 countries among those categorised as 'very high human development' by the United Nations. Country of sampling and assay employed were consistently significant predictors of HEV IgG seroprevalence with chronological time being a non-significant predictor in the dataset of captured studies. CONCLUSIONS While country of sampling and assay employed were significant predictors of HEV seroprevalence, comparison of HEV seroprevalence across non-endemic countries is hampered by the lack of a gold standard assay and uncertainty regarding residual bias across studies, as well as regional differences within some countries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lisa Waddell
- National Microbiology Laboratory at Guelph, Public Health Agency of Canada, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Judy Greig
- National Microbiology Laboratory at Guelph, Public Health Agency of Canada, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ian Young
- School of Occupational and Public Health, Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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15
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The Current Host Range of Hepatitis E Viruses. Viruses 2019; 11:v11050452. [PMID: 31108942 PMCID: PMC6563279 DOI: 10.3390/v11050452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging zoonotic pathogen transmitting both human to human via the fecal oral route and from animals to humans through feces, direct contact, and consumption of contaminated meat products. Understanding the host range of the virus is critical for determining where potential threats to human health may be emerging from and where potential reservoirs for viral persistence in the environment may be hiding. Initially thought to be a human specific disease endemic to developing countries, the identification of swine as a primary host for genotypes 3 and 4 HEV in industrialized countries has begun a long journey of discovering novel strains of HEV and their animal hosts. As we continue identifying new strains of HEV in disparate animal species, it is becoming abundantly clear that HEV has a broad host range and many of these HEV strains can cross between differing animal species. These cross-species transmitting strains pose many unique challenges to human health as they are often unrecognized as sources of viral transmission.
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Meta-Analysis of Human IgG anti-HEV Seroprevalence in Industrialized Countries and a Review of Literature. Viruses 2019; 11:v11010084. [PMID: 30669517 PMCID: PMC6357031 DOI: 10.3390/v11010084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Revised: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Although Hepatitis E is increasingly described as a major cause of liver disease in industrialized countries, the epidemiology is far from being fully elucidated. We provide here a comprehensive review of documented clusters of cases, and of serological studies conducted in populations with distinct types of exposure. Seroprevalence rates range from <5% to >50% depending on the countries and the groups of population. Such discrepancies can be attributed to the type of serological assay used, but this solves only a part of the problem. We performed a meta-analysis of studies performed with the broadly used Wantai HEV-IgG ELISA and found striking differences that remain difficult to understand with the current knowledge of transmission pathways.
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17
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Hepatitis E virus infection in different groups of Estonian patients and people who inject drugs. J Clin Virol 2018; 104:5-10. [PMID: 29702351 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2018.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Revised: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previously we demonstrated a high prevalence of hepatitis E virus (HEV) in domestic pigs and wild boars, the main reservoir and possible source of HEV infections in humans. But so far there are no reports about spread of HEV in Estonian human population. OBJECTIVES The present study aimed to determine the prevalence and genotyping of HEV in different groups of the Estonian adult population. STUDY DESIGN Totally 1426 human serum samples were tested (763 patients with clinically diagnosed nonA/B/C hepatitis, 176 hemodialysis patients, 282 patients with suspected HEV infection and 205 people who injected drugs (PWID)). Presence of anti-HEVantibodies was assessed by ELISA and confirmed by immunoblotting. All anti-HEV positive sera were analyzed for RNA by qPCR. Amplified ORF2 region was sequenced and used for phylogenetic analysis. RESULTS Antibody assay revealed 49 samples from 1426 (3.4%) with acute (17) or past (32) HEV infection. HEV RNA was detected in 10 anti-HEV IgM positive samples, including 9 samples from patients with suspected HEV infection and 1 hemodialysis patient. Anti-HEV IgG were found in 7.8% patients with suspected HEV infection, in 4% hemodialysis patients, in 2.4% PWID and in 1.96% patients with nonA/B/C hepatitis. All groups demonstrated a trend to share of anti-HEV seroprevalence increasing with age. Phylogenetic analysis of 9 HEV RNA sequences revealed that 3 sequences belonged to HEV genotype 1; 6 ones to genotype 3 (1 sequence belonged to sub-genotype 3a, two ones - sub-genotype 3e, and three ones - to sub-genotype 3f). CONCLUSIONS Despite the high seroprevalence among domestic pigs, no evidence of HEV transmission from Estonian pigs to humans was found. The results of our study suggest that HEV infections in Estonia are most likely associated with travel or with consumption of imported food products.
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Comparison of hepatitis E virus seroprevalence between HBsAg-positive population and healthy controls in Shandong province, China. BMC Infect Dis 2018; 18:75. [PMID: 29433428 PMCID: PMC5810058 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-018-2974-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2017] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Persons with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection were reported to suffer severe disease after hepatitis E virus (HEV) superinfection, but the studies regarding HEV seroprevalence in this population were limited. A recent study in Vietnam found higher HEV seroprevalence among CHB patients compared with healthy controls. Methods A community-based case-control study was conducted in two counties of Shandong province, China, where hepatitis E incidence was at the highest (Rushan) and lowest (Zhangqiu) in the province based on data from routine public health surveillance. Four townships were selected randomly from each county and all residents in these townships were tested for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Those tested positive for HBsAg (CHB group) and the 1:1 age and sex-matched HBsAg-negative residents (control group) were included. Anti-HEV IgM and IgG were tested and positive rates of IgG and IgM were compared between the CHB group and the control group. Results In total, 2048 CHB participants and 2054 controls were included in the study. In the CHB group, HEV IgG seroprevalence was 9.16% (95% CI: 7.47–11.09) in Zhangqiue and 38.06% (95% CI: 35.07–41.19) in Rushan (P < 0.001); the corresponding rates of IgM were 0.1% (95% CI: 0.002–0.54) and 1.57% (95% CI: 0.90–2.53), respectively (P < 0.001). HEV IgG seroprevalence was similar between CHB group and the control group in both counties (P = 0.21, P = 0.47, respectively) and the same results were found for the positive rate of IgM (P = 0.103, P = 0.262, respectively). Multivariable analysis showed the status of HBsAg was not independently associated with the status of anti-HEV IgG in either Zhangqiu or Rushan [P = 0.187, OR = 1.23(95% CI: 0.90, 1.68); P = 0.609, OR = 1.05 (95% CI: 0.87, 1.26)]. Conclusions The seroprevalence of HEV varies greatly in different geographic areas, but the seroprevalence is similar between populations with and without CHB. CHB patients residing in high HEV endemic areas might be at higher risk for HBV-HEV superinfection.
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Ishida S, Matsuura K, Yoshizumi S, Miyoshi M, Sugisawa T, Tanida M, Okano M. Hepatitis E outbreak at a nursing home for aged people in Hokkaido, Japan, between February and March 2016. J Clin Virol 2018; 101:23-28. [PMID: 29414183 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2018.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2017] [Revised: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infection with hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotypes 3 and 4 are usually asymptomatic but can occasionally result in life-threatening acute hepatitis. To date, only sporadic cases together with a few outbreaks have been documented. Seroprevalence studies with assays for the detection of HEV IgG antibodies, suggest that HEV is more prevalent than previously thought, even in non-endemic regions. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to characterize an outbreak of hepatitis E (HE) in a nursing home for aged people between February and March 2016. STUDY DESIGN After the identification of two cases living in the same nursing home, the presence of antibodies against HEV and HEV RNA were examined in serum samples collected from the other residents and staff members to identify any additional cases. An epidemiological investigation was also carried out. RESULTS Only 4 patients showed mild symptoms such as anorexia, abdominal pain and fatigue. Among the 125 persons tested, 28 residents and one dietitian were confirmed positive for anti-HEV IgA or IgM antibodies, and/or HEV RNA. Eight samples had only IgG antibodies. Finally, 22 cases were notified with HE on the basis of the presence of IgA antibodies. All HEV isolates obtained were 99.8-100% identical and belonged to genotype 3. CONCLUSION HEV infections seem to be under-reported or underestimated possibly due to cases being generally asymptomatic. Testing for the presence of both anti-HEV antibodies and HEV RNA would be beneficial for both the comprehensive diagnosis of HE infections and the prevention of further infections.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kaori Matsuura
- Asahikawa City Center of Public Health, Asahikawa, Japan
| | | | | | - Takahisa Sugisawa
- Asahikawa City Center of Public Health, Asahikawa, Japan; Kushiro Center of Public Health, Kushiro, Japan
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Sasaki Y, Haruna M, Uema M, Noda M, Yamada Y. Prevalence and Phylogenetic Analysis of Hepatitis E Virus among Pigs in Japan. Jpn J Infect Dis 2018; 71:75-78. [DOI: 10.7883/yoken.jjid.2017.235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yoshimasa Sasaki
- Food Safety and Consumer Affairs Bureau, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
- Division of Biomedical Food Research, National Institute of Health Sciences
| | - Mika Haruna
- Food Safety and Consumer Affairs Bureau, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
| | - Masashi Uema
- Division of Biomedical Food Research, National Institute of Health Sciences
| | - Mamoru Noda
- Division of Biomedical Food Research, National Institute of Health Sciences
| | - Yukiko Yamada
- Food Safety and Consumer Affairs Bureau, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
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21
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Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is globally prevalent with relatively high percentages of anti-HEV immunoglobulin G-positive individuals in the populations of developing and developed countries. There are two distinct epidemiologic patterns of hepatitis E. In areas with high disease endemicity, primarily developing countries in Asia and Africa, this disease is caused mainly by genotype 1 or 2 HEV, both of which transmit predominantly through contaminated water and occur as either outbreaks or as sporadic cases of acute hepatitis. The acute hepatitis caused by either of these two genotypes has the highest attack rate in young adults, and the disease is particularly severe among pregnant women. In developed countries, sporadic cases of locally acquired genotype 3 or 4 HEV infection are observed. The reservoir of genotype 3 and 4 HEV is believed to be animals, such as pigs, with zoonotic transmission to humans. The affected persons are often elderly, and persistent infection has been well documented among immunosuppressed persons. A subunit vaccine has been shown to be effective in preventing clinical disease and has been licensed in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yansheng Geng
- School of Public Health, Hebei University, No. 342 Yuhuadonglu, Baoding, 071000, China.
| | - Youchun Wang
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-transmitted Virus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, No. 2 Tiantanxili, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100050, China
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Suzuki K, Kumagai I, Yoshida Y, Miyasaka A, Takikawa Y, Kamiya R, Kondo K, Kato A, Chiba T, Okamoto H. Asymptomatic acute hepatitis E in a female patient with ulcerative colitis. Clin J Gastroenterol 2017; 10:255-260. [PMID: 28353200 DOI: 10.1007/s12328-017-0730-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 03/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
We present a 60-year-old female patient with asymptomatic acute hepatitis E that was fortuitously detected during the course of ulcerative colitis (UC). She was admitted to hospital on October 30, 2015. Endoscopy and histological examination of the colon showed typical findings of UC. All parameters of liver function tests were normal on this date. Combination therapy with oral prednisolone and mesalazine was started and intravenous administration of infliximab once every 8 weeks was added later. Her symptoms gradually improved after these treatments, and she was discharged on February 7, 2016. In a periodic check-up on July 7, 2016, high levels of serum transaminases were detected in liver function tests. Although drug-induced liver injury was first suspected, anti-hepatitis E virus (HEV) immunoglobulin A was positive. The genotype and subgenotype of this HEV are 3 and 3a, respectively, although the infectious route of the HEV was unclear. Within 2 weeks after the onset of acute liver injury, the HEV viremia disappeared and her liver function tests improved. Examination of serum anti-HEV immunoglobulin A should be added at the time of abnormal liver function tests in patients with UC receiving immunosuppressive and biological drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuyuki Suzuki
- Department of Nutritional Science, Morioka University, 808 Sunakomi, Takizawa, Iwate, 020-0694, Japan.
- Department of Gastroenterology, Morioka City Hospital, 5-15-1 Motomiya, Morioka, Iwate, 020-0866, Japan.
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, 19-1 Uchimaru, Morioka, Iwate, 020-8505, Japan.
| | - Ichiro Kumagai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Morioka City Hospital, 5-15-1 Motomiya, Morioka, Iwate, 020-0866, Japan
| | - Yuichi Yoshida
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, 19-1 Uchimaru, Morioka, Iwate, 020-8505, Japan
| | - Akio Miyasaka
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, 19-1 Uchimaru, Morioka, Iwate, 020-8505, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Takikawa
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, 19-1 Uchimaru, Morioka, Iwate, 020-8505, Japan
| | - Ryoichi Kamiya
- Department of Gastroenterology, Morioka City Hospital, 5-15-1 Motomiya, Morioka, Iwate, 020-0866, Japan
| | - Kouryo Kondo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Morioka City Hospital, 5-15-1 Motomiya, Morioka, Iwate, 020-0866, Japan
| | - Akinobu Kato
- Department of Gastroenterology, Morioka City Hospital, 5-15-1 Motomiya, Morioka, Iwate, 020-0866, Japan
| | - Toshimi Chiba
- Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Oral Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Dentistry, 19-1 Uchimaru, Morioka, Iwate, 020-8505, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Okamoto
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, 329-0498, Japan
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Satake M, Matsubayashi K, Hoshi Y, Taira R, Furui Y, Kokudo N, Akamatsu N, Yoshizumi T, Ohkohchi N, Okamoto H, Miyoshi M, Tamura A, Fuse K, Tadokoro K. Unique clinical courses of transfusion-transmitted hepatitis E in patients with immunosuppression. Transfusion 2017; 57:280-288. [PMID: 28144952 DOI: 10.1111/trf.13994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2016] [Revised: 11/28/2016] [Accepted: 12/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The high prevalence of specific immunoglobulin G for hepatitis E virus (HEV) in Japanese people raises the possibility of a high incidence of HEV-viremic blood donors and therefore frequent transfusion-transmitted HEV (TT-HEV). STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS TT-HEV cases established in Japan through hemovigilance and those published in the literature were collected. Infectivity of HEV-contaminated blood components and disease severity in relation to immunosuppression were investigated. RESULTS Twenty established TT-HEV cases were recorded over the past 17 years. A lookback study verified that five of 10 patients transfused with known HEV-contaminated blood components acquired HEV infection. The minimal infectious dose of HEV through transfusion was 3.6 × 104 IU. Nine of the 19 TT-HEV cases analyzed had hematologic diseases. Only two cases showed the maximal alanine aminotransferase level of more than 1000 U/L. Two patients with hematologic malignancy and two liver transplant recipients had chronic liver injury of moderate severity. CONCLUSION The infectivity of HEV-contaminated components was 50%. Immunosuppression likely causes the moderate illness of TT-HEV, but it may lead to the establishment of chronic sequelae. Transfusion recipients, a population that is variably immunosuppressed, are more vulnerable to chronic liver injury as a result of TT-HEV than the general population is as a result of food-borne infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yuji Hoshi
- Japanese Red Cross Central Blood Institute
| | | | | | - Norihiro Kokudo
- Artificial Organ and Transplantation Division, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nobuhisa Akamatsu
- Artificial Organ and Transplantation Division, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoharu Yoshizumi
- Department of Surgery and Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Nobuhiro Ohkohchi
- Division of Gastroenterological and Hepatobiliary Surgery and Organ Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Okamoto
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Masato Miyoshi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University
| | - Akinori Tamura
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine.,Tamura Medical Clinic, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kyoko Fuse
- Department of Hematology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Niigata University Faculty of Medicine, Niigata, Japan
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Sadik S, van Rijckevorsel GGC, van Rooijen MS, Sonder GJB, Bruisten SM. Seroprevalence of hepatitis E virus differs in Dutch and first generation migrant populations in Amsterdam, the Netherlands: a cross-sectional study. BMC Infect Dis 2016; 16:659. [PMID: 27825308 PMCID: PMC5101818 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-016-2007-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 10/28/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In the last decade hepatitis E virus (HEV) is increasingly recognized as a cause of acute viral hepatitis in developed countries. HEV is transmitted via the fecal-oral route. In countries like the Netherlands, HEV infection is suspected to be a zoonosis but HEV may also be introduced by migrants. We studied the seroprevalence of HEV among different migrants, mainly Moroccans and Turks, and compared this to that of the native Dutch population in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Methods Data were obtained from a cross-sectional survey of the adult Amsterdam population performed in 2004; the Amsterdam Health Monitor. A total of 1199 plasma samples were tested for IgG-and IgM antibodies to HEV using the Wantai kit according to instructions of the manufacturer. Basic demographic data (gender, age, country of birth, and age at immigration) were used in the analyses. Hepatitis A virus (HAV) serology data were available from a previous study. Results The total weighted anti-HEV IgG seroprevalence in the overall Amsterdam population was 26.7 %, based on 1199 samples. In the study population (not-weighted) this HEV seroprevalence was 157/426 (36.9 %) for the Dutch participants and it was 161/257 (62.6 %) for Moroccans, 99/296 (33.4 %) for Turks and 42/220 (19.1 %) for other ethnicities. HEV seroprevalence increased significantly with age. First-generation Moroccan migrants (44.0 %) had a significantly higher weighted HEV seroprevalence than the Dutch participants (29.7 %). In the first generation Turks (20.3 %) and first generation migrants from other countries (16.7 %) this weighted seroprevalence was lower, but this was only significant for the ‘other ethnicities’. The median age of migration was significantly higher in the Moroccan and Turkish migrants who were HEV IgG positive versus HEV IgG negative. However, when stratifying for age at time of study, median migration age was only significantly different for HEV sero-status for younger Turks and younger ‘other ethnicities’. HEV IgM antibodies were found in 0.6 % (n = 7) of participants and none were positive for HEV RNA, showing that there were no acute infections. Despite the common route of fecal-oral transmission for both viruses, there was no relation between HEV and HAV seropositivity. Conclusion Within the multi-ethnical capital city of Amsterdam the HEV seroprevalence in first generation migrant populations differed from each other and from the autochthonous Dutch population. The relation between being HEV seropositive and a higher median age of migration suggests that younger migrants got more often infected in their country of origin than in the Netherlands.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Sadik
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 100, 1018, WT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - G G C van Rijckevorsel
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 100, 1018, WT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, RIVM, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - M S van Rooijen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 100, 1018, WT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - G J B Sonder
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 100, 1018, WT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Academic Medical Centre, Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S M Bruisten
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 100, 1018, WT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. .,Academic Medical Centre, Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Inagaki Y, Oshiro Y, Tanaka T, Yoshizumi T, Okajima H, Ishiyama K, Nakanishi C, Hidaka M, Wada H, Hibi T, Takagi K, Honda M, Kuramitsu K, Tanaka H, Tohyama T, Ikegami T, Imura S, Shimamura T, Nakayama Y, Urahashi T, Yamagishi K, Ohnishi H, Nagashima S, Takahashi M, Shirabe K, Kokudo N, Okamoto H, Ohkohchi N. A Nationwide Survey of Hepatitis E Virus Infection and Chronic Hepatitis E in Liver Transplant Recipients in Japan. EBioMedicine 2016; 2:1607-12. [PMID: 26870785 PMCID: PMC4740318 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2015.09.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2015] [Revised: 09/16/2015] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Recently, chronic hepatitis E has been increasingly reported in organ transplant recipients in European countries. In Japan, the prevalence of hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection after transplantation remains unclear, so we conducted a nationwide cross-sectional study to clarify the prevalence of chronic HEV infection in Japanese liver transplant recipients. Methods A total of 1893 liver transplant recipients in 17 university hospitals in Japan were examined for the presence of immunoglobulin G (IgG), IgM and IgA classes of anti-HEV antibodies, and HEV RNA in serum. Findings The prevalence of anti-HEV IgG, IgM and IgA class antibodies was 2.9% (54/1893), 0.05% (1/1893) and 0% (0/1893), respectively. Of 1651 patients tested for HEV RNA, two patients (0.12%) were found to be positive and developed chronic infection after liver transplantation. In both cases, HEV RNA was also detected in one of the blood products transfused at the perioperative period. Analysis of the HEV genomes revealed that the HEV isolates obtained from the recipients and the transfused blood products were identical in both cases, indicating transfusion-transmitted HEV infection. Interpretation The prevalence of HEV antibodies in liver transplant recipients was 2.9%, which is low compared with the healthy population in Japan and with organ transplant recipients in European countries; however, the present study found, for the first time, two Japanese patients with chronic HEV infection that was acquired via blood transfusion during or after liver transplantation. We conducted the multicenter survey for HEV infection in liver transplant recipients. Though the chronic HEV infection is rare, transfusion-transmitted cases were detected. Blood products can be a risk of chronic HEV infection in transplant recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Inagaki
- Division of Gastroenterological and Hepatobiliary Surgery, and Organ Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
| | - Yukio Oshiro
- Division of Gastroenterological and Hepatobiliary Surgery, and Organ Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Tanaka
- Organ Transplantation Service, The University of Tokyo Hospital, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Tomoharu Yoshizumi
- Department of Surgery and Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Hideaki Okajima
- Division of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic and Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kyoto University Hospital, 54 Kawaharacho, Syogoin, Sakyu-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Kohei Ishiyama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Division of Frontier Medical Science, Programs for Biomedical Research, Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Chikashi Nakanishi
- Department of Transplantation, Reconstruction and Endoscopic Surgery, Tohoku University Hospital, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8574, Japan
| | - Masaaki Hidaka
- Department of Surgery, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8501, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Wada
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-15 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Taizo Hibi
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Keio University, 35 Shinano-machi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0016, Japan
| | - Kosei Takagi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikada-machi, Kita-ku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Masaki Honda
- Department of Transplantation and Pediatric Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Kumamoto-shi, Kumamoto 860-8556, Japan
| | - Kaori Kuramitsu
- Division of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-2 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0017, Japan
| | - Hideaki Tanaka
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
| | - Taiji Tohyama
- Department of HPB and Breast Surgery, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Shitsukawa, To-on, Ehime 791-0295, Japan
| | - Toshihiko Ikegami
- Department of Transplant Surgery, Shinshu University, School of Medicine, 3-1-1 Asahi, Matsumoto, Nagano 390-8621, Japan
| | - Satoru Imura
- Department of Surgery, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Shimamura
- Division of Organ Transplantation, Hokkaido University Hospital, Kita 14, Jonishi 5-chome, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-8648, Japan
| | - Yoshimi Nakayama
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 3-1-3 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8431, Japan
| | - Taizen Urahashi
- Department of Transplant Surgery, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan
| | - Kazumasa Yamagishi
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Ohnishi
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan
| | - Shigeo Nagashima
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan
| | - Masaharu Takahashi
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan
| | - Ken Shirabe
- Department of Surgery and Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Norihiro Kokudo
- Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery Division, Artificial Organ and Transplantation Division, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Okamoto
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan
| | - Nobuhiro Ohkohchi
- Division of Gastroenterological and Hepatobiliary Surgery, and Organ Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
- Corresponding author.
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Løvdahl A, Øverbø J. A patient between 20 - 30 years of age with jaundice and pain in joints and muscles. TIDSSKRIFT FOR DEN NORSKE LEGEFORENING 2016; 136:1651-1652. [PMID: 27790894 DOI: 10.4045/tidsskr.15.1094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Løvdahl
- Tretten legekontor og Medisinsk avdeling Lillehammer sykehus og Krankenhaus der Barmherzigen Schwestern Ried im Innkreis Østerrike
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Guillain-Barré and Miller Fisher syndromes in patients with anti-hepatitis E virus antibody: a hospital-based survey in Japan. Neurol Sci 2016; 37:1849-1851. [PMID: 27389141 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-016-2644-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
There have been reports from several countries that hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is frequently associated with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). This study aimed to determine the frequency of HEV infection associated with GBS in Japanese patients, and to clarify the clinical characteristics of these patients. Sera obtained from 63 patients with GBS or Miller Fisher syndrome (MFS) and 60 control subjects were examined for both HEV-IgM and HEV-IgG. Of the 63 patients, three were positive for both HEV-IgM and elevated hepatic enzymes: Two had GBS, and one had MFS. No control subjects were positive for HEV-IgM. Our study demonstrated that 4.8 % of patients with GBS or MFS from our institution had associated acute HEV infection. There were no clinical differences between GBS with HEV infection and other GBS cases. To our knowledge, this is the first survey in Japan of HEV-associated GBS or MFS.
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Ricco G, Bonino F, Lanza M, Scatena F, Alfieri CM, Messa P, Marchisio E, Mascolo G, Romanò L, Galli C, Li TC, Wakita T, Miyamura T, Brunetto MR. New immunoassays for total, IgA and IgM antibodies against hepatitis E virus: Prevalence in Italian blood donors and patients with chronic liver or kidney diseases. Dig Liver Dis 2016; 48:536-541. [PMID: 26936342 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2016.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2015] [Revised: 01/11/2016] [Accepted: 01/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a zoonotic agent that causes acute hepatitis in humans with sporadic infections and outbreaks in developing countries worldwide. The global spread of HEV remains underestimated because of subclinical infections and lack of sensitive diagnostic assays. AIMS To study the prevalence of HEV antibodies (anti-HEV) in sera of blood-donors and patients with chronic-liver-disease and chronic-renal-disease, using newly developed anti-HEV assays. METHODS 396 sera from 199 blood-donors, 109 chronic-liver-disease patients and 88 chronic-renal-disease patients and three standard reference serum panels were tested in parallel with a sensitive reference anti-HEV assay and newly developed assays for IgA, IgM and total anti-HEV based on HEV-like-particles produced by recombinant baculo-viruses. RESULTS Overall, total anti-HEV was detected in 12.9% (7.0% blood-donors, 9.2% and 30.7% chronic-liver-disease patients and chronic-renal-disease patients, respectively). We observed a higher anti-HEV prevalence in older subjects and in chronic-renal-disease patients in relation with degree on immune-depression (p<0.001). Results from reference serum panels showed an optimal and slightly better performance of the new assay over the commercially available assay. CONCLUSIONS Newly developed anti-HEV assays using recombinant HEV-like-particles showed optimal diagnostic performances assessing that HEV-infection is endemic in Italy with seroprevalence ranging from 7% to 30% in blood donors and immune-compromised hosts, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Ricco
- Hepatology Unit, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Ferruccio Bonino
- General Medicine 2 Unit and Gastroenterology Chair, University Hospital of Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Lanza
- Blood Bank Unit, University Hospital of Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Carlo M Alfieri
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Kidney Transplantation Unit, Foundation IRCCS "Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore" Policlinic of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Piergiorgio Messa
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Kidney Transplantation Unit, Foundation IRCCS "Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore" Policlinic of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Luisa Romanò
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Galli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Tian-Cheng Li
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Musashi-Murayama, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takaji Wakita
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Musashi-Murayama, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Miyamura
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Musashi-Murayama, Tokyo, Japan
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Gu G, Huang H, Zhang L, Bi Y, Hu Y, Zhou YH. Hepatitis E virus seroprevalence in pregnant women in Jiangsu, China, and postpartum evolution during six years. BMC Infect Dis 2015; 15:560. [PMID: 26653888 PMCID: PMC4675061 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-015-1308-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2015] [Accepted: 12/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background China is an endemic area for hepatitis E virus (HEV). The previous surveys of anti-HEV seroprevalence are cross-sectional. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of infection among pregnant women and their children in Jiangsu, China, and to observe postpartum anti-HEV evolution. Methods Sera from 497 women collected during pregnancy and 6-year postpartum and from their 497 children were screened for anti-HEV by ELISA and confirmed by Western blotting. HEV RNA was detected by reverse transcription-nested PCR. Results Of the pregnant women, 3 (0.6 %) were anti-HEV IgM positive and 55 (11.1 %) were IgG positive. At 6-year postpartum, 18 anti-HEV IgG positive samples became negative and 18 others became IgG positive; the accumulated prevalence in this cohort of women was at least 14.7 % (73/497). Of the 497 children, the positive rates of anti-HEV IgM and IgG were 0.2 % and 0.4 %, respectively. None of the 18 children from mothers with anti-HEV IgG seroconversion was anti-HEV IgG positive. Conclusions Our data indicate that the constant seroprevalence of anti-HEV IgG in adults may be resulted from the balance of negative seroconversion due to waning immunity and positive seroconversion due to novel infections, and the risk of intra-family transmission of HEV was low. The data also imply that cross-sectional seroepidemiological survey may underestimate the prevalence of HEV infection, due to the natural decay of pathogen-specific IgG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangyu Gu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China.
| | - Hongyu Huang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China. .,Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China.
| | - Le Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China. .,Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China.
| | - Yongchun Bi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China.
| | - Yali Hu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China.
| | - Yi-Hua Zhou
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China. .,Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China. .,Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China.
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Petrik J, Lozano M, Seed CR, Faddy HM, Keller AJ, Prado Scuracchio PS, Wendel S, Andonov A, Fearon M, Delage G, Zhang J, Shih JWK, Gallian P, Djoudi R, Tiberghien P, Izopet J, Dreier J, Vollmer T, Knabbe C, Aggarwal R, Goel A, Ciccaglione AR, Matsubayashi K, Satake M, Tadokoro K, Jeong SH, Zaaijer HL, Zhiburt E, Chay J, Teo D, Chua SS, Piron M, Sauleda S, Echevarría JM, Dalton H, Stramer SL. Hepatitis E. Vox Sang 2015. [PMID: 26198159 DOI: 10.1111/vox.12285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Suzuki K, Kataoka K, Miyamoto Y, Miyasaka A, Kumagai I, Takikawa Y, Takahashi M, Okamoto H. Clinical and molecular analyses of sporadic acute hepatitis A and E and the specific viral genotypes isolated in Iwate and three neighboring prefectures in the northern part of Honshu, Japan, between 2004 and 2013. Hepatol Res 2015; 45:714-727. [PMID: 25146162 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.12406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2014] [Revised: 07/31/2014] [Accepted: 08/19/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
AIM To examine the prevalence and characteristics of hepatitis A virus (HAV) and hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections in the northern part of Honshu, Japan, during the last decade. METHODS Using the registration system of a prospective cohort study for acute liver injury (ALI) in Iwate and three neighboring prefectures, we examined the prevalence of sporadic acute hepatitis (AH) with HAV (AH-A) and HEV (AH-E) and the distribution of viral genotypes in 487 patients diagnosed with ALI between 2004 and 2013. RESULTS Among all 487 patients, 135 (28%) had ALI with viral infection. In the cases with viral ALI, the prevalence of hepatitis B virus-related AH was highest (55.6%). AH-E was seen in 23 patients (17.0%) and its prevalence was higher than that of AH-A (10 patients, 7.4%). There were no appreciable differences in the prevalence of AH-A and AH-E between 2004-2008 and 2009-2013. However, subgenotype IIIA HAV homologous to Korean strains has recently emerged, and the number of AH-E cases seems to be increasing. HEV genotype 3 was predominant throughout the observation period, but HEV genotype 4 was found in three patients after 2010. The transmission routes of HAV and HEV infections were unknown in approximately 60% of the patients. CONCLUSION In the northern part of Honshu, Japan, HEV has been more frequently implicated in the development of AH than HAV, and HEV genotype 4 has been recently increasing. To provide an effective prophylactic management for HAV and HEV infections, further clarification of the transmission routes is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuyuki Suzuki
- Department of Nutritional Science, Morioka University, Morioka, Japan.,Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Morioka, Japan
| | - Kojiro Kataoka
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Morioka, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Miyamoto
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Morioka, Japan
| | - Akio Miyasaka
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Morioka, Japan
| | - Ichiro Kumagai
- Department of Internal Medicine, Morioka City Hospital, Morioka, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Takikawa
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Morioka, Japan
| | - Masaharu Takahashi
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Okamoto
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Japan
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Prevalence of Hepatitis E Virus among Adults in South-West of Iran. HEPATITIS RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2015. [PMID: 26199756 PMCID: PMC4493289 DOI: 10.1155/2015/759589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Background. Knowledge regarding prevalence of HEV in general population can be an indicator of the public health and hygiene. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the prevalence of HEV among adults in South-West of Iran. Methods. Blood samples were taken from 510 participants, 206 (40.4%) males and 304 (59.6%) females from February to July 2014. Detection of anti-HEV IgG and IgM antibodies was carried out by ELISA test. Results. The overall anti-HEV IgG and IgM prevalence rates were 46.1% and 1.4%, respectively. Anti-HEV IgG and IgM seropositivity were not statistically associated with gender and race/ethnicity. Meanwhile, there were significant differences between the age groups regarding HEV IgG and IgM seropositivity. HEV IgG seroprevalence increased with age from 14.3% in subjects aged 18-30 years to 71.4% in persons over 71 years old, and considerably individuals aged 61 to 70 years had the highest HEV prevalence (90.9%). Also, 5.7% in the age group 18-30 years and 2.2% in the age group 31-40 years were positive for anti-HEV IgM antibodies and the highest rate was observed in subjects aged 18-30 years. Conclusion. In conclusion, high HEV IgG seroprevalence of 46.1% was observed among adults in South-West of Iran.
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Matsui T, Kang JH, Matsubayashi K, Yamazaki H, Nagai K, Sakata H, Tsuji K, Maguchi H. Rare case of transfusion-transmitted hepatitis E from the blood of a donor infected with the hepatitis E virus genotype 3 indigenous to Japan: Viral dynamics from onset to recovery. Hepatol Res 2015; 45:698-704. [PMID: 25041213 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.12390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2014] [Revised: 07/07/2014] [Accepted: 07/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
AIM The transfusion transmission of hepatitis E can occur even in non-endemic areas in the world as autochthonous hepatitis E has been increasingly reported in developed countries where the hepatitis E virus (HEV) is not prevalent. We investigated the post-transfusion transmission of hepatitis E in a patient by molecularly confirming its presence, and characterized the viral kinetics of HEV in this case. METHODS A Japanese man underwent re-thoracotomy for hemostasis followed by platelet transfusion. After the transfusion, the blood donor was found to be HEV positive. The donated blood was re-examined and was found to contain HEV. Throughout the prospective follow up of the patient, we analyzed the viral kinetics, chronological anti-HEV antibody level changes and disease progression during the entire course of HEV infection from transfusion until the end of viremia. RESULTS Sequence analysis of the strains isolated from both the donor and the patient who contracted acute hepatitis E showed an identical match for 326 nucleotides in open reading frame 1. Two strains belonged to HEV genotype 3 indigenous to Japan. CONCLUSION To the best of our knowledge, this is the first detailed report on the entire natural course of hepatitis E from viral transmission, then clearance, to replication preceding liver injury caused by HEV genotype 3, which is responsible for autochthonous infection in developed countries. The findings provide valuable insights into the mechanism of the transfusion transmission of HEV and subsequent viral dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Matsui
- Center for Gastroenterology, Teine Keijinkai Hospital, Sapporo, Japan.,Department of Virology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Jong-Hon Kang
- Center for Gastroenterology, Teine Keijinkai Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | | | - Hajime Yamazaki
- Center for Gastroenterology, Teine Keijinkai Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Kazumasa Nagai
- Center for Gastroenterology, Teine Keijinkai Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | | | - Kunihiko Tsuji
- Center for Gastroenterology, Teine Keijinkai Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Maguchi
- Center for Gastroenterology, Teine Keijinkai Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
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Fuse K, Matsuyama Y, Moriyama M, Miyakoshi S, Shibasaki Y, Takizawa J, Furukawa T, Fuse I, Matsumura H, Uchida S, Takahashi Y, Kamimura K, Abe H, Suda T, Aoyagi Y, Sone H, Masuko M. Late onset post-transfusion hepatitis E developing during chemotherapy for acute promyelocytic leukemia. Intern Med 2015; 54:657-61. [PMID: 25786459 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.54.2332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
We herein report the case of a leukemia patient who developed hepatitis E seven months after undergoing a transfusion with contaminated blood products. The latency period in this case was significantly longer than that of typical hepatitis E. Recently, chronic infection with hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotype 3 has been reported in immunocompromised patients. There is a possibility that our patient was unable to eliminate the virus due to immunosuppression following chemotherapy and the administration of steroids. The prevalence of HEV in healthy Japanese individuals is relatively high and constitutes a critical source of infection via transfusion. Hepatitis E is an important post-transfusion infection, and immunocompromised patients may exhibit a long latency period before developing the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyoko Fuse
- Department of Hematology, Endocrinology and Metabolism Niigata University Faculty of Medicine, Japan
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Jia Z, Yi Y, Liu J, Cao J, Zhang Y, Tian R, Yu T, Wang H, Wang X, Su Q, Zhou W, Cui F, Liang X, Bi S. Epidemiology of hepatitis E virus in China: results from the Third National Viral Hepatitis Prevalence Survey, 2005-2006. PLoS One 2014; 9:e110837. [PMID: 25360522 PMCID: PMC4215996 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0110837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2014] [Accepted: 08/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In China, hepatitis E virus (HEV) is prevalent and causes disease, but its epidemiological profile is not well understood. We used a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to detect total antibodies to hepatitis E virus in 15,862 serum samples collected during the Third National Viral Hepatitis Prevalence Survey. The results were analyzed to calculate estimates of HEV seroprevalence and to examine the effects of some putative risk factors. The seroprevalence of HEV in the general Chinese population during the period from 2005 through 2006 was 23.46% (95% confidence interval [CI], 18.41%–28.50%). The farming population, the age group of 15–60 year olds, and those living in the Midwest or Mideast region and in Xinjiang province had the highest seroprevalence estimates. The prevalence of HEV is high in China. The seroprevalence rate of HEV shows an unbalanced distribution among areas with different geographic location and economic development levels. The characteristics of the distribution associated may be due to the route of HEV transmission (via contaminated water or animal reservoirs). Within the same region, the seroprevalence of HEV is generally increased with age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyuan Jia
- National Institute of Virology Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Yao Yi
- National Institute of Virology Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Jianhua Liu
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingyuan Cao
- National Institute of Virology Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- National Institute of Virology Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Ruiguang Tian
- National Institute of Virology Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Yu
- National Institute of Virology Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Wang
- National Institute of Virology Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Xinying Wang
- National Institute of Virology Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Qiudong Su
- National Institute of Virology Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Wenting Zhou
- National Institute of Virology Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Fuqiang Cui
- Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaofeng Liang
- Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Shengli Bi
- National Institute of Virology Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
- * E-mail:
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Okano H, Takahashi M, Isono Y, Tanaka H, Nakano T, Oya Y, Sugimoto K, Ito K, Ohmori S, Maegawa T, Kobayashi M, Nagashima S, Nishizawa T, Okamoto H. Characterization of sporadic acute hepatitis E and comparison of hepatitis E virus genomes in acute hepatitis patients and pig liver sold as food in Mie, Japan. Hepatol Res 2014; 44:E63-E76. [PMID: 23927634 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.12216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2013] [Revised: 07/30/2013] [Accepted: 07/31/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
AIM To characterize hepatitis E in Mie prefecture and to investigate whether raw pig liver sold as food in Mie is contaminated with hepatitis E virus (HEV) strains similar to those recovered from patients. METHODS Seventeen patients with sporadic acute hepatitis E treated from 2004 to 2012 were studied. A total of 243 packages of raw pig liver from regional grocery stores were tested for the presence of HEV RNA. The partial genomic sequences of human and swine HEV isolates were determined and subjected to the phylogenetic analyses. RESULTS The HEV isolates recovered from the 17 patients segregated into genotype 3 (n = 15) and genotype 4 (n = 2), and 15 genotype 3 isolates further segregated into 3e (n = 11) and 3b (n = 4). Pig liver specimens from 12 (4.9%) of the 243 packages had detectable HEV RNA. All 12 swine HEV isolates were grouped into genotype 3 (3a or 3b). Although no 3e strains were isolated from pig liver specimens, two 3b swine strains were 99.5-100% identical to two HEV strains recovered from hepatitis patients, within 412-nt partial sequences. CONCLUSION The 3e HEV was prevalent among hepatitis E patients. HEV RNA was detected in approximately 5% of pig liver sold as food. The presence of identical HEV strains between hepatitis patients and pig liver indicated that pigs play an important role as reservoirs for HEV in humans in Mie. Further studies are needed to clarify the source of 3e HEV in the animal and environmental reservoirs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Okano
- Department of Gastroenterology, Suzuka General Hospital, Suzuka, Japan
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Yoon Y, Jeong HS, Yun H, Lee H, Hwang YS, Park B, Lee CJ, Lee S, Hyeon JY. Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) seroprevalence in the general population of the Republic of Korea in 2007-2009: a nationwide cross-sectional study. BMC Infect Dis 2014; 14:517. [PMID: 25248488 PMCID: PMC4262127 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2334-14-517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2014] [Accepted: 09/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging pathogen associated with endemic and acute viral hepatitis. In this study, we investigate the HEV seroprevalence and putative risk factors by a nationwide cross-sectional study in the Republic of Korea. Methods The prevalence of anti-HEV antibody was investigated in 2,450 serum samples collected in fourth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. In addition, epidemiological information on possible risk factors including gender, age, education, occupation, and residence location for exposure to HEV was obtained. Results The frequency of anti-EIA reactive sample was 5.9% (144/2450). The individuals in groups with male, older age, low education level and living in rural or coastal regions had high seroprevalence estimates (P ≤ 0.001). In addition, seroprevalence was significantly higher among individuals with self-identified skilled agricultural, forestry, and fishery workers (31.3%, P < 0.001). Conclusions This study provides valuable data that could be used to investigate associations of HEV seroprevalence and putative risk factors by a nationwide cross-sectional study. The high HEV seroprevalence of skilled agricultural, forestry, and fishery workers and individuals lived in coastal and rural area indicated that zoonotic transmission is an important risk factor for HEV infection in the republic of Korea. Further studies that include detailed and continuous nationwide surveys are required to identify unrecognized risk factors and to monitor the HEV infection prevalence. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/1471-2334-14-517) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ji-Yeon Hyeon
- Division of Vaccine Research, Korea National Institute of Health, Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Osong-eup, CheongJu, Chungcheongbuk-do 363-951, Republic of Korea.
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Changes in the cellular proteins of A549 infected with hepatitis E virus by proteomics analysis. BMC Vet Res 2014; 10:188. [PMID: 25175408 PMCID: PMC4236826 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-014-0188-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2014] [Accepted: 08/13/2014] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Our understanding of Hepatitis E virus (HEV) has changed enormously over the past 30 years, from a waterborne infection causing outbreaks of acute hepatitis in developing countries to an infection of global distribution causing a range of hepatic and extra-hepatic illness. However, the key proteins playing important parts in the virus infection were still unknown. Understanding the changes of cellular proteins in these cells exposed to HEV is helpful for elucidating molecular mechanisms associated with function alterations of HEV-infected susceptible cells. In the present study, a comparative gel-based proteomic analysis was employed to study the changes in cellular proteins of A549 exposed to HEV in vitro to provide novel information for understanding the functional alterations of A549 induced by HEV infection. Result Of 2 585-3 152 protein spots visualized on each gel using silver staining, a total of 31 protein spots were found to be differentially expressed in HEV-infected A549 cells compared with mock-infected A549, including 10 significantly up-regulated protein spots and 21 significantly down-regulated protein spots. Conclusion Our work is the first time regarding the proteomic analysis on the cellular responses to HEV infection. This work is helpful for investigating the molecular basis associated with the interaction between HEV and the host cells although more efforts should be required to discover the mechanisms.
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40
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Si F, Shi B, Wang X, Zhu Y, Liu X, Yang Q, Li Z. Construction of an infectious cDNA clone of a swine genotype 3 HEV strain isolated in Shanghai, China. Intervirology 2014; 57:74-82. [PMID: 24480875 DOI: 10.1159/000357192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2012] [Accepted: 10/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Infectious cDNA clones are important tools for studying molecular mechanisms in RNA viruses. The aim of this study was to construct an infectious cDNA clone for SAAS-JDY5, which is a genotype 3 HEV strain of swine origin. METHODS Construction employed overlapping PCR and restriction analysis to ligate nine cDNA fragments into a full-length cDNA clone containing 14 mutations compared to the consensus HEV genome sequence. Megaprimer PCR-directed mutagenesis restored nine non-silent mutations back to the consensus sequence while the other five silent mutations were maintained as genetic markers. RESULTS HEV proteins were identified by an immunofluorescence assay in Huh7 cells infected with capped RNA transcripts of the full-length cDNA clone, while HEV viremia, fecal HEV RNA and seroconversion were recorded in inoculated Sprague-Dawley rats. CONCLUSIONS Our data confirmed the successful construction of an infectious cDNA clone of swine HEV strain pGEM4z-SAAS-JDY5, and support the use of rats as an HEV infectious model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fusheng Si
- Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genetics and Breeding, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences (SAAS), Shanghai, PR China
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41
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Takahashi M, Okamoto H. Features of hepatitis E virus infection in humans and animals in Japan. Hepatol Res 2014; 44:43-58. [PMID: 23721425 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.12175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2013] [Revised: 05/23/2013] [Accepted: 05/27/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
In Japan, hepatitis E had long been considered to be a rare liver disease which can be accidentally imported from endemic countries in Asia and Africa, where the sanitation conditions are suboptimal. However, since the identification of the first autochthonous hepatitis E case and hepatitis E viremic domestic pigs in Japan in 2001, our understanding of hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection in this country has been changing markedly. This has largely been due to the development of serological and gene-based diagnostic assays, the accumulation of molecular epidemiological findings on HEV infection in humans and animals (as potential reservoirs for HEV in humans) and the recognition of the importance of zoonotic food-borne and other routes of transmission of HEV, including blood-borne transmission. Although it is now evident that autochthonous hepatitis E in Japan is far more common than was previously thought, clinical and subclinical HEV infections indigenous to Japan remain underdiagnosed and their prevalence is still underestimated due to the presence of unknown transmission routes and a low awareness of the infection status by many physicians in Japan. This review focuses on the features of HEV infection in humans and animals, as definitive or potential reservoirs for HEV, in Japan, and updates the current knowledge on the routes of transmission, including zoonotic routes, which are important for the maintenance and spread of HEV in Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaharu Takahashi
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
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42
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Echevarría JM. Light and Darkness: Prevalence of Hepatitis E Virus Infection among the General Population. SCIENTIFICA 2014; 2014:481016. [PMID: 24672733 PMCID: PMC3941225 DOI: 10.1155/2014/481016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2013] [Accepted: 12/25/2013] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Human hepatitis E virus (HHEV) spreads early in life among the population in areas endemic for genotype 1 and infects mainly adults in areas endemic for genotype 3, where it would be responsible for about 10% of cases of suspected acute viral hepatitis of unknown etiology and for a number of subclinical, unrecognized infections. The overall prevalence of antibody to HHEV is high in most of the former areas and low in most of the later ones, but wide regional differences have been recorded in both cases. "Hot spots" of HHEV infection would exist for both types of strains in particular regions or among particular populations of the world. Studies on pork derivatives, shellfish bivalves, and vegetables for HHEV contamination at the sale point need to be extended for evaluating the impact of the agent on food safety, and the meaning of the finding of HHEV genotype 1 genomes in urban sewage from developed countries should be established through active surveillance. Consensus about technical issues in regard to anti-HEV testing would improve the knowledge of the HHEV epidemiology. Studies in particular regions and populations, and introduction of molecular diagnosis in the clinical setting as a routine tool, would also be required.
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Affiliation(s)
- José-Manuel Echevarría
- Department of Virology, National Centre of Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Road Majadahonda-Pozuelo, Km2, Majadahonda, 28220 Madrid, Spain
- *José-Manuel Echevarría:
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43
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Krain LJ, Nelson KE, Labrique AB. Host immune status and response to hepatitis E virus infection. Clin Microbiol Rev 2014; 27:139-65. [PMID: 24396140 PMCID: PMC3910912 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00062-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV), identified over 30 years ago, remains a serious threat to life, health, and productivity in developing countries where access to clean water is limited. Recognition that HEV also circulates as a zoonotic and food-borne pathogen in developed countries is more recent. Even without treatment, most cases of HEV-related acute viral hepatitis (with or without jaundice) resolve within 1 to 2 months. However, HEV sometimes leads to acute liver failure, chronic infection, or extrahepatic symptoms. The mechanisms of pathogenesis appear to be substantially immune mediated. This review covers the epidemiology of HEV infection worldwide, the humoral and cellular immune responses to HEV, and the persistence and protection of antibodies produced in response to both natural infection and vaccines. We focus on the contributions of altered immune states (associated with pregnancy, human immunodeficiency virus [HIV], and immunosuppressive agents used in cancer and transplant medicine) to the elevated risks of chronic infection (in immunosuppressed/immunocompromised patients) and acute liver failure and mortality (among pregnant women). We conclude by discussing outstanding questions about the immune response to HEV and interactions with hormones and comorbid conditions. These questions take on heightened importance now that a vaccine is available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa J. Krain
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kenrad E. Nelson
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Alain B. Labrique
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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44
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Cleland A, Smith L, Crossan C, Blatchford O, Dalton HR, Scobie L, Petrik J. Hepatitis E virus in Scottish blood donors. Vox Sang 2013; 105:283-9. [PMID: 23763589 DOI: 10.1111/vox.12056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2013] [Revised: 05/07/2013] [Accepted: 05/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Published prevalence figures for hepatitis E virus (HEV) reveal significant regional differences. Several studies have reported virus transmission via blood transfusion. The aim of this study was to establish HEV seroprevalence and investigate a potential HEV RNA presence in Scottish blood donors. MATERIALS AND METHODS IgG and IgM were determined in individual serum samples. HEV RNA was investigated in plasma mini-pools corresponding to 43 560 individual donations using nested PCR. Samples amenable to reamplification with primers from a different region were considered confirmed positives, sequenced and analysed. RESULTS A total of 73 of 1559 tested individual sera (4·7%) were IgG positive, none tested positive for IgM. Plasma mini-pool testing revealed an HEV RNA frequency of 1 in 14 520 donations. Three confirmed positives belonged, as expected to genotype 3. CONCLUSIONS HEV IgG and RNA figures in Scottish blood donors are lower than those published for the rest of the UK, but sufficiently high to prompt further studies on potential transmission rates and effects of HEV infection, especially for immunosuppressed individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Cleland
- Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service, Edinburgh, UK
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45
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Osterman A, Vizoso-Pinto MG, Jung J, Jaeger G, Eberle J, Nitschko H, Baiker A. A novel indirect immunofluorescence test for the detection of IgG and IgA antibodies for diagnosis of Hepatitis E Virus infections. J Virol Methods 2013; 191:48-54. [PMID: 23557668 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2013.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2012] [Revised: 03/07/2013] [Accepted: 03/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) causes epidemic infections in regions of poor hygiene in the developing world. Over the last years, however, increasing numbers of autochthonous infections in industrialized countries have been described, leading to new interest in this pathogen. Currently available serological test formats to detect IgG and IgM antibodies are mainly based on bacterially expressed ORF2 and ORF3 antigens and often give ambiguous results. The objective of this study was the development of a different assay format for HEV diagnosis--a HEV immunofluorescence test (HEV-IFT) based on mammalian cells transiently expressing recombinant HEV ORF2 protein with a simple production and staining protocol and the investigation of its performance and methodical feasibility under diagnostic laboratory conditions. 31 sera of patients at different phases of HEV infection and 40 control sera from a non-endemic region were analyzed for anti-HEV IgG, IgM, and IgA antibodies. The HEV-IFT detected successfully anti-HEV IgG and IgA, but not anti-HEV IgM antibodies. In the study group the HEV-IFT was able to confirm HEV infections and to support diagnosis when ambiguous results were obtained by commercial assays. Signal localization and staining patterns helped to gather additional information about reactive antibodies present in patient sera. In conclusion the developed IFT for the detection of anti-HEV IgG and IgA antibodies can be used for diagnosis and for the serological confirmation of HEV infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Osterman
- Max von Pettenkofer-Institute, Virology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Pettenkoferstrasse 9a, D-80336 Munich, Germany.
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46
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Honma Y, Tabaru A, Kita E, Matsuoka H, Shukuwa K, Takahashi K, Arai M, Harada M. Two cases of acute hepatitis due to hepatitis E virus that are indigenous to Kitakyushu: a case report. KANZO 2013; 54:399-401. [DOI: 10.2957/kanzo.54.399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
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Yan J, Kanda T, Wu S, Imazeki F, Yokosuka O. Hepatitis A, B, C and E virus markers in Chinese residing in Tokyo, Japan. Hepatol Res 2012; 42:974-81. [PMID: 22524475 DOI: 10.1111/j.1872-034x.2012.01009.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
AIM Recently, the number of foreigners living in Japan has been increasing, with the majority originating from China. It is important for us to know the prevalence of hepatitis virus markers among them, as proper medical practices and vaccinations should be prepared when seeing them and their offspring. METHODS We examined the relationship between the prevalence of hepatitis virus markers: hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), anti-HBs, anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV), anti-hepatitis A virus (HAV) and anti-hepatitis E virus immunoglobulin (Ig)G, and background such as age, birthplace and length of stay in Japan, of 568 Chinese residing in Tokyo, and also of 55 indigenous Japanese. RESULTS The prevalence of HBV and HAV markers in Chinese staying in Tokyo is higher than in indigenous Japanese (HBsAg, 10% vs 1.8%; anti-HBs, 45% vs 9.0%; anti-HAV, 90% vs 14%). There were no differences in anti-HCV and anti-HEV IgG between the two groups. CONCLUSION Indigenous Japanese subjects have less immunity against HAV and HBV. The HBV carrier rate is higher in Chinese subjects, and attention should be paid to this issue in clinical practice. It might be important to control hepatitis viruses in Chinese subjects when doctors see them in Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Yan
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba Kyowa Clinic, Tokyo, Japan
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48
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Nakano T, Okano H, Kobayashi M, Ito K, Ohmori S, Nomura T, Kato H, Ayada M, Nakano Y, Akachi S, Sugimoto K, Fujita N, Shiraki K, Takei Y, Takahashi M, Okamoto H. Molecular epidemiology and genetic history of European-type genotype 3 hepatitis E virus indigenized in the central region of Japan. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2012; 12:1524-34. [PMID: 22706162 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2012.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2012] [Revised: 05/18/2012] [Accepted: 06/05/2012] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
In Mie prefecture in Japan, 12 cases of sporadic hepatitis E occurred from 2004 to 2011. Mie prefecture is located in the central region of Japan, far from the most prevalent regions of hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection in Japan, the north and northeastern part. These 12 cases did not have any common risk factors of HEV infection. We analyzed the molecular epidemiology of the cases in Mie prefecture. We obtained the nucleotide sequences of the HEV strains and analyzed them with the sequences of other HEV strains by phylogenetic and coalescent analyses. Japan-indigenous genotype 3 HEV strains were divided into two major subtypes, namely, 3a and 3b; one minor subtype, 3e; and a few other unassigned lineages. The Japan-indigenous subtype 3e strains were closely related to European subtype 3e HEV strains and were comparatively rare in Japan; however, eight strains of the 12 cases we examined belonged to subtype 3e, indicating a close phylogenetic relationship, despite the lack of common risk factors. Coalescent analyses indicated that the Mie 3e strains seemed to have intruded into Mie prefecture about 10 years ago. Sporadic acute hepatitis E cases caused by the 3e strains occurred consistently from 2004 to 2011 in Mie prefecture. This is the first report of unexpected persistent occurrence of hepatitis by the European-type genotype 3 HEV, subtype 3e, in a country outside of Europe. Phylogenetic and coalescent analyses traced the history of the indigenization of the Mie 3e strains from Europe. Because hepatitis E cases caused by 3e strains are relatively rare in Japan, molecular evolutionary analyses of HEV infection in Mie prefecture is important for preventing a future hepatitis endemic or epidemic by 3e strains in Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsunori Nakano
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fujita Health University Nakakuri Sanatorium, Mie 514-1295, Japan.
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Nakano T, Takahashi K, Pybus OG, Hashimoto N, Kato H, Okano H, Kobayashi M, Fujita N, Shiraki K, Takei Y, Ayada M, Arai M, Okamoto H, Mishiro S. New findings regarding the epidemic history and population dynamics of Japan-indigenous genotype 3 hepatitis E virus inferred by molecular evolution. Liver Int 2012; 32:675-88. [PMID: 22181032 DOI: 10.1111/j.1478-3231.2011.02728.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2011] [Accepted: 11/22/2011] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since previous studies have investigated the population dynamics of Japan-indigenous genotype 3 hepatitis E virus (HEV) using virus sequences, more nucleotide sequences have been determined, and new techniques have been developed for such analysis. AIMS To prevent future hepatitis E epidemic in Japan, this study aimed to elucidate the cause of past HEV expansion. METHODS The epidemic history of Japan-indigenous genotype 3 HEV was determined using the coalescent analysis framework. Bayesian skyline plot (BSP) and Bayesian estimate of phylogeny with relaxed molecular clock models were calculated using Markov chain Monte Carlo sampling. RESULTS Japan-indigenous strains consist of New World strains (subtype 3a), Japanese strains (3b) and European strains (3e). The oldest lineage, 3b, appeared around 1929. Lineages 3a and 3e appeared around 1960. BSPs indicated similar radical population growth of the 3a and 3b lineages from 1960 to 1980. CONCLUSIONS Population dynamics of the three lineages shared some common characteristics, but had distinguishing features. The appearance of 3a and 3e lineages coincides with the increase of large-race pig importation from Europe and the USA after 1960. The epidemic phase of 3a and 3b strains from 1960 to 1980 could be related to increased opportunity for HEV infection arising from large-scale pig breeding since 1960. Our observations revealed new findings concerning the close relationship between the epidemic history of Japan-indigenous genotype 3 HEV and the improvement of the Japanese pig industry. Infection control in pig farms should be an effective method of preventing HEV infection in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsunori Nakano
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fujita Health University Nanakuri Sanatorium, Mie, Japan.
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Bajpai M, Gupta E. Transfusion-transmitted hepatitis E: is screening warranted? Indian J Med Microbiol 2012; 29:353-8. [PMID: 22120793 DOI: 10.4103/0255-0857.90158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging infectious threat to blood safety. In recent years, there have been a number of publications delineating this threat by providing evidence of the transmissibility of this virus through transfusions. The extent of transmission and its clinical relevance are issues under debate at present. HEV usually causes a self-limiting illness which subsides in a few weeks barring a few cases where fulminant hepatic failure occurs. The virus poses a risk of higher morbidity and mortality in pregnant females, patients with pre-existing liver disease and solid organ transplant recipients. As these categories of patient often require repeated transfusions or massive transfusions, they are exposed to a greater risk of transmission of HEV. At present, there is little evidence to advocate universal screening for this virus but considering that there is no definitive treatment for HEV induced hepatitis, selective screening should be advocated in blood products for high risk recipients in endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Bajpai
- Department of Virology, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, Sector D1, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi 110 070, India
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