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Kim N, Kim S, Choi JR, Park Y. Evaluation of autoimmune liver disease antibodies in hepatitis patients. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0307285. [PMID: 39163317 PMCID: PMC11335119 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0307285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is characterized by the presence of auto-antibodies and high blood immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels. In this study, the line immunoassay (LIA) was designed to assess various autoantibodies. METHODS In total, 1371 patients who underwent autoimmune liver disease antibody testing between July 2019 and November 2022 were enrolled. Autoantibodies including antinuclear antibody (ANA) and anti-mitochondrial antibody (AMA) were tested, and clinical data were collected. Statistical analyses were performed by categorizing the data based on diagnosis and IgG quantification separately. A scoring system was applied to identify individuals with AIH. Patients were also classified into the AIH and non-AIH groups. RESULTS The positivity rate for ANA was 80.2% in the AIH group. The IgG-high group had a high likelihood of the presence of detectable autoantibodies, with anti-Ro-52 being the most frequently detected antibody using LIA. The "Consider AIH" and "AMA" groups had 3-4 times more patients in the IgG-high group than in the "Not Considered" group. CONCLUSIONS Among autoantibodies, the prevalence of ANA was the highest. As per LIA results, anti-Ro-52 was the most prevalent. AIH cannot be diagnosed based on IgG levels alone and must be distinguished via autoantibody testing. Therefore, extensive testing, including autoantibodies, IgG, ANA, and liver enzyme levels, will help accurately diagnose AIH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namsoo Kim
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sinyoung Kim
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jong Rak Choi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
- Dxome co., Ltd., Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Younhee Park
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
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Plagiannakos CG, Hirschfield GM, Lytvyak E, Roberts SB, Ismail M, Gulamhusein AF, Selzner N, Qumosani KM, Worobetz L, Hercun J, Vincent C, Flemming JA, Swain MG, Cheung A, Chen T, Grbic D, Peltekain K, Mason AL, Montano-Loza AJ, Hansen BE. Treatment response and clinical event-free survival in autoimmune hepatitis: A Canadian multicentre cohort study. J Hepatol 2024; 81:227-237. [PMID: 38527524 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2024.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Treatment outcomes for people living with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) are limited by a lack of specific therapies, as well as limited well-validated prognostic tools and clinical trial endpoints. We sought to identify predictors of outcome for people living with AIH. METHODS We evaluated the clinical course of people with AIH across 11 Canadian centres. Biochemical changes were analysed using linear mixed-effect and logistic regression. Clinical outcome was dynamically modelled using time-varying Cox proportional hazard modelling and landmark analysis. RESULTS In 691 patients (median age 49 years, 75.4% female), with a median follow-up of 6 years (25th-75th percentile, 2.5-11), 118 clinical events occurred. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) normalisation occurred in 63.8% of the cohort by 12 months. Older age at diagnosis (odd ratio [OR] 1.19, 95% CI 1.06-1.35) and female sex (OR 1.94, 95% CI 1.18-3.19) were associated with ALT normalisation at 6 months, whilst baseline cirrhosis status was associated with reduced chance of normalisation at 12 months (OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.33-0.82). Baseline total bilirubin, aminotransferases, and IgG values, as well as initial prednisone dose, did not predict average ALT reduction. At baseline, older age (hazard ratio [HR] 1.25, 95% CI 1.12-1.40), cirrhosis at diagnosis (HR 3.67, 95% CI 2.48-5.43), and elevated baseline total bilirubin (HR 1.36, 95% CI 1.17-1.58) increased the risk of clinical events. Prolonged elevations in ALT (HR 1.07, 95% CI 1.00-1.13) and aspartate aminotransferase (HR 1.13, 95% CI 1.06-1.21), but not IgG (HR 1.01, 95% CI 0.95-1.07), were associated with higher risk of clinical events. Higher ALT at 6 months was associated with worse clinical event-free survival. CONCLUSION In people living with AIH, sustained elevated aminotransferase values, but not IgG, are associated with poorer long-term outcomes. Biochemical response and long-term survival are not associated with starting prednisone dose. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS Using clinical data from multiple Canadian liver clinics treating autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), we evaluate treatment response and clinical outcomes. For the first time, we apply mixed-effect and time-varying survival statistical methods to rigorously examine treatment response and the impact of fluctuating liver biochemistry on clinical event-free survival. Key to the study impact, our data is 'real-world', represents a diverse population across Canada, and uses continuous measurements over follow-up. Our results challenge the role of IgG as a marker of treatment response and if normalisation of IgG should remain an important part of the definition of biochemical remission. Our analysis further highlights that baseline markers of disease severity may not prognosticate early treatment response. Additionally, the initial prednisone dose may be less relevant for achieving aminotransferase normalisation. This is important for patients and treating clinicians given the relevance and importance of side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gideon M Hirschfield
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Ellina Lytvyak
- Division of Preventive Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Surain B Roberts
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Marwa Ismail
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Aliya F Gulamhusein
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Nazia Selzner
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Lawrence Worobetz
- Department of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Julian Hercun
- Liver Unit, Department of Medicine, Centre Hospitalier De l'Université De Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Catherine Vincent
- Liver Unit, Department of Medicine, Centre Hospitalier De l'Université De Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | | | - Mark G Swain
- Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Angela Cheung
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Tianyan Chen
- Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Canada
| | | | - Kevork Peltekain
- Department of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Andrew L Mason
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Aldo J Montano-Loza
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Bettina E Hansen
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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Schregel I, Papp M, Sipeki N, Kovats PJ, Taubert R, Engel B, Campos-Murguia A, Dalekos GN, Gatselis N, Zachou K, Milkiewicz P, Janik MK, Raszeja-Wyszomirska J, Ytting H, Braun F, Casar C, Sebode M, Lohse AW, Schramm C. Unmet needs in autoimmune hepatitis: Results of the prospective multicentre European Reference Network Registry (R-LIVER). Liver Int 2024. [PMID: 39037185 DOI: 10.1111/liv.16035] [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: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER) launched the prospective, multicentre, quality-controlled R-LIVER registry on rare liver diseases. The aim of this study was to assess the presentation and outcome of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) after 1 year of treatment. METHODS Data were prospectively collected at the time of diagnosis and after 6 and 12 months follow-up. Complete biochemical response (CBR) was defined as normalization of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) serum levels. RESULTS A total of 231 patients from six European centres were included in the analysis. After 6 months of treatment 50% (106/212), and after 12 months 63% (131/210) of patients reached CBR with only 27% (56/211) achieving a steroid-free CBR within the first year. Overall, 16 different treatment regimens were administered. Change of treatment, mostly due to intolerance, occurred in 30.4% within the first 6 months. In multivariate analysis, younger age at diagnosis (odds ratio [OR] = 1.03 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01-1.05]; p = .007), severe fibrosis (OR .38 [95% .16-.89], p = .026) and change of treatment within the first 6 months (OR .40 [95% CI .2-.86]; p = .018) were associated with a lesser chance of ALT normalization at 12 months follow-up. CONCLUSION The landscape of AIH treatment in Europe is highly heterogeneous, even between expert centres. The results from this first European multicentre prospective registry reveal several unmet needs, highlighted by the overall low rates of CBR and the frequent failure to withdraw corticosteroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ida Schregel
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- European Reference Network (ERN) RARE-LIVER, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Maria Papp
- European Reference Network (ERN) RARE-LIVER, Hamburg, Germany
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Hungary, Germany
| | - Nora Sipeki
- European Reference Network (ERN) RARE-LIVER, Hamburg, Germany
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Hungary, Germany
| | - Patricia J Kovats
- European Reference Network (ERN) RARE-LIVER, Hamburg, Germany
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Hungary, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, Kálmán Laki Doctoral School, University of Debrecen, Hungary, Germany
| | - Richard Taubert
- European Reference Network (ERN) RARE-LIVER, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Bastian Engel
- European Reference Network (ERN) RARE-LIVER, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Alejandro Campos-Murguia
- European Reference Network (ERN) RARE-LIVER, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - George N Dalekos
- European Reference Network (ERN) RARE-LIVER, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Gatselis
- European Reference Network (ERN) RARE-LIVER, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Kalliopi Zachou
- European Reference Network (ERN) RARE-LIVER, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Piotr Milkiewicz
- European Reference Network (ERN) RARE-LIVER, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Hepatology, Transplantology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Translational Medicine Group, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Maciej K Janik
- European Reference Network (ERN) RARE-LIVER, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Hepatology, Transplantology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Raszeja-Wyszomirska
- European Reference Network (ERN) RARE-LIVER, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Hepatology, Transplantology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Henriette Ytting
- European Reference Network (ERN) RARE-LIVER, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Hvidovre University Hospital of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Felix Braun
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- European Reference Network (ERN) RARE-LIVER, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christian Casar
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- European Reference Network (ERN) RARE-LIVER, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marcial Sebode
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- European Reference Network (ERN) RARE-LIVER, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ansgar W Lohse
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- European Reference Network (ERN) RARE-LIVER, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Schramm
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- European Reference Network (ERN) RARE-LIVER, Hamburg, Germany
- Martin Zeitz Center for Rare Diseases, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Hamburg Center for Translational Immunology (HCTI), University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Chen H, Ren W, Yang X, Hu P, Wang S, Xu C, Lv F, Zhao Y, Yin Q, Zheng W, Xu J, Pan H. Development and validation of a noninvasive prediction model for significant hepatic liver fibrosis in Chinese patients with autoimmune hepatitis. Ann Hepatol 2024; 29:101287. [PMID: 38266674 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2024.101287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a prevalent noninfectious liver disease. However, there is currently a lack of noninvasive tests appropriate for evaluating liver fibrosis in AIH patients. The objective of this study was to develop and validate a predictive model for noninvasive assessment of significant liver fibrosis (S ≥ 2) in patients to provide a reliable method for evaluating liver fibrosis in individuals with AIH. MATERIALS AND METHODS The clinical data of 374 AIH patients were analyzed. A prediction model was established through logistic regression in the training set, and bootstrap method was used to validate the models internally. In addition, the clinical data of 109 AIH patients were collected for external verification of the model.The model was expressed as a nomogram, and area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC), calibration curve, and decision curve analysis were used to evaluate the accuracy of the prediction model. RESULTS Logistic regression analysis revealed that age, platelet count (PLT), and the A/G ratio were identified as independent risk factors for liver fibrosis in AIH patients (P < 0.05). The diagnostic model that was composed of age, PLT and A/G was superior to APRI and FIB-4 in both the internal validation (0.872, 95%CI: 0.819-0.924) and external validation (0.829, 95%CI: 0.753-0.904). CONCLUSIONS Our predictive model can predict significant liver fibrosis in AIH patients more accurately, simply, and noninvasively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanzhu Chen
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, PR China; Center for General Practice Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, PR China
| | - Wenya Ren
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, PR China; Center for General Practice Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, PR China
| | - Xingdi Yang
- Center for General Practice Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, PR China
| | - Piao Hu
- The First People's Hospital of Xiaoshan District, Xiaoshan First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Hangzhou 311200 Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Shouhao Wang
- Hepatology Diagnosis and Treatment Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University & Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Diseases, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, PR China
| | - Chengan Xu
- Center for General Practice Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, PR China
| | - Fei Lv
- Center for General Practice Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, PR China
| | - Yue Zhao
- Center for General Practice Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, PR China
| | - Qiaoqiao Yin
- Center for General Practice Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, PR China
| | - Wei Zheng
- Center for General Practice Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, PR China
| | - Jing Xu
- Hepatology Department II, Affiliated Hangzhou Xixi Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310023, PR China.
| | - Hongying Pan
- Center for General Practice Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, PR China.
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Floreani A, Gabbia D, De Martin S. Are Gender Differences Important for Autoimmune Liver Diseases? Life (Basel) 2024; 14:500. [PMID: 38672770 PMCID: PMC11050899 DOI: 10.3390/life14040500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Gender Medicine has had an enormous expansion over the last ten years. Autoimmune liver diseases include several conditions, i.e., autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), and conditions involving the liver or biliary tree overlapping with AIH, as well as IgG4-related disease. However, little is known about the impact of sex in the pathogenesis and natural history of these conditions. The purpose of this review is to provide an update of the gender disparities among the autoimmune liver diseases by reviewing the data published from 1999 to 2023. The epidemiology of these diseases has been changing over the last years, due to the amelioration of knowledge in their diagnosis, pathogenesis, and treatment. The clinical data collected so far support the existence of sex differences in the natural history of autoimmune liver diseases. Notably, their history could be longer than that which is now known, with problems being initiated even at a pediatric age. Moreover, gender disparity has been observed during the onset of complications related to end-stage liver disease, including cancer incidence. However, there is still an important debate among researchers about the impact of sex and the pathogenesis of these conditions. With this review, we would like to emphasize the urgency of basic science and clinical research to increase our understanding of the sex differences in autoimmune liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annarosa Floreani
- Scientific Consultant IRCCS Negrar, 37024 Verona, Italy
- University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy
| | - Daniela Gabbia
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy; (D.G.); (S.D.M.)
| | - Sara De Martin
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy; (D.G.); (S.D.M.)
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Zaiem A, Ferchichi K, Lakhoua G, Kaabi W, Aouinti I, Rebii Debbiche S, Kastalli S, Kallel L, Charfi O, El Aidli S. Autoimmune hepatitis following mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. Therapie 2023; 78:760-761. [PMID: 37704459 DOI: 10.1016/j.therap.2022.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Zaiem
- National Center Chalbi Belkahia of Pharmacovigilance, 1006, Tunis, Tunisia; Research unit: UR17ES12, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tunis El Manar, La Rabta, 1007 Tunis, Tunisia.
| | - Khouloud Ferchichi
- Research unit: UR17ES12, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tunis El Manar, La Rabta, 1007 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Ghozlane Lakhoua
- National Center Chalbi Belkahia of Pharmacovigilance, 1006, Tunis, Tunisia; Research unit: UR17ES12, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tunis El Manar, La Rabta, 1007 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Widd Kaabi
- National Center Chalbi Belkahia of Pharmacovigilance, 1006, Tunis, Tunisia; Research unit: UR17ES12, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tunis El Manar, La Rabta, 1007 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Imen Aouinti
- National Center Chalbi Belkahia of Pharmacovigilance, 1006, Tunis, Tunisia; Research unit: UR17ES12, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tunis El Manar, La Rabta, 1007 Tunis, Tunisia
| | | | - Sarrah Kastalli
- National Center Chalbi Belkahia of Pharmacovigilance, 1006, Tunis, Tunisia; Research unit: UR17ES12, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tunis El Manar, La Rabta, 1007 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Lamia Kallel
- Gastroenterology Department, Mahmoud Matri Hospital, 2080 Ariana, Tunisia
| | - Ons Charfi
- National Center Chalbi Belkahia of Pharmacovigilance, 1006, Tunis, Tunisia; Research unit: UR17ES12, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tunis El Manar, La Rabta, 1007 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Sihem El Aidli
- National Center Chalbi Belkahia of Pharmacovigilance, 1006, Tunis, Tunisia; Research unit: UR17ES12, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tunis El Manar, La Rabta, 1007 Tunis, Tunisia
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van den Beukel MD, Stoelinga AEC, van der Meer AJ, van der Meulen S, Zhang L, Tushuizen ME, van Hoek B, Trouw LA. Antibodies against multiple post-translationally modified proteins aid in diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis and associate with complete biochemical response to treatment. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1195747. [PMID: 37564051 PMCID: PMC10411548 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1195747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background (Auto)immune mediated and cholestatic liver disease (AILD) includes autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). Especially AIH is characterized by the presence of autoantibodies and elevated serum immunoglobulins. In rheumatoid arthritis, autoantibodies against post-translational modifications (PTMs) such as citrullination (Cit) and carbamylation (CarP) are used as diagnostic and prognostic markers, respectively. We studied the presence of six anti-PTM antibodies in patients with the three AILDs and non-AILD. Methods Antibodies against six PTMs (malondialdehyde-acetaldehyde adducts (MAA), advanced glycation end-products (AGE), CarP, acetylation (AL), Cit, and nitration (NT)) were tested in sera of patients with AILD (n = 106), non-AILD (n = 101) and compared with healthy controls (HC) (n = 100). Levels and positivity were correlated with clinical and biochemical features in a well-defined cohort of untreated AIH patients. Results Anti-PTM antibodies were more often detectable in sera from AILD patients compared with HCs (anti-MAA: 67.9% vs. 2.0%, anti-AGE: 36.8% vs. 4.0%, anti-CarP: 47.2% vs. 5.0% and anti-AL: 18.9% vs. 5.0%). In untreated AIH, time to complete biochemical response (CBR) was associated with anti-MAA, anti-AGE, anti-CarP and anti-AL antibodies. Significantly more patients with at least three anti-PTM antibodies attained CBR at 12 months of treatment (13 vs. 3 p = 0.01). Conclusion Anti-PTM antibodies are frequently present in AILD. The presence of anti-MAA, anti-AGE and anti-CarP antibodies correlates with the presence of AIH within this cohort. In AIH, harboring at least three anti-PTM antibody responses is positively associated with CBR. Determination of anti-PTM antibodies in liver disease may have diagnostic and prognostic value.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna E. C. Stoelinga
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Adriaan J. van der Meer
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Stef van der Meulen
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Maarten E. Tushuizen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Bart van Hoek
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Leendert A. Trouw
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
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Hermanussen L, Lampalzer S, Bockmann JH, Ziegler AE, Piecha F, Dandri M, Pischke S, Haag F, Lohse AW, Lütgehetmann M, Weiler-Normann C, zur Wiesch JS. Non-organ-specific autoantibodies with unspecific patterns are a frequent para-infectious feature of chronic hepatitis D. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1169096. [PMID: 37387781 PMCID: PMC10300640 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1169096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Infections with hepatotropic viruses are associated with various immune phenomena. Hepatitis D virus (HDV) causes the most severe form of viral hepatitis. However, few recent data are available on non-disease-specific and non-organ-specific antibody (NOSA) titers and immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels in chronic hepatitis D (CHD) patients. Here, we examined the NOSA titers and IgG levels of 40 patients with CHD and different disease courses and compared them to 70 patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection. 43% of CHD patients had previously undergone treatment with pegylated interferon-α (IFN-α). The antibody display of 46 untreated patients diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) was used as a reference. The frequency of elevated NOSA titers (CHD 69% vs. CHB 43%, p < 0.01), and the median IgG levels (CHD 16.9 g/L vs. CHB 12.7 g/L, p < 0.01) were significantly higher in CHD patients than in patients with CHB, and highest in patients with AIH (96%, 19.5 g/L). Also, the antinuclear antibody pattern was homogeneous in many patients with AIH and unspecific in patients with viral hepatitis. Additionally, f-actin autoantibodies were only detectable in patients with AIH (39% of SMA). In CHD patients, IgG levels correlated with higher HDV viral loads, transaminases, and liver stiffness values. IgG levels and NOSA were similar in CHD patients irrespective of a previous IFN-α treatment. In summary, autoantibodies with an unspecific pattern are frequently detected in CHD patients with unclear clinical relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lennart Hermanussen
- Department of Medicine (Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious diseases, and Tropical Medicine), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sibylle Lampalzer
- Department of Medicine (Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious diseases, and Tropical Medicine), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jan-Hendrik Bockmann
- Department of Medicine (Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious diseases, and Tropical Medicine), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems Site, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Annerose E. Ziegler
- Department of Medicine (Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious diseases, and Tropical Medicine), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Felix Piecha
- Department of Medicine (Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious diseases, and Tropical Medicine), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems Site, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Maura Dandri
- Department of Medicine (Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious diseases, and Tropical Medicine), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems Site, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sven Pischke
- Department of Medicine (Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious diseases, and Tropical Medicine), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems Site, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Friedrich Haag
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ansgar W. Lohse
- Department of Medicine (Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious diseases, and Tropical Medicine), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems Site, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marc Lütgehetmann
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems Site, Hamburg, Germany
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christina Weiler-Normann
- Department of Medicine (Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious diseases, and Tropical Medicine), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Medicine and Martin Zeitz Centre for Rare Diseases, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Julian Schulze zur Wiesch
- Department of Medicine (Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious diseases, and Tropical Medicine), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems Site, Hamburg, Germany
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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9
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Shorbagi AI, Obaideen A, Jundi M. Post-COVID-19 polyautoimmunity – Fact or coincidence: A case report. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1013125. [PMID: 37007767 PMCID: PMC10060632 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1013125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 exhibits diverse and systemic clinical symptoms, much like systemic autoimmune diseases, and there are notable similarities in the immune responses seen in both conditions. There are rare reports of ulcerative colitis and autoimmune hepatitis triggered by COVID-19 infection. Reported herein is a case of a previously healthy patient who was diagnosed with chronic colitis resembling ulcerative colitis, autoimmune pancreatitis, and suspected immune-mediated hepatitis (AIH-like hepatitis) 2 months after a COVID-19 infection. A 33-year-old COVID-19-vaccinated male, presented with abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting for 2 days. He also had bloody diarrhea that persisted for 2 months after recovering from a COVID-19 infection. A diagnosis of acute pancreatitis was confirmed by markedly elevated serum amylase and lipase and a CT scan of the abdomen. Colonoscopy and histopathology findings also confirmed a diagnosis of chronic colitis resembling ulcerative colitis (Mayo Endoscopy Subscore 3). Marked improvement in bloody diarrhea was observed within 72 h of treatment with IV prednisolone. MRI of the abdomen performed due to an unresolved clinical picture of pancreatitis revealed a bulky pancreas showing delayed diffuse homogenous enhancement, findings possibly consistent with autoimmune pancreatitis. Investigation for elevated liver transaminases showed high titers of antinuclear antibodies and anti-smooth muscle (anti-actin) antibodies while viral hepatitis markers were negative. The patient had already been started on steroid therapy before the lab results were available, with rapid normalization of liver enzymes following treatment. A liver biopsy was not performed. The patient is currently on mesalazine 4 gr/day, and azathioprine 100 mg/day – oral steroids had been tapered and discontinued. Seven months after the initial diagnosis, the patient remains symptom-free. A high level of suspicion for autoimmune disorders is required when assessing patients with a history of COVID-19 infection, although diagnostic pathways remain the same, with generally good response and remission rates to conventional treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Ibrahim Shorbagi
- Clinical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- *Correspondence: Ali Ibrahim Shorbagi,
| | - Abdulmunhem Obaideen
- Medical Diagnostic Imaging Department, University Hospital Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Majd Jundi
- Pathology Department, University Hospital Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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10
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Gerussi A, Halliday N, Carbone M, Invernizzi P, Thorburn D. Open challenges in the management of autoimmune hepatitis. Minerva Gastroenterol (Torino) 2023; 69:61-83. [PMID: 33267568 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-5895.20.02805-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a rare autoimmune disease of the liver with many open questions as regards its etiopathogenesis, natural history and clinical management. The classical picture of AIH is chronic hepatitis with fluctuating elevation of serum transaminases and Immunoglobulin G levels, the presence of circulating autoantibodies and typical histological features. However, atypical presentations do occur and are not well captured by current diagnostic scores, with important consequences in terms of missed diagnoses and delayed treatments. AIH is treated with corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs but up to 40% of patients do not achieve full biochemical response and are at risk of progressing to cirrhosis and liver failure. Moreover, standard therapies are associated by significant side-effects which may impair the quality of life of patients living with AIH. However, advances in the understanding of the underlying immunology of AIH is raising the prospect of novel therapies and optimization of existing therapeutic approaches to reduce side-effect burdens and potentially restore immunological tolerance. In this review we outlined the clinical characteristics, etiopathogenesis and management of AIH and current challenges in the diagnosis and management of AIH and provided evidence underlying the evolution of diagnostic and clinical management protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Gerussi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Monza-Brianza, Italy - .,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Monza-Brianza, Italy - .,Ancient DNA Lab Dan David Center for Human Evolution and Biohistory Research, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel -
| | - Neil Halliday
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Marco Carbone
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Monza-Brianza, Italy.,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Monza-Brianza, Italy
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Monza-Brianza, Italy.,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Monza-Brianza, Italy
| | - Douglas Thorburn
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
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11
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Wong CKH, Mak LY, Au ICH, Lai FTT, Li X, Wan EYF, Chui CSL, Chan EWY, Cheng WY, Cheng FWT, Yuen MF, Wong ICK. Risk of acute liver injury following the mRNA (BNT162b2) and inactivated (CoronaVac) COVID-19 vaccines. J Hepatol 2022; 77:1339-1348. [PMID: 35817224 PMCID: PMC9376738 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2022.06.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Case reports of severe acute liver injury (ALI) following COVID-19 vaccination have recently been published. We evaluated the risks of ALI following COVID-19 vaccination (BNT162b2 or CoronaVac). METHODS We conducted a modified self-controlled case series analysis using the vaccination records in Hong Kong with data linkage to electronic medical records from a territory-wide healthcare database. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) for ALI outcome in the 56-day period following first and second doses of COVID-19 vaccines in comparison to the non-exposure period were estimated and compared to the ALI risk in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. RESULTS Among 2,343,288 COVID-19 vaccine recipients who were at risk, 4,677 patients developed ALI for the first time between 23rd February 2021 to 30th September 2021. The number of ALI cases within 56 days after the first and second dose of vaccination were 307 and 521 (335 and 334 per 100,000 person-years) for BNT162b2, and 304 and 474 (358 and 403 per 100,000 person-years) for CoronaVac, respectively, compared to 32,997 ALI cases per 100,000 person-years among patients within 56 days of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Compared to the non-exposure period, no increased risk was observed in the 56-day risk period for first (IRR 0.800; 95% CI 0.680-0.942) and second (IRR 0.944; 95% CI 0.816-1.091) dose of BNT162b2, or first (IRR 0.689; 95% CI 0.588-0.807) and second (IRR 0.905; 95% CI 0.781-1.048) dose of CoronaVac. There were no severe or fatal cases of ALI following COVID-19 vaccination. CONCLUSION There was no evidence of an increased risk of ALI associated with BNT162b2 or CoronaVac vaccination. Based on all current available evidence from previous studies and our study, the benefit of mass vaccination far outweighs the ALI risk from vaccination. LAY SUMMARY There have been some recent reports that COVID-19 vaccination could be associated with acute liver injury. In our study, we found no evidence that COVID-19 vaccination increased the risk of acute liver injury, which was much more common after SARS-CoV-2 infection than after vaccination. Hence, our study provides further data indicating that the benefits of mass COVID-19 vaccination outweigh the potential risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos King Ho Wong
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China,Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China,Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D24H), Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Lung Yi Mak
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China,State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ivan Chi Ho Au
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Francisco Tsz Tsun Lai
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China,Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D24H), Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xue Li
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China,Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D24H), Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong SAR, China,Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Eric Yuk Fai Wan
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China,Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China,Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D24H), Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Celine Sze Ling Chui
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D24H), Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong SAR, China,School of Nursing, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China,School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Esther Wai Yin Chan
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China,Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D24H), Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wing Yiu Cheng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Franco Wing Tak Cheng
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Man Fung Yuen
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China,State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ian Chi Kei Wong
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D(2)4H), Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong SAR, China; Research Department of Practice and Policy, UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, London, UK; Aston School of Pharmacy, Aston University, Birmingham, UK.
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12
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B cells in autoimmune hepatitis: bystanders or central players? Semin Immunopathol 2022; 44:411-427. [PMID: 35488094 PMCID: PMC9256567 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-022-00937-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
B cells are central for the adaptive immune system to mount successful immune responses not only as antibody producers but also as regulators of cellular immunity. These multifaceted features are also reflected in autoimmunity where autoreactive B cells can fuel disease by production of cytotoxic autoantibodies, presentation of autoantigens to autoreactive T cells, and secretion of cytokines and chemokines that either promote detrimental immune activation or impair regulatory T and B cells. The role of B cells and autoantibodies in autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) have been controversially discussed, with typical autoantibodies and hypergammaglobulinemia indicating a key role, while strong HLA class II association suggests T cells as key players. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on B cells in AIH and how different B cell subpopulations may drive AIH progression beyond autoantibodies. We also discuss recent findings of B cell-directed therapies in AIH.
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13
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Çavuş B, Akyuz F, İliaz R, Atasoy A, Akyuz U, Demir K, Besisik F, Kaymakoglu S. Is there any predictor for relapse after treatment withdrawal in autoimmune hepatitis patients in the real life? Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2022; 36:3946320221077860. [PMID: 35171719 PMCID: PMC8855400 DOI: 10.1177/03946320221077860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Backgrounds and Aims In autoimmune hepatitis, there are uncertainties about whether to discontinue
the treatment, when the treatment should be discontinued, and the risks of
relapse in the cases where remission is achieved with immunosuppressive
therapy. In this study, patients with AIH, whose immunosuppressive
treatments were discontinued, were evaluated for the rates of remission and
the risk of relapse. Materials and Methods A total of 119 patients, who were diagnosed with AIH based on the AIHG
scoring systems between 1990 and 2015, were evaluated. Patients were
receiving standard azathioprine and steroid therapy. The treatment was
discontinued in patients, who had been receiving treatment for at least
2 years, who had no clinical complaints, and whose aminotransferases were
normal and when an increase occurred in AST values more than two times the
normal after the treatment was interrupted, the case was considered as a
relapse. Results Among the patients, 83%(n = 99) were women. When the
patients were diagnosed with AIH, their mean age was 36 ± 16(8–79) years;
70.6%(n = 84) were type 1, 3.4%(n = 4)
type 2, and 26%(n = 31) were autoantibody-negative AIH. At
the time of discontinuation, liver biopsy was performed in 8 of the patients
and minimal-mild abnormalities were detected. Patients whose treatment was
discontinued received treatment for an average of 101 ± 75(range: 24–280,
median: 68.5) months; and, they were followed up for an average of 19
(1–110) months during the period without medication. Relapse occurred in
67%(n = 12) of the patients with drug withdrawal.
Relapse occurred within the first 12 months in 67% of these patients
(n = 8) and developed with an acute hepatitis attack in
42%. None of the clinical, laboratory, and histological data were found to
be effective on relapse. Conclusion In patients with AIH, relapse occurs in two-thirds of patients within an
average of 19 month after the discontinuation of the medication. Most
relapses occur at the early period and they are accompanied by an acute
hepatitis attack.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilger Çavuş
- 64041Istanbul University, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Department of Gastroenterology, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Filiz Akyuz
- 64041Istanbul University, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Department of Gastroenterology, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Raim İliaz
- 64041Istanbul University, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Department of Gastroenterology, İstanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Umit Akyuz
- Fatih Sultan Mehmet Educational and Research Center, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Kadir Demir
- 64041Istanbul University, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Department of Gastroenterology, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Fatih Besisik
- 64041Istanbul University, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Department of Gastroenterology, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Sabahattin Kaymakoglu
- 64041Istanbul University, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Department of Gastroenterology, İstanbul, Turkey
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14
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B-cell activating factor and IL-21 levels predict treatment response in autoimmune hepatitis. JHEP Rep 2022; 4:100460. [PMID: 35368991 PMCID: PMC8971938 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2022.100460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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15
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Dalekos GN, Arvaniti P, Gatselis NK, Samakidou A, Gabeta S, Rigopoulou E, Koukoulis GK, Zachou K. First Results From a Propensity Matching Trial of Mycophenolate Mofetil vs. Azathioprine in Treatment-Naive AIH Patients. Front Immunol 2022; 12:798602. [PMID: 35087524 PMCID: PMC8787111 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.798602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/Aims As previous real-world studies and meta-analyses have shown that mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) might have better efficacy than azathioprine (AZA) in autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), we conducted a propensity matching study to assess the efficacy and safety of MMF vs. AZA. Methods All 126 consecutive treatment-naive adult AIH patients, diagnosed and followed in our department since 2016, were included. Patients received prednisolone 0.5-1 mg/kg/day plus either AZA 1-2 mg/kg/day or 1.5-2 g/day MMF. The tapering of prednisolone was identical between groups. Results After propensity matching score and adjustment for known factors affecting response to treatment and outcome, 64 patients were included in the study (MMF = 32 and AZA = 32). Rates of non-response, complete biochemical response (CBR) at 6 and 12 months, and prednisolone withdrawal (6 months, 12 months, and end of follow-up) were identical between groups. However, MMF treatment was significantly associated with CBR at the end of follow-up [odds ratio (OR) 11.259; 95% CI: 1.3-97.4, p = 0.028]. AZA patients were more prone to stop treatment due to AZA intolerance/insufficient response (p = 0.0001). At the end of follow-up, the overall efficacy of each schedule was also significantly higher in the MMF group compared to the AZA group (p = 0.0001). Conclusion We showed for the first time in a propensity matching study that MMF can be used as first-line therapy in AIH as attested by the significantly higher CBR at end of follow-up compared to AZA. Whether this better efficacy is also associated with higher histological remission rates and sustained CBR off immunosuppression needs further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- George N. Dalekos
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Pinelopi Arvaniti
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Nikolaos K. Gatselis
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Anna Samakidou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Stella Gabeta
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Eirini Rigopoulou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - George K. Koukoulis
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Kalliopi Zachou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
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16
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Khedr MA, Adawy NM, Salim TA, Salem ME, Ghazy RM, Elharoun AS, Sultan MM, Ehsan NA. Kupffer Cell Hyaline Globules in Children With Autoimmune Hepatitis. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2022; 12:20-28. [PMID: 35068781 PMCID: PMC8766698 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2021.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hyaline globules (HGs) in the cytoplasm of Kupffer cells (KCs) have been appraised for being a typical feature of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). This study aimed to determine how useful Kupffer cell hyaline globules (KCHGs) are in diagnosing AIH vs. other causes of pediatric chronic liver diseases (PCLDs). MATERIALS AND METHODS This retrospective study recruited 124 children; 58 with AIH, 50 with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, and 16 with Wilson's disease (WD). Two pathologists retrieved paraffin blocks of liver biopsies and prepared new cut sections for Periodic acid-Schiff-Diastase (PAS-D) stain. They independently examined liver biopsies before starting treatment. Two pediatricians reviewed medical records for demographic, clinical, laboratory, and serological findings. RESULTS Females represented 48.6% of the studied children with a median age of 5.8 (4.9) years. Pathologists identified KCHGs in 67.24%, 12.5%, and 6.0% of AIH, WD, and HCV affected children respectively, P < 0.001. A significantly higher proportion of seropositive than seronegative AIH patients had KCHGs (77.5% vs. 50.0%), (P < 0.05). In multivariate analysis, KCHGs and prolonged prothrombin time were the only significant predictors that differentiate between AIH and the other studied PCLDs. The odds ratio of having AIH increased 68 times if KCHGs were seen. Among children with AIH, the presence of KCHGs was associated with higher median levels of direct bilirubin 2.2 (1.3) vs. 1.2 (2.2), and immunoglobulin G 3.2 (1.9) vs. 2.0 (1.7), (P < 0.05), but not to histopathological findings or hepatic fibrosis and activity. CONCLUSIONS KCHGs are key indicators that can differentiate between AIH and other PCLDs, and between seropositive and seronegative AIH.
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Key Words
- AIH, Autoimmune hepatitis
- ALP, Alkaline phosphatase
- ALT, Alanine aminotransferase
- AMA, Antimitochondrial antibody
- ANA, Antinuclear antibody
- AST, Aspartate aminotransferase
- GGT, Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase
- H&E, Hematoxylin and eosin
- HCV, Hepatitis C virus
- IAIHG, International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group
- KCHGs, Kupffer cell hyaline globules
- KCs, Kupffer cells
- Kupffer cells
- LKMA, Liver-kidney microsome 1 antibody
- PAS, Periodic Acid Schiff
- PAS-D, Periodic acid–Schiff–Diastase
- PCLD, Pediatric chronic liver disease
- SMA, Smooth muscle antibody
- WBCs, White blood cell count
- WD, Wilson’s disease
- Wilson’s disease
- antiLC1, Antiliver cytosol type 1 antibody
- autoimmune hepatitis
- hepatitis C virus infection
- hyaline globules
- liver histopathology
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed A. Khedr
- Department of Pediatric Hepatology, Gastroenterology, and Nutrition, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Egypt
| | - Nermin M. Adawy
- Department of Pediatric Hepatology, Gastroenterology, and Nutrition, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Egypt
| | - Tahany A. Salim
- Department of Pediatric Hepatology, Gastroenterology, and Nutrition, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Egypt
| | - Menan E. Salem
- Department of Pediatric Hepatology, Gastroenterology, and Nutrition, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Egypt
| | - Ramy M. Ghazy
- Tropical Health Department, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Egypt
| | - Ahmed S. Elharoun
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Egypt
| | - Mervat M. Sultan
- Department of Pathology, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Egypt
| | - Nermine A. Ehsan
- Department of Pathology, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Egypt
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17
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Patel AM, Liu YS, Davies SP, Brown RM, Kelly DA, Scheel-Toellner D, Reynolds GM, Stamataki Z. The Role of B Cells in Adult and Paediatric Liver Injury. Front Immunol 2021; 12:729143. [PMID: 34630404 PMCID: PMC8495195 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.729143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
B lymphocytes are multitasking cells that direct the immune response by producing pro- or anti-inflammatory cytokines, by presenting processed antigen for T cell activation and co-stimulation, and by turning into antibody-secreting cells. These functions are important to control infection in the liver but can also exacerbate tissue damage and fibrosis as part of persistent inflammation that can lead to end stage disease requiring a transplant. In transplantation, immunosuppression increases the incidence of lymphoma and often this is of B cell origin. In this review we bring together information on liver B cell biology from different liver diseases, including alcohol-related and metabolic fatty liver disease, autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary and primary sclerosing cholangitis, viral hepatitis and, in infants, biliary atresia. We also discuss the impact of B cell depletion therapy in the liver setting. Taken together, our analysis shows that B cells are important in the pathogenesis of liver diseases and that further research is necessary to fully characterise the human liver B cell compartment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arzoo M. Patel
- Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Yuxin S. Liu
- Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Scott P. Davies
- Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel M. Brown
- Department of Histopathology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham Women’s and Children’s National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Deirdre A. Kelly
- The Liver Unit, Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Hospital and the University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Dagmar Scheel-Toellner
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Gary M. Reynolds
- Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- The Liver Unit, Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Hospital and the University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Zania Stamataki
- Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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Autoimmune hepatitis developing after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine: Causality or casualty? J Hepatol 2021; 75:222-224. [PMID: 33862041 PMCID: PMC8056822 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2021.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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19
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Chung Y, Rahim MN, Graham JJ, Zen Y, Heneghan MA. An update on the pharmacological management of autoimmune hepatitis. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2021; 22:1475-1488. [PMID: 33624559 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2021.1895747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is an immune mediated, inflammatory disease affecting the liver as a result of environmental triggers in susceptible individuals leading to loss of self-tolerance. The immunopathogenesis of AIH is not fully understood, which limits targeted therapeutic options.Areas covered: In this review, the authors provide an overview of current practice in the management of AIH, which include induction therapy with corticosteroids (± thiopurines), followed by maintenance therapy. Lack of early response to treatment may serve as a predictor of those at risk of requiring treatment escalation to second- and third-line agents such as mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), calcineurin inhibitors or biologics. Evidence for third-line agents from small retrospective studies or individual centers are reviewed. The nuances of AIH treatment in pregnancy, overlap syndromes, and drug induced liver injury (DILI) warrant further consideration.Expert opinion: Augmenting the balance of regulatory T cells (Treg) and effector T cells is an appealing therapeutic target with a multitude of agents in development. Many of the challenges in AIH research are due to its rarity and lack of randomized data. Management of AIH should strive towards individualized care through risk stratification and use of the best therapeutic modality for each patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yooyun Chung
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mussarat N Rahim
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathon J Graham
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yoh Zen
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael A Heneghan
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
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Muratori P, Granito A, Lenzi M, Muratori L. Limitation of the simplified scoring system for the diagnosis of autoimmune Hepatitis with acute onset. Liver Int 2021; 41:529-534. [PMID: 33389800 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic inflammatory liver disease of unknown aetiology characterized by the presence of autoantibodies, hypergammaglobulinaemia with specific IgG increase and interface hepatitis on liver histology. The clinical course of AIH is classically characterized by fluctuating periods of decreased or increased disease activity and therefore its clinical spectrum is variable ranging from no symptoms to severe acute hepatitis and even fulminant hepatic failure. Acute presentation may not differ from acute hepatitis of other causes and diagnosis can be difficult. We describe our experience on diagnostic performance of the two AIH scoring systems in acute onset of AIH and found that revised version of the original criteria (1999) achieves the diagnosis in about 30% of patients who presented with normal IgG serum levels and lower frequency of autoantibody positivity in whom the simplified score did not allow the diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Muratori
- Division of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Center for the Study and Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases of the Liver and Biliary System, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Science for the Quality of Life, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessandro Granito
- Division of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Center for the Study and Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases of the Liver and Biliary System, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marco Lenzi
- Division of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Center for the Study and Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases of the Liver and Biliary System, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Luigi Muratori
- Division of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Center for the Study and Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases of the Liver and Biliary System, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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21
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Francque S. Innovative liver research continues during the current pandemic. JHEP Rep 2020; 2:100121. [PMID: 32501436 PMCID: PMC7245651 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2020.100121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sven Francque
- Department of Gastroenterology Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
- Translational Sciences in Inflammation and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
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