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Costaguta A, Costaguta G, Álvarez F. Autoimmune hepatitis: Towards a personalized treatment. World J Hepatol 2024; 16:1225-1242. [DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v16.i11.1225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2024] [Revised: 09/02/2024] [Accepted: 10/11/2024] [Indexed: 11/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis is an uncommon condition that affects both adults and children and is characterized by chronic and recurrent inflammatory activity in the liver. This inflammation is accompanied by elevated IgG and autoantibody levels. Historically, treatment consists of steroids with the addition of azathioprine, which results in remission in approximately 80% of patients. Despite significant advancements in our understanding of the immune system over the past two decades, few modifications have been made to treatment algorithms, which have remained largely unchanged since they were first proposed more than 40 years ago. This review summarized the various treatment options currently available as well as our experiences using them. Although steroids are the standard treatment for induction therapy, other medications may be considered. Cyclosporin A, a calcineurin inhibitor that decreases T cell activation, has proven effective for induction of remission, but its long-term side effects limit its appeal for maintenance. Tacrolimus, a drug belonging to the same family, has been used in patients with refractory diseases with fewer side effects. Sirolimus and everolimus have interesting effects on regulatory T cell populations and may become viable options in the future. Mycophenolate mofetil is not effective for induction but is a valid alternative for patients who are intolerant to azathioprine. B cell-depleting drugs, such as rituximab and belimumab, have been successfully used in refractory cases and are useful in both the short and long term. Other promising treatments include anti-tumor necrosis factors, Janus kinases inhibitors, and chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy. This growing armamentarium allows us to imagine a more tailored approach to the treatment of autoimmune hepatitis in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Costaguta
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplant Unit, Sanatorio de Niños de Rosario, Rosario 2000, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Guillermo Costaguta
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal H3T 1C5, Quebec, Canada
| | - Fernando Álvarez
- Department of Pediatrics, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal H3T 1C5, Quebec, Canada
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Grossar L, Raevens S, Van Steenkiste C, Colle I, De Vloo C, Orlent H, Schouten J, Gallant M, Van Driessche A, Lefere S, Devisscher L, Geerts A, Van Vlierberghe H, Verhelst X. External validation of the IAIHG autoimmune hepatitis response criteria in a multicentric real-world cohort. JHEP Rep 2024; 6:101149. [PMID: 39247177 PMCID: PMC11379665 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2024.101149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims The goal of treatment in autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is induction of remission to prevent the development of liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and its related complications. Various definitions of treatment response and remission have been used. The International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group (IAIHG) recently defined consensus criteria for treatment response. We aimed to validate the IAIHG response criteria in our cohort and establish correlations with survival endpoints. Methods We performed a retrospective, multicentric cohort study in one tertiary and seven secondary care centres in Belgium. Eligible patients were at least 18 years of age at data collection and were diagnosed with AIH by a simplified IAIHG score of ≥6. Complete biochemical response (CBR) was defined according to the IAIHG consensus criteria as normalisation of transaminases and serum IgG within the first 6 months of treatment. The primary endpoint was liver-related survival - defined as freedom from liver-related death or liver transplantation. Secondary endpoints were overall mortality and transplant-free survival. Outcomes were compared between patients attaining CBR and those with insufficient response. Results Biochemical response status could be determined in 200 patients with AIH: CBR was achieved in 128 (64.0%) individuals. Patients not achieving CBR more frequently presented with cirrhosis on initial histology (22.2% vs. 10.9%, p = 0.036). Liver-related mortality or liver transplantation as a primary outcome occurred in 26 patients (13.0%). Patients achieving CBR exhibited superior liver-related (hazard ratio 0.118; 95% CI 0.052-0.267; p <0.0001) and overall (hazard ratio 0.253; 95% CI 0.111-0.572; p = 0.0003) survival. Conclusions We externally validated the IAIHG consensus criteria for CBR and confirmed their correlation with survival endpoints in a multicentric, real-world cohort. Patients with AIH achieving CBR as an intermediate endpoint have significantly superior liver-related and overall survival. Impacts and Implications Corticosteroids remain the cornerstone of treatment to induce remission of disease activity in autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), and the majority of patients require long-term corticosteroid treatment to achieve sustained remission. Definitions of response to treatment have varied over the years, and consistently used intermediate endpoints are needed to facilitate advancements in non-corticosteroid treatment for autoimmune hepatitis. The International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group (IAIHG) defined consensus criteria on endpoints in the treatment of AIH, for which further external validation is needed. Here, we demonstrate the usefulness of the IAIHG consensus criteria and corroborate their correlation to primary endpoints, such as liver-related survival and native liver survival in a multicentric, real-world setting. The design of future studies can rely on the IAIHG consensus criteria as intermediate endpoints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenz Grossar
- Department of Internal Medicine and Paediatrics, Hepatology Research Unit, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Liver Research Centre Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sarah Raevens
- Liver Research Centre Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Christophe Van Steenkiste
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, AZ Maria Middelares, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Isabelle Colle
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, ASZ Aalst, Aalst, Belgium
| | - Charlotte De Vloo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, AZ Delta Roeselare, Roeselare, Belgium
| | - Hans Orlent
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, AZ Sint Jan Brugge, Brugge, Belgium
| | - Jeoffrey Schouten
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, VITAZ, Sint-Niklaas, Belgium
| | - Marie Gallant
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Jan Yperman Ziekenhuis, Ieper, Belgium
| | | | - Sander Lefere
- Department of Internal Medicine and Paediatrics, Hepatology Research Unit, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Liver Research Centre Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lindsey Devisscher
- Liver Research Centre Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Basic & Applied Medical Sciences, Gut-Liver Immunopharmacology Unit, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Anja Geerts
- Liver Research Centre Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hans Van Vlierberghe
- Liver Research Centre Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Xavier Verhelst
- Liver Research Centre Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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3
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Reau NS, Lammert CS, Weinberg EM. Autoimmune hepatitis: Current and future therapies. Hepatol Commun 2024; 8:e0458. [PMID: 38836863 PMCID: PMC11155538 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic inflammatory liver disease that can lead to cirrhosis and liver failure. AIH can present in all ages, races, and ethnicities, but it predominantly affects women. As a heterogeneous disease, AIH presents variably in different patients, making diagnosis and treatment a challenge. Currently, the standard treatment for AIH comprises immunosuppressants; however, their long-term use is associated with adverse effects. The pathogenesis of AIH is complex, involving T cells, macrophages, and plasma cells that invade the periportal parenchyma and lead to an inflammatory cascade that can result in liver damage. Due to the complexity of AIH pathogenesis, treatment targets several inflammatory pathways. However, unlike other autoimmune diseases in which targeted treatments have been approved, there has been little progress made in advancing the treatment paradigm for AIH. Major obstacles to progress include challenges in conducting clinical trials, particularly patient recruitment and ensuring a diverse range of backgrounds; poorly defined outcomes to assess treatment response and improved quality of life; and a lack of study designs that account for the stage of disease and variations in treatment. A focus on individualized and steroid-free treatment approaches is needed to improve AIH prognosis and minimize steroid-associated adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy S. Reau
- Section of Hepatology, Hepatology Services, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Craig S. Lammert
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Ethan M. Weinberg
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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4
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Song D, Rong Y, Zhang C, Sun Y. The Relationship between Choroidal Thickness and Liver Damage in Simple Auto-immune Hepatitis Patients. Niger J Clin Pract 2023; 26:1910-1915. [PMID: 38158360 DOI: 10.4103/njcp.njcp_435_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There was no sufficient clinical evidence on the relationship between auto-immune hepatitis (AIH) and risk of eye illness, except 11 uveitis cases where related AIH is reported currently. AIM To determine the relationship between choroidal thickness (ChT) and liver damage in simple AIH patients without ocular symptoms after oral prednisone treatment. PATIENTS AND METHODS This prospective observational study included simple AIH patients. The patients' ChT was measured by swept-source (SS)-optical coherence tomography (OCT), and the liver damage was evaluated by alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). ChT and liver functions were assessed prior to and after treatment. Then comparisons were made prior to and post treatment. The relationships between biochemical indexes of liver injury and ChT were evaluated after a mean (SD) of 24 (1.28) weeks of regular oral prednisone. RESULTS A total of 35 patients (31 females, aged 45.66 ± 11.62 years) were included. After treatment, ChT was significantly increased in all sectors (including the center sector, superior inner sector, inner nasal sector, inferior inner sector, inner temporal sector, superior outer sector, outer nasal sector, inferior outer sector, and outer temporal sector) (all P < 0.001). After treatment, both ALT (51.34 ± 44.16 vs 255.06 ± 107.84, P < 0.001) and AST (38.66 ± 27.12 vs 164.89 ± 85.58, P < 0.001) were significantly decreased. The increase of ChT in all sectors was significantly related to the decrease of ALT and AST (all P < 0.001). CONCLUSION The improvement of ChT might reflect the remission of liver damage in simple AIH patients without ocular symptoms during oral prednisone treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Song
- Department of Ophthalmology, Beijing University International Hospital, No. 1 Shengmingyuan Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, Changping District, Beijing, China
| | - Y Rong
- Department of Liver Disease, Beijing University International Hospital, No. 1 Shengmingyuan Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, Changping District, Beijing, China
| | - C Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Beijing University International Hospital, No. 1 Shengmingyuan Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, Changping District, Beijing, China
| | - Y Sun
- Department of Liver Disease-Senior Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, No. 100 Xisihuanzhong Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, China
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5
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Jensen ASH, Ytting H, Winther-Sørensen M, Burisch J, Bergquist A, Gluud LL, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ. Autoimmune liver diseases and diabetes. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 35:938-947. [PMID: 37505973 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000002594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune liver diseases include autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis, and primary sclerosing cholangitis. They are chronic, heterogenous diseases affecting the liver which is a key metabolic organ that ensures glucose homeostasis. It is well known that patients with other chronic liver diseases such as cirrhosis and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) display glucose disturbances like insulin resistance and have an increased risk of diabetes. Previous evidence on glucose disturbances in patients with autoimmune liver disease is scarce but does point towards a potentially increased risk of type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. The underlying mechanisms are unknown but may reflect genetic predisposition, concurrent NAFLD and or cirrhosis development, and treatment (steroid) related impairment of glucose homeostasis. Therefore, increased awareness and surveillance of diabetes development in patients with autoimmune liver disease may be important. Overall, detection and treatment of diabetes generally follow the usual diabetes guidelines; however, in patients with advanced liver cirrhosis, HbA1c may not be a reliable marker of average glucose levels, and treatment with insulin is generally recommended. In addition, it has recently been suggested that sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors may be beneficial in treating refractory ascites. Further research on diabetes risk in autoimmune liver disease is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Sofie H Jensen
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen
- Gastro Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital - Amager and Hvidovre Hospital, Hvidovre
| | - Henriette Ytting
- Gastro Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital - Amager and Hvidovre Hospital, Hvidovre
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), Rigshospitalet
- Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen
| | - Marie Winther-Sørensen
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen
| | - Johan Burisch
- Gastro Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital - Amager and Hvidovre Hospital, Hvidovre
| | - Annika Bergquist
- Gastro Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital - Amager and Hvidovre Hospital, Hvidovre
- Department of Upper GI Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm
| | - Lise Lotte Gluud
- Gastro Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital - Amager and Hvidovre Hospital, Hvidovre
- Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen
| | - Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Nastasio S, Mosca A, Alterio T, Sciveres M, Maggiore G. Juvenile Autoimmune Hepatitis: Recent Advances in Diagnosis, Management and Long-Term Outcome. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2753. [PMID: 37685291 PMCID: PMC10486972 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13172753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Juvenile autoimmune hepatitis (JAIH) is severe immune-mediated necro-inflammatory disease of the liver with spontaneous progression to cirrhosis and liver failure if left untreated. The diagnosis is based on the combination of clinical, laboratory and histological findings. Prothrombin ratio is a useful prognostic factor to identify patients who will most likely require a liver transplant by adolescence or early adulthood. JAIH treatment consists of immune suppression and should be started promptly at diagnosis to halt inflammatory liver damage and ultimately prevent fibrosis and progression to end-stage liver disease. The risk of relapse is high especially in the setting of poor treatment compliance. Recent evidence however suggests that treatment discontinuation is possible after a prolonged period of normal aminotransferase activity without the need for liver biopsy prior to withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Nastasio
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - Antonella Mosca
- Hepatogastroenterology, Rehabilitative Nutrition, Digestive Endoscopy and Liver Transplant Unit, ERN RARE LIVER, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (A.M.); (T.A.)
| | - Tommaso Alterio
- Hepatogastroenterology, Rehabilitative Nutrition, Digestive Endoscopy and Liver Transplant Unit, ERN RARE LIVER, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (A.M.); (T.A.)
| | - Marco Sciveres
- Pediatric Department and Transplantation, ISMETT, 90133 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Maggiore
- Hepatogastroenterology, Rehabilitative Nutrition, Digestive Endoscopy and Liver Transplant Unit, ERN RARE LIVER, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (A.M.); (T.A.)
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7
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KASL clinical practice guidelines for management of autoimmune hepatitis 2022. Clin Mol Hepatol 2023; 29:542-592. [PMID: 37137334 PMCID: PMC10366804 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2023.0087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
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Díaz-González Á, Hernández-Guerra M, Pérez-Medrano I, Sapena V, Riveiro-Barciela M, Barreira-Díaz A, Gómez E, Morillas RM, Del Barrio M, Escudé L, Mateos B, Horta D, Gómez J, Conde I, Ferre-Aracil C, El Hajra I, Arencibía A, Zamora J, Fernández A, Salcedo M, Molina E, Soria A, Estévez P, López C, Álvarez-Navascúes C, García-Retortillo M, Crespo J, Londoño MC. Budesonide as first-line treatment in patients with autoimmune hepatitis seems inferior to standard predniso(lo)ne administration. Hepatology 2023; 77:1095-1105. [PMID: 36626622 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS In patients with non-severe acute or chronic autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) without cirrhosis, clinical practice guidelines recommend indistinct use of prednisone or budesonide. However, budesonide is infrequently used in clinical practice. We aimed to describe its use and compare its efficacy and safety with prednisone as first-line options. APPROACH AND RESULTS This was a retrospective, multicenter study of 105 naive AIH patients treated with budesonide as the first-line drug. The control group included 276 patients treated with prednisone. Efficacy was assessed using logistic regression and validated using inverse probability of treatment weighting propensity score. The median time to biochemical response (BR) was 3.1 months in patients treated with budesonide and 4.9 months in those with prednisone. The BR rate was significantly higher in patients treated with prednisone (87% vs. 49% of patients with budesonide, p < 0.001). The probability of achieving BR, assessed using the inverse probability of treatment weighting propensity score, was significantly lower in the budesonide group (OR = 0.20; 95% CI: 0.11-0.38) at any time during follow-up, and at 6 (OR = 0.51; 95% CI: 0.29-0.89) and 12 months after starting treatment (0.41; 95% CI: 0.23-0.73). In patients with transaminases <2 × upper limit of normal, BR was similar in both treatment groups. Prednisone treatment was significantly associated with a higher risk of adverse events (24.2% vs. 15.9%, p = 0.047). CONCLUSIONS In the real-life setting, the use of budesonide as first-line treatment is low, and it is generally prescribed to patients with perceived less disease activity. Budesonide was inferior to prednisone as a first-line drug but was associated with fewer side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro Díaz-González
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Clinical and Translational Research in Digestive Diseases Group, Valdecilla Research Institute (IDIVAL), Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital, Santander, Spain
| | | | - Indhira Pérez-Medrano
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Pontevedra, Pontevedra, España
| | - Víctor Sapena
- Medical Statistics Core Facility, Institut D'Investigacions Biomédiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clinic Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mar Riveiro-Barciela
- Liver Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Barcelona, Spainand CIBERehd
| | - Ana Barreira-Díaz
- Liver Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Barcelona, Spainand CIBERehd
| | - Elena Gómez
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, España
| | - Rosa M Morillas
- Hepatology Department, Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol and Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute, IGTP, Badalona, Department of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona; Centro de investigación biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, CIBERehd
| | - María Del Barrio
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Clinical and Translational Research in Digestive Diseases Group, Valdecilla Research Institute (IDIVAL), Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital, Santander, Spain
| | - Laia Escudé
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Institut D'Investigacions Biomédiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Centro de investigación biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, España
| | - Beatriz Mateos
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, CIBERehd, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
| | - Diana Horta
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitari Mutua de Terrassa, Terrassa, España
| | - Judith Gómez
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario de Burgos, Burgos, España
| | - Isabel Conde
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, España
| | - Carlos Ferre-Aracil
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro Majadahonda, Madrid, España
| | - Ismael El Hajra
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro Majadahonda, Madrid, España
| | - Ana Arencibía
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, España
| | - Javier Zamora
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Córdoba, España
| | - Ainhoa Fernández
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, España
| | - Magdalena Salcedo
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, España
| | - Esther Molina
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago, Santiago de Compostela, España
| | - Anna Soria
- Unidad de Hepatología, Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Parc Taulí Hospital Universitari, Institut d'Investigació i Innovació Parc Taulí I3PT, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Sabadell, España
| | - Pamela Estévez
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario Álvaro Cunqueiro, Vigo, España
| | - Carmen López
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitari Josep Trueta, Girona, España
| | | | | | - Javier Crespo
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Clinical and Translational Research in Digestive Diseases Group, Valdecilla Research Institute (IDIVAL), Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital, Santander, Spain
| | - María-Carlota Londoño
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN-Liver), Institut D'Investigacions Biomédiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Centro de investigación biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, España
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Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis is an inflammatory disease of the liver of unknown cause that may progress to liver cirrhosis and end stage liver failure if diagnosis is overlooked and treatment delayed. The clinical presentation is often that of acute hepatitis, sometimes very severe; less frequently, it can be insidious or completely asymptomatic. The disease can affect people of any age and is more common in women; its incidence and prevalence seem to be on the rise worldwide. An abnormal immune response targeting liver autoantigens and inducing persistent and self-perpetuating liver inflammation is the pathogenic mechanism of the disease. A specific set of autoantibodies, increased IgG concentrations, and histological demonstration of interface hepatitis and periportal necrosis are the diagnostic hallmarks of autoimmune hepatitis. Prompt response to treatment with corticosteroids and other immunomodulatory drugs is almost universal and supports the diagnosis. The aims of treatment are to induce and maintain long term remission of liver inflammation. Treatment can often even reverse liver fibrosis, thus preventing progression to advanced cirrhosis and its complications. Most patients need lifelong maintenance therapy, and repeated follow-up in experienced hands improves the quality of care and quality of life for affected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Muratori
- DIMEC, Università di Bologna and IRCCS Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, Bologna, Italy
- European Reference Network for Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
| | - Ansgar W Lohse
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- European Reference Network for Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
| | - Marco Lenzi
- DIMEC, Università di Bologna and IRCCS Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, Bologna, Italy
- European Reference Network for Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
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10
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Gordon V, Adhikary R, Appleby V, Das D, Day J, Delahooke T, Dixon S, Elphick D, Hardie C, Heneghan MA, Hoeroldt B, Hooper P, Hutchinson J, Jones R, Khan F, Aithal GP, Metcalf J, Nkhoma A, Pelitari S, Prince M, Prosser A, Sathyanarayana V, Saksena S, Vani D, Yeoman A, Abouda G, Nelson A, Gleeson D. Treatment and Outcome of Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH): Audit of 28 UK centres. Liver Int 2022; 42:1571-1584. [PMID: 35286013 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With few data regarding treatment and outcome of patients with AIH outside of large centres we present such a study of patients with AIH in 28 UK hospitals of varying size and facilities. METHODS Patients with AIH were identified in 14 University and 14 District General hospitals; incident cases during 2007-2015 and prevalent cases, presenting 2000-2015. Treatment and outcomes were analysed. RESULTS In 1267 patients with AIH, followed-up for 3.8(0-15) years, 5- and 10-year death/transplant rates were 7.1+0.8% and 10.1+1.3% (all-cause) and 4.0+0.6% and 5.9+1% (liver-related) respectively. Baseline parameters independently associated with death/transplantation for all-causes were: older age, vascular/respiratory co-morbidity, cirrhosis, decompensation, platelet count, attending transplant centre and for liver-related: the last four of these and peak bilirubin All-cause and liver-related death/transplantation was independently associated with: non-treatment with corticosteroids, non-treatment with a steroid-sparing agent (SSA), non-treatment of asymptomatic or non-cirrhotic patients and initial dose of Prednisolone >35mg/0.5mg/kg/day (all-cause only), but not with type of steroid (Prednisolone versus Budesonide) or steroid duration beyond 12-months. Subsequent all-cause and liver-death/transplant rates showed independent associations with smaller percentage fall in serum ALT after 1 and 3-months, but not with failure to normalise levels over 12-months. CONCLUSIONS We observed higher death/transplant rates in patients with AIH who were untreated with steroids (including asymptomatic or non-cirrhotic sub-groups), those receiving higher Prednisolone doses and those who did not receive an SSA. Similar death/transplant rates were seen in those receiving Prednisolone or Budesonide, those continuing steroids after 12-months and patients attaining normal ALT within 12-months versus not.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Guruprasad P Aithal
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases centre and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre at the Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and University of Nottingham
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11
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Ma N, Qin R, Qin W, Liao M, Zhao Y, Hang F, Qin A. Oral immunosuppressants improve pregnancy outcomes in women with idiopathic recurrent miscarriage: A meta‐analysis. J Clin Pharm Ther 2022; 47:870-878. [PMID: 35249235 DOI: 10.1111/jcpt.13629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nana Ma
- Center of Reproductive Medicine The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University Nanning China
| | - Rongyan Qin
- Center of Reproductive Medicine The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University Nanning China
| | - Weili Qin
- Center of Reproductive Medicine The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University Nanning China
| | - Ming Liao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University Nanning China
| | - Yunxiao Zhao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University Nanning China
| | - Fu Hang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University Nanning China
| | - Aiping Qin
- Center of Reproductive Medicine The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University Nanning China
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12
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Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli B, Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D. Autoimmmune hepatitis. Cell Mol Immunol 2022; 19:158-176. [PMID: 34580437 PMCID: PMC8475398 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-021-00768-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a T-cell mediated, inflammatory liver disease affecting all ages and characterized by female preponderance, elevated serum transaminase and immunoglobulin G levels, positive circulating autoantibodies, and presence of interface hepatitis at liver histology. AIH type 1, affecting both adults and children, is defined by positive anti-nuclear and/or anti-smooth muscle antibodies, while type 2 AIH, affecting mostly children, is defined by positive anti-liver-kidney microsomal type 1 and/or anti-liver cytosol type 1 antibody. While the autoantigens of type 2 AIH are well defined, being the cytochrome P4502D6 (CYP2D6) and the formiminotransferase cyclodeaminase (FTCD), in type 1 AIH they remain to be identified. AIH-1 predisposition is conferred by possession of the MHC class II HLA DRB1*03 at all ages, while DRB1*04 predisposes to late onset disease; AIH-2 is associated with possession of DRB1*07 and DRB1*03. The majority of patients responds well to standard immunosuppressive treatment, based on steroid and azathioprine; second- and third-line drugs should be considered in case of intolerance or insufficient response. This review offers a comprehensive overview of pathophysiological and clinical aspects of AIH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedetta Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli
- Epatocentro Ticino & Facoltà di Scienze Biomediche, Università della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland.
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Bellinzona, Switzerland.
- King's College London Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine at King's College Hospital, London, UK.
| | - Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- King's College London Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine at King's College Hospital, London, UK
- Paediatric Liver, GI and Nutrition Centre, MowatLabs, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Diego Vergani
- King's College London Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine at King's College Hospital, London, UK
- Institute of Liver Studies, MowatLabs, King's College Hospital, London, UK
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Vitale G, Gitto S, Campani C, Turco L, Baldan A, Marra F, Morelli MC. Biological therapies in patients with liver disease: are they really lifesavers? Expert Opin Biol Ther 2021; 22:473-490. [PMID: 34860629 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2022.2013799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The liver plays a key role in the setting of immune tolerance. Targeting antigens for presentation by antigen-presenting cells in the liver can induce immune tolerance to either autoantigens from the liver itself or organs outside of the liver. Despite its non-conventional capacity for tolerance induction, the liver remains a target organ for autoimmune diseases. Whereas chronic inflammation and intra-hepatic immuno-suppressive microenvironment occurring during liver fibrosis lead to hepatocellular carcinoma. Monoclonal antibodies have revolutionized the therapeutic strategies of many autoimmune diseases and some cancers. AREAS COVERED We review data from literature regarding the safety and efficacy of biologics in treating hepatobiliary autoimmune diseases and primary liver cancers. Furthermore, we describe their potential use in the setting of liver transplants and their main immune-related liver adverse events. EXPERT OPINION Biological therapies have changed the natural history of main autoimmune diseases and solid cancers. Compared to other organs and disease settings, the liver lags behind in biologics and their applications. The development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies based on the immunological and antigenic characteristics of the hepatobiliary system could reduce mortality and transplant rates linked to chronic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Vitale
- Division of Internal Medicine for the Treatment of Severe Organ Failure, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Gitto
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Claudia Campani
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Laura Turco
- Division of Internal Medicine for the Treatment of Severe Organ Failure, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Anna Baldan
- Division of Internal Medicine for the Treatment of Severe Organ Failure, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Fabio Marra
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Morelli
- Division of Internal Medicine for the Treatment of Severe Organ Failure, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Vergani D, Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli B, Mieli-Vergani G. A reasoned approach to the treatment of autoimmune hepatitis. Dig Liver Dis 2021; 53:1381-1393. [PMID: 34162505 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2021.05.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic inflammatory liver disease affecting all ages, characterised by elevated transaminase and immunoglobulin G levels, positive autoantibodies, interface hepatitis on histology and good response to immunosuppressive treatment. If untreated, it has a poor prognosis. The aim of this review is to analyse AIH therapeutic interventions with reference to our knowledge of the pathogenesis of AIH. Standard treatment, based on steroids and azathioprine, leads to disease remission in 80-90% of patients. Alternative first-line treatment with budesonide is effective in adults, but less so in the juvenile form of AIH; first-line treatment with ciclosporin does not provide convincing advantages compared to standard treatment. Second-line treatments are needed for patients not responding or intolerant to first-line standard management. Mycophenolate mofetil is the most widely used second-line drug, and has good efficacy particularly for patients intolerant to azathioprine, but is teratogenic. Only few and heterogeneous data on calcineurin inhibitors and m-TOR inhibitors are available. Biologicals, including anti-tumour necrosis factor- α and anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies, have given ambivalent results and may have severe side-effects. Clinical trials with new therapeutic options aiming at targeting B lymphocytes and proinflammatory cytokines, or expanding regulatory T cells to restore tolerance are ongoing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Vergani
- King's College London Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, London, UK; Institute of Liver Studies, MowatLabs, King's College Hospital, London, UK; Epatocentro Ticino, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Benedetta Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli
- Institute of Liver Studies, MowatLabs, King's College Hospital, London, UK; Epatocentro Ticino, Lugano, Switzerland; Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Università della Svizzera Italiana, Switzerland
| | - Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- King's College London Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, London, UK; Epatocentro Ticino, Lugano, Switzerland; Paediatric Liver, GI and Nutrition Centre, MowatLabs, King's College Hospital, London, UK.
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15
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Liberal R, de Boer YS, Heneghan MA. Established and novel therapeutic options for autoimmune hepatitis. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 6:315-326. [DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(20)30328-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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16
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Second-line and third-line therapy for autoimmune hepatitis: A position statement from the European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases and the International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group. J Hepatol 2020; 73:1496-1506. [PMID: 32707224 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2020.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Most patients with autoimmune hepatitis respond well to standard immunosuppressive therapy with steroids and azathioprine, and while untreated disease is usually fatal, patients who respond well to therapy have an excellent prognosis. However, insufficient response to standard therapy or intolerable side effects requiring dose adaptions or treatment changes occur in 10-20% of patients. While there is fairly good agreement on second-line treatment options, there is very wide variation in the indication and use of possible third-line therapies. Herein, the European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER) and the International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group (IAIHG) outline a treatment algorithm for both children and adults that should help to standardise treatment approaches, in order to improve patient care and to enable the comparison of treatment results between scientific publications.
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17
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Corticosteroids are an integral part of liver transplant (LT) immunosuppression regimens but are often accompanied by many adverse effects. Budesonide is an oral corticosteroid with extensive (80%-90%) hepatic first-pass metabolism and minimal systemic absorption. The aim of this study was to examine the safety and efficacy of budesonide for management of acute cellular rejection (ACR) in pediatric LT recipients. METHODS A retrospective descriptive analysis was performed for all pediatric patients who underwent LT at our center and were prescribed oral budesonide for the treatment of ACR. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) values and documented adverse effects were reviewed. RESULTS Twenty-nine patients were prescribed budesonide for the treatment of ACR; 65.5% with biopsy-proven acute rejection and 34.5% with presumed ACR. There was a significant decrease in ALT noted from the time of rejection when compared to values 1 month (P = 0.0011), 3 months (P = 0.0003), and 6 months (P = 0.0001) after treatment with budesonide. There was no difference noted between patient baseline ALT levels before rejection when compared to 1, 3, and 6 months posttreatment values suggesting resolution of rejection. Three patients required conversion from budesonide to systemic steroids. There were no discontinuations of budesonide secondary to adverse effects. CONCLUSION Oral budesonide may be a promising alternative to systemic corticosteroids for the management of mild/moderate ACR and for empiric treatment of ACR in select pediatric LT recipients. Data from this study may provide the foundation for larger, prospective, multicenter trials to assess the effectiveness of budesonide in the treatment of ACR.
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18
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Autoimmune Hepatitis in Children: Prednisone Plus Azathioprine Versus Cyclosporine: A Randomized Trial. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2020; 71:376-380. [PMID: 32520828 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0000000000002776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to find the outcome and adverse effects of 2 initial treatments in children with autoimmune hepatitis, prednisone (PRED) plus azathioprine (AZA) versus cyclosporine (CsA). STUDY DESIGN Between December 2008 and February 2012, 50 consecutive patients were centrally randomized to 1 of 2 treatment arms. Group 1: PRED was indicated at a dose of 1 to 2 mg · kg · day (up to 60 mg/day) and AZA at a dose of 1 to 2 mg · kg · day. Group 2: CsA was administered at a dose of 4 mg · kg · day orally divided into 2 doses. After remission, all patients were given a combination of PRED at 0.3 to 0.5 mg · kg · day and AZA at 1 to 2 mg · kg · day. Children presenting liver failure were placed on a triple immunosuppressive regimen if this condition persisted after 1 week of treatment, after liver function normalization they were switched back to their initial scheme. RESULTS A total of 26 patients received PRED-AZA and 24 CsA. Both treatments showed similar initial results in effectiveness and safety, although remission was achieved earlier with PRED-AZA: 8.6 versus CsA: 13.6 weeks (P < 0.0081). All children recovered liver function in a mean time of 32 ± 26 days. Cushingoid syndrome was more frequently observed with PRED-AZA (P < 0.001) and gingival hypertrophy with CsA (P < 0.001). A significant increase in body mass index was observed in all patients from initial treatment to remission, being greater with PRED-AZA. CONCLUSIONS Similar outcomes were obtained with PRED plus AZA or CsA treatments. Either therapeutic strategy could be used according to the particular characteristics of each patient. Triple immunosuppression was beneficial in patients with liver failure at onset.
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19
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Mack CL, Adams D, Assis DN, Kerkar N, Manns MP, Mayo MJ, Vierling JM, Alsawas M, Murad MH, Czaja AJ. Diagnosis and Management of Autoimmune Hepatitis in Adults and Children: 2019 Practice Guidance and Guidelines From the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases. Hepatology 2020; 72:671-722. [PMID: 31863477 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 463] [Impact Index Per Article: 115.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Cara L Mack
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
| | - David Adams
- Centre for Liver Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - David N Assis
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Nanda Kerkar
- Golisano Children's Hospital at Strong, University of Rochester Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Michael P Manns
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marlyn J Mayo
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Texas SW Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - John M Vierling
- Medicine and Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | | | - Mohammad H Murad
- Mayo Knowledge and Encounter Research Unit, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN
| | - Albert J Czaja
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN
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20
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Vierling JM, Kerkar N, Czaja AJ, Mack CL, Adams D, Assis DN, Manns MP, Mayo MJ, Nayfeh T, Majzoub AMM, Alzuabi MA, Ding J, Haffar S, Murad MH, Alsawas M. Immunosuppressive Treatment Regimens in Autoimmune Hepatitis: Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Supporting American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases Guidelines. Hepatology 2020; 72:753-769. [PMID: 32500593 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- John M Vierling
- Departments of Medicine and Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Nanda Kerkar
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Albert J Czaja
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Cara L Mack
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - David Adams
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - David N Assis
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Michael P Manns
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marlyn J Mayo
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Tarek Nayfeh
- Mayo Clinic Evidence-Based Practice Research Program, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Muayad A Alzuabi
- Mayo Clinic Evidence-Based Practice Research Program, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Jingyi Ding
- Mayo Clinic Evidence-Based Practice Research Program, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Samir Haffar
- Mayo Clinic Evidence-Based Practice Research Program, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - M Hassan Murad
- Mayo Clinic Evidence-Based Practice Research Program, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Mouaz Alsawas
- Mayo Clinic Evidence-Based Practice Research Program, Rochester, MN, USA
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Zhang C, Wu SS, Dong XQ, Wu Z, Zhao H, Wang GQ. The efficacy and safety of different doses of glucocorticoid for autoimmune hepatitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2019; 98:e18313. [PMID: 31876706 PMCID: PMC6946338 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000018313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glucocorticoid as the standard treatment of autoimmune hepatitis has been recommended with different doses. The purpose of this study is to compare the efficacy and safety of high and low doses for clinical practice. METHODS Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library were searched until January 16th, 2019 for cohort studies or randomized controlled trials in patients with autoimmune hepatitis. Glucocorticoid 60 mg/d or 1 mg/kg/d was defined as high dose and 40 to 50 mg/d or 0.5 mg/d as low dose. Outcome of interests includes the incidence of the biochemical remission, adverse event, and endpoint events. Double arcsine method with a random-effect model was used to combine the incidence. Potential heterogeneity was explored by meta-regression and subgroup analysis. RESULTS Overall, 25 studies (3305 patients) were included, with 10 studies in the high dose group and 15 in low dose group. The biochemical remission rate in the high and low dose group was 0.79 (95% confidence interval [CI] [0.72, 0.85]) and 0.72 (95% CI [0.65, 0.78]), respectively. The incidence of endpoint events and adverse event in the high were slightly higher (0.03, 95% CI [0.02, 0.04]; 0.42, 95% CI [0.30, 0.53]) than that of the low dose group (0.01, 95% CI [0.00, 0.01]; 0.39, 95% CI [0.15, 0.63]). CONCLUSIONS For autoimmune hepatitis patients, 60 mg/d or 1 mg/kg/d of glucocorticoid gives higher biochemical remission rate and higher incidence of endpoint events and adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi Zhang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Center for Liver Disease, Peking University First Hospital, Xicheng District
| | - Shan-Shan Wu
- National Clinical Research Center of Digestive Diseases, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University
| | - Xiao-Qin Dong
- Department of Infectious Disease, Center for Liver Disease, Peking University First Hospital, Xicheng District
| | - Zhao Wu
- Department of Infectious Disease, Center for Liver Disease, Peking University First Hospital, Xicheng District
| | - Hong Zhao
- Department of Infectious Disease, Center for Liver Disease, Peking University First Hospital, Xicheng District
- Peking University International Hospital, Beijing
| | - Gui-Qiang Wang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Center for Liver Disease, Peking University First Hospital, Xicheng District
- Peking University International Hospital, Beijing
- The Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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22
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Alvarez F. Autoimmune hepatitis in children. J Pediatr (Rio J) 2019; 95:382-384. [PMID: 30121175 DOI: 10.1016/j.jped.2018.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Alvarez
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine (CHU-Sainte Justine), Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, Montréal, Canada.
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Alvarez F. Autoimmune hepatitis in children. JORNAL DE PEDIATRIA (VERSÃO EM PORTUGUÊS) 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedp.2018.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
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Vinnitskaya EV, Sandler YG, Bakulin IG, Parfenov AI, Ilchenko LY, Nikitin IG, Bueverov AO, Lopatkina TN, Ignatova ТМ, Syutkin VY, Raikhelson KL, Khomeriki SG, Gudkova RB. Important problems in the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune hepatitis (based on the Russian consensus 2017). TERAPEVT ARKH 2019; 90:12-18. [PMID: 30701766 DOI: 10.26442/terarkh201890212-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The analysis of publications devoted to the Russian Consensus on the Diagnostic and Treatment of Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH), which was considered at the 43rd annual Scientific Session of the CNIIG From Traditions to Innovation (March 4, 2017) is carried out. The presence of clear algorithms and recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of AIH significantly help the doctor in real clinical practice, but do not exclude a personified approach to the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- E V Vinnitskaya
- S.A. Loginov Moscow Clinical Research and Practical Center, Moscow Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russia
| | - Yu G Sandler
- S.A. Loginov Moscow Clinical Research and Practical Center, Moscow Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russia
| | - I G Bakulin
- I.I. Mechnikov North-Western state medical University, Ministry of Health of Russia, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - A I Parfenov
- S.A. Loginov Moscow Clinical Research and Practical Center, Moscow Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russia
| | - L Yu Ilchenko
- N.I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - I G Nikitin
- N.I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - A O Bueverov
- I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Ministry of Health of Russia (Sechenovskiy University), Moscow, Russia
| | - T N Lopatkina
- I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Ministry of Health of Russia (Sechenovskiy University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Т М Ignatova
- I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Ministry of Health of Russia (Sechenovskiy University), Moscow, Russia
| | - V Ye Syutkin
- N.V. Sklifosovskiy Research Institute of Emergency Medicine, Moscow, Russia
| | - K L Raikhelson
- Saint Petersburg state University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - S G Khomeriki
- S.A. Loginov Moscow Clinical Research and Practical Center, Moscow Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russia
| | - R B Gudkova
- S.A. Loginov Moscow Clinical Research and Practical Center, Moscow Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russia
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26
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Dalekos GN, Koskinas J, Papatheodoridis GV. Hellenic Association for the Study of the Liver Clinical Practice Guidelines: Autoimmune hepatitis. Ann Gastroenterol 2019; 32:1-23. [PMID: 30598587 PMCID: PMC6302199 DOI: 10.20524/aog.2018.0330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a relatively rare acute or chronic liver disease of unknown etiology characterized by large heterogeneity. Its distribution is global, covering all ages, both sexes and all ethnic groups. The aim of the present Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG) of the Hellenic Association for the Study of the Liver was to provide updated guidance and help to gastroenterologists, hepatologists, internists and general practitioners for AIH diagnosis and management. AIH diagnosis is based on clinicopathological characteristics: namely, polyclonal hypergammaglobulinemia, particularly of immunoglobulin G (IgG), circulating autoantibodies, interface hepatitis on liver histology, absence of viral hepatitis, and a favorable response to immunosuppression. Clinical manifestations at disease onset are variable, ranging from asymptomatic to the acute/severe form. Aminotransferase and bilirubin levels vary, while the presence of hepatitis at the histological level is a prerequisite for diagnosis. Autoantibodies are the hallmark for AIH diagnosis; therefore, the CPG describe the appropriate serological algorithm for their detection. AIH therapy should aim to achieve complete biochemical (normalization of IgG and aminotransferases) and histological remission. All patients who have active disease, even those with cirrhosis, should be treated with individualized and response-guided induction therapy using prednisolone in combination with azathioprine or mycophenolate mofetil as first-line therapy. Immunosuppression should be given for at least 3 years and for at least 2 years after the achievement of complete biochemical response, while a liver biopsy should be recommended before treatment discontinuation. Current CPG are also provided for several specific conditions and difficult-to-treat patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- George N. Dalekos
- Institute of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Larissa (George N. Dalekos)
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa (George N. Dalekos)
| | - John Koskinas
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, “Hippokratio” General Hospital of Athens, Athens (John Koskinas)
| | - George V. Papatheodoridis
- Department of Gastroenterology, Medical School of National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, “Laiko” General Hospital of Athens, Athens (George V. Papatheodoridis), Greece
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Sciveres M, Nastasio S, Maggiore G. Novel Diagnostic and Therapeutic Strategies in Juvenile Autoimmune Hepatitis. Front Pediatr 2019; 7:382. [PMID: 31616649 PMCID: PMC6763601 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2019.00382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Juvenile autoimmune hepatitis (JAIH) is a rare, chronic, inflammatory disease of the liver characterized by a complex interaction between genetic, immunological, and environmental factors leading to loss of immunotolerance to hepatic antigens. It affects both children and adolescents, most commonly females, and its clinical manifestations are quite variable. JAIH is progressive in nature and if left untreated may lead to cirrhosis and terminal liver failure. Although JAIH was first described almost 50 years ago, there have been few significant advances in the clinical management of these patients, both in terms of available diagnostic tools and therapeutic options. Aminotransferase activity, class G immunoglobulins and autoantibodies are the biomarkers used to diagnose AIH and monitor treatment response alongside clinical and histological findings. Despite their utility and cost-effectiveness, these biomarkers are neither an accurate expression of AIH pathogenic mechanism nor a precise measure of treatment response. Current standard of care is mainly based on the administration of steroids and azathioprine. This combination of drugs has been proven effective in inducing remission of disease in the majority of patients dramatically improving their survival; however, it not only fails to restore tolerance to hepatic autoantigens, but it also does not halt disease progression in some patients, it is often needed life-long and finally, it has deleterious side-effects. The ideal therapy should be enough selective to contrast immune-mediated live damage while preserving or potentiating the ability to develop permanent tolerance vs. pathogenic autoantigens. By reviewing the state of the art literature, this article highlights novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for managing pediatric AIH with a special focus on new strategies of immunotherapy. These promising tools could improve the diagnostic algorithm, more accurately predict disease prognosis, and provide targeted, individualized treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Sciveres
- Pediatric Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, ISMETT-University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Italy, Palermo, Italy
| | - Silvia Nastasio
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Giuseppe Maggiore
- Pediatric Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, ISMETT-University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Italy, Palermo, Italy.,Section of Pediatrics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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28
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Janik MK, Wunsch E, Raszeja-Wyszomirska J, Moskwa M, Kruk B, Krawczyk M, Milkiewicz P. Autoimmune hepatitis exerts a profound, negative effect on health-related quality of life: A prospective, single-centre study. Liver Int 2019; 39:215-221. [PMID: 30204306 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Revised: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 09/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Autoimmune hepatitis is a progressive chronic liver disease. Health-related quality of life in autoimmune hepatitis has not attracted much attention so far. We prospectively assessed various aspects of health-related quality of life in a well characterized group of patients with autoimmune hepatitis. METHODS In total, 140 patients with autoimmune hepatitis (mean age 40 ± 17 years) and 170 controls (mean age 36 ± 14 years) were included. Health-related quality of life was evaluated with following questionnaires: The Short Form (36) Health Survey, Modified Fatigue Impact Score, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 assessing depression. RESULTS Patients with autoimmune hepatitis showed a significant impairment of health-related quality of life in all, but one, domains of The Short Form (36) Health Survey. Autoimmune hepatitis was associated with pronounced physical fatigue (P < 0.001), anxiety (P < 0.001) and depression (P < 0.001). As compared to males, female patients demonstrated greater impairment of physical aspects of The Short Form (36) Health Survey and Modified Fatigue Impact Score. Twenty-seven patients (19%) had moderate (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 >10) and 14 (10%) moderately severe depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 >15). Depression showed a very strong correlation with chronic fatigue (R = 0.68; P < 0.001); physical and mental components of The Short Form (36) Health Survey (R = 0.52/0.68 respectively; P < 0.001) and anxiety (R = 0.47; P < 0.001). There was a trend towards better life's quality in patients treated with budesonide in some aspects of their health-related quality of life. Duration of the disease, age at diagnosis, liver fibrosis and the presence of cirrhosis were not associated with health-related quality of life. CONCLUSIONS Health-related quality of life is significantly impaired in patients with autoimmune hepatitis. Depression seems to be a dominant symptom affecting their well-being, not associated with clinical and biochemical features of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej K Janik
- Liver and Internal Medicine Unit, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ewa Wunsch
- Translational Medicine Group, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | | | - Maciej Moskwa
- II Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Beata Kruk
- Laboratory of Metabolic Liver Diseases, Centre for Preclinical Research, Department of General, Transplant and Liver Surgery, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marcin Krawczyk
- Laboratory of Metabolic Liver Diseases, Centre for Preclinical Research, Department of General, Transplant and Liver Surgery, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.,Department of Medicine II, Saarland University Medical Centre, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Piotr Milkiewicz
- Liver and Internal Medicine Unit, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.,Translational Medicine Group, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
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29
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Juvenile autoimmune hepatitis: A comprehensive review. J Autoimmun 2018; 95:69-76. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2018.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2018] [Accepted: 10/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Lu FB, Hu ED, Xu LM, Hu YB, Chen L, Wu JL, Li H, Chen DZ, Chen YP. Comparative efficacy and tolerability of treatments for adult autoimmune hepatitis: A systematic review and network meta-analysis. Exp Ther Med 2018; 15:4838-4850. [PMID: 29904396 PMCID: PMC5996682 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2018.6063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The most suitable treatment regimen for autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) in adults remains unknown and requires further investigation. The current study therefore aimed to integrate evidence to provide hierarchies of the comparative efficacies of treatments measured by clinical and biochemical remission. A Bayesian-framework network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was preformed to compare eight treatments for AIH. Eligible RCTs were identified by searching Embase, Pubmed and the Cochrane Library for publications between 1966 and April 2017. All outcomes were independently extracted from the included studies by two authors. A total of six RCTs were subsequently included in the current study. The network of comparisons on remission indicated that patients treated with prednisone (pred) experienced significantly increased rates of remission compared with those treated with azathioprine [AZA; odds ratio (OR), 0.21; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.06-0.71] and budesonide (bude) + AZA significantly increased remission compared with placebo treatment (OR, 36.66; 95% CI, 1.40-962.49) or AZA (OR, 10.30; 95% CI, 1.50-70.70). Based on the cumulative ranking probabilities, bude + AZA (89.4) was ranked first, pred (69.1) was ranked second, pred + AZA (63.2) was ranked third and placebo (7.8) treatment was ranked last. Bude + AZA may be the most appropriate candidate for the treatment of non-cirrhotic patients. However, bude + AZA as frontline therapy for AIH requires more large-scale studies with a longer duration of follow-up histology and a focus on dose-response. Additionally, development of other prospective treatments, which may be used as alternative therapy or first line therapy, and their subsequent evaluation in clinical RCTs is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng-Bin Lu
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatology, Department of Infectious Diseases, Hepatology Institute of Wenzhou Medical University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - En-De Hu
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatology, Department of Infectious Diseases, Hepatology Institute of Wenzhou Medical University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Lan-Man Xu
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatology, Department of Infectious Diseases, Hepatology Institute of Wenzhou Medical University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Yi-Bing Hu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Jinhua, Zhejiang 321000, P.R. China
| | - Lu Chen
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatology, Department of Infectious Diseases, Hepatology Institute of Wenzhou Medical University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Jin-Lu Wu
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatology, Department of Infectious Diseases, Hepatology Institute of Wenzhou Medical University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Hui Li
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatology, Department of Infectious Diseases, Hepatology Institute of Wenzhou Medical University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Da-Zhi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Medicine School of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, P.R. China
| | - Yong-Ping Chen
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatology, Department of Infectious Diseases, Hepatology Institute of Wenzhou Medical University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
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31
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Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D, Czaja AJ, Manns MP, Krawitt EL, Vierling JM, Lohse AW, Montano-Loza AJ. Autoimmune hepatitis. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2018; 4:18017. [PMID: 29644994 DOI: 10.1038/nrdp.2018.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 240] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a severe liver disease that affects children and adults worldwide. The diagnosis of AIH relies on increased serum transaminase and immunoglobulin G levels, presence of autoantibodies and interface hepatitis on liver histology. AIH arises in genetically predisposed individuals when a trigger, such as exposure to a virus, leads to a T cell-mediated autoimmune response directed against liver autoantigens; this immune response is permitted by inadequate regulatory immune control leading to a loss of tolerance. AIH responds favourably to immunosuppressive treatment, which should be started as soon as the diagnosis is made. Standard regimens include fairly high initial doses of corticosteroids (prednisone or prednisolone), which are tapered gradually as azathioprine is introduced. For those patients who do not respond to standard treatment, second-line drugs should be considered, including mycophenolate mofetil, calcineurin inhibitors, mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors and biologic agents, which should be administered only in specialized hepatology centres. Liver transplantation is a life-saving option for those who progress to end-stage liver disease, although AIH can recur or develop de novo after transplantation. In-depth investigation of immune pathways and analysis of changes to the intestinal microbiota should advance our knowledge of the pathogenesis of AIH and lead to novel, tailored and better tolerated therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- Paediatric Liver, GI and Nutrition Centre, MowatLabs, King's College Hospital, Denmark Hill, SE5 9RS London, UK
| | - Diego Vergani
- Institute of Liver Studies, MowatLabs, King's College Hospital, Denmark Hill, SE5 9RS London, UK
| | - Albert J Czaja
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Michael P Manns
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Edward L Krawitt
- Department of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA.,Department of Medicine, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - John M Vierling
- Division of Abdominal Transplantation and Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Departments of Medicine and Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ansgar W Lohse
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Aldo J Montano-Loza
- Division of Gastroenterology and Liver Unit, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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32
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de Boer YS, Liberal R, Vergani D, Mieli-Vergani G. Real-world management of juvenile autoimmune liver disease. United European Gastroenterol J 2018; 6:1032-1038. [PMID: 30228891 PMCID: PMC6137590 DOI: 10.1177/2050640618768922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and aims Juvenile autoimmune liver disease (JAILD) includes paediatric forms of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and autoimmune sclerosing cholangitis (ASC). Since evidence is scarce, there are currently no evidence-based management guidelines for juvenile AIH. This survey was carried out amongst the paediatric members of the International AIH Group (IAIHG) to describe their practices in the management of JAILD. Methods An online survey questionnaire was distributed to members of the IAIHG with active practice (https://www.surveymonkey.de/r/Juvenile_AILD). The questionnaire consisted of four clinical scenarios on different presentations of AIH. Results Fifty-eight surveys were sent to the IAIHG members, out of which 43 (74%, 22 countries, four continents) were returned. None reported budesonide as a first-line induction agent for the acute presentation of AIH. Sixteen (37%) routinely perform liver biopsy at three years of biochemical remission. Thirty-five respondents (81%) perform magnetic resonance cholangiography (MRC) at presentation. Ciclosporin is the most widely used second-line agent (number of patients treated = ∼360, 21 centres). Mycophenolate mofetil (n = ∼225, 31 centres), tacrolimus (n = ∼130, 21 centres) and sirolimus (n = ∼5, 3 centres) are less often reported. Rescue therapy with infliximab and rituximab has been tried in eight centres (n = ∼19) and nine centres (n = ∼16), respectively. Conclusions Prednisolone remains the preferred first-line induction agent in JAILD. MRC at presentation is performed by the large majority of participants. Participants reported a wide variation in performing liver biopsy for therapy evaluation during follow-up. Within the paediatric members of the IAIHG there is considerable experience with second-line therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y S de Boer
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, VU University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | - R Liberal
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College London, UK
| | - D Vergani
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College London, UK
| | - G Mieli-Vergani
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College London, UK.,Paediatric Liver, GI and Nutrition Centre, King's College Hospital, UK
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34
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[Autoimmune hepatitis in the pediatric age]. BOLETIN MEDICO DEL HOSPITAL INFANTIL DE MEXICO 2018; 74:324-333. [PMID: 29382475 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmhimx.2017.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Revised: 04/25/2017] [Accepted: 05/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In pediatrics, autoimmune hepatitis and sclerosing cholangitis are liver disorders with an immunological damage mechanism. Autoimmune hepatitis is a disease of unknown etiology characterized by interface hepatitis, hypergammaglobulinemia, circulating autoantibodies and a favorable response to immunosuppression. It is an eminently pediatric disease with a prevalent condition in young women. Therapy should be instituted promptly to prevent rapid deterioration, promote remission of disease and long-term survival. The persistent lack of response or lack of adherence to treatment results in terminal liver failure; these patients, and those with fulminant hepatic insufficiency at the time of diagnosis, will require liver transplantation.
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35
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Efficacy and Limitations of Budesonide as a Second-Line Treatment for Patients With Autoimmune Hepatitis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 16:260-267.e1. [PMID: 28126427 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2016.12.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2016] [Revised: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Many patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) develop steroid-specific side effects or require doses of steroids that are unacceptable for long-term treatment. We investigated the efficacy of budesonide as an alternative steroid for patients previously treated with prednisolone who developed side effects or were unable to reduce their dose of prednisolone below acceptable levels. We also report the effects of more than 12 months of budesonide treatment in a large cohort of patients with AIH. METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis of data from 60 patients (51 female) with AIH who were treated initially with prednisolone (mean time, 47 mo) but then switched to budesonide, managed at a single center in Germany from 2001 through June 2016. Patients were evaluated after 6 months, 12 months, 24 months, 36 months, and at the last follow-up evaluation; response to treatment with budesonide was assessed based on normal serum levels of aminotransferases and IgG (biochemical response). RESULTS Thirty patients were switched to budesonide therapy because of prednisolone-induced side effects and 30 patients switched because of prednisolone dependency. Overall, a biochemical response was detected in 55% of patients after 6 months of budesonide treatment, in 70% after 12 months, and in 67% after 24 months. At the last follow-up evaluation (mean time, 63 mo) 23 patients (38%) still were receiving budesonide treatment. Fifteen patients (25%) had switched back to prednisolone therapy because of insufficient response to budesonide or its side effects. Fifteen patients with osteopenia at the beginning of budesonide treatment were followed up and evaluated by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. After a median of 24 months of budesonide treatment, bone mineral density had improved in 6 patients, remained stable in 8 patients, and worsened in 1 patient. CONCLUSIONS We performed a retrospective analysis of patients with AIH that confirmed the therapeutic value of budesonide beyond 12 months of treatment in patients who are intolerant to or dependent on prednisolone. Although budesonide-induced side effects appear to be mild in real life, effectiveness was limited in a considerable proportion of patients; close monitoring is advised.
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36
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Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D, Baumann U, Czubkowski P, Debray D, Dezsofi A, Fischler B, Gupte G, Hierro L, Indolfi G, Jahnel J, Smets F, Verkade HJ, Hadžić N. Diagnosis and Management of Pediatric Autoimmune Liver Disease: ESPGHAN Hepatology Committee Position Statement. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2018; 66:345-360. [PMID: 29356770 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0000000000001801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Paediatric autoimmune liver disease is characterized by inflammatory liver histology, circulating autoantibodies, and increased levels of IgG, in the absence of a known etiology. Three conditions have a likely autoimmune pathogenesis: autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), autoimmune sclerosing cholangitis, and de novo AIH after liver transplantation. Two types of pediatric AIH are recognized according to seropositivity for smooth muscle and/or antinuclear antibody (AIH-1) or liver kidney microsomal type 1 and/or anti-liver cytosol type 1 antibodies (AIH-2).Pertinent issues addressing the diagnosis, treatment, and long-term follow-up were formulated by a core group of ESPGHAN members. They have commissioned the first authors with execution of this project. Initially, they have performed a systematic literature search on MEDLINE, ResearchGate, and Mendeley databases during the last 30 years and produced a document focusing on prospective and retrospective studies in children. The ESPGHAN core group and ESPGHAN Hepatology Committee members voted on each recommendation, using a formal voting technique.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Diego Vergani
- MowatLabs, Paediatric Liver, GI & Nutrition Centre, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Ulrich Baumann
- Pädiatrische Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Medizinische Hochschule, Hannover, Germany
| | - Piotr Czubkowski
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Nutrition Disturbances and Pediatrics, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dominique Debray
- Pediatric Hepatology Unit, AP-HP-Hôpital Necker Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | - Antal Dezsofi
- First Department of Paediatrics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Björn Fischler
- Department of Pediatrics, Karolinska University Hospital, CLINTEC, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Girish Gupte
- Liver Unit (Including Small Bowel Transplantation), Department of Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Birmingham Children's Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Loreto Hierro
- Hospital Infantil Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Giuseppe Indolfi
- Paediatric and Liver Unit, Meyer Children's University Hospital of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| | - Jörg Jahnel
- Division of General Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Françoise Smets
- UCL, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Henkjan J Verkade
- Dept of Pediatrics, Center for Liver, Digestive, and Metabolic Diseases, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Nedim Hadžić
- MowatLabs, Paediatric Liver, GI & Nutrition Centre, King's College Hospital, London, UK
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Manns MP, Jaeckel E, Taubert R. Budesonide in Autoimmune Hepatitis: The Right Drug at the Right Time for the Right Patient. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 16:186-189. [PMID: 29128475 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2017.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Revised: 10/05/2017] [Accepted: 11/05/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael P Manns
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; German Center for Infection Research, Partner Site Hannover, Braunschweig, Germany; Helmholtz Center for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Elmar Jaeckel
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Richard Taubert
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is an immune-mediated, inflammatory liver disease. Clinical presentation of AIH in children is highly variable. It can present acutely, chronically, or silently. There are two main types of AIH-type 1 and type 2, which are differentiated and defined by the presence of specific autoantibodies. AIH eventually progresses to cirrhosis when left untreated, and occasionally even with treatment. AIH must be suspected and excluded in all children presenting with signs of acute, prolonged, or severe liver disease. The diagnosis of AIH is made by a combination of clinical manifestations, laboratory evaluation, histopathology, and the exclusion of other more common liver diseases. The best outcome for AIH is dependent on early diagnosis as well as early initiation of immunosuppressant therapy. [Pediatr Ann. 2018;47(2):e81-e86.].
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Baseline IL-2 and the AIH score can predict the response to standard therapy in paediatric autoimmune hepatitis. Sci Rep 2018; 8:419. [PMID: 29323192 PMCID: PMC5764983 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-18818-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Although autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) can be treated with corticosteroid-based first-line therapy, incomplete remission is associated with progressive liver fibrosis. So far accepted predictors of the subsequent treatment response of AIH patients are lacking. Therefore, we analysed baseline parameters, including iron homeostasis and cytokine levels, in 60 children with paediatric AIH (pAIH). In contrast to adults, elevated serum markers indicating iron overload were not commonly found in children. Therefore, ferritin was not predictive of the treatment response in pAIH. Although baseline immunoglobulins were lower in pAIH children with subsequent complete biochemical remission (BR) upon standard first-line therapy, only lower AIH scores (≤16 points) could predict BR upon standard therapy in our training and validation cohorts. Additionally, higher baseline IL-2 and MCP-1/CCL2 levels were associated with BR in a sub-cohort. A combined score of IL-2 level and a simplified AIH score predicted treatment response more precisely than both parameter alone in this sub-cohort. In conclusion, the baseline AIH score could be validated as a predictor of treatment response in pAIH. Additionally, low baseline IL-2 may help identify children who need salvage therapy. This could be important because the use of low-dose IL-2 therapies is being tested in various autoimmune diseases.
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40
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Sebode M, Hartl J, Vergani D, Lohse AW. Autoimmune hepatitis: From current knowledge and clinical practice to future research agenda. Liver Int 2018; 38:15-22. [PMID: 28432836 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2017] [Accepted: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis is a chronic inflammatory liver disease. Unknown triggers lead to a mainly T cell-mediated immune response targeting the liver, the main auto-antigen of which has not been identified yet. The diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis is based on the elevation of immunoglobulin G/hypergammaglobulinemia, detection of characteristic autoantibodies as well as a typical pattern on liver histology. Exclusion of other causes of hepatitis and response to immunosuppressive treatment support the diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis. The mainstay of autoimmune hepatitis treatment has, from its first description to the current time, consisted of predniso(lo)ne to induce remission, in combination with azathioprine, which is used to maintain it. Nonetheless, side effects and non-response with ongoing inflammation despite standard therapy demand treatment alternatives. Only through a better understanding of the pathogenesis of autoimmune hepatitis can a more selective and effective treatment be offered to patients in the future. Until this goal is reached, improvement of diagnostic approaches and optimization of current therapy rank highest on the research agenda for autoimmune hepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcial Sebode
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Hartl
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Diego Vergani
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Ansgar W Lohse
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli B, Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D. Autoimmune hepatitis: Standard treatment and systematic review of alternative treatments. World J Gastroenterol 2017; 23:6030-6048. [PMID: 28970719 PMCID: PMC5597495 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v23.i33.6030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Revised: 07/18/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis is a rare chronic inflammatory liver disease, affecting all ages, characterised by elevated transaminase and immunoglobulin G levels, positive autoantibodies, interface hepatitis at liver histology and good response to immunosuppressive treatment. If untreated, it has a poor prognosis. The aim of this review is to summarize the evidence for standard treatment and to provide a systematic review on alternative treatments for adults and children. Standard treatment is based on steroids and azathioprine, and leads to disease remission in 80%-90% of patients. Alternative first line treatment has been attempted with budesonide or cyclosporine, but their superiority compared to standard treatment remains to be demonstrated. Second-line treatments are needed for patients not responding or intolerant to standard treatment. No randomized controlled trials have been performed for second-line options. Mycophenolate mofetil is the most widely used second-line drug, and has good efficacy particularly for patients intolerant to azathioprine, but has the major disadvantage of being teratogenic. Only few and heterogeneous data on cyclosporine, tacrolimus, everolimus and sirolimus are available. More recently, experience with the anti-tumour necrosis factor-alpha infliximab and the anti-CD20 rituximab has been published, with ambivalent results; these agents may have severe side-effects and their use should be restricted to specialized centres. Clinical trials with new therapeutic options are ongoing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- Paediatric Liver, GI and Nutrition Centre, MowatLabs, King’s College Hospital, Denmark Hill, London SE5 9RS, United Kingdom
| | - Diego Vergani
- Institute of Liver Studies, MowatLabs, King’s College Hospital, Denmark Hill, London SE5 9RS, United Kingdom
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Zizzo AN, Valentino PL, Shah PS, Kamath BM. Second-line Agents in Pediatric Patients With Autoimmune Hepatitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2017; 65:6-15. [PMID: 28644343 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0000000000001530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Ten percent to 20% of children with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) require second-line therapy to achieve remission. Although current guidelines exist on first-line management, evidence for second-line therapy in treatment-refractory patients is lacking. Our aim was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of second-line treatments used in this population. METHODS Electronic and manual searches were used to identify potential studies for inclusion. Studies were selected based on reported response rates to second-line therapies in children who failed response to prednisone and azathioprine. Data extraction and risk of bias assessment were performed independently by 2 reviewers. Meta-analysis using weighted estimate of response rates at 6 months was performed for each treatment option. Heterogeneity was assessed. RESULTS Fifteen studies of 76 pediatric patients with AIH were included in the review. Overall response rates at 6 months were estimated as 36% for mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) (N = 34, 95% confidence interval [CI] (16-57)), and 50% for tacrolimus (N = 4, 95% CI (0-100%)) and 83% for cyclosporine (N = 15, 95% CI (66%-100%)). Adverse effects were most frequent with cyclosporine (64% experiencing at least 1 adverse effect) followed by tacrolimus (54%) and MMF (48%). Pooled estimates of adverse events were 78% for cyclosporine (95% CI (54%-100%)), 42% for tacrolimus (95% CI (0%-85%)) and 45% for MMF (95% CI (25%-68%)). Sensitivity analyses were not performed due to small sample size. CONCLUSIONS Cyclosporine had the highest response rate at 6 months in children with standard-treatment-refractory AIH; however, it also had the highest rate of adverse events. MMF was the second most efficacious option with a low adverse effect rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andréanne N Zizzo
- *The Hospital for Sick Children †University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada ‡Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT §Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto ||London Health Sciences Centre, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
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Long-term challenges and perspectives of pre-adolescent liver disease. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2017; 2:435-445. [DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(16)30160-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Revised: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 09/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert J. Czaja
- Professor Emeritus of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
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Cassim S, Bilodeau M, Vincent C, Lapierre P. Novel Immunotherapies for Autoimmune Hepatitis. Front Pediatr 2017; 5:8. [PMID: 28184367 PMCID: PMC5266689 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2017.00008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a multifactorial autoimmune disease of unknown pathogenesis, characterized by a loss of immunological tolerance against liver autoantigens resulting in the progressive destruction of the hepatic parenchyma. Current treatments are based on non-specific immunosuppressive drugs. Although tremendous progress has been made using specific biological agents in other inflammatory diseases, progress has been slow to come for AIH patients. While current treatments are successful in the majority of patients, treatment discontinuation is difficult to achieve, and relapses are frequent. Lifelong immunosuppression is not without risks, especially in the pediatric population; 4% of patient with type 1 AIH will eventually develop hepatocellular carcinoma with a 2.9% probability after 10 years of treatment. Therefore, future treatments should aim to restore tolerance to hepatic autoantigens and induce long-term remission. Promising new immunotherapies have been tested in experimental models of AIH including T and B cell depletion and regulatory CD4+ T cells infusion. Clinical studies on limited numbers of patients have also shown encouraging results using B-cell-depleting (rituximab) and anti-TNF-α (infliximab) antibodies. A better understanding of key molecular targets in AIH combined with effective site-specific immunotherapies could lead to long-term remission without blanket immunosuppression and with minimal deleterious side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shamir Cassim
- Laboratoire d'hépatologie cellulaire, Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM) , Montréal, QC , Canada
| | - Marc Bilodeau
- Laboratoire d'hépatologie cellulaire, Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada; Département de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Catherine Vincent
- Département de médecine, Université de Montréal , Montréal, QC , Canada
| | - Pascal Lapierre
- Laboratoire d'hépatologie cellulaire, Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada; Département de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
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Systematic Review of the Toxicity of Long-Course Oral Corticosteroids in Children. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0170259. [PMID: 28125632 PMCID: PMC5268779 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0170259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 01/01/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Long courses of oral corticosteroids are commonly used in children in the management of chronic conditions. Various adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are known to occur with their use. This systematic review aimed to identify the most common and serious ADRs and to determine their relative risk levels. Methods A literature search of Embase, Medline, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, CINAHL, Cochrane Library and PubMed was performed with no language restrictions in order to identify studies where oral corticosteroids were administered to patients aged 28 days to 18 years of age for at least 15 days of treatment. Each database was searched from their earliest dates to January 2016. All studies providing clear information on ADRs were included. Results One hundred and one studies including 33 prospective cohort studies; 21 randomised controlled trials; 21 case series and 26 case reports met the inclusion criteria. These involved 6817 children and reported 4321 ADRs. The three ADRs experienced by the highest number of patients were weight gain, growth retardation and Cushingoid features with respective incidence rates of 21.1%, 18.1% and 19.4% of patients assessed for these ADRs. 21.5% of patients measured showed decreased bone density and 0.8% of patients showed osteoporosis. Biochemical HPA axis suppression was detected in 269 of 487 patients where it was measured. Infection was the most serious ADR, with twenty one deaths. Varicella zoster was the most frequent infection (9 deaths). Conclusions Weight gain, growth retardation and Cushingoid features were the most frequent ADRs seen when long-course oral corticosteroids were given to children. Increased susceptibility to infection was the most serious ADR.
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Della Corte C, Mosca A, Vania A, Alterio A, Alisi A, Nobili V. Pediatric liver diseases: current challenges and future perspectives. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 10:255-65. [PMID: 26641319 DOI: 10.1586/17474124.2016.1129274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases in children represent a rising problem with significant effects on public health. In fact, several pediatric liver diseases are precursors of adult chronic hepatopathies, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The prevalence of liver diseases in children is unknown. In the USA, every year, 15,000 children are hospitalized for liver diseases, but these disorders continue to be under-recognized or diagnosed late. The main reason is due to the frequent absence of symptoms in the vast majority of liver diseases, especially in the early stages. In the last few decades several advances have been made in understanding the pathogenesis of liver diseases, permitting the discovery of new therapeutic targets to treat liver diseases, thus improving the natural history of these disorders. In this article we discuss the most recent advances in the understanding of the pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of the most frequent pediatric liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Della Corte
- a Hepato-Metabolic Department , Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS , Rome , Italy
| | - Antonella Mosca
- b Center of Dietetics and Nutrition , Pediatric Clinic, 'La Sapienza' University , Rome , Italy
| | - Andrea Vania
- b Center of Dietetics and Nutrition , Pediatric Clinic, 'La Sapienza' University , Rome , Italy
| | - Arianna Alterio
- a Hepato-Metabolic Department , Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS , Rome , Italy
| | - Anna Alisi
- c Liver Research Unit , Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS , Rome , Italy
| | - Valerio Nobili
- a Hepato-Metabolic Department , Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS , Rome , Italy
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Mohammad S. Budesonide as first-line therapy for non-cirrhotic autoimmune hepatitis in children: a decision analysis. Scand J Gastroenterol 2016; 51:753-62. [PMID: 26762679 DOI: 10.3109/00365521.2015.1130166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Therapy for autoimmune hepatitis has been prednisone based for decades; however, budesonide may be equally effective with fewer side effects. Our aim was to evaluate quality-adjusted life years and health care costs of three different treatment regimens. MATERIALS AND METHODS Treatment using prednisone, budesonide or a combination of both over a three-year period in newly diagnosed children with type I autoimmune hepatitis were simulated with a Markov model. Transition probabilities were calculated over consecutive three-month period. Costs were determined from a hospital database and health utilities were estimated from the literature. A Monte Carlo probabilistic sensitivity analysis was used to simulate the outcomes of 5000 patients in each treatment arm. RESULTS Compared to standard therapy, budesonide leads to a gain of 0.09 quality-adjusted life years, costing $17,722 per QALY over a three-year period. Standard therapy led to significantly lower QALY's compared to other strategies (p < 0.001). Health utilities of patients in remission in each treatment group had the greatest impact on the model. Budesonide remained the treatment of choice if the probability of inducing remission was 55% or greater. CONCLUSIONS Budesonide therapy in non-cirrhotic, treatment naïve patients with type I autoimmune hepatitis yielded greater QALY's compared to the current standard therapy with an acceptable increase in costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Mohammad
- a Department of Pediatrics , Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University , 225 E Chicago Ave , Chicago , IL , USA
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Woynarowski M, Woźniak M, Cukrowska B, Wierzbicka A, Lytton SD. Autoantibody Profile of Adult Patients With Childhood Onset Type 2 Autoimmune Hepatitis. J Clin Lab Anal 2016; 30:590-6. [PMID: 26676069 PMCID: PMC6807217 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.21907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2015] [Revised: 10/05/2015] [Accepted: 10/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anti-liver kidney microsome (anti-LKM) autoantibodies are a distinguishing feature of type II autoimmune hepatitis (AIH-2). However, the levels of anti-LKM-1 in adult AIH-2 patients and their role in liver immunopathology remain equivocal. The aim of the study was to survey the autoantibody profile and the activity of liver disease in adult patients diagnosed with AIH-2 at childhood. METHODS The autoantibody profile of adults was compared with the autoantibodies of the pediatric period. Liver function test, Immunoglobulin G (IgG), and gamma globulins were evaluated at the AIH presentation, at the age of 18 years, and at the current adult visit. RESULTS All ten patients tested positive for LKM-1 at least once during the pediatric period. At the adult visit, four patients lost autoantibody positivity. LKM-1 was positive in four, liver cytosol antigen 1 (LC-1) in two, soluble liver antigen in one, and antinuclear antigen in one patient. Additionally three patients with LKM-1 and one patient without LKM-1 were positive for AMA-M2 (where AMA is antimitochondrial antibodies) Immunoglobulin M (IgM). Liver function markedly improved at 18 years and adult visit compared with initial diagnosis of AIH with only a mild decrease of IgG. The six adult patients positive for at least one autoantibody had statistically lower aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase (GGTP) than the four patients autoantibody negative (AST: 52 vs. 88 IU/l, P < 0.05; GGTP 19 vs. 163 IU/l, P < 0.05). CONCLUSION LKM-1 positivity is not a stable condition in all patients with AIH-2. Patients who remained autoantibody positive had better liver function tests than those who lost their positivity. The presence of AMA-M2 autoantibodies suggest that development of AIH/Primary Biliary Cirrhosis (PBC) overlap syndrome should be considered.
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Liberal R, Krawitt EL, Vierling JM, Manns MP, Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D. Cutting edge issues in autoimmune hepatitis. J Autoimmun 2016; 75:6-19. [PMID: 27502148 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2016.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2016] [Revised: 07/06/2016] [Accepted: 07/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a severe liver disease affecting all age groups worldwide. Novel basic and clinical aspects of AIH, addressed at a Monothematic Conference in London in September 2015, are highlighted in this review. The diagnosis of AIH relies upon detection of characteristic autoantibodies, hypergammaglobulinemia, and interface hepatitis on liver histology. The International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group (IAIHG) has devised diagnostic scoring systems to help in comparative studies and clinical practice. AIH arises in a genetically predisposed host, when yet unknown triggers - such an encounter with a pathogen - lead to a T cell-mediated immune response targeting liver autoantigens. This immune response is inadequately controlled because regulatory mechanisms are impaired. The mainstay of treatment for AIH is immunosuppression, which should be instituted as soon as the diagnosis is made. Standard treatment regimens include relatively high doses of predniso(lo)ne, which are tapered gradually as azathioprine is introduced. Recent guidelines have described newer treatment regimens and have tightened the goal of therapy to complete normalization of biochemical, serological and histological parameters. Mycophenolate mofetil, calcineurin inhibitors, mTOR inhibitors and biological agents are potential salvage therapies, but should be reserved for selected non-responsive patients and administered only in experienced centers. Liver transplantation is a life-saving option for those patients who progress to end-stage liver disease. Further dissection of cellular and molecular pathways involved in AIH pathogenesis is likely to lead to the discovery of novel, tailored and better tolerated therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Liberal
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Edward L Krawitt
- Department of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - John M Vierling
- Departments of Medicine and Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Baylor-St Luke's Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK; Paediatric Liver, GI & Nutrition Centre, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Diego Vergani
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK.
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