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Sagnelli C, Sica A, Creta M, Calogero A, Ciccozzi M, Sagnelli E. Epidemiological and clinical aspects of hepatitis B virus infection in Italy over the last 50 years. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:3081-3091. [PMID: 36051347 PMCID: PMC9331523 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i26.3081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A relevant gradual reduction of both the incidence rate of acute hepatitis B (AHB) and prevalence of chronic hepatitis B has occurred in Italy in the last 50 years, due to substantial epidemiological changes: Improvement in socioeconomic and hygienic conditions, reduction of the family unit, accurate screening of blood donations, abolition of re-usable glass syringes, hepatitis B virus (HBV)-universal vaccination started in 1991, use of effective well tolerated nucleo(t)side analogues able to suppress HBV replication available from 1998, and educational mediatic campaigns against human immunodeficiency virus infection focusing on the prevention of sexual and parenteral transmission of infections. As an example, AHB incidence has gradually decreased from 10/100000 inhabitants in 1985 to 0.21 in 2020. Unfortunately, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has interrupted the trend towards HBV eradication. In fact, several HBV chronic carriers living in the countryside have become unable to access healthcare facilities for screening, diagnosis, clinical management, and nucleo(t)side analogue therapy in the COVID-19 pandemic, mainly for anxiety of becoming infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), movement restrictions, and reduced gains from job loss. In addition, one-third of healthcare facilities and personnel for HBV patients have been devolved to the COVID-19 assistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Sagnelli
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Antonello Sica
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Creta
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Armando Calogero
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences-UO General Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, Naples 80127, Italy
| | - Massimo Ciccozzi
- Medical Statistics and Molecular Epidemiology Unit, Campus Bio-Medico University, Rome 80138, Italy
| | - Evangelista Sagnelli
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples 80138, Italy
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Çakal B, Çavuş B, Atasoy A, Poda M, Bulakçi M, Güllüoğlu M, Demirci M, Şener LT, Altunok D, Arslan AB, Akyüz F. What is the clinical impact of occult HBV infections and anti-HBc positivity in patients with chronic hepatitis C? Microbiol Immunol 2022; 66:386-393. [PMID: 35661243 DOI: 10.1111/1348-0421.13012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Occult hepatitis B infection (OBI) is defined by the persistence of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) genome in the liver of individuals testing negative for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc) is the serological marker that indicates HBV exposure. The impact of anti-HBc and OBI on patients with chronic hepatitis C remains unclear. The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of anti-HBc and OBI and to evaluate their impact on the clinical and pathological outcomes of patients with chronic hepatitis C. The study included 59 HBsAg-negative chronic hepatitis C patients who underwent a liver parenchymal biopsy. The presence of HBV DNA was investigated using an in-house nested PCR method. OBI was detected in 16 (27.1%) of the 59 cases and also in 10 (62.5%) of 22 (37.3%) anti-HBc-positive patients. None of the patients had positive serum HBV DNA. OBI was associated with the presence of anti-HBV antibodies (p<0.05). There was also an association between anti-HBc positivity and the activity grades and fibrosis stages of the liver and also a prevalence of liver steatosis (p<0.05). Positive anti-HBc results may predict OBI and also be associated with the progression of liver injury in HBsAg-negative patients with chronic hepatitis C. Therefore, it is suggested that patients with chronic hepatitis C should be screened for anti-HBc positivity, and anti-HBc-positive patients should be carefully evaluated for disease progression. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bülent Çakal
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Bilger Çavuş
- Division of Gastroenterohepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Alp Atasoy
- Division of Gastroenterohepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mehveş Poda
- Department of Genetics, Aziz Sancar Institute for Experimental Medical Research, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mesut Bulakçi
- Department of Radiology, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mine Güllüoğlu
- Department of Pathology, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Demirci
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kirklareli University, Kirklareli, Turkey
| | - Leyla Türker Şener
- Department of Biophysics Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Damla Altunok
- Division of Gastroenterohepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Filiz Akyüz
- Division of Gastroenterohepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Xia R, Peng J, He J, Jiang P, Yuan C, Liu X, Yao Y. The Serious Challenge of Occult Hepatitis B Virus Infection-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma in China. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:840825. [PMID: 35197961 PMCID: PMC8859271 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.840825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background It is unknown how many people in China have chronic occult hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection (OBI) [chronic HBV infection with negative serum hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) (N-HBsAg)]. Their clinical and virological characteristics, especially the correlation between the OBI and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), are still elusive and need to be investigated, including prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment strategies. Methods 138 patients with HCC related to OBI were screened from 698 patients of HCC associated with HBV infection, their characteristics of epidemiology, clinical, biochemistry, virology, diagnostics, and therapeutics were analyzed retrospectively. Furthermore, the correlation between virological features and clinical features was investigated. Results It was found that 19.8% (138/698) of patients with HBV-related HCC were OBI, of which 79.7% (110/138) were men, and 20.3% (28/138) were women. Most of the patients with OBI-related HCC were older men, and the median age was 63.2 years. In total 78.3% (108/138) of the patients had apparent right upper abdomen discomfort and/or pain and then sought medical examination, while 21.7% (30/138) of the patients were identified by health examination. A total of 10.9% (15/138) of the patients were admitted with chronic infection of HBV, and 2.2% (3/138) of the patients were admitted with a family history of hepatitis B. The alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) serum-positive rate was 39.1% (54/138). Tumor lesions >5.0 cm, with intrahepatic and/or extrahepatic metastasis, were found in 72.5% (100/138) of the patients. The diameter of the tumor in the Group of hepatitis B core antibody-positive [HBcAb(+)] and hepatitis B surface antibody-positive [HBsAb(+)] was 7.03 ± 3.76 cm, which was much smaller than 8.79 ± 4.96 cm in the Group of HBcAb(+) and HBsAb(−) (P = 0.035). Conclusion It is estimated that at least 21 million OBI patients live in China. HBcAb(+) was not only the evidence of chronic HBV infection but also a dangerous mark for surface antigen-negative patients. A semi-annual or annual medical checkup is essential for all OBI patients to identify HCC as early as possible. The hypothesis underlying our analysis was that hepatitis B surface antibody would prevent the progress of HCC and facilitate the clearance of HBV in patients with OBI. Thereby, the hepatitis B vaccine could be used to prevent severe disease consequences.
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Armandi A, Rosso C, Ribaldone DG, Caviglia GP. Moving towards core antigen for the management of patients with overt and occult HBV infection. Panminerva Med 2020; 63:499-507. [PMID: 33073556 DOI: 10.23736/s0031-0808.20.04163-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection encompasses a wide virologic and clinical spectrum with heterogeneous outcomes. The natural history of chronic HBV infection ranges from an inactive carrier state (hepatitis B e antigen-negative chronic infection) to progressive chronic hepatitis that may evolve in end-stage liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma. The issue becomes even more complicated when we consider the unique biology of the virus; the HBV covalently-closed-circular DNA, that acts as virus transcription template, is the key factor responsible of the persistence of the infection even after hepatitis B surface antigen loss. In the last decade, novel serological and immunological biomarkers associated to the core protein of HBV have been approached in different clinical conditions. Remarkable results have been obtained both in the setting of overt and occult HBV infection. Here, we reviewed the meaning and the potential clinical applications of the measurement of core antigen and antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Armandi
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Chiara Rosso
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Gian P Caviglia
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy -
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Pisaturo M, Onorato L, Russo A, Chiodini P, Coppola N. An estimation of the prevalence of occult HBV infection in Western Europe and in Northern America: A meta-analysis. J Viral Hepat 2020; 27:415-427. [PMID: 31834645 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Revised: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Data on the prevalence of occult HBV infection (OBI) in Western Europe and in Northern America are few; hence, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis. All studies included had to fulfil the following inclusion criteria: (a) they investigated the prevalence of OBI (HBV DNA in liver tissue in HBsAg-negative subjects), (b) were carried out in Western Europe and in Northern America; (c) were available as a full-text manuscript, (d) written in English and (e) published up to December 2018. The exclusion criteria were as follows: (a) meta-analyses, letters, reviews, meeting abstracts or editorial comments; (b) studies investigating HBsAg-positive patients; (c) those investigating OBI outside Western Europe and in Northern America; and (d) to avoid small sample bias in the random-effects model, those enrolling less than five subjects. Thirty-four studies met the inclusion criteria, allowing a meta-analysis on 2729 patients. The overall prevalence of OBI was 34% (95% CI = 26%-42%), 28% (CI 95%: 12%-48%) in 329 subjects without chronic liver disease and 35% (95% CI 26%-44%) in 2400 patients with chronic liver disease. The prevalence of OBI was 51% (95% CI 40%-62%) in the 823 anti-HBc-positive subjects and 19% (95% CI 10%-30%) in the 1,041 anti-HBc-negative subjects. Evaluating the data from 17 studies comparing anti-HBc-positive and negative subjects, the prevalence of OBI was higher in the 641 anti-HBc-positive subjects than in the 1041 anti-HBc-negative (prevalence ratio = 2.29; 95% CI = 1.61-3.26, P < .001). This meta-analysis showed that in HBsAg-negative subjects the prevalence of OBI was high and was associated with anti-HBc positivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariantonietta Pisaturo
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine - Infectious Diseases Unit, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Onorato
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine - Infectious Diseases Unit, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Russo
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine - Infectious Diseases Unit, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Chiodini
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine - Medical Statistics Unit, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Nicola Coppola
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine - Infectious Diseases Unit, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
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Coppola N, Portunato F, Buonomo AR, Staiano L, Scotto R, Pinchera B, De Pascalis S, Amoruso DC, Martini S, Pisaturo M, Coppola C, Gentile I. Interferon-free regimens improve kidney function in patients with chronic hepatitis C infection. J Nephrol 2019; 32:763-773. [PMID: 30977055 DOI: 10.1007/s40620-019-00608-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM The impact of directly acting antiviral agent (DAA) regimens on renal function is not well defined and quite controversial. We evaluated the effect of DAAs on kidney function and the factors associated with an improvement or worsening. PATIENTS AND METHODS The changes in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in a cohort of 403 patients treated with a DAA regimen were evaluated. RESULTS The overall sustained virological response (SVR12) rate was 98%. The median eGFR progressively increased throughout treatment from 84.54 ml/min/1.73 m2 (IQR 70.8-97.3) to 88.12 ml/min/1.73 m2. Conversely, rates of patients with a eGFR more than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 progressively increased from 83.1% at baseline to 87.8% at 12 weeks post-treatment (p < 0.05). Considering the change in eGFR according to the different factors, a significant improvement in eGFR was observed in the patients without diabetes (p < 0.001), in those with cirrhosis (p < 0.05), in those receiving a Sof-based regimen (p < 0.01) or not receiving RBV (p < 0.05), in those with a baseline eGFR less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 (p < 0.001) and in those with SVR (p < 0.05). An improvement in eGFR (defined as an increase in baseline eGFR of at least 10 ml/min/1.73 m2) was observed in 148 patients (36.7%). At multivariate analysis, age (aHR 0.96; 95 CI 0.93-0.99, p < 0.01) and a diagnosis of diabetes (aHR 0.02; 95 CI 0.20-0.87, p < 0.05) were inversely and independently associated with improvement in renal function, while the presence of Child-Pugh B cirrhosis at baseline was associated with an improvement in renal function (aHR 3.07; 95 CI 1.49-6.30, p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS DAAs correlate with an improvement in renal function, underlining the importance of hepatitis C virus eradication to achieve also an improvement in extra-hepatic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Coppola
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy. .,Department of Mental and Public Health, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Camapania, Via L. Armanni 5, 80133, Naples, Italy.
| | - Federica Portunato
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Antonio Riccardo Buonomo
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Staiano
- Unit of Hepatology and Interventional Ultrasonography, Department of Internal Medicine, OORR Area Stabiese, Plesso Nuovo Gragnano, Naples, Italy
| | - Riccardo Scotto
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Biagio Pinchera
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Stefania De Pascalis
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Daniela Caterina Amoruso
- Unit of Hepatology and Interventional Ultrasonography, Department of Internal Medicine, OORR Area Stabiese, Plesso Nuovo Gragnano, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Mariantonietta Pisaturo
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Carmine Coppola
- Unit of Hepatology and Interventional Ultrasonography, Department of Internal Medicine, OORR Area Stabiese, Plesso Nuovo Gragnano, Naples, Italy
| | - Ivan Gentile
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Lai A, Sagnelli C, Presti AL, Cella E, Angeletti S, Spoto S, Costantino S, Sagnelli E, Ciccozzi M. What is changed in HBV molecular epidemiology in Italy? J Med Virol 2018; 90:786-795. [PMID: 29315661 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.25027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection represents the most common cause of chronic liver diseases worldwide. Consequently, to the introduction of the universal HBV vaccination program, the prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen was markedly reduced and less than 1% of the population of Western Europe and North America is chronically infected. To date, despite great advances in therapeutics, HBV chronic infection is considered an incurable disease. Ten hepatitis B virus genotypes (A-J) and several subgenotypes have been identified so far, based on intergroup divergences of 8% and 4%, respectively, in the complete viral genome. HBV-D genotype has been found throughout the world, with highest prevalence in the Mediterranean area. In the present review, several articles concerning HBV epidemiology, and phylogeny in Italy have been analyzed, mainly focusing on the changes occurred in the last decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Lai
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences L. Sacco, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Caterina Sagnelli
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandra L Presti
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic, and Immune-Mediated Diseases, Epidemiology Unit, Reference Centre on Phylogeny, Molecular Epidemiology, and Microbial Evolution (FEMEM), National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Eleonora Cella
- Unit of Clinical Laboratory Science, University of Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Angeletti
- Unit of Clinical Laboratory Science, University of Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Spoto
- Internal Medicine Department, University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Evangelista Sagnelli
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Massimo Ciccozzi
- Unit of Clinical Laboratory Science, University of Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Coppola N, De Pascalis S, Messina V, Di Caprio G, Martini S, de Stefano G, Starace M, Stornaiuolo G, Stanzione M, Ascione T, Minichini C, Sangiovanni V, Zampino R, Calò F, Rinaldi L, Persico M, Federico A, Buonomo AR, Borgia G, Gaeta GB, Filippini P, Gentile I. ITPase activity modulates the severity of anaemia in HCV-related cirrhosis treated with ribavirin-containing interferon-free regimens. Antivir Ther 2017; 22:551-558. [PMID: 28165327 DOI: 10.3851/imp3134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To investigate the association between inosine triphosphatase (ITPase) activity and the degree of anaemia occurring during direct-acting antiviral (DAA)/ribavirin (RBV)-based therapy in patients with cirrhosis. METHODS In a multicentre, prospective study 227 patients with HCV-related cirrhosis treated with DAA and RBV were enrolled. All patients were screened for the rs1127354 and rs7270101 ITPA single nucleotide polymorphisms using direct sequencing. RESULTS 150 (66.1%) patients had normal (100%) ITPase activity, 48 (21.1%) had moderate (60%) activity and 29 (12.8%) minimal (≤30%) activity. The ITPase activity significantly influenced the haemoglobin concentration: at day 15 it was -1.248 (sd ±0.978) in the 150 patients with an ITPase activity of 100% and -0.616 (±0.862) in the 77 patients with an ITPase activity less than 100% (P<0.000), and at day 30 it was -1.941 ±1.218 versus -1.11 ±1.218 (P<0.000). The 63 patients with a severe (at least 3/dl) haemoglobin decline, compared to those without, more frequently had an ITPase activity of 100% (82.1% versus 62.8%; P=0.021), were older (mean age ±sd: 66.7 ±8.2 versus 61.4 ±9.7 years; P=0.004) and were treated with a higher ribavirin dose (13.7 ±2.1 versus 12.8 ±2.5 mg/kg/day; P=0.008). At multivariate logistic regression analysis, the ITPase activity of 100% (OR: 2.83; 95% CI: 1.12, 7.10), male gender (OR: 3.22; 95% CI: 1.35, 7.66), body mass index (OR: 1.17; 95% CI: 1.03, 1.34) and dose of ribavirin (OR: 1.22; 95% CI: 1.06, 1.47) were independent predictors of a severe decline in haemoglobin (P<0.0001). CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that the polymorphisms in the ITPA gene influence the severity of anaemia during the first month of a DAA/RBV-based treatment in HCV-related cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Coppola
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Stefania De Pascalis
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Di Caprio
- Infectious Diseases Unit, AO Caserta, Caserta, Italy
- HIV Unit, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Giorgio de Stefano
- IX Interventional Ultrasound Unit for Infectious Diseases, AORN dei Colli, P.O. Cotugno, Naples, Italy
| | - Mario Starace
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Gianfranca Stornaiuolo
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Stanzione
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Tiziana Ascione
- IX Interventional Ultrasound Unit for Infectious Diseases, AORN dei Colli, P.O. Cotugno, Naples, Italy
| | - Carmine Minichini
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Rosa Zampino
- Internal Medicine Unit, Department of Medical Science, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Federica Calò
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Luca Rinaldi
- Internal Medicine Unit, Department of Medical Science, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Giovanni Battista Gaeta
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Ivan Gentile
- Infectious Diseases Unit, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
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9
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Coppola N, Zampino R, Bellini G, Stanzione M, Capoluongo N, Marrone A, Macera M, Adinolfi LE, Giudice EMD, Gentile I, Sagnelli E, Rossi F. CB2-63 polymorphism and immune-mediated diseases associated with HCV chronic infection. Dig Liver Dis 2016; 48:1364-1369. [PMID: 27476469 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2016.07.005] [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] [Received: 02/06/2016] [Revised: 06/23/2016] [Accepted: 07/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To evaluate whether CB2 variants are associated with the presence of immune-mediated disorders (IMDs) in patients with chronic HCV infection. METHODS One hundred and sixty-eight anti-HCV/HCV-RNA-positive patients were enrolled, 81 with signs of IMDs and 87 without. In the IMDs group, 22 (27.2%) showed ANA positivity (titers ≥1:160), 3 (3.7%) SMA positivity (titers ≥1:160), 24 (29.6%) had cryoglobulinemia, 25 (30.9%) autoimmune thyroiditis, 4 (4.9%) psoriasis, 2 (2.5%) B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma and 1 (1.2%) autoimmune hemolytic anemia. All patients were screened for the CNR2 rs35761398 single nucleotide polymorphism using a TaqMan Assay. RESULTS Compared with the 87 patients without IMDs, the 81 with IMDs were more frequently females (65% vs. 45%, p=0.01), but no significant difference was found in the initial demographic, epidemiological, serological, biochemical or virological data. Instead, the prevalence of patients with the CB2-63 RR variant was significantly higher in the IMD than in the non-IMD group (49.4% vs. 24.1%, p=0.001). A logistic regression analysis including the CB2-63 receptor (RR vs. QR or QQ), age and sex identified the CB2-63 RR as the only independent predictor of IMDs (p=0.005). CONCLUSIONS The data suggest a significant, previously unknown, independent association between the CB2-63 RR variant and IMDs in anti-HCV-positive patients. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria of the Second University of Naples (n° 214/2012).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Coppola
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, Second University of Naples, Italy.
| | - Rosa Zampino
- Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Second University of Naples, Italy
| | - Giulia Bellini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Second University of Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Stanzione
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Nicolina Capoluongo
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, Second University of Naples, Italy
| | - Aldo Marrone
- Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Second University of Naples, Italy
| | - Margherita Macera
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, Second University of Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Ivan Gentile
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Evangelista Sagnelli
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, Second University of Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Rossi
- Department of Woman, Child and of General and Specialized Surgery, Second University of Naples, Italy
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Coppola N, Onorato L, Sagnelli C, Sagnelli E, Angelillo IF. Association between anti-HBc positivity and hepatocellular carcinoma in HBsAg-negative subjects with chronic liver disease: A meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2016; 95:e4311. [PMID: 27472708 PMCID: PMC5265845 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000004311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
A meta-analysis was performed to ascertain to what extent hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-negative/anti-hepatitis B core (anti-HBc)-positive subjects with chronic liver disease are at a higher risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) than the anti-HBc-negative.All studies included had to fulfill the following characteristics and inclusion criteria: they investigated the relationship between HBsAg-negative/anti-HBc-positive serology and the occurrence of HCC, whether a case-control or cohort study, they provided relative risk (RR) or odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), were available as a full text written in English, and were published and indexed up to April 2015.Twenty-six original studies met the inclusion criteria, allowing a meta-analysis on 44,553 patients. The risk of HCC among the 9986 anti-HBc-positive subjects was 67% higher than in the 34,567 anti-HBc-negative (95% CI = 1.44-1.95, P < 0.0001). The results were similar when groups of patients with a different stage of liver disease (patients with chronic liver disease, patients with cirrhosis), with different ethnicity (Asian and non-Asian) and etiology (HCV and non-HCV) were considered. The risk of HCC was significantly higher in the 651 anti-HBs/anti-HBc-positive patients (RR = 1.36; 95% CI = 1.17-1.58, P = 0.03) and in the 595 anti-HBs-negative/anti-HBc-positive subjects (RR = 2.15; 95% CI = 1.58-2.92, P < 0.0001) than in the 1242 anti-HBs/anti-HBc negative. However, the RR from 8 studies indicated that the risk of HCC was 35% lower among the anti-HBs/anti-HBc-positive subjects compared to the anti-HBs-negative/anti-HBc-positive (RR = 0.65; 95% CI = 0.52-0.8, P < 0.0001).This meta-analysis shows that in HBsAg-negative subjects with chronic liver disease, anti-HBc positivity is strongly associated with the presence of HCC, an association observed in all subgroups according to the stage of the disease, etiology, and ethnicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Coppola
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases
- Correspondence: Nicola Coppola, Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Second University of Naples, Via L. Armanni 5, 80131 Naples, Italy (e-mail: )
| | - Lorenzo Onorato
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases
| | - Caterina Sagnelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Surgery “F. Magrassi e A. Lanzara”
| | | | - Italo F. Angelillo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
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Sagnelli C, Macera M, Pisaturo M, Zampino R, Coppola M, Sagnelli E. Occult HBV infection in the oncohematological setting. Infection 2016; 44:575-82. [PMID: 27076347 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-016-0891-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Accepted: 03/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Occult hepatitis B infection (OBI), a virological condition characterized by a low release of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) from liver cells and low HBV-DNA levels in serum and/or liver tissue of HBsAg-negative subjects, may reactivate in oncohematological patients undergoing immunosuppression by aggressive chemotherapy or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The entity of OBI reactivation varies from an increase in HBV replication without liver damage to an active HBV replication followed by liver cell necrosis, frequently severe and in some cases life threatening. Because of a possible severe outcome associated with OBI reactivation (hepatic failure or death due to the discontinuation of chemotherapy), prophylaxis with anti-HBV nucleot(s)ide analogues is recommended in relation to the foreseeable degree of immunosuppression. MATERIALS AND METHODS This review article focuses on the clinical impact of OBI in the oncohematological setting and is addressed to all health care workers having in care oncohematological patients or involved in the treatment of HBV infection and OBI prophylaxis. CONCLUSION International guidelines have indicated lamivudine prophylaxis in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and when high-dose corticosteroids or anti-CD20 or anti-CD52 monoclonal antibodies are used. Entecavir or tenofovir should replace lamivudine for patients with advanced liver diseases for whom reactivation of OBI may be life threatening. When anti-CD20 or anti-CD52 sparing schedules or other non-aggressive chemotherapies are used, monitoring may be indicated, but very early treatment with highly effective antiviral drugs (entecavir or tenofovir) should be administered once a reactivation of OBI has occurred.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Sagnelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Surgery "F. Magrassi e A. Lanzara", Second University of Naples, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - M Macera
- Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria-Second University of Naples, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - M Pisaturo
- Division of Infectious Diseases, AORN Sant'Anna e San Sebastiano di Caserta, 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - R Zampino
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Geriatric Sciences, Second University of Naples, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - M Coppola
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, Second University of Naples, Via: L. Armanni 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - E Sagnelli
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, Second University of Naples, Via: L. Armanni 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
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Gentile I, Scotto R, Zappulo E, Buonomo AR, Pinchera B, Borgia G. Investigational direct-acting antivirals in hepatitis C treatment: the latest drugs in clinical development. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2016; 25:557-72. [DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2016.1161023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Gentile I, Zappulo E, Buonomo AR, Maraolo AE, Borgia G. Beclabuvir for the treatment of hepatitis C. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2015; 24:1111-21. [PMID: 26156630 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2015.1059820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION About 185,000,000 people worldwide are chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). Currently, the most successful HCV infection antiviral therapies reduce the chance of progression towards the advanced phases of the hepatopathy (liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma and death). Recently, however, several new direct-acting antivirals against HCV are available or are in an advanced phase of clinical development. AREAS COVERED This review focuses on beclabuvir , an allosteric non-nucleotide inhibitor of HCV polymerase. The article covers its pharmacokinetics, mechanism of action, in addition to its tolerability and safety profile as well as its resistance pattern. EXPERT OPINION The pharmacokinetic, efficacy and tolerability profile of beclabuvir, as well as its barrier to resistance, are very favorable. In particular, the combination of beclabuvir with asunaprevir and daclatasvir achieves very high rates of viral eradication (about 90%) in patients infected with HCV genotype 1, which is the most common genotype worldwide. Therefore, beclabuvir represents a powerful weapon against HCV infection and has to be considered an optimal option in tailored IFN-free combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Gentile
- University of Naples 'Federico II,' Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery , via S. Pansini 5, I-80131 Naples , Italy +39 0 81 7463178 ; +39 0 81 7463190 ;
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Gentile I, Buonomo AR, Zappulo E, Borgia G. Interferon-free therapies for chronic hepatitis C: toward a hepatitis C virus-free world? Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2015; 12:763-73. [PMID: 24918116 DOI: 10.1586/14787210.2014.929497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
About 2% of the world's population is estimated to be chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). These chronic carriers are at risk of developing liver cirrhosis and its complications. Successful treatment of HCV infection is associated with improved quality of life and increased survival. Antiviral approaches were formerly based on interferon and therefore all patients with a contraindication to interferon were excluded from treatment (e.g., patients with decompensated disease, severe impairment of other organs). Very recently, interferon-free combinations have become available for genotypes 2 and 3. This review focuses on the most recently reported data on the various interferon-free combinations used (namely, sofosbuvir-based combinations, the ABT-450/ombitasvir/dasabuvir/ribavirin combination, the daclatasvir/asunaprevir combination, and the MK-5172/MK-8742 combination). All these combinations yielded amazing results in terms of efficacy (90-100%), tolerability and safety. If the problem of the high cost is overcome, interferon-free therapies will lead to what has long been a chimera, namely, an HCV-free world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Gentile
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", via S. Pansini 5, I-80131 Naples, Italy
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Coppola N, Sagnelli C, Pisaturo M, Minichini C, Messina V, Alessio L, Starace M, Signoriello G, Gentile I, Filippini P, Sagnelli E. Clinical and virological characteristics associated with severe acute hepatitis B. Clin Microbiol Infect 2014; 20:O991-7. [PMID: 24930916 DOI: 10.1111/1469-0691.12720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2014] [Revised: 06/08/2014] [Accepted: 06/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
To identify early predictors of a severe or fulminant course in patients with acute viral hepatitis B (AVH-B). One hundred and thirty-eight patients with symptomatic acute hepatitis B observed from 1999 to 2012 were enrolled. For each patient, the demographics, risk factors for the acquisition of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, clinical, biochemical and virological data (HBV DNA, HBV DNA sequences) were recorded and analysed. The HBV mutants in the polymerase region were sought in 110 (87%) patients by direct sequencing, and the rtM204V/I mutations also by an allele-specific PCR. AVH-B was severe in 13 (9.4%) of the 138 patients enrolled, fulminant in 6 (4.3%) and with a normal clinical course in 119. The 19 patients with severe or fulminant AVH-B more frequently than the 119 with a normal course stated intravenous drug use (63.2% versus 36.1%, p 0.04) and were HBV-DNA negative (31.6% versus 11.8%, p 0.03) and anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV) positive (57.9% versus 19.3%, p 0.0008); the prevalences of different HBV genotypes and of the rtM204V/I mutant were similar in these three forms of AVH-B. A multivariate logistic regression analysis identified a pre-existing HCV chronic infection as the only factor independently associated with a severe or fulminant clinical course of AVH-B (OR 4.89, 95% CI 1.5-15.94, p 0.01). A pre-existing HCV chronic infection was identified as the only factor independently associated with a severe clinical presentation of acute hepatitis B, an association most probably due to the combination of the liver lesions caused by acute hepatitis B and the pre-existing histological abnormalities related to HCV chronic infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Coppola
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Naples, Italy
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Gentile I, Buonomo AR, Zappulo E, Coppola N, Borgia G. GS-9669: a novel non-nucleoside inhibitor of viral polymerase for the treatment of hepatitis C virus infection. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2014; 12:1179-86. [PMID: 25096404 DOI: 10.1586/14787210.2014.945432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is an RNA virus that chronically infects 2-3% of the world's population. About 25% of these chronic carriers evolve towards liver cirrhosis, a disease that is significantly associated with reduced survival and quality of life. Antiviral therapy can eradicate the infection - a process that is associated with a reduced disease progression rate. Several oral direct agents have been developed and tested for the treatment of HCV infection. This review focuses on the mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, safety and resistance of GS-9669, a non-nucleoside inhibitor of viral polymerase, active against HCV genotype 1. In combination with other oral antivirals, GS-9669 results: in very high rates of viral eradication (90-100%) in patients with HCV genotype 1 infection, with a good tolerability and safety profile. In conclusion, GS-9669 is a good candidate to be used in interferon-free combinations for the treatment of chronic HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Gentile
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples 'Federico II', via S. Pansini 5,I-80131 Naples, Italy
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Gentile I, Buonomo AR, Borgia G. Ombitasvir: a potent pan-genotypic inhibitor of NS5A for the treatment of hepatitis C virus infection. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2014; 12:1033-43. [PMID: 25074011 DOI: 10.1586/14787210.2014.940898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) chronically infects about 150,000,000 people worldwide and is a relevant cause of liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma and death. Antiviral treatment is rapidly moving from interferon (IFN)-based therapy to IFN-free approaches. This review focuses on the mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, tolerability, safety and resistance of ombitasvir, which is an inhibitor of the HCV nonstructural protein 5A. The pharmacokinetics of ombitasvir enables its once daily administration. In vivo, in combinations with other oral direct acting antivirals, ombitasvir achieves very high rates of sustained virological response (about 95%) in patients with HCV genotype 1 infection with a good tolerability. Resistance profiling revealed a low barrier to resistance when given as monotherapy. However, coadministration of ombitasvir and other antivirals enhances its barrier to resistance. In conclusion, ombitasvir is a good drug to be used in IFN-free combinations for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Gentile
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", via S. Pansini 5, I-80131 Naples, Italy
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Sagnelli E, Pisaturo M, Martini S, Sagnelli C, Filippini P, Coppola N. Advances in the treatment of hepatitis B virus/hepatitis C virus coinfection. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2014; 15:1337-49. [PMID: 24773464 DOI: 10.1517/14656566.2014.913571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV)/hepatitis C virus (HCV) coinfection are at a high risk of developing liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, and consequently, warrant effective treatment. AREAS COVERED Effective treatment should eradicate HCV infection and inhibit HBV replication but without serious adverse reactions. Careful evaluation of disease progression, predominance of one virus over another, comorbidities and concomitant hepatitis delta virus and/or HIV infection are essential for better therapy choices. In the case of HCV predominance, Peg-interferon plus ribavirin with or without a first-generation directly acting antiviral (DAA) should be the first choice, but future treatments will be DAA-based and interferon-free. In the case of HBV predominance, tenofovir or entecavir should be part of treatment. Patients should be closely monitored for early identification and treatment of HCV or HBV reactivation. EXPERT OPINION High potency and high genetic barrier nucleos(t)ide analogues to inhibit HBV replication have been used for years, with no urgency for new drugs. Several DAAs for interferon-free therapy for HCV eradication will be available in the near future. We hope that the high cost of these drugs will not be a limitation to their use in developing countries. Further investigation of HBV/HCV interaction is needed before and during the administration of new therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelista Sagnelli
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Second University of Naples , Naples , Italy +39 81 5560885 ; +39 81 5666207 ; ,
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Gentile I, Coppola N, Buonomo AR, Zappulo E, Borgia G. Investigational nucleoside and nucleotide polymerase inhibitors and their use in treating hepatitis C virus. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2014; 23:1211-23. [PMID: 24848437 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2014.921680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION About 150 million people worldwide are estimated to be chronically infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Successful antiviral treatment can stop the progression of the disease toward liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma and death. IFN has been the drug of choice and the backbone of all combinations in the past two decades. However, an IFN-free combination (sofosbuvir and ribavirin) has been recently approved for genotypes 2 and 3 patients with many other drugs in preclinical and clinical development. AREAS COVERED This review focuses on investigational nucleoside or nucleotide inhibitors of viral polymerase that are potential treatments of HCV. The article reviews drugs that are currently under investigational status. EXPERT OPINION Currently, mericitabine has the most robust data but its efficacy appears to be less than optimal. Other drugs such as ALS-2200 (and its diastereomer VX-135) and BMS-986094 are promising but the data in humans are too scanty to draw conclusions about their future role at this current point in time. Other promising molecules are LG-7501, ACH-3422 and EP-NI266, although no clinical studies have been performed thus far, so this must be rectified. Another drug of promise GS-6620 has displayed a high degree of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic variability, which makes further development unlikely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Gentile
- University of Naples "Federico II", Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery , via S. Pansini 5, I-80131 Naples , Italy +39 0 81 7463083 ; +39 0 81 7463190 ;
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Gentile I, Zappulo E, Buonomo AR, Borgia G. Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2014; 12:775-82. [PMID: 24840817 DOI: 10.1586/14787210.2014.920254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
About 240 million people worldwide are chronically infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV). Vertical transmission is the most important mechanism of infection persistence in endemic areas. About 150 million people worldwide are chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). Mother-to-child transmission of HCV, which occurs in 3-10% of cases, is the leading route of infection in childhood. This review focuses on strategies to reduce the vertical transmission of HBV and HCV. The at-birth prophylaxis of newborns of HBV-infected mothers with specific immunoglobulin and vaccine plus administration of antivirals (tenofovir or telbivudine) in the third trimester of pregnancy (in case of high maternal viral load) greatly reduces the risk of transmission. In contrast, currently there is no drug able to reduce the vertical transmission of HCV infection. We discuss the possibility of reducing mother-to-child HCV transmission using newly available antivirals or antivirals in the pipeline for the treatment of hepatitis C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Gentile
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", via S. Pansini 5, Naples, Italy
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Gentile I, Buonomo AR, Borgia F, Zappulo E, Castaldo G, Borgia G. MK-5172 : a second-generation protease inhibitor for the treatment of hepatitis C virus infection. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2014; 23:719-28. [PMID: 24666106 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2014.902049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Approximately 170 million people worldwide are chronic carriers of the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Twenty-five percent of them develop liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma during their life. Successful antiviral treatment dramatically reduces the risk of disease progression. HCV infection is treated with pegylated interferon and ribavirin; the addition of a protease inhibitor (boceprevir or telaprevir) can also be considered for patients with genotype 1. AREAS COVERED This review summarizes the data about the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, efficacy and safety of MK-5172 , a second-generation inhibitor of HCV NS3/4A protease. EXPERT OPINION The pharmacokinetic profile allows for once-a-day administration. Combined with pegylated interferon and ribavirin, MK-5172 results in a high rate of HCV eradication (in about 90% of cases) and a better outcome than boceprevir-based triple therapy. Also in interferon-free combinations, MK-5172-associated eradication rates are very high (89 - 100%). MK-5172 has a higher barrier to resistance than first-generation protease inhibitors and is active against most variants associated with resistance to first-generation protease inhibitors. Tolerability and safety profile are good. Although data are limited, MK-5172 appears to overcome most of the drawbacks of the first-generation protease inhibitors and is thus a very promising agent to be used in combination with other antivirals to eradicate HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Gentile
- University of Naples "Federico II", Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery (Ed. 18) , via S. Pansini 5, I-80131 Naples , Italy +39 0 81 7463178 ; +39 0 81 7463190 ;
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Gentile I, Buonomo AR, Borgia F, Castaldo G, Borgia G. Ledipasvir: a novel synthetic antiviral for the treatment of HCV infection. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2014; 23:561-71. [DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2014.892581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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