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Lin MT, Chang KC, Yen YH, Tsai MC, Chen CH, Wang JH, Hsiao CC, Chiu YH, Hu TH. Chronic hepatitis B exhibited higher rate of hepatocellular carcinoma occurrence than hepatitis C in cirrhotic patients after effective antiviral treatment. J Formos Med Assoc 2020; 120:621-628. [PMID: 32718890 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfma.2020.07.019] [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: 10/12/2019] [Revised: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Effective antiviral-therapy can reduce the risk of liver cirrhosis related hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with chronic hepatitis B and hepatitis C. Yet, the difference of hepatocellular carcinoma development in chronic hepatitis B and hepatitis C patients with cirrhosis after effective antiviral therapy treatment is unknown. In this study, We comprehensive explored the difference among them. METHODS 1363 patients with cirrhosis and hepatitis B virus treated with nucleos(t)ide analogues (NUCs) with completely suppressed virus, and patients with cirrhosis and hepatitis C virus treated with pegylated interferon (peg-IFN)/ribavirin (RBV) combination therapy who achieved sustained virologic response were enrolled. RESULTS Total 261 developed hepatocellular carcinoma within a median follow-up of 4.25 years. Univariate analysis, patients developed hepatocellular carcinoma tended to be of older age, and had lower platelet counts, were chronic hepatitis B carriers, and had higher serum alfa-fetoprotein (AFP) (≥20 ng/mL), FIB-4 index and APRI scores. Subsequent multivariate analysis revealed older age, lower platelet counts, high AFP levels and chronic hepatitis B carriers were independent risk factors of hepatocellular carcinoma. CONCLUSION Our findings identify that chronic hepatitis B patients were with a higher risk of hepatocellular carcinoma compared to chronic hepatitis C patients after achieving virological response. Special attention should be paid to those patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Tsung Lin
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Chin Chang
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hao Yen
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Chao Tsai
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Hung Chen
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan
| | - Jing-Houng Wang
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan
| | - Chang-Chun Hsiao
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taiwan; Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan
| | - Yueh-Hsia Chiu
- Department of Health Care Management, College of Management, Chang Gung University, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Hui Hu
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan.
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Paboriboune P, Vial T, Sitbounlang P, Bertani S, Trépo C, Dény P, Babin FX, Steenkeste N, Pineau P, Deharo E. Hepatitis C in Laos: A 7-Year Retrospective Study on 1765 Patients. Virol Sin 2018; 33:295-303. [PMID: 29948850 DOI: 10.1007/s12250-018-0039-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a global health concern, notably in Southeast Asia, and in Laos the presentation of the HCV-induced liver disease is poorly known. Our objective was thus to describe a comprehensive HCV infection pattern in order to guide national health policies. A study on a group of 1765 patients formerly diagnosed by rapid test in health centres was conducted at the Centre of Infectiology Lao Christophe Merieux in Vientiane. The demographic information of patients, their infection status (viral load: VL), liver function (aminotransferases) and treatments were analysed. Results showed that gender distribution of infected people was balanced; with median ages of 53.8 for men and 51.6 years for women (13-86 years). The majority of patients (72%) were confirmed positive (VL > 50 IU/mL) and 28% of them had high VL (> 6log10). About 23% of patients had level of aminotransferases indicative of liver damage (> 40 IU/mL); but less than 20% of patients received treatment. Patients rarely received a second sampling or medical imaging. The survey also showed that cycloferon, pegylated interferon and ribavirin were the drugs prescribed preferentially by the medical staff, without following any international recommendations schemes. In conclusion, we recommend that a population screening policy and better management of patients should be urgently implemented in the country, respecting official guidelines. However, the cost of biological analysis and treatment are significant barriers that must be removed. Public health resolutions should be immediately enforced in the perspective of meeting the WHO HCV elimination deadline by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas Vial
- UMR 152 PHARMADEV, IRD, Université de Toulouse, UPS, 31062, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Stéphane Bertani
- UMR 152 PHARMADEV, IRD, Université de Toulouse, UPS, 31062, Toulouse, France
| | - Christian Trépo
- INSERM U1052, CNRS, UMR 5286, Cancer Research Centre of Lyon, 69008, Lyon, France
| | - Paul Dény
- INSERM U1052, CNRS, UMR 5286, Cancer Research Centre of Lyon, 69008, Lyon, France.,Université Paris 13, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris Seine Saint Denis, 93000, Bobigny, France
| | | | | | - Pascal Pineau
- INSERM U993, Institut Pasteur Unité "Organisation Nucléaire et Oncogenèse", 75015, Paris, France
| | - Eric Deharo
- UMR 152 PHARMADEV, IRD, Université de Toulouse, UPS, 31062, Toulouse, France.
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Finkelmeier F, Dultz G, Peiffer KH, Kronenberger B, Krauss F, Zeuzem S, Sarrazin C, Vermehren J, Waidmann O. Risk of de novo Hepatocellular Carcinoma after HCV Treatment with Direct-Acting Antivirals. Liver Cancer 2018; 7:190-204. [PMID: 29888208 PMCID: PMC5985411 DOI: 10.1159/000486812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/01/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The aim of the study was to evaluate the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development after treatment with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) and to compare HCC occurrence in these patients with that among patients treated with interferon (IFN)-based therapies. METHODS We analyzed a large cohort with chronic hepatitis C virus patients for the onset of new HCC after DAA treatment. A historical IFN-treated cohort was investigated for comparison. RESULTS A total of 819 patients were included in the DAA group. The median follow-up period was 263 days (0-1,001). Twenty-five patients (3.6 HCCs/100 person-years; 3.1%) were diagnosed with de novo HCC within the time of observation. No patient without cirrhosis had developed HCC. Patients with newly diagnosed HCC were mostly male, older, and treatment-experienced and had a lower 12-week sustained virologic response (SVR12) rate and higher levels of liver inflammation markers. The median time to HCC was 312 days (0-880). Investigation of the subcohort of 269 cirrhotic patients yielded an HCC rate of 8.9 HCCs/100 person-years. In this cohort, non-SVR12 was an independent risk factor for de novo HCC (HR 4.48; 95% CI 1.51-13.12; p = 0.007). Twenty-four patients (96%) with new HCC were Child-Pugh class A and 17 (68%) were diagnosed in early BCLC stage A. For the IFN-treated patients, we calculated an overall risk of HCC occurrence of 1.3/100 person-years (19 patients out of 351; 5.4%). The median time to diagnosis was 38.8 months (0-113). CONCLUSION The de novo HCC rates did not differ between the DAA-treated patients and those who received IFN. Achievement of SVR is of utmost importance for HCC prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Finkelmeier
- Schwerpunkt Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Medizinische Klinik 1, Universitätsklinikum Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Georg Dultz
- Schwerpunkt Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Medizinische Klinik 1, Universitätsklinikum Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Kai-Henrik Peiffer
- Schwerpunkt Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Medizinische Klinik 1, Universitätsklinikum Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Bernd Kronenberger
- Schwerpunkt Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Medizinische Klinik 1, Universitätsklinikum Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Gastroenterologie, Hepatologie, Allgemeine Innere Medizin, Herz-Jesu-Krankenhaus Fulda, Fulda, Germany
| | - Franziska Krauss
- Schwerpunkt Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Medizinische Klinik 1, Universitätsklinikum Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Stefan Zeuzem
- Schwerpunkt Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Medizinische Klinik 1, Universitätsklinikum Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Christoph Sarrazin
- Schwerpunkt Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Medizinische Klinik 1, Universitätsklinikum Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Schwerpunkt Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Medizinische Klinik 2, St. Josefs-Hospital Wiesbaden, Wiesbaden, Germany
| | - Johannes Vermehren
- Schwerpunkt Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Medizinische Klinik 1, Universitätsklinikum Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Oliver Waidmann
- Schwerpunkt Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Medizinische Klinik 1, Universitätsklinikum Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Greco A, De Masi R, Orlando S, Metrangolo A, Zecca V, Morciano G, De Donno A, Bagordo F, Piccinni G. Metastases of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Misdiagnosed as Isolated Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Ann Hepatol 2017; 16:966-969. [PMID: 29055932 DOI: 10.5604/01.3001.0010.5289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
At present, cardiac metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma is rarely mentioned in the literature. We report a hepatocellular carcinoma patient with cardiac metastasis misdiagnosed as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in 2011. Two years later, on presentation of syncope, an abnormal ventricular septal size was recorded by ultrasound scan, and was subsequently shown by magnetic resonance imaging to be a tumour lesion. A myocardial biopsy confirmed infiltration of hepatocellular carcinoma. This observation underlines the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma cardiac metastasis, manifested in its infiltrative form as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. In conclusion, we suggest that the ultrasound appearance of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in hepatocellular carcinoma patients should be seen as a "red flag" and recommend the introduction of magnetic resonance imaging assessment of transplant candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assunta Greco
- Complex Operative Unit of Cardiology, "F. Ferrari" Hospital, Casarano-Lecce (Italy)
| | - Roberto De Masi
- Laboratory of Neuroproteomics, Multiple Sclerosis Centre, "F. Ferrari" Hospital, Casarano-Lecce (Italy). Complex Operative Unit of Neurology-Stroke Unit
| | - Stefania Orlando
- Laboratory of Neuroproteomics, Multiple Sclerosis Centre, "F. Ferrari" Hospital, Casarano-Lecce (Italy)
| | - Antonio Metrangolo
- Complex Operative Unit of Internal Medicine, "F. Ferrari" Hospital, Casarano-Lecce (Italy)
| | - Vittorio Zecca
- Operative Unit of Radiology, "F. Ferrari" Hospital, Casarano-Lecce (Italy)
| | - Giancarlo Morciano
- Operative Unit of Radiology, "F. Ferrari" Hospital, Casarano-Lecce (Italy)
| | - Antonella De Donno
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, Laboratory of Hygiene, University of the Salento, Lecce, (Italy)
| | - Francesco Bagordo
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, Laboratory of Hygiene, University of the Salento, Lecce, (Italy)
| | - Giancarlo Piccinni
- Complex Operative Unit of Cardiology, "F. Ferrari" Hospital, Casarano-Lecce (Italy)
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Clinical Impact of Viral Load on the Development of Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Liver-Related Mortality in Patients with Hepatitis C Virus Infection. Gastroenterol Res Pract 2016; 2016:7476231. [PMID: 27656205 PMCID: PMC5021494 DOI: 10.1155/2016/7476231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2016] [Revised: 07/15/2016] [Accepted: 08/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim. This study aimed to assess clinical impact of hepatitis C viral load on the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and liver-related mortality in HCV-infected patients. Methods. A total of 111 subjects with chronic HCV infection who were available for serum quantitation of HCV RNA were recruited in this retrospective cohort. Cox-proportional hazards models were used to calculate hazard ratio (HR) of developing HCC and liver-related mortality according to serum HCV RNA titers. Results. HCC was developed in 14 patients during follow-up period. The cumulative risk of HCC development was higher in subjects with high HCV RNA titer (log HCV RNA IU/mL > 6) than subjects with low titer (log HCV RNA IU/mL ≦ 6) (HR = 4.63, P = 0.032), giving an incidence rate of 474.1 and 111.5 per 10,000 person-years, respectively. Old age (HR = 9.71, P = 0.014), accompanying cirrhosis (HR = 19.34, P = 0.004), and low platelet count (HR = 13.97, P = 0.009) were other independent risk factors for the development of HCC. Liver-related death occurred in 7 patients. Accompanying cirrhosis (HR = 6.13, P = 0.012) and low albumin level (HR = 9.17, P = 0.002), but not HCV RNA titer, were significant risk factors related to liver-related mortality. Conclusion. Serum HCV RNA titer may be considered an independent risk factor for the development of HCC but not liver-related mortality.
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Wu CK, Chang KC, Hung CH, Tseng PL, Lu SN, Chen CH, Wang JH, Lee CM, Tsai MC, Lin MT, Yen YH, Hu TH. Dynamic α-fetoprotein, platelets and AST-to-platelet ratio index predict hepatocellular carcinoma in chronic hepatitis C patients with sustained virological response after antiviral therapy. J Antimicrob Chemother 2016; 71:1943-7. [PMID: 27073265 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkw097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2015] [Accepted: 02/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients who achieve viral eradication may still develop hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Little is known about the impact of dynamic change of serum markers on HCC development. METHODS We enrolled 1351 HCV-infected patients who achieved sustained virological response (SVR). Laboratory data were collected at least 1 year after IFN-based therapy and to the latest follow-up. Data on α-fetoprotein (AFP) were obtained >6 months prior to HCC development to exclude HCC-related AFP elevation. RESULTS HCC developed in 49 patients. Risk factors for HCC in SVR patients were old age, liver cirrhosis, higher pre- and post-treatment AFP and high post-treatment AST-to-platelet ratio index (APRI). Patients with pre-AFP ≥15 ng/mL → post-AFP ≥15 ng/mL (at 1 year, 23.1%; 5 years, 42.3%) and pre-AFP <15 ng/mL → post-AFP ≥15 ng/mL (at 1 year, 25%; 5 years, 50%) had the highest risk of HCC development, followed by pre-AFP ≥15 ng/mL → post-AFP <15 ng/mL (at 1 year, 5.2%; 5 years, 7.6%) and pre-AFP <15 ng/mL → post-AFP ng/mL <15 ng/mL (at 1 year, 0.5%; 5 years, 0.9%) (P < 0.001). The pattern was similar for platelets and APRI (P < 0.001). SVR patients with pre-APRI ≥0.7 → post-APRI ≥0.7 had the highest risk of HCC development, followed by comparable risks among the other three groups. CONCLUSIONS SVR patients with a persistently high AFP level (≥15 ng/mL) and a high APRI (≥0.7) before and after treatment had the highest incidence of HCC development. Patients with a reduction of AFP and APRI to the normal range after treatment had a markedly decreased risk of HCC. The risk was lowest for patients who kept persistently normal AFP and APRI before and after treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Kun Wu
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Chin Chang
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Hung Hung
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Po-Lin Tseng
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Nan Lu
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Hung Chen
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Jing-Houng Wang
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chuan-Mo Lee
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Chao Tsai
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Tsung Lin
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hao Yen
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Hui Hu
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a development of severe liver disease frequently due to HBV and/or HCV infection. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the development of HCC in patients with HBV-HCV chronic infection compared with patients with single HBV or HCV infection and the viral and host factors correlated to HCC in co-infected patients. We studied 268 patients with histology proven chronic hepatitis: 56 had HBV-HCV co-infection (HBV-HCV group), 46 had HBV infection (HBV group) and 166 had HCV infection (HCV group). Patients were followed up for at least 3 years. Viral and host factors were studied. HCC was more frequent in HBV-HCV group (14%) compared with HBV (2%, p = 0.006) and HCV monoinfected (4%, p = 0.006). The Mantel-Haenszel test used to investigate the relationship between HBV-HCV co-infection and development of HCC indicated an association between development of HCC and HBV-HCV co-infection (p < 0.001). In the HBV-HCV group, patients with HCC were significantly older (p = 0.000), had longer disease duration (p = 0.001), higher blood glucose levels (p = 0.001), lower levels of steatosis (p = 0.02), higher levels of fibrosis (p = 0.000), higher HCV RNA (p = 0.01) than those without HCC. ALT, lipid profile, PNPLA3 variant distribution and HBV viral load did not differ among co-infected patients with or without HCC. In conclusion HCC was more frequent in our patients with HBV-HCV co-infection, than in those with HBV or HCV mono-infection; possible associated risk factors for HCC development seem a long duration of disease, high levels of fibrosis and carbohydrate intolerance.
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8
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Clinical-guide risk prediction of hepatocellular carcinoma development in chronic hepatitis C patients after interferon-based therapy. Br J Cancer 2013; 109:2481-8. [PMID: 24084770 PMCID: PMC3817320 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2013.564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2013] [Revised: 08/04/2013] [Accepted: 08/14/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Interferon (IFN)-based therapies could eradicate hepatitis C (HCV) and reduce the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, HCC could still happen after sustained virological response (SVR). We aimed to develop a simple scoring system to predict the risk of HCC development among HCV patients after antiviral therapies. Methods: From 1999 to 2009, 1879 patients with biopsy-proven HCV infection treated with IFN-based therapies were analyzed. Results: Multivariable analysis showed old age (adjusted HR (aHR)=1.73, 95% CI=1.13–2.65 for aged 60–69 and aHR=2.20, 95% CI=1.43–3.37 for aged ⩾70), Male gender (aHR=1.74, 95% CI=1.26–2.41), platelet count <150 × 109/l (HR=1.91, 95% CI=1.27–2.86), α-fetoprotein ⩾20 ng ml−1 (HR=2.23, 95% CI=1.58–3.14), high fibrotic stage (HR=3.32, 95% CI=2.10–5.22), HCV genotype 1b (HR=1.53, 95% CI=1.10–2.14), and non SVR (HR=2.40, 95% CI=1.70–3.38) were independent risk factors for HCC. Regression coefficients were used to build up a risk score and the accuracy was evaluated by using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Three groups as low-, intermediate-, and high-risk are classified based on the risk scores. One hundred sixty patients (12.78%) in the derivation and 82 patients (13.08%) in the validation cohort developed HCC with AUC of 79.4%, sensitivity of 84.38%, and specificity of 60.66%. In the validation cohort, the 5-year HCC incidence was 1.81%, 12.92%, and 29.95% in low-, intermediate-, and high-risk groups, with hazard ratios 4.49 in intermediate- and 16.14 in high-risk group respectively. The risk reduction of HCC is greatest in patients with SVR, with a 5-year and 10-year risk reduction of 28.91% and 27.99% respectively. Conclusion: The risk scoring system is accurate in predicting HCC development for HCV patients after antiviral therapies.
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9
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Jang JW. Management of viral hepatitis in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION 2013. [DOI: 10.5124/jkma.2013.56.11.1001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jeong Won Jang
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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10
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Chen LP, Zhao J, Du Y, Han YF, Su T, Zhang HW, Cao GW. Antiviral treatment to prevent chronic hepatitis B or C-related hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Virol 2012; 1:174-83. [PMID: 24175223 PMCID: PMC3782279 DOI: 10.5501/wjv.v1.i6.174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2011] [Revised: 06/18/2012] [Accepted: 11/07/2012] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Antiviral treatment is the only option to prevent or defer the occurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients chronically infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV). The approved medication for the treatment of chronic HBV infection is interferon-α (IFNα) and nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs), including lamivudine, adefovir dipivoxil, telbivudine, entecavir and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. IFNα is the most suitable for young patients with less advanced liver diseases and those infected with HBV genotype A. IFNα treatment significantly decreases the overall incidence of HBV-related HCC in sustained responders. However, side effects may limit its long-term clinical application. Orally administered NAs are typically implemented for patients with more advanced liver diseases. NA treatment significantly reduces disease progression of cirrhosis and therefore HCC incidence, especially in HBV e antigen-positive patients. NA-resistance due to the mutations in HBV polymerase is a major limiting factor. Of the NA resistance-associated mutants, A181T mutant significantly increases the risk of HCC development during the subsequent course of NA therapy. It is important to initiate treatment with NAs that have a high genetic barrier to resistance, to counsel patients on medication adherence and to monitor virological breakthroughs. The recommended treatment for patients with chronic HCV infection is peg-IFN plus ribavirin that can decrease the occurrence of HCC in those who achieve a sustained virological response and have not yet progressed to cirrhosis. IFN-based treatment is reserved for patients with decompensated cirrhosis who are under evaluation of liver transplantation to reduce post-transplant recurrence of HCV. More effective therapeutic options such as direct acting antiviral agents will hopefully increase the response rate in difficult-to-treat patients with HCV genotype 1. However, the risk of HCC remains in cirrhotic patients (both chronic HBV and HCV infection) if treatment is initiated after cirrhosis is established. Future research should focus on investigating new agents, especially for those patients with hepatic decompensation or post-transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Ping Chen
- Li-Ping Chen, Yan Du, Yi-Fang Han, Tong Su, Hong-Wei Zhang, Guang-Wen Cao, Department of Epidemiology, the Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
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Cabibbo G, Maida M, Genco C, Antonucci M, Cammà C. Causes of and prevention strategies for hepatocellular carcinoma. Semin Oncol 2012; 39:374-83. [PMID: 22846856 DOI: 10.1053/j.seminoncol.2012.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a challenging malignancy of global importance. It is associated with a high rate of mortality and its prevalence in the United States and in Western Europe is increasing. Cirrhosis is the strongest and the most common known risk factor for HCC, usually due to hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections. However, different lines of evidence identify in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) a possible relevant risk factor for occurrence of HCC. Given the continuing increase in the prevalence of obesity and diabetes, the incidence of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis-related HCC may also be expected to increase, and a potential role of behavior treatment and/or insulin-sensitizing drugs can be envisaged. Vaccination against HBV is the most efficient primary prevention measure currently available to reduce the HCC incidence and mortality in high-incidence areas, while data on the role of interferon (IFN) and nucleos(t)ide analogues (NUC) are still controversial. The pooling of data from the literature suggests a slight preventive effect of antiviral therapy on HCC development in patients with HCV-related cirrhosis, but the preventive effect is limited to sustained virological responders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Cabibbo
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia, DIBIMIS, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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12
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Chang KC, Hung CH, Lu SN, Wang JH, Lee CM, Chen CH, Yen MF, Lin SC, Yen YH, Tsai MC, Tseng PL, Hu TH. A novel predictive score for hepatocellular carcinoma development in patients with chronic hepatitis C after sustained response to pegylated interferon and ribavirin combination therapy. J Antimicrob Chemother 2012; 67:2766-72. [PMID: 22899800 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dks269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Antiviral therapy can prevent the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients. However, HCC still develops in patients achieving sustained virological response (SVR). We proposed to evaluate the risk factors and derive a novel risk score for HCC (score(HCC)) by summation of products of clinical weights based on the regression coefficients in the final proportional hazards model. METHODS From March 2002 to October 2009, we enrolled 871 patients with biopsy-proven CHC, who received combined pegylated interferon and ribavirin therapy and achieved SVR. RESULTS Cox regression analysis showed that old age [hazard ratio (HR) 3.82, 95% CI 1.74-8.37, P = 0.001], high α-fetoprotein levels (HR 3.15, 95% CI 1.60-6.19, P = 0.001), low platelet counts (HR 2.81, 95% CI 1.22-6.44, P = 0.015) and high fibrotic stage (HR 3.95, 95% CI 1.46-10.70, P = 0.007) were independent risk factors. The cut-off level of risk scores was a derived value of 10 and was able to predict the HCC risk with 89.2% sensitivity and 69.5% specificity. The AUC value for the prediction was 0.848. The score(HCC) values were further categorized into three risk groups: low risk (score(HCC) ≤10), intermediate risk (score(HCC) 11-15) and high risk (score(HCC) ≥16). The proportion of HCC development increased from 1.37% (9/657) in the low-risk group to 9.14% (16/175) in the intermediate-risk group and 30.77% (12/39) in the high-risk group (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS With the novel risk scores, we can estimate the chance of HCC development more exactly and practically. This approach can be used for HCC screening in CHC patients achieving SVR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuo-Chin Chang
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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14
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EASL-EORTC clinical practice guidelines: management of hepatocellular carcinoma. J Hepatol 2012; 56:908-43. [PMID: 22424438 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2011.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4379] [Impact Index Per Article: 364.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2011] [Accepted: 12/15/2011] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
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- EASL Office, 7 rue des Battoirs, CH-1205 Geneva, Switzerland.
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15
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Kurosaki M, Hiramatsu N, Sakamoto M, Suzuki Y, Iwasaki M, Tamori A, Matsuura K, Kakinuma S, Sugauchi F, Sakamoto N, Nakagawa M, Izumi N. Data mining model using simple and readily available factors could identify patients at high risk for hepatocellular carcinoma in chronic hepatitis C. J Hepatol 2012; 56:602-8. [PMID: 22027574 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2011.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2011] [Revised: 08/08/2011] [Accepted: 09/04/2011] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Assessment of the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development is essential for formulating personalized surveillance or antiviral treatment plan for chronic hepatitis C. We aimed to build a simple model for the identification of patients at high risk of developing HCC. METHODS Chronic hepatitis C patients followed for at least 5 years (n=1003) were analyzed by data mining to build a predictive model for HCC development. The model was externally validated using a cohort of 1072 patients (472 with sustained virological response (SVR) and 600 with nonSVR to PEG-interferon plus ribavirin therapy). RESULTS On the basis of factors such as age, platelet, albumin, and aspartate aminotransferase, the HCC risk prediction model identified subgroups with high-, intermediate-, and low-risk of HCC with a 5-year HCC development rate of 20.9%, 6.3-7.3%, and 0-1.5%, respectively. The reproducibility of the model was confirmed through external validation (r(2)=0.981). The 10-year HCC development rate was also significantly higher in the high-and intermediate-risk group than in the low-risk group (24.5% vs. 4.8%; p<0.0001). In the high-and intermediate-risk group, the incidence of HCC development was significantly reduced in patients with SVR compared to those with nonSVR (5-year rate, 9.5% vs. 4.5%; p=0.040). CONCLUSIONS The HCC risk prediction model uses simple and readily available factors and identifies patients at a high risk of HCC development. The model allows physicians to identify patients requiring HCC surveillance and those who benefit from IFN therapy to prevent HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masayuki Kurosaki
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
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16
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Testoni B, Schinzari V, Guerrieri F, Gerbal-Chaloin S, Blandino G, Levrero M. p53-paralog DNp73 oncogene is repressed by IFNα/STAT2 through the recruitment of the Ezh2 polycomb group transcriptional repressor. Oncogene 2011; 30:2670-8. [PMID: 21399658 PMCID: PMC3114186 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2010.635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2010] [Revised: 12/02/2010] [Accepted: 12/14/2010] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The DNp73 proteins act as trans-repressors of p53 and p73-dependent transcription and exert both anti-apoptotic activity and pro-proliferative activity. DNp73s are frequently up-regulated in a variety of human cancers, including human hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs). Increased levels of DNp73 proteins confer to HCC cells resistance to apoptosis and, irrespective to p53 status, a chemoresistant phenotype. Here, we show that interferon (IFN)α down-regulates DNp73 expression in primary human hepatocytes (PHHs) and HCC cell lines. IFNα has been used as pro-apoptotic agent in the treatment of malignancies and there is increasing evidence of IFNα effectiveness in HCC treatment and prevention of recurrence. The precise mechanisms by which class I IFNs exert their anti-proliferative and anti-tumor activity remain unclear. IFNα binding to its receptor activates multiple intracellular signaling cascades regulating the transcription of numerous direct target genes through the recruitment of a complex comprising of STAT1, STAT2 and IFN regulatory factor (IRF)9 to their promoters. We found that, in response to IFNα, the P2p73 promoter undergoes substantial chromatin remodeling. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) replace histone acetyl transferases. STAT2 is recruited onto the endogenous P2p73 promoter together with the polycomb group protein Ezh2, leading to increased H3K27 methylation and transcriptional repression. The reduction of DNp73 levels by IFNα is paralleled by an increased susceptibility to IFNα-triggered apoptosis of Huh7 hepatoma cells. Our results show, for the first time, that IFN-stimulated gene factor 3 recruitment may serve both in activating and repressing gene expression and identify the down-regulation of DNp73 as an additional mechanism to counteract the chemoresistance of liver cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Testoni
- Laboratory of Gene Expression, Fondazione A. Cesalpino, Rome, Italy
- Rome Oncogenomic Center, IRE, Rome, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - V Schinzari
- Laboratory of Gene Expression, Fondazione A. Cesalpino, Rome, Italy
- LEA INSERM U785, Villejuif, France
- Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - F Guerrieri
- Laboratory of Gene Expression, Fondazione A. Cesalpino, Rome, Italy
- LEA INSERM U785, Villejuif, France
- Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - S Gerbal-Chaloin
- INSERM U632, Institut de Recherche en Biothérapie, Montpellier, France
| | - G Blandino
- Rome Oncogenomic Center, IRE, Rome, Italy
| | - M Levrero
- Laboratory of Gene Expression, Fondazione A. Cesalpino, Rome, Italy
- Rome Oncogenomic Center, IRE, Rome, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
- LEA INSERM U785, Villejuif, France
- Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
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Vezali E, Aghemo A, Lampertico P, Colombo M. Does interferon therapy prevent hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with chronic viral hepatitis? Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2011; 35:455-64. [PMID: 21435968 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2011.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2011] [Accepted: 02/09/2011] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C and B are well-recognized and potentially preventable risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. Clinical and epidemiological studies suggest that therapy with interferon-α may reduce the overall risk of HCC development in patients with chronic hepatitis C, who achieve sustained virological response, but even in those who fail to eradicate the infection. In chronic hepatitis B, interferon therapy reduces the risk of HCC development in HBeAg-positive and cirrhotic patients who achieve persistent suppression of viral replication, while in HBeAg-negative patients the beneficial effect of interferon-α is not definitively confirmed. The preventive role of interferon-α after potentially curative treatment for HCC in both chronic hepatitis B and C is uncertain due to methodological flaws of the existing studies and prospective randomized controlled trials with pegylated interferon-α are needed to clarify this issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Vezali
- Centro A.M. e A. Migliavacca, Unità Operativa di Gastroenterologia 1, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
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18
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Lok AS, Everhart JE, Wright EC, Di Bisceglie AM, Kim HY, Sterling RK, Everson GT, Lindsay KL, Lee WM, Bonkovsky HL, Dienstag JL, Ghany MG, Morishima C, Morgan TR. Maintenance peginterferon therapy and other factors associated with hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with advanced hepatitis C. Gastroenterology 2011; 140:840-9; quiz e12. [PMID: 21129375 PMCID: PMC3057272 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2010.11.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2010] [Revised: 11/04/2010] [Accepted: 11/16/2010] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Interferon reportedly decreases the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with chronic hepatitis C. The Hepatitis C Antiviral Long-term Treatment against Cirrhosis (HALT-C) Trial showed that 4 years of maintenance therapy with pegylated interferon (peginterferon) does not reduce liver disease progression. We investigated whether peginterferon decreases the incidence of HCC in the HALT-C cohort over a longer posttreatment follow-up period. METHODS The study included 1048 patients with chronic hepatitis C (Ishak fibrosis scores ≥ 3) who did not have a sustained virologic response (SVR) to therapy. They were randomly assigned to groups given a half-dose of peginterferon or no treatment (controls) for 3.5 years and followed up for a median of 6.1 (maximum, 8.7) years. RESULTS Eighty-eight patients developed HCC (68 definite, 20 presumed): 37 of 515 who were given peginterferon (7.2%) and 51 of 533 controls (9.6%; P = .24). There was a significantly lower incidence of HCC among patients given peginterferon therapy who had cirrhosis, but not fibrosis, based on analysis of baseline biopsy samples. After 7 years, the cumulative incidences of HCC in treated and control patients with cirrhosis were 7.8% and 24.2%, respectively (hazard ratio [HR], 0.45; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.24-0.83); in treated and control patients with fibrosis, incidences were 8.3% and 6.8%, respectively (HR, 1.44; 95% CI, 0.77-2.69). Treated patients with a ≥ 2-point decrease in the histologic activity index, based on a follow-up biopsy, had a lower incidence of HCC than those with unchanged or increased scores (2.9% vs 9.4%; P = .03). CONCLUSIONS Extended analysis of the HALT-C cohort showed that long-term peginterferon therapy does not reduce the incidence of HCC among patients with advanced hepatitis C who did not achieve SVRs. Patients with cirrhosis who received peginterferon treatment had a lower risk of HCC than controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna S. Lok
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - James E. Everhart
- Division of Digestive Diseases and Nutrition, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD
| | - Elizabeth C. Wright
- Office of the Director, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD
| | - Adrian M. Di Bisceglie
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | | | - Richard K. Sterling
- Hepatology Section, Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center, Richmond, VA
| | - Gregory T. Everson
- Section of Hepatology, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Colorado Denver, School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
| | - Karen L. Lindsay
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - William M. Lee
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Herbert L. Bonkovsky
- Department of Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC
| | - Jules L. Dienstag
- Gastrointestinal Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Marc G. Ghany
- Liver Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD
| | - Chihiro Morishima
- Division of Virology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Timothy R. Morgan
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, Gastroenterology Service, VA Long Beach Healthcare System, Long Beach, CA
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Abstract
Approximately 75% to 80% of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) worldwide are attributed to chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) and chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Thus, effective prevention of HBV and HCV infection and progression from acute HBV and HCV infection to chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis and HCC might prevent as many as 450,000 deaths from HCC each year. The most effective approach to preventing HCC is to prevent HBV and HCV infection through vaccination. Indeed HBV vaccine is the first vaccine demonstrated to prevent cancers. However, a vaccine for HCV is not available and for persons who are chronically infected with HBV or HCV, antiviral therapy is the only option for preventing HCC. Direct evidence supporting a benefit of antiviral therapy on the prevention of HCC has been shown in a few randomized controlled trials. There is abundant evidence that antiviral therapy, in patients with long-term virological response, can improve liver histology, providing indirect support that antiviral therapy may prevent HCC by slowing progression of liver disease and possibly even reversing liver damage. Nevertheless, the risk of HCC remains in patients with chronic HBV or chronic HCV infection if treatment is initiated after cirrhosis is established. These data indicate that treatment might be of greater benefit if instituted earlier in the course of chronic hepatitis B or C. Safer, more effective, and more affordable antiviral therapies are needed for both hepatitis B and hepatitis C so more patients can benefit from treatment and more HCCs can be prevented.
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20
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Cheinquer N, Cheinquer H, Wolff FH, Coelho-Borges S. Effect of sustained virologic response on the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with HCV cirrhosis. Braz J Infect Dis 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/s1413-8670(10)70093-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
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Abstract
The retrospective scrutiny of studies that were originally designed to assess the antiviral activity of interferon (IFN) and nucleos(t)ide analogues (NUC) suggested reduced incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in responders. The interpretation of these studies, however, is questioned by the heterogeneity of patient referral, adoption of surrogate end-points, lack of control arms and, overall, by the lack of power to capture enough hard end-points of the natural history of hepatitis B, including HCC. Another point of criticism is that above all, IFN studies could have been affected by study enrolment skewed towards patients with less advanced liver disease, who had a better predicted compliance to therapy but a lower risk of developing HCC in the short-term. In my opinion, these constraints coupled with the lack of patient stratification by HCC predictors, make the evaluation of the prophylactic activity of IFN and NUC even more difficult. Overall, while single studies provide some evidence for a reduced HCC incidence in virological responders, particularly in those with moderate liver fibrosis, we still lack confirmation that anti-HBV therapy prevents HCC in patients with an established cirrhosis, too. Finally, tertiary prevention with anti-HBV treatments is controversial, due to the existence of a few, methodologically flawed studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Colombo
- First Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Mangiagalli e Regina Elena, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
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22
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Andreana L, Burroughs AK. Treatment of early hepatocellular carcinoma: How to predict and prevent recurrence. Dig Liver Dis 2010; 42 Suppl 3:S249-57. [PMID: 20547311 DOI: 10.1016/s1590-8658(10)60513-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Early and very early stage hepatocellular cancers (HCC) when staged clinically, if they are coincident with histological early HCC, have the best outcome in terms of recurrence rates and survival after potential curative therapy. This is because predictors of HCC recurrence such as microscopic vascular invasion and satellite metastases, are rarely present in histological early HCC. Other predictors of HCC recurrence are size of the principal lesion, numbers of lesions, histological grade, several gene signature patterns that are promising for future clinical practice, and other less constantly predictive features such as high alpha-fetoprotein and transaminase concentrations, and cellular aneuploidia. Adjuvant and neo-adjuvant therapies have been proposed to reduce the risk of HCC recurrence after potentially curative treatments. These preventative therapies are focused on extra-tumoural therapies, such as retinoids or interferon, possibly effective in preventing late recurrence by influencing the premalignant field in cirrhosis, and on tumour related therapies, by utilising several procedures able to downstage tumours, such as neo-adjuvant and "bridge to transplant" therapies, which influence mainly early recurrence. Both strategies have been combined for example with using sorafenib which may treat both the patient's premalignant liver and malignant liver cells themselves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Andreana
- The Sheila Sherlock Liver Centre and University Department of Surgery, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
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23
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Abstract
Thymalfasin exhibited an immunomodulatory and a direct antiviral mechanism of action. The low rate of sustained response of chronic hepatitis with current therapies, underscores the need for new therapeutic options. It has been suggested that thymalfasin may have efficacy in the treatment of chronic hepatitis B and C. Pilots studies in patients with chronic hepatitis B treated with thymalfasin in combination with interferon or nucleoside analogue, showed a 70% complete sustained response rate. Studies in chronic hepatitis C patients, would indicate that thymalfasin in combination with standard or pegylated interferon with ribavirin may improve response rate in hepatitis C virus (HCV) naïve and nonresponder patients. However, a large phase-III randomized study conducted in Europe in HCV patients nonresponder to Peg-interferon with ribavirin, demonstrated that thymalfasin did not improve the rate of sustained virologic responses, but, in patients who completed therapy, thymalfasin significantly diminished the relapse rate. In conclusion, thymalfasin, in combination with the standard of care, may be helpful as an adjuvant in the treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis B and C.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ciancio
- AOU San Giovanni Battista di Torino, Università degli Studi di Torino, School of Medicine, Torino, Italy.
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24
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Cardoso AC, Moucari R, Figueiredo-Mendes C, Ripault MP, Giuily N, Castelnau C, Boyer N, Asselah T, Martinot-Peignoux M, Maylin S, Carvalho-Filho RJ, Valla D, Bedossa P, Marcellin P. Impact of peginterferon and ribavirin therapy on hepatocellular carcinoma: incidence and survival in hepatitis C patients with advanced fibrosis. J Hepatol 2010; 52:652-7. [PMID: 20346533 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2009.12.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 254] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2009] [Revised: 11/27/2009] [Accepted: 12/01/2009] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) currently represents the major cause of liver-related death in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related cirrhosis. We assessed the influence of combination therapy on the risk of HCC, liver-related complications (ascites, variceal bleeding), and liver-related death (or liver transplantation). METHODS Three hundred seven chronic hepatitis C patients with bridging fibrosis (n=127) or cirrhosis (n=180) were evaluated by Cox regression analysis. Sustained virological response (SVR) was defined as undetectable serum HCV RNA at 24 weeks after treatment. RESULTS SVR developed in 33% of patients. The SVR rates were not different between patients with bridging fibrosis (37%) and those with cirrhosis (30%), p=0.186. During a median follow-up of 3.5 years (range 1-18 years) after the last treatment, the incidence rates per 100 person-years of HCC, liver-related complications, and liver-related death, were 1.24, 0.62, and 0.61 among SVR patients, respectively, and 5.85, 4.16, and 3.76 among non-SVR patients, respectively (log-rank test, p<0.001). According to multivariate analysis, non-SVR was an independent predictor of HCC (HR 3.06; 95% CI=1.12-8.39), liver-related complications (HR 4.73; 95% CI: 1.09-20.57), and liver-related death (HR 3.71; 95% CI=1.05-13.05). CONCLUSIONS SVR is achieved in one-third of patients with HCV-related cirrhosis treated with peginterferon and ribavirin. SVR has a strong independent positive influence on the incidence of HCC and on the prognosis of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana-Carolina Cardoso
- Service d'Hépatologie, Hôpital Beaujon, AP-HP, INSERM U773-CRB3, Université Denis Diderot-Paris7, 100 Boulevard du Général Leclerc, 92110 Clichy, France
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Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver consensus recommendations on hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatol Int 2010; 4:439-74. [PMID: 20827404 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-010-9165-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 813] [Impact Index Per Article: 58.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2009] [Accepted: 12/09/2009] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver (APASL) convened an international working party on the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in December 2008 to develop consensus recommendations. METHODS The working party consisted of expert hepatologist, hepatobiliary surgeon, radiologist, and oncologist from Asian-Pacific region, who were requested to make drafts prior to the consensus meeting held at Bali, Indonesia on 4 December 2008. The quality of existing evidence and strength of recommendations were ranked from 1 (highest) to 5 (lowest) and from A (strongest) to D (weakest), respectively, according to the Oxford system of evidence-based approach for developing the consensus statements. RESULTS Participants of the consensus meeting assessed the quality of cited studies and assigned grades to the recommendation statements. Finalized recommendations were presented at the fourth APASL single topic conference on viral-related HCC at Bali, Indonesia and approved by the participants of the conference.
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26
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Omata M, Lesmana LA, Tateishi R, Chen PJ, Lin SM, Yoshida H, Kudo M, Lee JM, Choi BI, Poon RTP, Shiina S, Cheng AL, Jia JD, Obi S, Han KH, Jafri W, Chow P, Lim SG, Chawla YK, Budihusodo U, Gani RA, Lesmana CR, Putranto TA, Liaw YF, Sarin SK. Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver consensus recommendations on hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatol Int 2010. [PMID: 20827404 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-011-9165-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver (APASL) convened an international working party on the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in December 2008 to develop consensus recommendations. METHODS The working party consisted of expert hepatologist, hepatobiliary surgeon, radiologist, and oncologist from Asian-Pacific region, who were requested to make drafts prior to the consensus meeting held at Bali, Indonesia on 4 December 2008. The quality of existing evidence and strength of recommendations were ranked from 1 (highest) to 5 (lowest) and from A (strongest) to D (weakest), respectively, according to the Oxford system of evidence-based approach for developing the consensus statements. RESULTS Participants of the consensus meeting assessed the quality of cited studies and assigned grades to the recommendation statements. Finalized recommendations were presented at the fourth APASL single topic conference on viral-related HCC at Bali, Indonesia and approved by the participants of the conference.
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27
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Abstract
Chronic infections with HBV and HCV are a major cause of liver-associated morbidity and mortality worldwide. An increased knowledge of HBV and HCV virology, natural history and predictors of virological response has led to the development of new strategies to improve treatment outcomes. The use of new antiviral agents with greater potency and a high genetic barrier to resistance, as well as on-treatment monitoring of virological response, may result in improved outcomes in HBV therapy. A greater understanding of predictors of virological response has led to the ability to individualize therapy in chronic HCV infection. Several new antiviral agents specifically targeting HCV are in development and should have a major impact on treatment response rates over the next few years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stevan A Gonzalez
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Stanford University Medical Center, 750 Welch Road, Suite 210, Palo Alto, CA 94304-1509, USA
| | - Emmet B Keeffe
- Division of Hepatology, Baylor All Saints Medical Center, 1400 8th Avenue, Building C, 1st Floor, Fort Worth, TX 76104, USA
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28
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Multimodal approaches to the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2009; 6:159-69. [DOI: 10.1038/ncpgasthep1357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2008] [Accepted: 12/17/2008] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
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29
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Lok AS, Seeff LB, Morgan TR, di Bisceglie AM, Sterling RK, Curto TM, Everson GT, Lindsay KL, Lee WM, Bonkovsky HL, Dienstag JL, Ghany MG, Morishima C, Goodman ZD. Incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma and associated risk factors in hepatitis C-related advanced liver disease. Gastroenterology 2009; 136:138-48. [PMID: 18848939 PMCID: PMC3749922 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2008.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 424] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2008] [Revised: 09/04/2008] [Accepted: 09/11/2008] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Although the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is increasing in the United States, data from large prospective studies are limited. We evaluated the Hepatitis C Antiviral Long-Term Treatment Against Cirrhosis (HALT-C) cohort for the incidence of HCC and associated risk factors. METHODS Hepatitis C virus-positive patients with bridging fibrosis or cirrhosis who did not respond to peginterferon and ribavirin were randomized to groups that were given maintenance peginterferon for 3.5 years or no treatment. HCC incidence was determined by Kaplan-Meier analysis, and baseline factors associated with HCC were analyzed by Cox regression. RESULTS 1,005 patients (mean age, 50.2 years; 71% male; 72% white race) were studied; 59% had bridging fibrosis, and 41% had cirrhosis. During a median follow-up of 4.6 years (maximum, 6.7 years), HCC developed in 48 patients (4.8%). The cumulative 5-year HCC incidence was similar for peginterferon-treated patients and controls, 5.4% vs 5.0%, respectively (P= .78), and was higher among patients with cirrhosis than those with bridging fibrosis, 7.0% vs 4.1%, respectively (P= .08). HCC developed in 8 (17%) patients whose serial biopsy specimens showed only fibrosis. A multivariate analysis model comprising older age, black race, lower platelet count, higher alkaline phosphatase, esophageal varices, and smoking was developed to predict the risk of HCC. CONCLUSIONS We found that maintenance peginterferon did not reduce the incidence of HCC in the HALT-C cohort. Baseline clinical and laboratory features predicted risk for HCC. Additional studies are required to confirm our finding of HCC in patients with chronic hepatitis C and bridging fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna S Lok
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA.
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Fung J, Lai CL, Yuen MF. LB80380: a promising new drug for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2008; 17:1581-8. [PMID: 18808318 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.17.10.1581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus is a significant cause of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with chronic infection. Higher levels of viral load are associated with increased risk of developing liver-related complications. The current available oral therapies suppress viral replication through their action on the hepatitis B virus polymerase. As treatment with oral nucleoside/nucleotide analogues is associated with the development of drug-resistant mutations, there is continuing research for newer and more potent antiviral agents to reduce the chance of drug resistance. LB80380, a prodrug, is an oral nucleotide analogue that inhibits viral replication by incorporation into the viral DNA. Antiviral activity against wild-type virus and virus with drug-resistant mutations was demonstrated in Phase II trials, with significant reduction of viral load in patients treated with LB80380. LB80380 was also shown to be safe and well tolerated.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Fung
- The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Department of Medicine, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong
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Floreani A, Minola E, Carderi I, Ferrara F, Rizzotto ER, Baldo V. Are elderly patients poor candidates for pegylated interferon plus ribavirin in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C? J Am Geriatr Soc 2006; 54:549-50. [PMID: 16551333 DOI: 10.1111/j.1532-5415.2006.00643_4.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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