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El-Khoury R, Chemaitelly H, Alaama AS, Hermez JG, Nagelkerke N, Abu-Raddad LJ. Hepatitis C risk score as a tool to identify individuals with HCV infection: a demonstration and cross-sectional epidemiological study in Egypt. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e085506. [PMID: 38950989 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-085506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection poses a global health challenge. By the end of 2021, the WHO estimated that less than a quarter of global HCV infections had been diagnosed. There is a need for a public health tool that can facilitate the identification of people with HCV infection and link them to testing and treatment, and that can be customised for each country. METHODS We derived and validated a risk score to identify people with HCV in Egypt and demonstrated its utility. Using data from the 2008 and 2014 Egypt Demographic and Health Surveys, two risk scores were constructed through multivariable logistic regression analysis. A range of diagnostic metrics was then calculated to evaluate the performance of these scores. RESULTS The 2008 and 2014 risk scores exhibited similar dependencies on sex, age and type of place of residence. Both risk scores demonstrated high and similar areas under the curve of 0.77 (95% CI: 0.76 to 0.78) and 0.78 (95% CI: 0.77 to 0.80), respectively. For the 2008 risk score, sensitivity was 73.7% (95% CI: 71.5% to 75.9%), specificity was 68.5% (95% CI: 67.5% to 69.4%), positive predictive value (PPV) was 27.8% (95% CI: 26.4% to 29.2%) and negative predictive value (NPV) was 94.1% (95% CI: 93.5% to 94.6%). For the 2014 risk score, sensitivity was 64.0% (95% CI: 61.5% to 66.6%), specificity was 78.2% (95% CI: 77.5% to 78.9%), PPV was 22.2% (95% CI: 20.9% to 23.5%) and NPV was 95.7% (95% CI: 95.4% to 96.1%). Each score was validated by applying it to a different survey database than the one used to derive it. CONCLUSIONS Implementation of HCV risk scores is an effective strategy to identify carriers of HCV infection and to link them to testing and treatment at low cost to national programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rayane El-Khoury
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hiam Chemaitelly
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ahmed S Alaama
- Department of Communicable Diseases, World Health Organisation Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Joumana G Hermez
- Department of Communicable Diseases, World Health Organisation Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nico Nagelkerke
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Laith J Abu-Raddad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Member of QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
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Nasrallah GK, Chemaitelly H, Ismail AIA, Nizamuddin PB, Al-Sadeq DW, Shurrab FM, Amanullah FH, Al-Hamad TH, Mohammad KN, Alabdulmalek MA, Al Kahlout RA, Al-Shaar I, Elshaikh MA, Abouassali MN, Karimeh IW, Ali MM, Ayoub HH, Abdeen S, Abdelkarim A, Daraan F, Ismail AIHE, Mostafa N, Sahl M, Suliman J, Tayar E, Kasem HA, Agsalog MJA, Akkarathodiyil BK, Alkhalaf AA, Alakshar MMMH, Al-Qahtani AAAH, Al-Shedifat MHA, Ansari A, Ataalla AA, Chougule S, Gopinathan AKKV, Poolakundan FJ, Ranbhise SU, Saefan SMA, Thaivalappil MM, Thoyalil AS, Umar IM, Al Kuwari E, Coyle P, Jeremijenko A, Kaleeckal AH, Abdul Rahim HF, Yassine HM, Al Thani AA, Chaghoury O, Al Kuwari MG, Farag E, Bertollini R, Al Romaihi HE, Al Khal A, Al-Thani MH, Abu-Raddad LJ. Prevalence of hepatitis B and C viruses among migrant workers in Qatar. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11275. [PMID: 38760415 PMCID: PMC11101619 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61725-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Limited data exist on viral hepatitis among migrant populations. This study investigated the prevalence of current hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and lifetime hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among Qatar's migrant craft and manual workers (CMWs), constituting 60% of the country's population. Sera collected during a nationwide COVID-19 population-based cross-sectional survey on CMWs between July 26 and September 9, 2020, underwent testing for HBsAg and HCV antibodies. Reactive samples underwent confirmatory testing, and logistic regression analyses were employed to explore associations with HBV and HCV infections. Among 2528 specimens tested for HBV infection, 15 were reactive, with 8 subsequently confirmed positive. Three samples lacked sufficient sera for confirmatory testing but were included in the analysis through multiple imputations. Prevalence of current HBV infection was 0.4% (95% CI 0.2-0.7%). Educational attainment and occupation were significantly associated with current HBV infection. For HCV infection, out of 2607 specimens tested, 46 were reactive, and 23 were subsequently confirmed positive. Prevalence of lifetime HCV infection was 0.8% (95% CI 0.5-1.2%). Egyptians exhibited the highest prevalence at 6.5% (95% CI 3.1-13.1%), followed by Pakistanis at 3.1% (95% CI 1.1-8.0%). Nationality, geographic location, and occupation were significantly associated with lifetime HCV infection. HBV infection is relatively low among CMWs, while HCV infection falls within the intermediate range, both compared to global and regional levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gheyath K Nasrallah
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Hiam Chemaitelly
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, P.O. Box 24144, Doha, Qatar
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ahmed I A Ismail
- Laboratory Section, Medical Commission Department, Ministry of Public Health, Doha, Qatar
| | - Parveen B Nizamuddin
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Farah M Shurrab
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Fathima H Amanullah
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | | | | | | | - Reham A Al Kahlout
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ibrahim Al-Shaar
- Laboratory Section, Medical Commission Department, Ministry of Public Health, Doha, Qatar
| | - Manal A Elshaikh
- Laboratory Section, Medical Commission Department, Ministry of Public Health, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mazen N Abouassali
- Laboratory Section, Medical Commission Department, Ministry of Public Health, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ibrahim W Karimeh
- Laboratory Section, Medical Commission Department, Ministry of Public Health, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mutaz M Ali
- Laboratory Section, Medical Commission Department, Ministry of Public Health, Doha, Qatar
| | - Houssein H Ayoub
- Mathematics Program, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Mohamed Sahl
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Ministry of Public Health, Doha, Qatar
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Peter Coyle
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queens University, Belfast, UK
| | | | | | - Hanan F Abdul Rahim
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hadi M Yassine
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Asmaa A Al Thani
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Laith J Abu-Raddad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, P.O. Box 24144, Doha, Qatar.
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha, Qatar.
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar.
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Zou Y, Yue M, Ye X, Wang Y, Ma X, Zhang A, Xia X, Chen H, Yu R, Yang S, Huang P. Epidemiology of acute hepatitis C and hepatitis C virus-related cirrhosis in reproductive-age women, 1990-2019: An analysis of the Global Burden of Disease study. J Glob Health 2024; 14:04077. [PMID: 38638097 PMCID: PMC11026988 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.14.04077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The current study uniquely focuses on the global incidence and temporal trends of acute hepatitis C (AHC) and hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related cirrhosis among women of reproductive age (15-49 years) from 1990-2019. The risk of vertical transmission and adverse perinatal outcomes associated with HCV infection underscores the importance of prioritising these women in HCV prevention efforts. Methods Leveraging the Global Burden of Disease 2019 data, we calculated age-standardised incidence rates (ASIR) and assessed temporal trends via the average annual percent change from joinpoint regression. The age-period-cohort model was employed to understand further the effects of age, period, and birth cohort. Results Over the 30 years, global incidences of AHC and HCV-related cirrhosis in reproductive-age women increased by 46.45 and 72.74%, respectively. The ASIR of AHC was highest in low sociodemographic index regions but showed a declining trend. Conversely, the ASIR of HCV-related cirrhosis displayed unfavourable trends in low, low-middle, and high sociodemographic index regions. Special attention is necessary for sub-Saharan Africa, high-income North America, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia due to their high incidence rates or increasing trends of AHC and HCV-related cirrhosis. Notably, the age-period-cohort model suggests a recent resurgence in AHC and HCV-related cirrhosis risk. Conclusions The current study is the first to thoroughly evaluate the trends of AHC and HCV-related cirrhosis among reproductive-age women, shedding light on previously unexplored aspects of HCV epidemiology. Our findings identify critical areas where health care systems must adapt to the changing dynamics of HCV infection. The detailed stratification by region and nation further enables the development of localised prevention and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanzheng Zou
- Department of Epidemiology, National Vaccine Innovation Platform, Centre for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ming Yue
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiangyu Ye
- Department of Epidemiology, National Vaccine Innovation Platform, Centre for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yifan Wang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Jurong Hospital Affiliated to Jiangsu University, Jurong, China
| | - Xinyan Ma
- Department of Epidemiology, National Vaccine Innovation Platform, Centre for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Amei Zhang
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Xueshan Xia
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
- Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Hongbo Chen
- Department of Infectious Disease, Jurong Hospital Affiliated to Jiangsu University, Jurong, China
| | - Rongbin Yu
- Department of Epidemiology, National Vaccine Innovation Platform, Centre for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Sheng Yang
- Department of Biostatistics, National Vaccine Innovation Platform, Centre for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Peng Huang
- Department of Epidemiology, National Vaccine Innovation Platform, Centre for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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Zaid AB, Almady SK, Awad SM, Elabd MG, Saied SA, Saied AA, Elmalawany AM. Sofosbuvir (+) daclatasvir (+) ribavirin in Egyptian patients with hepatitis C virus: Therapeutic outcomes and the prognostic role of natural killer cells. Curr Res Transl Med 2024; 72:103443. [PMID: 38447269 DOI: 10.1016/j.retram.2024.103443] [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: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the prominent causes of chronic liver disease worldwide is the hepatitis C virus (HCV). HCV believed that innate immunity contributes to a sustained virological response (SVR) to the treatment of Sofosbuvir (SOF) (+) Daclatasvir (DCV) (+) Ribavirin (RBV). This study aimed to evaluate the impact of SOF (+) DCV (+) RBV therapy and persistent HCV infection on the subset of natural killer cells (NK) in HCV genotype four patients from Egypt. MATERIALS AND METHODS One hundred and ten patients with persistent HCV infections requiring SOF (+) DCV (+) RBV therapy were grouped, and a flow cytometry (FCM) study of the NK cell subset in peripheral blood was performed. The assessment was performed before and after three and/or six months of the cessation of viral suppression therapy when a patient had a long-term viral response (SVR). One hundred and ten volunteers from the National Liver Institute's (NLI) blood bank were selected as controls. RESULTS Patients with chronic HCV infection before therapy had considerably lower CD16+ and CD3- CD56+ cells than controls. Their levels increase during SOF (+) DCV (+) RBV therapy. In patients with SVR during treatment, CD16+ and CD3- CD56+ cells increased significantly compared to those who did not get SVR. Furthermore, CD56+ cells were significantly higher in patients with persistent infection before treatment than controls but diminished with the response to treatment. CONCLUSION NK cell activation following SOF (+) DCV (+) RBV therapy and polarization to cytotoxicity occurred early in HCV antiviral therapy and was elevated in the respondents. Our data illustrated that establishing an inhibitory cytotoxic NK profile is related to therapeutic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed B Zaid
- Department of Clinical Pathology, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shibin Elkom 32511, Egypt
| | - Shimaa K Almady
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shibin-Elkom 32511, Egypt
| | - Samah M Awad
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shibin Elkom 32511, Egypt
| | - Mona G Elabd
- Department of Clinical Pathology, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shibin Elkom 32511, Egypt
| | - Sara A Saied
- Department of Clinical Pathology, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shibin Elkom 32511, Egypt
| | | | - Alshimaa M Elmalawany
- Department of Clinical Pathology, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shibin Elkom 32511, Egypt.
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Scott K, Chappell E, Mostafa A, Volokha A, Najmi N, Ebeid F, Posokhova S, Sikandar R, Vasylyev M, Zulfiqar S, Kaminskyi V, Pett S, Malyuta R, Karpus R, Ayman Y, Ahmed RHM, Hamid S, El-Sayed MH, Gibb D, Judd A, Collins IJ. Acceptability of hepatitis C screening and treatment during pregnancy in pregnant women in Egypt, Pakistan, and Ukraine: A cross-sectional survey. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2024; 23:e0140. [PMID: 38567091 PMCID: PMC10986914 DOI: 10.1097/cld.0000000000000140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C (HCV) in women of childbearing age is a major public health concern with ∼15 million women aged 15-49 years living with HCV globally in 2019. Evidence suggests HCV in pregnancy is associated with adverse pregnancy and infant outcomes. This includes ∼6% risk of infants acquiring HCV vertically, and this is the leading cause of HCV in children globally. However, few countries offer routine universal antenatal HCV screening, and direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) are not approved for pregnant or breastfeeding women although small clinical trials are ongoing. We conducted a survey of pregnant and postpartum women in 3 high HCV burden lower-middle-income countries to assess the acceptability of universal antenatal HCV screening and DAA treatment in the scenario that DAAs are approved for use in pregnancy. Pregnant and postpartum women attending antenatal clinics in Egypt, Pakistan, and Ukraine were invited to complete a survey and provide demographic and clinical data on their HCV status. Among the 630 women included (n=210 per country), 73% were pregnant and 27% postpartum, 27% were ever HCV antibody or PCR positive. Overall, 586 (93%) reported acceptability of universal antenatal HCV screening and 544 (88%) would take DAAs in pregnancy (92%, 98%, and 73% in Egypt, Pakistan, and Ukraine, respectively). Most said they would take DAAs in pregnancy to prevent vertical acquisition and other risks for the baby, and a smaller proportion would take DAAs for maternal cure. Our findings suggest that should DAAs be approved for use in pregnancy, the uptake of both HCV screening and DAA treatment may be high in women living in lower-middle-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Scott
- MRC Clinical Trials Unit at University College London (UCL), Institute of Clinical Trials and Methodology, UCL, London, UK
| | - Elizabeth Chappell
- MRC Clinical Trials Unit at University College London (UCL), Institute of Clinical Trials and Methodology, UCL, London, UK
| | - Aya Mostafa
- Department of Community, Environmental, and Occupational Medicine, Ain Shams University Faculty of Medicine, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Alla Volokha
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Pediatric Immunology, Shupyk National Healthcare University of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Nida Najmi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Fatma Ebeid
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University and Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Ain Shams University Research Institute-Clinical Research Centre (MASRI-CRC), Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Raheel Sikandar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Jamshoro, Pakistan
| | | | - Saima Zulfiqar
- Sheikh Zayed Medical College and Hospital, Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan
| | - Viacheslav Kaminskyi
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Pediatric Immunology, Shupyk National Healthcare University of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
- Kyiv City Center of Reproductive and Perinatal Medicine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Sarah Pett
- MRC Clinical Trials Unit at University College London (UCL), Institute of Clinical Trials and Methodology, UCL, London, UK
- Institute for Global Health, UCL, London, UK
| | | | - Ruslana Karpus
- Kyiv City Center of Reproductive and Perinatal Medicine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Yomna Ayman
- Department of Community, Environmental, and Occupational Medicine, Ain Shams University Faculty of Medicine, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rania H. M. Ahmed
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Saeed Hamid
- Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Manal H. El-Sayed
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University and Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Ain Shams University Research Institute-Clinical Research Centre (MASRI-CRC), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Diana Gibb
- MRC Clinical Trials Unit at University College London (UCL), Institute of Clinical Trials and Methodology, UCL, London, UK
| | - Ali Judd
- MRC Clinical Trials Unit at University College London (UCL), Institute of Clinical Trials and Methodology, UCL, London, UK
| | - Intira Jeannie Collins
- MRC Clinical Trials Unit at University College London (UCL), Institute of Clinical Trials and Methodology, UCL, London, UK
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Safadi R. The liver in Greco-Arabic and Islamic medicine. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2024; 23:e0137. [PMID: 38576470 PMCID: PMC10994509 DOI: 10.1097/cld.0000000000000137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
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Abu-Dayyeh I, Chemaitelly H, Ghunaim M, Hasan T, Abdelnour A, Abu-Raddad LJ. Patterns and trends of hepatitis C virus infection in Jordan: an observational study. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1280427. [PMID: 38146470 PMCID: PMC10749371 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1280427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection levels in Jordan remain uncertain. No HCV national population-based survey has ever been conducted in the country. To meet the World Health Organization's target of reducing HCV incidence to ≤5 per 100,000 people per year by 2030, it is essential to determine the infection levels, identify affected individuals and populations, and provide appropriate treatment using direct-acting antivirals to individuals carrying the virus. Methods The study utilized the HCV testing database of 28,798 attendees of Biolab Diagnostic Laboratories in Jordan, covering the period from January 19, 2010, to May 26, 2023. Cross-sectional and cohort study analyses were conducted, including estimating HCV antibody (Ab) prevalence, examining associations with HCV Ab positivity, determining the HCV viremic rate, and estimating HCV incidence rate using a retrospective cohort study design. Results A total of 27,591 individuals, with a median age of 31.3 and 52.9% being females, underwent HCV Ab testing, while 1,450 individuals, with a median age of 42.2 and 32.8% being females, underwent HCV RNA PCR testing. The study sample HCV Ab prevalence was 4.0% (95% CI: 3.7-4.2%). After applying probability weights, the weighted HCV Ab prevalence was 5.8% (95% CI: 4.6-7.3%). Age was strongly associated with HCV Ab positivity, particularly among individuals aged 50 years or older, who had 10-fold higher odds of being HCV Ab positive compared to those aged 10-19 years. Males had 2.41-fold higher odds of testing positive for HCV Ab compared to females. The HCV viremic rate was 54.1% (95% CI: 43.0-65.0%). The cumulative incidence of HCV infection, after 5 years of follow-up, was estimated to be 0.41% (95% CI: 0.17-0.99%). The HCV incidence rate was calculated at 1.19 per 1,000 person-years (95% CI, 0.50-2.87). Conclusion Prevalence and incidence of HCV infection were substantial, estimated at ~5% and 1 per 1,000 person-years, respectively, and highlighting the presence of core groups actively engaged in the virus' acquisition and transmission. The high observed viremic rate indicates the need for expanding HCV treatment efforts to effectively control HCV transmission in Jordan. Utilizing quality diagnostic laboratories and innovative testing strategies is key to identifying infection carriers and facilitating linkage to treatment and care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Issa Abu-Dayyeh
- Department of Research and Development, Biolab Diagnostic Laboratories, Amman, Jordan
| | - Hiam Chemaitelly
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Doha, Qatar
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine–Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation – Education City, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Mohammad Ghunaim
- Department of Research and Development, Biolab Diagnostic Laboratories, Amman, Jordan
| | - Thaer Hasan
- Department of Research and Development, Biolab Diagnostic Laboratories, Amman, Jordan
| | - Amid Abdelnour
- Department of Research and Development, Biolab Diagnostic Laboratories, Amman, Jordan
| | - Laith J. Abu-Raddad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Doha, Qatar
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine–Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation – Education City, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
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8
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AlMukdad S, Harfouche M, Farooqui US, Aldos L, Abu-Raddad LJ. Epidemiology of herpes simplex virus type 1 in Canada: systematic review, meta-analyses, and meta-regressions. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1118249. [PMID: 37521995 PMCID: PMC10375289 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1118249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The objective of this study was to characterize herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) epidemiology in Canada. Methods HSV-1 publications as recent as December 6, 2021 were systematically reviewed, synthesized, and reported following PRISMA guidelines. Meta-analyses and meta-regressions were conducted. Results HSV-1 measures were extracted from 22 studies and included 32 overall seroprevalence measures (79 stratified), 2 overall proportions of HSV-1 detection in clinically diagnosed genital ulcer disease (2 stratified), and 8 overall proportions of HSV-1 detection in laboratory-confirmed genital herpes (27 stratified). Pooled mean seroprevalence was 19.1% [95% confidence interval (CI): 12.6-26.4%] among healthy children and 51.4% (95% CI: 47.3-55.5%) among healthy adults. Pooled mean seroprevalence among healthy general populations increased with age, with the lowest being 35.7% (95% CI: 29.1-42.6%) among individuals <20 years of age, and the highest being 70.0% (95% CI: 54.8-83.2) among individuals ≥40 years. Seroprevalence increased by 1.02-fold (95% CI: 1.01-1.04) per year. Pooled mean proportion of HSV-1 detection in genital ulcer disease was 30.8% (95% CI: 12.6-52.8%). Pooled mean proportion of HSV-1 detection in genital herpes was 37.4% (95% CI: 29.5-45.6%) and was highest in women and in young persons. Proportion of HSV-1 detection in genital herpes increased by 1.04-fold (95% CI: 1.00-1.08) per year. Conclusions HSV-1 epidemiology in Canada appears to be shifting toward less oral acquisition in childhood and more genital acquisition in adulthood, particularly among youth. Both HSV-1 seroprevalence and proportion of HSV-1 detection in genital herpes are increasing with time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sawsan AlMukdad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation – Education City, Doha, Qatar
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation – Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Manale Harfouche
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation – Education City, Doha, Qatar
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation – Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Uzma S. Farooqui
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation – Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Lana Aldos
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation – Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Laith J. Abu-Raddad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation – Education City, Doha, Qatar
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation – Education City, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Member of QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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Ayoub HH, Mahmud S, Chemaitelly H, Abu-Raddad LJ. Treatment as prevention for hepatitis C virus in the Middle East and North Africa: a modeling study. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1187786. [PMID: 37521971 PMCID: PMC10374017 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1187786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Direct-acting antivirals opened an opportunity for eliminating hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), the region most affected by HCV infection. Impact of HCV treatment as prevention (HCV-TasP) was investigated in 19 MENA countries. Methods An age-structured mathematical model was used to assess program impact using epidemiologic and programming measures. The model was fitted to a database of systematically gathered HCV antibody prevalence data. Two main scenarios were investigated for the treatment roll-out to achieve (i) 80% reduction in HCV incidence by 2030, and (ii) incidence rate < 1 per 100,000 person-years by 2030. Results In the target-80%-incidence-reduction scenario, number of treatments administrated by 2030 ranged from 2,610 in Lebanon to 180,416 in Sudan with a median of 53,079, and treatment coverage ranged between 40.2 and 78.4% with a median of 60.4%. By 2030, prevalence of chronic infection ranged between 0.0 and 0.3% with a median of 0.1%, and incidence rate, per 100,000 person-years, ranged between 0.9 and 16.3 with a median of 3.2. Program-attributed reduction in incidence rate ranged between 47.8 and 81.9% with a median of 68.5%, and number of averted infections ranged between 401 and 68,499 with a median of 8,703. Number of treatments needed to prevent one new infection ranged from 1.7 in Oman to 25.9 in Tunisia with a median of 6.5. In the target incidence rate < 1 per 100,000 person-years scenario, number of treatments administrated by 2030 ranged from 3,470 in Lebanon to 211,912 in Sudan with a median of 54,479, and treatment coverage ranged between 55.5 and 95.9% with a median of 87.5%. By 2030, prevalence of chronic infection was less than 0.1%, and incidence rate, per 100,000 person-years, reached less than 1. Program-attributed reduction in incidence rate ranged between 61.0 and 97.5% with a median of 90.7%, and number of averted infections ranged between 559 and 104,315 with a median of 12,158. Number of treatments needed to prevent one new infection ranged from 1.3 in Oman to 25.9 in Tunisia with a median of 5.5. Conclusion HCV-TasP is an effective and indispensable prevention intervention to control MENA's HCV epidemic and to achieve elimination by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Houssein H. Ayoub
- Mathematics Program, Department of Mathematics, Statistics, and Physics, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sarwat Mahmud
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Doha, Qatar
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine–Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation – Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hiam Chemaitelly
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Doha, Qatar
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine–Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation – Education City, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Laith J. Abu-Raddad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Doha, Qatar
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine–Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation – Education City, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
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Kim NJ, Vutien P, Cleveland E, Cravero A, Ioannou GN. Fibrosis Stage-specific Incidence of Hepatocellular Cancer After Hepatitis C Cure With Direct-acting Antivirals: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 21:1723-1738.e5. [PMID: 35525392 PMCID: PMC9636072 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2022.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatitis C virus (HCV) eradication with direct-acting antivirals reduces hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk. Pooled HCC incidence rates by cirrhosis status and fibrosis stage have not been estimated using meta-analysis. METHODS We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library from January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2020 to identify studies assessing HCC incidence or outcomes by cirrhosis status, in adults with HCV who achieved sustained virologic response (SVR) after direct-acting antivirals. Pooled estimates were obtained using random-effects modeling. Subgroup, sensitivity, and meta-regression analyses were performed to evaluate heterogeneity. RESULTS We included 31 studies involving 27,711 patients with cirrhosis (mean follow-up, 2.1 years) and 11 studies involving 32,123 patients without cirrhosis (mean follow-up, 2.6 years). HCC incidence was 2.99/100 person-years (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.52-3.54; I2 = 75%) in patients with cirrhosis, 0.47/100 person-years (95% CI, 0.32-0.70, I2 = 71%) in patients without cirrhosis, and 0.63/100 person-years (95% CI: 0.34-1.20, I2 = 0%) in stage 3 (F3) fibrosis. Among patients with cirrhosis, HCC incidence was highest in studies with <1 year of follow-up (6.17/100 person-years [95% CI, 3.73-10.19]) and progressively lower in studies with longer follow-up (1-2 years: 2.75/100 person-years [95% CI, 2.48-3.06]; 2-3 years: 2.90/100 person-years [95% CI, 1.90-4.44]; ≥3 years: 1.83/100 person-years [95% CI, 0.88-3.80]). CONCLUSION Pooled HCC incidence after SVR in patients with cirrhosis was very high (2.99/100 person-years) but may be declining as longer time accrues after SVR. In patients without cirrhosis, including F3 fibrosis, HCC incidence was lower than thresholds associated with cost-effective HCC screening. In patients with F3 fibrosis, the lack of between-study heterogeneity provides strong evidence that HCC screening may not be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole J Kim
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington.
| | - Philip Vutien
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Erin Cleveland
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Anne Cravero
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - George N Ioannou
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; Division of Gastroenterology, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington
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Azzam A, Khaled H, Elbohy OA, Mohamed SA, Mohamed SMH, Abdelkader AH, Ezzat AA, Elmowafy AOI, El-Emam OA, Awadalla M, Refaey N, Rizk SMA. Seroprevalence of hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg) in Egypt (2000-2022): a systematic review with meta-analysis. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:151. [PMID: 36899311 PMCID: PMC10007808 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08110-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B infection seriously threatens global public health, especially in developing nations. Despite several investigations on HBV incidence, the national pooled prevalence remains unknown, particularly in populations at-risk at whom interventions should be primarily aimed. METHODS A comprehensive literature search of the following databases: Medline [PubMed], Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. I-squared and Cochran's Q were used to measure the heterogeneity between the studies. Publications that matched the following were included: Primary studies published in Egypt from 2000 to 2022 reported HBV prevalence based on HBsAg. We excluded any studies that were not performed on Egyptians or that were performed on patients suspected of acute viral hepatitis or studies focusing on occult hepatitis or vaccination evaluation studies, or national surveys. RESULTS The systematic review included 68 eligible studies reporting a total of 82 incidences of HBV infection based on hepatitis B surface antigen with a total sample size of 862,037. The pooled national prevalence among studies was estimated to be 3.67% [95% CI; 3: 4.39]. Children under 20 with a history of HBV vaccination during infancy had the lowest prevalence of 0.69%. The pooled prevalence of HBV infection among pregnant women, blood donors, and healthcare workers was 2.95%, 1.8%, and 1.1%, respectively. While patients with hemolytic anemia and hemodialysis patients, patients with malignancies, HCC patients, and chronic liver disease patients had the highest prevalences at 6.34%, 25.5%, 18.6%, and 34%, respectively. Studies reporting HBV prevalence in urban settings compared to rural settings revealed a similar HBV prevalence of 2.43% and 2.15%, respectively. Studies comparing HBV prevalence in males and females revealed a higher prevalence among males (3.75%) than females (2.2%). CONCLUSION In Egypt, hepatitis B infection is a significant public health issue. The blocking of mother-to-infant hepatitis B transmission, the scaling up of the scope of the existing vaccination program, and implementing new strategies, including screen-and-treat, may reduce the prevalence of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Azzam
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Ain Helwan, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Heba Khaled
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ola A Elbohy
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
| | | | | | - Ahmed H Abdelkader
- Department of Microbiology Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | | | - Ola Ali El-Emam
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Mona Awadalla
- Department of Oral Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Neveen Refaey
- Department of Physical Therapy for Women's Health, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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12
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Epidemiology of herpes simplex virus type 1 and genital herpes in Australia and New Zealand: systematic review, meta-analyses and meta-regressions. Epidemiol Infect 2023; 151:e33. [PMID: 36750224 PMCID: PMC9990408 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268823000183] [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: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) infection is a lifelong infection that is acquired primarily orally and during childhood. We aimed to characterise HSV-1 epidemiology in Australia and New Zealand. HSV-1-related data as recent as 6 December 2021 were systematically reviewed, synthesised and reported, following PRISMA guidelines. Pooled mean seroprevalence and proportions of HSV-1 detection in genital ulcer disease (GUD) and in genital herpes were calculated using random-effects meta-analyses. Meta-regressions were also conducted. HSV-1 measures were retrieved from 21 eligible publications. Extracted HSV-1 measures included 13 overall seroprevalence measures (27 stratified) in Australia, four overall proportions of HSV-1 detection in clinically diagnosed GUD (four stratified) in Australia, and ten overall proportions of HSV-1 detection in laboratory-confirmed genital herpes (26 stratified) in Australia and New Zealand. Pooled mean seroprevalence among healthy adults in Australia was 84.8% (95% confidence interval (CI) 74.3-93.1%). Pooled mean seroprevalence was 70.2% (95% CI 47.4-88.7%) among individuals <35 years of age and 86.9% (95% CI 79.3-93.0%) among individuals ≥35 years. Seroprevalence increased by 1.05-fold (95% CI 1.01-1.10) per year. Pooled mean proportion of HSV-1 detection in GUD was 8.2% (95% CI 0.4-22.9%). Pooled mean proportion of HSV-1 detection in genital herpes was 30.5% (95% CI 23.3-38.3%), and was highest in young individuals. Proportion of HSV-1 detection in genital herpes increased by 1.04-fold (95% CI 1.00-1.08) per year. Included studies showed heterogeneity, but 30% of the heterogeneity in seroprevalence and 42% of the heterogeneity in proportion of HSV-1 detection in genital herpes were explained in terms of epidemiological factors. HSV-1 seroprevalence is higher in Australia than in other Western countries. HSV-1 epidemiology in Australia and New Zealand appears to be transitioning towards less oral acquisition in childhood, but more genital acquisition among youth.
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Nasreldein A, Walter S, Mohamed KO, Shehata GA, Ghali AA, Dahshan A, Faßbender K, Abd-Allah F. Pre- and in-hospital delays in the use of thrombolytic therapy for patients with acute ischemic stroke in rural and urban Egypt. Front Neurol 2023; 13:1070523. [PMID: 36742046 PMCID: PMC9895407 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.1070523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Reducing pre- and in-hospital delays plays an important role in increasing the rate of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) in patients with acute ischemic stroke. In Egypt, the IVT rate has increased steadily but is still far away from an ideal rate. Aim The study aimed to investigate the factors associated with pre- and in-hospital delays of IVT among patients with acute ischemic stroke coming from urban and rural communities. Methods This prospective, multicenter, observational cohort study was conducted from January 2018 to January 2019. Patients with acute ischemic stroke, who did not receive IVT, were included in the study. Patients were recruited from three large university stroke centers in Egypt, Assiut (south of Egypt), Tanta (north of Egypt), both serving urban and rural patients, and the University Hospital in Cairo (capital city), only serving an urban community. All participants underwent the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale and full neurological assessment, urgent laboratory investigations, and computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging to confirm the stroke diagnosis. The patients were subjected to a structured questionnaire that was designed to determine the parameters and time metrics for the pre- and in-hospital delays among patients from rural and urban regions. Results A total of 618 patients were included in the study, of which 364 patients (58.9%) lived in rural regions and 254 (41.1%) in urban regions. General demographic characteristics were similar between both groups. Approximately 73.3% of patients who arrived within the therapeutic time window were urban patients. The time from symptom onset till hospital arrival (onset to door time, ODT) was significantly longer among rural patients (738 ± 690 min) than urban patients (360 ± 342 min). Delayed onset to alarm time (OAT), initial misdiagnosis, and presentation to non-stroke-ready hospitals were the most common causes of pre-hospital delay and were significantly higher in rural patients. For patients arriving within the time window, the most common causes of in-hospital delays were prolonged laboratory investigations and imaging duration. Conclusion The limited availability of stroke-ready hospitals in rural Egypt leads to delays in stroke management, with subsequent treatment inequality of rural patients with acute stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Nasreldein
- Department of Neurology, Assiut University Hospitals, Assiut University, Asyut, Egypt
| | - Silke Walter
- Department of Neurology, Saarland University Hospital, Homburg, Germany
| | - Khaled O. Mohamed
- Department of Neurology, Assiut University Hospitals, Assiut University, Asyut, Egypt
| | - Ghaydaa Ahmed Shehata
- Department of Neurology, Assiut University Hospitals, Assiut University, Asyut, Egypt
| | - Azza A. Ghali
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Dahshan
- Department of Neurology, Cairo University Hospitals, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Klaus Faßbender
- Department of Neurology, Saarland University Hospital, Homburg, Germany
| | - Foad Abd-Allah
- Department of Neurology, Cairo University Hospitals, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt,*Correspondence: Foad Abd-Allah ✉
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Abdel-azim N, Alkilany LF, Hassan ZK, Gaber N. Investigating causes and risk factors of pre-chemotherapy viremia in acute lymphoblastic leukemia pediatric patients. Infection 2023; 51:203-211. [PMID: 35876981 PMCID: PMC9309998 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-022-01878-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leukemia patients are immune-compromised even before starting chemotherapy because the malignant cells invade the bone marrow and destroy WBC precursors. Leukemic patients are more susceptible to infection by a wide range of microorganisms. Viral infections and reactivations are common and may result in severe complications. The aim of this study is to investigate different causes of viremia in ALL pediatric patients as well as the clinical and the laboratory characteristics associated with viral infections. METHODS Qualitative real-time PCR was used to detect (polyoma BK, parvo B19 and herpes simplex virus) DNA in the blood of ALL patients and routine hospital records were used to provide the data of hepatitis B & C virus infection. RESULTS Polyoma BK was the most common detected virus (51.2%) followed by herpes simplex (30.2%). Viremia by single virus was found in 16 (37.2%) cases, while viremia by multiple viruses was found in 15 (34.8%) cases. The most frequent co-detected viruses were herpes simplex and polyoma BK (11.6%) followed by herpes simplex, parvo B19 and polyoma BK (9.3%). CONCLUSION There is a high frequency of viremia by single virus and viremia by multiple viruses at the time of diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia in pediatric patients admitted to South Egypt Cancer Institute (SECI) compared to studies in other regions. Polyoma BK is the most common detected virus and is mainly associated with lymphopenia. It was also significantly associated with herpes simplex viremia. HCV infection was associated with increased incidence of CNS leukemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nivin Abdel-azim
- Cancer Biology Department, South Egypt Cancer Institute, Assiut University, Assiut, 71516 Egypt
| | - Lamiaa Fadel Alkilany
- Cancer Biology Department, South Egypt Cancer Institute, Assiut University, Assiut, 71516 Egypt
| | - Zeinab Korany Hassan
- Virology and Immunology Unit, Cancer Biology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Noha Gaber
- Clinical Pathology Department, South Egypt Cancer Institute, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
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Elshal AM, Ghobrial FK, Laymon M, Elegeezy M, El-Nahas AR. Greenlight laser (XPS TM) 180W prostatectomy for treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia in patients with uncorrectable bleeding tendency. Arab J Urol 2022; 21:129-134. [PMID: 37234681 PMCID: PMC10208207 DOI: 10.1080/2090598x.2022.2156655] [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: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Safety of GreenLight™ laser prostatectomy (GL-LP) in patients with ongoing blood thinners has been proven. Yet, the possibility of drug manipulation makes it a less challenging situation compared to treating patients with uncorrectable bleeding tendency. Herein, we aim at evaluating the outcomes of XPS™-180 W GL-LP for treatment of BPH in patients who had uncorrectable bleeding tendency due to hepatic dysfunction. Methods A prospectively maintained database for all patients who underwent GL-LP for symptomatic BPH was reviewed. Patients were divided into two groups based on the degree of hepatic dysfunction using Fib-4 index: Group 1 (indexed patients; low-risk Fib-4) and Group 2 (non-indexed patients; intermediate-high-risk Fib-4) included those who had chronic liver disease associated with either thrombocytopenia and/or hypoprothrombinemia. Primary outcome was the difference in perioperative bleeding complications between the two groups. Other outcome measures included all perioperative findings and complications as well-functional outcome measures. Results The study included 140 patients (93 indexed patients and 47 non-indexed). There were no significant differences between both groups in operative time, laser time and energy, auxiliary procedures, catheter time, hospital stay, and hemoglobin deficit. The need for blood transfusion was significantly more in group 2 (two patients (4.3%) versus no patients in group 1, P = 0.045). Perioperative and late postoperative complications were comparable for both groups (P = 0.634 and 0.858, respectively). There were no significant differences in the postoperative uroflow, symptoms score, and PSA reduction between the two groups (P = 0.57, 0.87, and 0.05, respectively). Conclusions XPS™-180 W GL-LP is a safe and effective technique for treatment of BPH in patients with uncorrectable bleeding tendency due to hepatic dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed M. Elshal
- Urology Department, Urology and Nephrology Center, Mansoura University, Egypt
| | - Fady K. Ghobrial
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Damietta University, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud Laymon
- Urology Department, Urology and Nephrology Center, Mansoura University, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Elegeezy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hepatology Unit, Mansoura University, Al Mansurah, Egypt
| | - Ahmed R. El-Nahas
- Urology Department, Urology and Nephrology Center, Mansoura University, Egypt
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Hassuna NA, Gamil AN, Mahmoud MS, Mohamed WK, Khairy R. Circulating microRNAs as predictors of response to sofosbuvir + daclatasvir + ribavirin in in HCV genotype-4 Egyptian patients. BMC Gastroenterol 2022; 22:499. [PMID: 36463118 PMCID: PMC9719120 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-022-02485-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in various diseases, including HCV infection, the aim of the current study was to evaluate the potential use of serum miRNAs as biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis, and prediction of responses to direct acting antivirals (sofosbuvir + daclatasvir + ribavirin) in HCV-4 patients. METHODS The serum expression profiles of four liver-associated miRNAs (miRNA-122, 155, 196 and 29) were assessed in 160 HCV-4 patients and 50 healthy controls using real-time PCR prior to therapy. RESULTS miR-122 and miR-155 showed upregulation in HCV-4 patients compared to healthy controls while miR-196 and miR-29 showed downregulation in HCV-4 patients. ROC curve analyses revealed that the four-studied miRNAs could be valuable biomarkers for predicting response to DAAs with AUC 0.973 for miR-122, 0.878 for miR-155, 0.808 for miR-29 and 0.874 for miR-196 respectively. Univariate logistic regression analysis revealed that miR-196 level is positive predictor for SVR, whereas miR-122,155 levels are negative predictors of response. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that miR-196 is the most significant in predicting response to treatment (p value = 0.011). CONCLUSION To the best of our knowledge, the current study provided the first clinical evidence of the potential use of circulating miRNAs (miR; 122, 155, 196 and 29) as biomarkers of CHC in HCV-4 patients receiving the new DAA regimen (SOF/DAV + RIB), which is a strong motivator for further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noha Anwar Hassuna
- grid.411806.a0000 0000 8999 4945Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Aya Nabil Gamil
- grid.411806.a0000 0000 8999 4945Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud Shokry Mahmoud
- grid.411806.a0000 0000 8999 4945Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Wafaa Khairy Mohamed
- grid.411806.a0000 0000 8999 4945Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Rasha Khairy
- grid.411806.a0000 0000 8999 4945Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
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Huarez B, Hernández-Vásquez A, Azañedo D, Vargas-Fernández R, Comandé D, Agüero-Palacios Y. Prevalence of hepatitis C virus infection in patients with end-stage renal disease in Latin America and the Caribbean: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Arch Virol 2022; 167:2653-2664. [PMID: 36195804 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-022-05604-6] [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: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
AIM To estimate the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing hemodialysis in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). MATERIALS AND METHODS Observational studies published in Spanish, Portuguese, and English language by November 25, 2021, in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, SciELO, and LILACS were selected by two reviewers according to predefined eligibility criteria. Study quality was assessed using the US National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute tool for observational cohort and cross-sectional studies. A meta-analysis of proportions was performed using a random-effects model based on the DerSimonian and Laird method, using R. PROSPERO N°: CRD42018107403. RESULTS A total of 20 studies were included in the narrative synthesis (15 from Brazil, two from Cuba, two from Argentina, and one from Peru). Only 17 studies were included in the meta-analysis (13 from Brazil, two from Argentina, one from Cuba, and one from Peru). The overall prevalence of HCV in ESRD patients undergoing hemodialysis in LAC was 11.3% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 8.9% - 13.9%; I2: 99 %). In Brazil and Argentina, the prevalence was 6% and 26.1%, respectively. Prevalence after excluding poor-quality studies was 10.7%. CONCLUSION The prevalence of HCV in ESRD patients undergoing hemodialysis in LAC was 11.3%. The implementation of infection control measures in hemodialysis centers in LAC is required. It is also necessary to increase the number of studies on the subject in the ESRD population in most LAC countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bertha Huarez
- Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Peru
| | - Akram Hernández-Vásquez
- Centro de Excelencia en Investigaciones Económicas y Sociales en Salud, Vicerrectorado de Investigación, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Peru.
| | | | | | - Daniel Comandé
- Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy (IECS), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Characterizing trends and associations for hepatitis C virus antibody prevalence in the Middle East and North Africa: meta-regression analyses. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20637. [PMID: 36450850 PMCID: PMC9712517 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25086-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
This study characterized population-level trends and associations with hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody (Ab) prevalence in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Data source was the standardized and systematically gathered MENA HCV Epidemiology Synthesis Project Database. Random-effects univariable and multivariable meta-regressions were conducted. 2,621 HCV Ab prevalence measures on 49,824,108 individuals were analyzed. In the analysis including all populations, 71% of the variation in prevalence was explained, mostly by at-risk population type. Compared to the general population, prevalence was 23-fold higher among people who inject drugs, and 14-fold higher among high-risk clinical populations. In the analysis including only the general population, 67% of the variation in prevalence was explained, mostly by country/subregion. Compared to Afghanistan, prevalence was highest in Egypt and Pakistan. Prevalence in the general population was declining at a rate of 4% per year, but outside the general population, the decline was at only 1% per year. HCV Ab prevalence in MENA is declining rapidly, but this decline is largely occurring in the general population following introduction of blood and injection safety measures. The decline in populations at higher risk of exposure is slow and below the level needed to achieve HCV elimination by 2030.
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Abu El-Makarem MA, Kamel MF, Mohamed AA, Ali HA, Mohamed MR, Mohamed AEDM, El-Said AM, Ameen MG, Hassnine AA, Hassan HA. Down-regulation of hepatic expression of GHR/STAT5/IGF-1 signaling pathway fosters development and aggressiveness of HCV-related hepatocellular carcinoma: Crosstalk with Snail-1 and type 2 transforming growth factor-beta receptor. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0277266. [PMID: 36374927 PMCID: PMC9662744 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims So far, few clinical trials are available concerning the role of growth hormone receptor (GHR)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 (STAT5)/insulin like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) axis in hepatocarcinogenesis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the hepatic expression of GHR/STAT5/IGF-1 signaling pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients and to correlate the results with the clinico-pathological features and disease outcome. The interaction between this signaling pathway and some inducers of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), namely Snail-1 and type 2 transforming growth factor-beta receptor (TGFBR2) was studied too. Material and methods A total of 40 patients with HCV-associated HCC were included in this study. They were compared to 40 patients with HCV-related cirrhosis without HCC, and 20 healthy controls. The hepatic expression of GHR, STAT5, IGF-1, Snail-1 and TGFBR2 proteins were assessed by immunohistochemistry. Results Compared with cirrhotic patients without HCC and healthy controls, cirrhotic patients with HCC had significantly lower hepatic expression of GHR, STAT5, and IGF-1proteins. They also displayed significantly lower hepatic expression of TGFBR2, but higher expression of Snail-1 versus the non-HCC cirrhotic patients and controls. Serum levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) showed significant negative correlations with hepatic expression of GHR (r = -0.31; p = 0.029) and STAT5 (r = -0.29; p = 0.04). Hepatic expression of Snail-1 also showed negative correlations with GHR, STAT5, and IGF-1 expression (r = -0.55, p = 0.02; r = -0.472, p = 0.035, and r = -0.51, p = 0.009, respectively), whereas, hepatic expression of TGFBR2 was correlated positively with the expression of all these proteins (r = 0.47, p = 0.034; 0.49, p = 0.023, and r = 0.57, p<0.001, respectively). Moreover, we reported that decreased expression of GHR was significantly associated with serum AFP level>100 ng/ml (p = 0.048), increased tumor size (p = 0.02), vascular invasion (p = 0.002), and advanced pathological stage (p = 0.01). Similar significant associations were found between down-regulation of STAT5 expression and AFP level > 100 ng/ml (p = 0.006), vascular invasion (p = 0.009), and advanced tumor stage (p = 0.007). Also, attenuated expression of IGF-1 showed a significant association with vascular invasion (p < 0.001). Intriguingly, we detected that lower expression of GHR, STAT5 and IGF-1 were considered independent predictors for worse outcome in HCC. Conclusion Decreased expression of GHR/STAT5/IGF-1 signaling pathway may have a role in development, aggressiveness, and worse outcome of HCV-associated HCC irrespective of the liver functional status. Snail-1 and TGFBR2 as inducers of EMT may be key players. However, large prospective multicenter studies are needed to validate these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona A. Abu El-Makarem
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
- * E-mail:
| | - Mariana F. Kamel
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
- Department of Pathology, Minia Oncology Center, Minia, Egypt
| | - Ahmed A. Mohamed
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Hisham A. Ali
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud R. Mohamed
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | | | - Ahmed M. El-Said
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud G. Ameen
- Department of Pathology, South Egypt Cancer Institute, Assuit University, Assuit, Egypt
| | - Alshymaa A. Hassnine
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Gastroenterology, School of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Hatem A. Hassan
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
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Elrashdy F, Hagag S, Mohamed R, Abdel Alem S, Meshaal S, Cordie A, Elsharkawy A, Esmat G. Incidence of hepatitis C virus infection among people living with HIV: An Egyptian cohort study. South Afr J HIV Med 2022; 23:1442. [PMID: 36479422 PMCID: PMC9724027 DOI: 10.4102/sajhivmed.v23i1.1442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Egypt used to have one of the highest hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection prevalence rates worldwide, with an estimated HCV prevalence of around 4.5% to 6.7%. OBJECTIVES To determine the HCV infection incidence rate amid Egyptian patients living with HIV. METHOD A total of 460 HIV-positive patients were recruited in a retrospective cohort study from Imbaba Fever Hospital, Cairo, between January 2016 and March 2019. The patients had a negative baseline and at least one other HCV antibody test. Hepatitis C virus antibody testing was done by antibody sandwich third-generation enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The hepatitis C virus infection incidence rate among HIV-infected patients was calculated using the person-time incidence rate. RESULTS Two hundred and eighteen patients were finally included: 146 (31.7%) patients were excluded for having a positive baseline HCV Ab result and 96 patients were excluded for not having a follow-up HCV Ab test. Eighteen patients had HCV seroconversion (8.3%), achieving an incidence rate of 4.06 cases per 100 person-years (95% confidence interval: 3.87-4.24). Injection drug use (IDU) was the commonest risk factor among seroconverters, with an HCV incidence rate of 7.08 cases per 100 person-years. Injection drug use history was reported in 83.3% of the seroconverters and in only 47.2% of non-seroconverters; P = 0.005. CONCLUSION Egyptian HIV-infected patients show a high incidence rate of HCV infection especially among those who have a history of IDU. Accordingly, attention should be paid for prevention, screening and timely treatment of HCV in patients infected with HIV. WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS The demonstration of a high HCV infection incidence rate among HIV-infected patients and shows the need for screening and prevention in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma Elrashdy
- Department of Endemic Medicine and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Suzan Hagag
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rahma Mohamed
- Department of Endemic Medicine and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
- Kasr Al-Aini HIV and Viral Hepatitis Fighting Group, Cairo University Hospitals, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Shereen Abdel Alem
- Department of Endemic Medicine and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Safa Meshaal
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Cordie
- Department of Endemic Medicine and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
- Kasr Al-Aini HIV and Viral Hepatitis Fighting Group, Cairo University Hospitals, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Aisha Elsharkawy
- Department of Endemic Medicine and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Gamal Esmat
- Department of Endemic Medicine and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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21
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Ondigui JLN, Kenmoe S, Kengne-Ndé C, Ebogo-Belobo JT, Takuissu GR, Kenfack-Momo R, Mbaga DS, Tchatchouang S, Kenfack-Zanguim J, Fogang RL, Menkem EZ, Kame-Ngasse GI, Magoudjou-Pekam JN, Bowo-Ngandji A, Goumkwa NM, Esemu SN, Ndip L, Essama SHR, Torimiro J. Epidemiology of occult hepatitis B and C in Africa: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. J Infect Public Health 2022; 15:1436-1445. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2022.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Shousha HI, Abdelghafour R, Dabees H, AbdelRazek W, Said M. Three regimens for re-treatment failure of Sofosbuvir-based therapy for chronic hepatitis-C genotype-4: a cohort study. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2022; 64:e50. [PMID: 36074445 PMCID: PMC9448256 DOI: 10.1590/s1678-9946202264050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the high sustained virologic response (SVR) rates of direct-acting antiviral (DAAs) therapy, a small number of patients does not eradicate the virus, and these patients represent a challenge. This study aims to compare the outcomes of three second-line regimens for DAAs-experienced patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC). This prospective observational study was conducted at the Damanhur Viral Hepatitis Center from January 2017 to February 2020. We included patients with CHC who did not achieve SVR after the complete course of Sofosbuvir/Daclatasvir±Ribavirin (SOF/DAC±RBV). The primary endpoint was SVR-12 after re-treatment. This study included 360 patients (with a mean age of 51.53±11.38 years). Approximately 51.1% of the patients were males, and 65.5% had liver cirrhosis. All patients of group 1 (45 patients) received SOF/VEL/VOX over 12-weeks; SVR-12 was achieved in 44 patients (97.8%). Group 2 (28 patients) received SOF/DAC/RBV over 24-weeks; (one patient was lost during follow-ups and one patient discontinued treatment due to hepatic decompensation). SVR-12 was achieved in 25 patients (96.2%). Group 3 (287 patients) received SOF/Ombitasvir/Paritaprevir/Ritonavir/RBV) over 12-weeks. Eight patients were lost during follow-ups, and one patient discontinued treatment due to grade 4 adverse events. SVR-12 was achieved in 276 patients (99.3%). There was no difference between the groups regarding their age, gender distribution, baseline viral load or comorbidities. Adverse events (thrombocytopenia, anemia, hyperbilirubinaemia and prolonged INR) were significantly higher in group 3, while group 1 did not experience any. The three studied retreatment regimens can be used for DAAs treatment-experienced patients considering availability. The SOF/VEL/VOX combination had the least adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hend Ibrahim Shousha
- Cairo University, Faculty of Medicine, Endemic Medicine and Hepato-Gastroenterology Department, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Hosam Dabees
- National Medical Institute of Damanhour, Damanhour, Egypt
| | - Wael AbdelRazek
- Menofia University, National Liver Institute, Menofia, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Said
- Cairo University, Faculty of Medicine, Endemic Medicine and Hepato-Gastroenterology Department, Cairo, Egypt
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Interleukin 28B Polymorphism as a Predictor of Sustained Virological Response to Sofosbuvir-Based Therapy for Hepatitis C Virus Patients. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022; 7:tropicalmed7090230. [PMID: 36136642 PMCID: PMC9501239 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7090230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In various genome-wide correlation studies, interleukin (IL)28B gene polymorphism has been strongly correlated with both the therapeutic and spontaneous mediated clearance of hepatitis C virus (HCV). Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the genotype and allele frequency distributions of IL28B (rs12979860) in patients with chronic hepatitis C and assess the IL28B polymorphisms as predictors of sustained virological response to SOF-based therapy for HCV in Egyptian patients. This retrospective case-control study was conducted on 54 chronic HCV patients who completed treatment with SOF/DCV ± RBV for 12 weeks and responded to treatment with SVR12 (the responder group) as a control group, and 54 chronic HCV patients who completed treatment with SOF/DCV ± RBV for 12 weeks and did not respond to treatment and failed to achieve SVR12 (the non-responder group) as a case group. The CC genotype frequency of IL-28B (rs12979860) was greater in the responder group (51.9%). In contrast, the TT genotype frequency was higher in the non-responder group (48.1%) (p < 0.001), and the T allele significantly increased the risk of non-responses by 3.13 fold. Therefore IL-28B (rs12979860) SNP could be used as a genetic predictor of sustained virological response to SOF+DCV ± RBV-based HCV treatment in Egyptian patients.
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Bishai N, Nabawy WE, Fiki ME, Ibrahim M, Garem NE. Dual versus triple therapy in treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV). Ir J Med Sci 2022:10.1007/s11845-022-03120-9. [PMID: 36040651 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-022-03120-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The goal of HCV treatment is eradication of the virus to prevent complications associated with the disease and decrease all-cause mortality. This work compared sustained viral response (SVR) 12 weeks after end of treatment of chronic HCV patients with different treatment regimens, namely 4 regimens. Two hundred treatment naive chronic HCV patients were selected and divided into 4 equal groups as follows: group A received pegylated interferon (peg IFN) and ribavirin (RBV); group B received peg IFN, RBV, and sofosbuvir (SOF); group C received RBV and SOF; group D received SOF, daclatasvir (DCV), and RBV. RESULTS The sustained viral response after 12 months of treatment is 57.23%, 72.09%, 64.40%, and 96.42% of patients in groups A, B, C, and D, respectively. Hence, group D regimen showed the best results. CONCLUSION SOF and DCV and RBV have the highest SVR12 and least side effects compared to other treatment regimens. Although group D patients initially had poor pretreatment investigations relative to other groups, they proved to have the highest tolerability to this regimen. Such findings hold promising line of treatment and better prognosis even for chronic HCV patients with poor liver condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nevine Bishai
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University Hospitals, Kasr El Aini, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Walid El Nabawy
- Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Sueif University Hospitals, Beni Sueif, Egypt
| | - Mohamed El Fiki
- Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Sueif University Hospitals, Beni Sueif, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Ibrahim
- Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Sueif University Hospitals, Beni Sueif, Egypt
| | - Nouman El Garem
- Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University Hospitals, Kasr El Aini, Cairo, Egypt
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Kumalo A, Teklu T, Demisse T, Anjulo A. Undiagnosed Seroprevalence of Hepatitis B and C Virus Infections in the Community of Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia. HEPATIC MEDICINE : EVIDENCE AND RESEARCH 2022; 14:111-122. [PMID: 35971532 PMCID: PMC9375552 DOI: 10.2147/hmer.s374029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Background Despite Ethiopia’s hepatitis endemic status with intermediate to hyperendemic level, there is no national strategy for monitoring, preventing, and controlling viral hepatitis. In order to advise community-based intervention programs, studies on the magnitude, determinant factors, and understanding of indigenous social organization are important. Thus, this study examined undiagnosed seroprevalence and associated factors for HBV and HCV infections among community members in Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 320 individuals from randomly selected two woredas in the Wolaita Zone to determine the magnitude of HBV and HCV. Multistage sampling was used to select participants. Relevant clinical and sociodemographic data were collected using a structured questionnaire. One test strip technique was used for the screening of hepatitis B surface antigen and for antibodies against HCV. Both tests were confirmed by ELISA methods. The associated factors were assessed using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. P-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results The seroprevalence for HBV infection was 6.6% (95% CI: 4.22%, 8.69%) using a one-step HBsAg test strip and 5.6% (95% CI: 3.47%, 8.58%) using confirmatory test (ELISA). The two tests had a very good agreement (K = 0.918; SE = 0.047; P < 0.001). The overall seroprevalence for HCV infection was 1.9% (95% CI: 0.9%, 3.0%). All four of the one-step HCV test strip positives were also positive by ELISA. One (0.3%) of the participants was co-infected with HBV and HCV. Hospital admission (AOR = 0.22; 95% CI = 0.5–0.95) and needle stick (AOR = 0.15; 95% CI = 0.07–0.72) were independently associated with HBV infections. Conclusion According to the current study, in Wolaita community, there is endemic to HBV at a higher-intermediate level and to HCV at a low level. It would be imperative to increase awareness of transmission modes and prevention of infection, as well as vaccination, in order to reduce the burden of both HBV and HCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abera Kumalo
- School of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health Sciences and Medicine, Wolaita Sodo University, Sodo, Ethiopia
| | - Takele Teklu
- School of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health Sciences and Medicine, Wolaita Sodo University, Sodo, Ethiopia
| | - Tigistu Demisse
- School of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health Sciences and Medicine, Wolaita Sodo University, Sodo, Ethiopia
| | - Abebe Anjulo
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Wolaita Sodo Blood Bank, Sodo, Ethiopia
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Mbaga DS, Kenmoe S, Njiki Bikoï J, Takuissu GR, Amougou-Atsama M, Atenguena Okobalemba E, Ebogo-Belobo JT, Bowo-Ngandji A, Oyono MG, Magoudjou-Pekam JN, Kame-Ngasse GI, Nka AD, Feudjio AF, Zemnou-Tepap C, Adamou Velhima E, Ndzie Ondigui JL, Nayang-Mundo RA, Touangnou-Chamda SA, Kamtchueng Takeu Y, Taya-Fokou JB, Mbongue Mikangue CA, Kenfack-Momo R, Kengne-Ndé C, Sake CS, Esemu SN, Njouom R, Ndip L, Riwom Essama SH. Global prevalence of occult hepatitis C virus: A systematic review and meta-analysis. World J Methodol 2022; 12:179-190. [PMID: 35721241 PMCID: PMC9157636 DOI: 10.5662/wjm.v12.i3.179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Occult hepatitis C infection (OCI) is characterized by the presence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA in the liver, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and/or ultracentrifuged serum in the absence of detectable HCV-RNA in serum. OCI has been described in several categories of populations including hemodialysis patients, patients with a sustained virological response, immunocompromised individuals, patients with abnormal hepatic function, and apparently healthy subjects.
AIM To highlight the global prevalence of OCI.
METHODS We performed a systematic and comprehensive literature search in the following 4 electronic databases PubMed, EMBASE, Global Index Medicus, and Web of Science up to 6th May 2021 to retrieve relevant studies published in the field. Included studies were unrestricted population categories with known RNA status in serum, PBMC, liver tissue and/or ultracentrifuged serum. Data were extracted independently by each author and the Hoy et al tool was used to assess the quality of the included studies. We used the random-effect meta-analysis model to estimate the proportions of OCI and their 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). The Cochran's Q-test and the I2 test statistics were used to assess heterogeneity between studies. Funnel plot and Egger test were used to examine publication bias. R software version 4.1.0 was used for all analyses.
RESULTS The electronic search resulted in 3950 articles. We obtained 102 prevalence data from 85 included studies. The pooled prevalence of seronegative OCI was estimated to be 9.61% (95%CI: 6.84-12.73) with substantial heterogeneity [I² = 94.7% (95%CI: 93.8%-95.4%), P < 0.0001]. Seropositive OCI prevalence was estimated to be 13.39% (95%CI: 7.85-19.99) with substantial heterogeneity [I2 = 93.0% (90.8%-94.7%)]. Higher seronegative OCI prevalence was found in Southern Europe and Northern Africa, and in patients with abnormal liver function, hematological disorders, and kidney diseases. Higher seropositive OCI prevalence was found in Southern Europe, Northern America, and Northern Africa.
CONCLUSION In conclusion, in the present study, it appears that the burden of OCI is high and variable across the different regions and population categories. Further studies on OCI are needed to assess the transmissibility, clinical significance, long-term outcome, and need for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatien Serge Mbaga
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Yaounde I, Yaounde 00237, Cameroon
| | - Sebastien Kenmoe
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Buea, Buea 00237, Cameroon
- Department of Virology, Centre Pasteur of Cameroon, Yaounde 00237, Cameroon
| | - Jacky Njiki Bikoï
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Yaounde I, Yaounde 00237, Cameroon
| | - Guy Roussel Takuissu
- Centre of Research in Food, Food Security and Nutrition, Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants Studies, Yaounde 00237, Cameroon
| | - Marie Amougou-Atsama
- Centre de Recherche sur les Maladies Emergentes et Re-Emergentes, Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants Studies, Yaounde 00237, Cameroon
| | | | - Jean Thierry Ebogo-Belobo
- Medical Research Centre, Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants Studies, Yaounde 00237, Cameroon
| | - Arnol Bowo-Ngandji
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Yaounde I, Yaounde 00237, Cameroon
| | - Martin Gael Oyono
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Ecology, The University of Yaounde I, Yaounde 00237, Cameroon
| | | | - Ginette Irma Kame-Ngasse
- Medical Research Centre, Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants Studies, Yaounde 00237, Cameroon
| | - Alex Durand Nka
- Virology Laboratory, Chantal Biya International Reference Center for Research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management, Yaounde 00237, Cameroon
| | | | - Cromwel Zemnou-Tepap
- Department of Biochemistry, The University of Yaounde I, Yaounde 00237, Cameroon
| | - Elie Adamou Velhima
- Medical Research Centre, Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants Studies, Yaounde 00237, Cameroon
| | | | | | | | - Yrene Kamtchueng Takeu
- Medical Research Centre, Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants Studies, Yaounde 00237, Cameroon
| | | | | | - Raoul Kenfack-Momo
- Department of Biochemistry, The University of Yaounde I, Yaounde 00237, Cameroon
| | - Cyprien Kengne-Ndé
- Epidemiological Surveillance, Evaluation and Research Unit, National Aids Control Committee, Douala 00237, Cameroon
| | | | - Seraphine Nkie Esemu
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Buea, Buea 00237, Cameroon
| | - Richard Njouom
- Department of Virology, Centre Pasteur of Cameroon, Yaounde 00237, Cameroon
| | - Lucy Ndip
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Buea, Buea 00237, Cameroon
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Hatanaka T, Kakizaki S, Kaburagi T, Saito N, Nakano S, Hazama Y, Yoshida S, Hachisu Y, Tanaka Y, Yoshinaga T, Kashiwabara K, Naganuma A, Yamazaki Y, Uraoka T, Nagashima S, Takahashi M, Nishizawa T, Murata K, Okamoto H. Chronic Infection with Hepatitis C Virus Subtype 1g in a Japanese Patient Successfully Treated with Glecaprevir/Pibrentasvir. Intern Med 2022; 61:1537-1543. [PMID: 34897154 PMCID: PMC9177357 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.8673-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
A 66-year-old man, who had undergone plasma exchange 30 years previously in Egypt for the treatment of falciparum malaria, was referred to our hospital for treatment of chronic hepatitis C (HCV). An analysis of the 655-nucleotide 5'-untranslated region-core region sequence revealed infection with HCV subtype 1g. A phylogenetic analysis of the full-length HCV genome confirmed that the patient's HCV was subtype 1g, which was the first case identified in Japan. Although his HCV possessed several naturally occurring resistance-associated substitutions in the nonstructural (NS) 3 and NS5A regions, he was successfully treated by combination therapy with glecaprevir/pibrentasvir.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Hatanaka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gunma Saiseikai Maebashi Hospital, Japan
| | - Satoru Kakizaki
- Department of Clinical Research, National Hospital Organization Takasaki General Medical Center, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Takuya Kaburagi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gunma Saiseikai Maebashi Hospital, Japan
| | - Naoto Saito
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gunma Saiseikai Maebashi Hospital, Japan
| | - Sachi Nakano
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gunma Saiseikai Maebashi Hospital, Japan
| | - Yoichi Hazama
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gunma Saiseikai Maebashi Hospital, Japan
| | - Sachiko Yoshida
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gunma Saiseikai Maebashi Hospital, Japan
| | - Yoko Hachisu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gunma Saiseikai Maebashi Hospital, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Tanaka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gunma Saiseikai Maebashi Hospital, Japan
| | - Teruo Yoshinaga
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gunma Saiseikai Maebashi Hospital, Japan
| | | | - Atsushi Naganuma
- Department of Gastroenterology, National Hospital Organization Takasaki General Medical Center, Japan
| | - Yuichi Yamazaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Toshio Uraoka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Shigeo Nagashima
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Masaharu Takahashi
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Nishizawa
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Kazumoto Murata
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Okamoto
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Japan
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El-Attar EA, Helmy Elkaffas RM, Aglan SA, Naga IS, Nabil A, Abdallah HY. Genomics in Egypt: Current Status and Future Aspects. Front Genet 2022; 13:797465. [PMID: 35664315 PMCID: PMC9157251 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.797465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Egypt is the third most densely inhabited African country. Due to the economic burden and healthcare costs of overpopulation, genomic and genetic testing is a huge challenge. However, in the era of precision medicine, Egypt is taking a shift in approach from “one-size-fits all” to more personalized healthcare via advancing the practice of medical genetics and genomics across the country. This shift necessitates concrete knowledge of the Egyptian genome and related diseases to direct effective preventive, diagnostic and counseling services of prevalent genetic diseases in Egypt. Understanding disease molecular mechanisms will enhance the capacity for personalized interventions. From this perspective, we highlight research efforts and available services for rare genetic diseases, communicable diseases including the coronavirus 2019 disease (COVID19), and cancer. The current state of genetic services in Egypt including availability and access to genetic services is described. Drivers for applying genomics in Egypt are illustrated with a SWOT analysis of the current genetic/genomic services. Barriers to genetic service development in Egypt, whether economic, geographic, cultural or educational are discussed as well. The sensitive topic of communicating genomic results and its ethical considerations is also tackled. To understand disease pathogenesis, much can be gained through the advancement and integration of genomic technologies via clinical applications and research efforts in Egypt. Three main pillars of multidisciplinary collaboration for advancing genomics in Egypt are envisaged: resources, infrastructure and training. Finally, we highlight the recent national plan to establish a genome center that will aim to prepare a map of the Egyptian human genome to discover and accurately determine the genetic characteristics of various diseases. The Reference Genome Project for Egyptians and Ancient Egyptians will initialize a new genomics era in Egypt. We propose a multidisciplinary governance system in Egypt to support genomic medicine research efforts and integrate into the healthcare system whilst ensuring ethical conduct of data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman Ahmed El-Attar
- Chemical Pathology Department, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
- *Correspondence: Eman Ahmed El-Attar,
| | | | - Sarah Ahmed Aglan
- Chemical Pathology Department, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Iman S. Naga
- Department of Microbiology, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Amira Nabil
- Department of Human Genetics, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Hoda Y. Abdallah
- Medical Genetics Unit, Histology and Cell Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
- Center of Excellence in Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
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29
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Artenie A, Luhmann N, Lim AG, Fraser H, Ward Z, Stone J, MacGregor L, Walker JG, Trickey A, Marquez LK, Abu-Raddad LJ, Ayoub HH, Walsh N, Hickman M, Martin NK, Easterbrook P, Vickerman P. Methods and indicators to validate country reductions in incidence of hepatitis C virus infection to elimination levels set by WHO. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 7:353-366. [PMID: 35122713 PMCID: PMC10644895 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(21)00311-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
One of the main goals of the 2016 Global Health Sector Strategy on viral hepatitis is the elimination of hepatitis C virus (HCV) as a public health problem by 2030, defined as an 80% reduction in incidence and 65% reduction in mortality relative to 2015. Although monitoring HCV incidence is key to validating HCV elimination, use of the gold-standard method, which involves prospective HCV retesting of people at risk, can be prohibitively resource-intensive. Additionally, few countries collected quality data in 2015 to enable an 80% decrease by 2030 to be calculated. Here, we first review different methods of monitoring HCV incidence and discuss their resource implications and applicability to various populations. Second, using mathematical models developed for various global settings, we assess whether trends in HCV chronic prevalence or HCV antibody prevalence or scale-up levels for HCV testing, treatment, and preventative interventions can be used as reliable alternative indicators to validate the HCV incidence target. Third, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of an absolute HCV incidence target and suggest a suitable threshold. Finally, we propose three options that countries can use to validate the HCV incidence target, depending on the available surveillance infrastructure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adelina Artenie
- Department of Population Health Sciences and National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
| | - Niklas Luhmann
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Programmes, WHO, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Aaron G Lim
- Department of Population Health Sciences and National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Hannah Fraser
- Department of Population Health Sciences and National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Zoe Ward
- Department of Population Health Sciences and National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Jack Stone
- Department of Population Health Sciences and National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Louis MacGregor
- Department of Population Health Sciences and National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Josephine G Walker
- Department of Population Health Sciences and National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Adam Trickey
- Department of Population Health Sciences and National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Lara K Marquez
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | - Houssein H Ayoub
- Department of Mathematics, Statistics, and Physics, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Nick Walsh
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Programmes, WHO, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Matthew Hickman
- Department of Population Health Sciences and National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Natasha K Martin
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Philippa Easterbrook
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Programmes, WHO, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Department of Population Health Sciences and National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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Shoun AA, Abozahra R, Baraka K, Mehrez M, Abdelhamid SM. Identifying Different Mutation Sites Leading to Resistance to the Direct-Acting Antiviral (DAA) Sofosbuvir in Hepatitis C Virus Patients from Egypt. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10040679. [PMID: 35456731 PMCID: PMC9024585 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10040679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major global health challenge and a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Many direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) target essential macromolecules involved in the virus’ life cycle. Although such DAAs achieve great success in reducing the viral load in genotype 1 infections, other genotypes demonstrate different levels of response. This study focused on mutation sites associated with patients with genotype 4a infections that failed to respond to treatment with sofosbuvir. The genotyping of HCV samples from patients with virological failure, and responder patients, was conducted using Geno2Pheno webserver-based full NS5B sequences. We constructed 3D structural models for all the samples and used structural analysis to investigate the effect of amino acid substitution on the observed resistance to SOF-based treatment, and the docking of sofosbuvir into the active sites of the 10 models was performed. Finally, 10 molecular dynamic (MD) simulation experiments were conducted to compare the stability of the 3D models of the resistant samples against the stability of the 3D models of the responder samples. The results highlighted the presence of HCV subtype 4a in all ten samples; in addition, an amino acid (aa) substitution in the palm region may hinder HCV polymerase activity. In this study, we provide evidence that a mutation in the NS5B gene that induces resistance to sofosbuvir in patients with the S282T/C/R mutant virus is present in the Egyptian population. Overall, the docking and MD results support our findings and highlight the significant impact of the identified mutations on the resistance of HCV NS5B RNA-dependent RNA polymerase to direct-acting antivirals (DAAs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Aly Atef Shoun
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Sinai University, El Arish 45518, Egypt
- Correspondence:
| | - Rania Abozahra
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, Egypt; (R.A.); (K.B.); (S.M.A.)
| | - Kholoud Baraka
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, Egypt; (R.A.); (K.B.); (S.M.A.)
| | - Mai Mehrez
- National Hepatology and Tropical Medicine Research Institute (NHTMRI), Cairo 11511, Egypt;
| | - Sarah M. Abdelhamid
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, Egypt; (R.A.); (K.B.); (S.M.A.)
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31
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Ellatif SA, Abdel Razik ES, Abu-Serie MM, Mahfouz A, Shater AF, Saleh FM, Hassan MM, Alsanie WF, Altalhi A, Daigham GE, Mahfouz AY. Immunomodulatory Efficacy-Mediated Anti-HCV and Anti-HBV Potential of Kefir Grains; Unveiling the In Vitro Antibacterial, Antifungal, and Wound Healing Activities. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27062016. [PMID: 35335377 PMCID: PMC8951848 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27062016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The utilization of fermented foods with health-promoting properties is becoming more popular around the world. Consequently, kefir, a fermented milk beverage made from kefir grains, was shown in numerous studies to be a probiotic product providing significant health benefits. Herein, we assessed the antibacterial and antifungal potential of kefir against a variety of pathogenic bacteria and fungi. This study also showed the effectiveness of kefir in healing wounds in human gastric epithelial cells (GES-1) by (80.78%) compared with control (55.75%) within 48 h. The quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) results of kefir-treated HCV- or HBV- infected cells found that 200 µg/mL of kefir can eliminate 92.36% of HCV and 75.71% of HBV relative to the untreated infected cells, whereas 800 µg/mL (the highest concentration) completely eradicated HCV and HBV. Moreover, the estimated IC50 values of kefir, at which HCV and HBV were eradicated by 50%, were 63.84 ± 5.81 µg/mL and 224.02 ± 14.36 µg/mL, correspondingly. Kefir can significantly suppress the elevation of TNF-α and upregulate IL-10 and INF-γ in both treated HCV- and HBV-infected cells. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of kefir revealed the presence of numerous active metabolites which mainly contribute to the antimicrobial, antiviral, and immunomodulatory activities. This study demonstrated, for the first time, the anti-HBV efficacy of kefir while also illustrating the immunomodulatory impact in the treated HBV-infected cells. Accordingly, kefir represents a potent antiviral agent against both viral hepatitis C and B, as well as having antimicrobial and wound healing potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sawsan Abd Ellatif
- Bioprocess Development Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute (GEBRI), City for Scientific Research and Technology Applications, New Borg El-Arab, Alexandria 21934, Egypt;
| | - Elsayed S. Abdel Razik
- Plant Protection and Biomolecular Diagnosis Department, Arid Lands Cultivation Research Institute, City for Scientific Research and Technology Applications, New Borg El-Arab, Alexandria 21934, Egypt;
| | - Marwa M. Abu-Serie
- Medical Biotechnology Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute (GEBRI), City of Scientific Research and Technology Applications, New Borg El-Arab, Alexandria 21934, Egypt;
| | - Ahmed Mahfouz
- National Health Service Foundation Trust (NHS), Manchester University, Manchester M14 5RH, UK;
| | - Abdullah F. Shater
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Tabuk, Tabuk 71491, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Fayez M. Saleh
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tabuk, Tabuk 71491, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Mohamed M. Hassan
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia; (M.M.H.); (A.A.)
| | - Walaa F. Alsanie
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, The Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia;
- Centre of Biomedical Sciences Research (CBSR), Deanship of Scientific Research, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Altalhi
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia; (M.M.H.); (A.A.)
| | - Ghadir E. Daigham
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University (Girls Branch), Cairo 11651, Egypt;
| | - Amira Y. Mahfouz
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University (Girls Branch), Cairo 11651, Egypt;
- Correspondence:
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32
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Mahmud S, Chemaitelly H, Alaama AS, Hermez JG, Abu-Raddad L. Hepatitis C virus among blood donors and general population in Middle East and North Africa: Meta-analyses and meta-regressions. World J Meta-Anal 2022; 10:12-24. [DOI: 10.13105/wjma.v10.i1.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Region reported to have the highest prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) globally, HCV infection levels in the majority of MENA countries remain inadequately characterized. Blood donor data have been previously used as a proxy to assess levels and trends of HCV in the general population, however, it is unclear how comparable these populations are in MENA and whether blood donors provide an appropriate proxy.
AIM To delineate HCV epidemiology among blood donors and the general population in the MENA.
METHODS The data source was the systematically gathered MENA HCV Epidemiology Synthesis Project Database. Random-effects meta-analyses and meta-regressions were conducted. For comparison, analyses were conducted for Europe, utilizing the Hepatitis C Prevalence Database of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.
RESULTS One thousand two hundred and thirteen HCV antibody prevalence measures and 84 viremic rate measures were analyzed for MENA. Three hundred and seventy-seven antibody prevalence measures were analyzed for Europe. In MENA, pooled mean prevalence was 1.58% [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.48%–1.69%] among blood donors and 4.49% (95%CI: 4.10%–4.90%) in the general population. In Europe, pooled prevalence was 0.11% (95%CI: 0.10%–0.13%) among blood donors and 1.59% (95%CI: 1.25%–1.97%) in the general population. Prevalence in the general population was 1.72-fold (95%CI: 1.50–1.97) higher than that in blood donors in MENA, but it was 15.10-fold (95%CI: 11.48–19.86) higher in Europe. Prevalence was declining at a rate of 4% per year in both MENA and Europe [adjusted risk ratio: 0.96 (95%CI: 0.95–0.97) in MENA and 0.96 (95%CI: 0.92–0.99) in Europe]. Pooled mean viremic rate in MENA was 76.29% (95%CI: 67.64%–84.02%) among blood donors and 65.73% (95%CI: 61.03%–70.29%) in the general population.
CONCLUSION Blood donor data provide a useful proxy for HCV infection in the wider population in MENA, but not Europe, and could improve HCV burden estimations and assess progress toward HCV elimination by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarwat Mahmud
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha 24144, Qatar
| | - Hiam Chemaitelly
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha 24144, Qatar
| | - Ahmed S Alaama
- Department of Communicable Diseases, HIV/Hepatitis/ STIs Unit, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo 11371, Egypt
| | - Joumana G Hermez
- Department of Communicable Diseases, HIV/Hepatitis/ STIs Unit, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo 11371, Egypt
| | - Laith Abu-Raddad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha 24144, Qatar
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Kozlowski HN, Sindhwani S, Chan WCW. The Impact of Patient Characteristics on Diagnostic Test Performance. SMALL METHODS 2022; 6:e2101233. [PMID: 34994108 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202101233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Diagnostic tests can detect diseases, monitor responses, and inform treatments. They are vital to the effective management of disease. There have been significant advances in the engineering of new diagnostic technologies. These technologies may forgo sample extraction, simplify readout, or automate processing. Many researchers design these diagnostics based on test performance in a limited sample subset. This approach ignores the intertwined relationship between patient characteristics and diagnostic test results. Yet, it is important to understand the clinical decision-making workflow and how the disease manifests in order to optimally design diagnostic tests. This review article explores the three aspects of incorporating patient characteristics to maximize diagnostic performance. 1) Characterize patient populations using patient demographics, disease prevalence, and other unique features. 2) Use the characteristics of the patient population to establish design requirements. 3) Determine the best use case since each case has different performance and target requirements. In this framework the clinical, technological, and unmet needs of a patient population shape the diagnostics design requirements. Following these steps will lead to maximal diagnostic performance and poise new diagnostics for real world use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah N Kozlowski
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G9, Canada
- Terrence Donnelly Center for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Shrey Sindhwani
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3H2, Canada
| | - Warren C W Chan
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G9, Canada
- Terrence Donnelly Center for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E1, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3H6, Canada
- Materials Science and Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G9, Canada
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Kouroumalis E, Voumvouraki A. Hepatitis C virus: A critical approach to who really needs treatment. World J Hepatol 2022; 14:1-44. [PMID: 35126838 PMCID: PMC8790391 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v14.i1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction of effective drugs in the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has prompted the World Health Organization to declare a global eradication target by 2030. Propositions have been made to screen the general population and treat all HCV carriers irrespective of the disease status. A year ago the new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 virus appeared causing a worldwide pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 disease. Huge financial resources were redirected, and the pandemic became the first priority in every country. In this review, we examined the feasibility of the World Health Organization elimination program and the actual natural course of HCV infection. We also identified and analyzed certain comorbidity factors that may aggravate the progress of HCV and some marginalized subpopulations with characteristics favoring HCV dissemination. Alcohol consumption, HIV coinfection and the presence of components of metabolic syndrome including obesity, hyperuricemia and overt diabetes were comorbidities mostly responsible for increased liver-related morbidity and mortality of HCV. We also examined the significance of special subpopulations like people who inject drugs and males having sex with males. Finally, we proposed a different micro-elimination screening and treatment program that can be implemented in all countries irrespective of income. We suggest that screening and treatment of HCV carriers should be limited only in these particular groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Kouroumalis
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion 71500, Crete, Greece
| | - Argyro Voumvouraki
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Thessaloniki 54621, Greece
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35
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Mostafa TM, El-Azab GA, Badra GA, Abdelwahed AS, Elsayed AA. Effect of Candesartan and Ramipril on Liver Fibrosis in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Viral Infection: A Randomized Controlled Prospective Study. Curr Ther Res Clin Exp 2021; 95:100654. [PMID: 34925649 PMCID: PMC8649584 DOI: 10.1016/j.curtheres.2021.100654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed at evaluating the effects of candesartan and ramipril on liver fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C. Methods: This randomized controlled prospective study involved 64 patients with chronic hepatitis C and liver fibrosis. Participants were randomized into 3 groups: group I (control group; n = 21), members of which received traditional therapy only; group 2 (ramipril group; n = 21), members of which received traditional therapy plus 1.25 mg/d oral ramipril; and group 3 (candesartan group; n = 22), members of which received traditional therapy plus 8 mg/d oral candesartan. Patients were assessed at baseline and 6 months after intervention through measuring of liver stiffness (Fibro-Scan; Echosens, Paris, France); evaluation of the serum levels of hyaluronic acid and transforming growth factor beta-1; and calculation of indices of liver fibrosis, including fibrosis index based on the 4 factors and aspartate transaminase-to-platelet-ratio index. Data were analyzed using paired t test and 1-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's honest significant difference test for multiple pairwise comparisons. Results: At baseline, the 3 study groups were statistically similar in demographic and laboratory data. After treatment, the 3 study groups showed significant decrease in liver stiffness, serum levels of hyaluronic acid and transforming growth factor beta-1, and indices of liver fibrosis compared with baseline data (P < 0.001). Six months after treatment, patients taking ramipril and candesartan showed significant improvement in all measured parameters compared with the control group. Additionally, the candesartan-treated group showed significant decrease in liver stiffness, biomarkers, and indices of liver fibrosis compared with ramipril recipients. Conclusions: The administration of ramipril and candesartan in patients with chronic hepatitis C with hepatic fibrosis was well tolerated and effective in improving liver fibrosis. angiotensin II receptor 1 (AT1) antagonist candesartan maintained antifibrotic effects more effectively than ramipril and may represent a safe and effective therapeutic strategy for liver fibrosis in patients with chronic liver diseases. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03770936. (Curr Ther Res Clin Exp. 2022; 83:XXX-XXX) © 2022 Elsevier HS Journals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarek M Mostafa
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Gamal A El-Azab
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Gamal A Badra
- National Liver Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El-kom, Egypt
| | - Alyaa S Abdelwahed
- National Liver Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El-kom, Egypt
| | - Abeer A Elsayed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Sinai University, Al-Arish, Egypt
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36
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Teaima MH, Al-Nuseirat A, Abouhussein D, Badary OA, El-Nabarawi MA. Pharmaceutical policies and regulations of oral antiviral drugs for treatment of hepatitis C in Egypt-case study. J Pharm Policy Pract 2021; 14:106. [PMID: 34915937 PMCID: PMC8674831 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-021-00389-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are limited studies on the role of efficient regulatory mechanisms in facilitating greater access to Hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment. Evidence to support the importance of effective pharmaceutical policies and regulations in improving access to oral viral drugs towards the elimination of HCV is needed. This study aims to explore the adequacy of the implemented pharmaceutical policies and regulations in Egypt and their role to improve the availability and affordability of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) to achieve universal access to the treatment of HCV. METHODS The study adopts a qualitative methodology using desk review of regulatory and legislative information, literature review, and semi-structured interviews with key experts from the concerned governmental regulatory agencies, pharmaceutical industries, academic organizations, professional associations, civil society organizations, and clinicians who are working in researching treatments for hepatitis C. FINDINGS The common DAAs available in the market are Daclatasvir, Sofosbuvir, and Sofosbuvir-based direct-acting antiviral combinations. Fast-track medicines registration pathway for marketing authorization of DAAs is used to reduce market access time frames. The pricing policies are supplemented using price negotiation to set up affordable prices that led to a reasonable price for DAAs. Using Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPs) flexibility and local production of quality generics DAAs at lower prices. In addition, political will and collaboration between the government, civil society, and pharmaceutical companies improved patients' access to affordable DAAs and succeeding hepatitis C treatment in Egypt. CONCLUSIONS The study findings indicated that the implemented pharmaceutical policies and regulations have an immense role in enhancing access to medicines towards the elimination of hepatitis C in Egypt.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud H Teaima
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Adi Al-Nuseirat
- Access to Medicines and Health Technologies Unit, World Health Organization Office for the Eastern Mediterranean Region, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Dalia Abouhussein
- Pharmaceutics Department, Egyptian Drug Authority (EDA), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Osama A Badary
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A El-Nabarawi
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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Ezzat R, Eltabbakh M, El Kassas M. Unique situation of hepatocellular carcinoma in Egypt: A review of epidemiology and control measures. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2021; 13:1919-1938. [PMID: 35070033 PMCID: PMC8713321 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v13.i12.1919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most common primary malignancy worldwide, and the third most common cause of death among cancers worldwide. HCC occurs in several pre-existing conditions, including hepatitis C, hepatitis B virus, and non-alcoholic cirrhosis. Egypt used to be the country with the heaviest hepatitis C virus (HCV) burden. The relationship between HCV and HCC is an important research area. In Egypt, HCC is a significant public health problem. A possible cause for the increasing rates of detection of HCC in Egypt is the mass screening program that was carried by the government for detecting and treating HCV. A multidisciplinary approach is now widely applied to HCC management in health centers all over Egypt. Different treatment modalities are available in Egypt, with success rates comparable to global rates. The Egyptian health authorities have made the elimination of HCV from Egypt a special priority, and this approach should lead to a decrease in number of HCC cases in the near future. In this article we review the current situation of HCC in Egypt, including epidemiological aspects, relevant risk factors for HCC development, strategies, and efforts established by health authorities for the screening and prevention of both HCV and HCC in Egypt. We highlight the different modalities for HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem Ezzat
- Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut 71515, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Eltabbakh
- Tropical Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt
| | - Mohamed El Kassas
- Endemic Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, Cairo 11795, Cairo, Egypt
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Seifeldein GS, Hassan EA, Imam HM, Makboul R, Idriss NK, Gaber MA, Elkady RM. Quantitative MDCT and MRI assessment of hepatic steatosis in genotype 4 chronic hepatitis C patients with fibrosis. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGY AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s43055-021-00590-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Hepatic steatosis has been shown to worsen the course of liver disease in chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients, and it may reduce the efficacy of antiviral therapy and accelerate disease progression. In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to evaluate the role of multidetector computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the quantitative assessment and grading of hepatic steatosis to evaluate the association between hepatic steatosis and fibrosis in Egyptian genotype 4-CHC (G4-CHC) patients.
Results
Histopathological hepatic steatosis was found in 70.3% of 155 patients. No correlation was found between the CT ratio and pathological hepatic steatosis. Proton density fat fraction, T1-fat fraction, and fat percentage correlated with histological steatosis grading (r = 0.953, p < 0.001; r = 0.380, p = 0.027 and r = 0.384, p = 0.025, respectively). An agreement between steatosis grading by histology and 1H-MRS was found in 74.2% of patients. Compared to other MRI modalities, proton density fat fraction had the highest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), with 0.910, 0.931, and 0.975 for mild, moderate, and severe steatosis, respectively. The cutoff with the best ability to predict steatosis was > 4.95 for a proton density fat fraction (AUC = 0.958) with 95.8% sensitivity, 90% specificity, 78.5% positive predictive value, and 96.1% negative predictive value.
Conclusion
1H-MRS had good diagnostic performance in predicting hepatic steatosis in G4-CHC patients, and hence, it may offer a useful noninvasive quantitative modality for grading steatosis with clinical applicability, especially in those where a liver biopsy cannot be done.
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Eltabbakh M, Abdella HM, Askar S, Abuhashima MA, Shaker MK. Risk stratification of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma undergoing trans arterial chemoembolization using an alpha-fetoprotein model. EGYPTIAN LIVER JOURNAL 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s43066-021-00155-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer worldwide. There are multiple factors that could affect the malignancy and progression of HCC including tumor number, size, and macrovascular invasion. The alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) model was validated as a predictor for HCC recurrence post-liver transplantation, especially in France. However, the AFP model has not been studied on patients with HCC undergoing locoregional treatment. This study aimed to assess the prognostic value of the AFP model in patients with HCC undergoing trans arterial chemoembolization (TACE). This cohort study was conducted at Ain Shams University Hospitals, Cairo, Egypt. We included all newly diagnosed patients with HCC who were fit for TACE from January 2012 to January 2017. The AFP model was calculated for each patient before TACE. Subsequently, we classified them into low- and high-risk groups for TACE. The patients were followed up by AFP level and triphasic spiral CT performed 1 month after TACE to evaluate the response then at 4 months and 7 months post TACE to evaluate the local and distant recurrence.
Results
One hundred and thirty-two patients were included in the study. Complete response (CR) was achieved nonsignificantly at a higher percentage in the low-risk group in comparison with the high-risk group. One- and three-year recurrence-free survivals (RFS) were longer in the low-risk group in comparison with the high-risk group (50% and 24.1% vs. 29.1% and 16.2%, respectively). One- and three-year overall survival (OS) rates were 97% and 37.3% in the low-risk group vs. 98.1% and 11.6% in the high-risk group, respectively, without statistical significance. On classifying patients with AFP levels < 100 IU/mL into low- and high-risk patients, CR was achieved in a significantly higher percentage in the low-risk group in comparison with the high-risk group(P < 0.05). Recurrence occurred nonsignificantly in a less percentage in low than high-risk group. The median OS was significantly higher in the low-risk group in comparison with that in the high-risk group (18 vs. 16 months respectively) (P < 0.01).
Conclusion
The AFP model may have a prognostic value for patients with HCC undergoing TACE especially in patients with an AFP level < 100 IU/mL.
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Abou Zaghla HMA, El Sebai AA, Ahmed OA, Ahmed AF, Saab AAR. Growth differentiation factor 15: an emerging diagnostic biomarker of liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C patients. EGYPTIAN LIVER JOURNAL 2021; 11:6. [PMID: 34777864 PMCID: PMC7814860 DOI: 10.1186/s43066-021-00075-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chronic liver disease and cirrhosis are of the major health concern worldwide. Assessment of liver fibrosis is necessary to determine disease severity and prognosis at the time of presentation to determine suitable treatment. Liver biopsy is considered as standard golden method in diagnosis of liver fibrosis. However, this procedure is invasive; thus, multiple laboratory and radiologic tests are used to help determination of the degree of fibrosis. Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) is a pleiotropic cytokine involved in regulating inflammatory and apoptotic pathways. It is suggested that GDF-15 plays an important role in pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. In this study, we aimed to evaluate efficiency of growth differentiation factor 15 in diagnosing liver fibrosis. The study was a case-control study conducted on 55 chronic HCV patients recruited from hepatitis C virus clinic at Faculty of Medicine Ain Shams Research Institute (MASRI), and 30 healthy subjects age- and sex-matched. The patients were classified into three subgroups according to the degree of liver fibrosis assessed by fibro-scan. Serum concentration of GDF-15 was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Our results revealed a highly significant statistical rise in GDF-15 levels among studied chronic HCV patients with liver fibrosis when compared to the control group (p < 0.01). Furthermore, there was a significant positive correlation between the degree of fibrosis assessed by fibro-scan and GDF-15 serum levels. Levels of GDF-15 were significantly higher in patients with mild degree of fibrosis (patients’ subgroup І) when compared with the controls’ group (p < 0.01) suggesting the role of this marker in early detection of liver fibrosis. A statistically significant increase in serum GDF-15 levels was noticed among patients with advanced fibrosis “subgroup ІІІ” compared to those with mild fibrosis “subgroup І” (p < 0.05). The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of GDF-15 were 96.7%, 98.2%, respectively at a cut-off value of 150 ng/L for discrimination between patients’ and controls’ groups. Conclusion Growth differentiation factor 15 could be a potential marker of liver fibrosis especially in early detection as its levels were significantly higher in patients’ group with liver fibrosis than controls’ group and there was a significant positive correlation between the degree of liver fibrosis and GDF-15 serum levels.
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Freekh DA, Helmy MW, Said M, El-Khodary NM. The effect of direct acting antiviral agents on vascular endothelial function in Egyptian patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection. Saudi Pharm J 2021; 29:1120-1128. [PMID: 34703365 PMCID: PMC8523355 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2021.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is correlated with cerebrovascular and cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study aimed to assess the effect of treatment with DAAs on vascular endothelial function in cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic HCV infected patients without any CVD risk factors. Fifty chronic HCV genotype 4 infected patients, without cardiovascular risks who have been listed to receive sofosbuvir/daclatasvir with ribavirin combination as triple therapy for 3 months were prospectively recruited. Endothelial dysfunction markers as soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1) and Von willebrand factor (vWf) and inflammation marker (IL6) were estimated at baseline and 3 months post the end of therapy (SVR). All patients achieved SVR. VCAM1 level was significantly improved after HCV clearance with DAA in cirrhotic HCV patients (P = 0.002) compared to patients with mild liver fibrosis (P = 0.006). Levels of vWF also decreased significantly in cirrhosis and non-cirrhosis groups after SVR (P < 0.001 and P = 0.011, respectively). Systemic inflammatory marker (IL6) showed significant decrease in cirrhotic patients (P = 0.001). While, IL6 level did not change significantly in non-cirrhotic group (P = 0.061). Also at SVR, noninvasive liver fibrosis indices have been reduced significantly in the two groups (P < 0.001). HCV clearance by new DAA treatment improves the vascular endothelial dysfunction in Egyptian HCV infected patients with different levels of liver fibrosis and with no risk factors for endothelial dysfunction or CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalia A Freekh
- Clinical Pharmacy & Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damanhour University, Damanhour City, Egypt
| | - Maged W Helmy
- Professor of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Pharmacology & Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damanhour University, Damanhour City, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Said
- Professor of Endemic Medicine & Hepatology, Endemic Medicine & Hepatology Department, Cairo University, Cairo City, Egypt
| | - Noha M El-Khodary
- Lecturer of Clinical Pharmacy, Clinical Pharmacy & Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damanhour University, Damanhour City, Egypt
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Worldwide prevalence, genotype distribution and management of hepatitis C. Acta Gastroenterol Belg 2021; 84:637-656. [PMID: 34965046 DOI: 10.51821/84.4.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is one of the leading causes of chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma, resulting in major global public health concerns. The HCV infection is unevenly distributed worldwide, with variations in prevalence across and within countries. The studies on molecular epidemiology conducted in several countries provide an essential supplement for a comprehensive knowledge of HCV epidemiology, genotypes, and subtypes, along with providing information on the impact of current and earlier migratory flows. HCV is phylogenetically classified into 8 major genotypes and 57 subtypes. HCV genotype and subtype distribution differ according to geographic origin and transmission risk category. Unless people with HCV infection are detected and treated appropriately, the number of deaths due to the disease will continue to increase. In 2015, 1.75 million new viral infections were mostly due to unsafe healthcare procedures and drug use injections. In the same year, access to direct-acting antivirals was challenging and varied in developing and developed countries, affecting HCV cure rates based on their availability. The World Health Assembly, in 2016, approved a global strategy to achieve the elimination of the HCV public health threat by 2030 (by reducing new infections by 90% and deaths by 65%). Globally, countries are implementing policies and measures to eliminate HCV risk based on their distribution of genotypes and prevalence.
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Saleh EM, Gouda AE, Medhat AM, Ahmed HO, Shemis MA. Expression of HCV genotype-4 core antigen in prokaryotic E. coli system for diagnosis of HCV infection in Egypt. Protein Expr Purif 2021; 188:105965. [PMID: 34461217 DOI: 10.1016/j.pep.2021.105965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Egypt has a high prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection with 92.5% of genotype-4. AIM This study aimed to clone and express the core gene of HCV genotype-4 for using it to develop a highly sensitive, specific, and cost-effective diagnostic assay for detecting HCV infection. METHODS Using synthetic HCV genotype-4 core gene, pET15b as E. coli expression vector, and 1 mM lactose as inducer, the HCV core protein (MW 17 kDa) was expressed in the form of inclusion bodies (IBs) that was purified and solubilized using 8 M guanidinium HCl. The recombinant core protein was in vitro refolded by a rapid dilution method for further purification using weak cation exchange liquid chromatography. The immunogenicity of the purified protein was tested by ELISA using 129 serum samples. RESULTS The recombinant core protein was successfully expressed and purified. The results also showed that the in-house anti-HCV core assay is accurate, specific (~96.6%), and highly sensitive (~100%) in accordance with the commercial ELISA kit. CONCLUSION The sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility of the developed assay were high and promising to be used as a screening assay for detecting HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman M Saleh
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Abdullah E Gouda
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Amina M Medhat
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hend O Ahmed
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A Shemis
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
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Heiza M, Elmola K, Salama B. Unsafe Practices Associated with HCV Infection Among Adults: A Case Control Study. Int J Prev Med 2021; 12:60. [PMID: 34447502 PMCID: PMC8356959 DOI: 10.4103/ijpvm.ijpvm_94_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Infection with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) occurs globally. It is a substantial cause of chronic liver disease, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Egypt one the countries that has the highest hepatitis C burden in the world. The occurrence of HCV is directly related to the number of individuals who regularly share injection instruments and to the prevalence of inappropriate parenteral procedures in healthcare facilities. The study aimed to identify unhealthy community practices related to HCV infection. Methods: a nested case control study carried out in Damietta Governorate, Egypt. Where150 cases (positive for HCV) and 300 controls (negative for HCV) were randomly chosen. Results: Participant who shared shaving razor was 8.4times more likely to acquire HCV infection followed by IV fluid and needle or sharp stick (about six times more risk).while acupuncture, cupping, tattooing and traditional cauterization carried 1.6 to 3.6 timesmorerisk for HCV infection. Conclusions: Unhealthy community practices carried a higher risk for acquiring HCV infection. It is highly advocated to strengthen infection prevention and control program in health care facilities and health education programs to enhance community awareness and empowerment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Heiza
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Damietta Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Egypt
| | - Khaled Elmola
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Damietta Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Egypt
| | - Basem Salama
- Community Medicine, Damietta Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Egypt
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Elbahrawy A, Ibrahim MK, Eliwa A, Alboraie M, Madian A, Aly HH. Current situation of viral hepatitis in Egypt. Microbiol Immunol 2021; 65:352-372. [PMID: 33990999 DOI: 10.1111/1348-0421.12916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
An estimated 8-10 million people suffer from viral hepatitis in Egypt. Hepatitis A virus (HAV) and hepatitis E virus (HEV) are the major causes of viral hepatitis in Egypt as 50% or more of the Egyptian population are already exposed to HAV infection by the age of 15. In addition, over 60% of the Egyptian population test seropositive for anti-HEV in the first decade of life. HEV mainly causes self-limiting hepatitis; however, cases of fulminant hepatitis and liver failure were reported in Egypt. Hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and hepatitis D virus (HDV) are the main causes of chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma [HCC]) in Egypt. Globally, Egypt had the highest age-standardized death rate due to cirrhosis from 1990 to 2017. The prevalence rate of HBV (1.3%-1.5%) has declined after national infantile immunization. Coinfection of HBV patients with HDV is common in Egypt because HDV antibodies (IgG) vary in range from 8.3% to 43% among total HBV patients. After the conduction of multiple national programs to control HCV infection, a lower rate of HCV prevalence (4.6%) was recently reported. Data about the incidence of HCV after treatment with direct antiviral agents (DAAs) are lacking. An HCC incidence of 29/1000/year in cirrhotic patients after DAA treatment is reported. A higher rate of infiltrative pattern among HCC patients after DAA treatment is also recognized. Viral hepatitis is one of the major public health concerns in Egypt that needs more attention and funding from health policymakers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf Elbahrawy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Marwa K Ibrahim
- Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Division of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt.,Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ahmed Eliwa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Alboraie
- Department of Internal Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ali Madian
- Department of Internal Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Hussein Hassan Aly
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
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El Ayoubi LM, El Masri J, Machaalani M, El Hage S, Salameh P. Contribution of Arab world in transplant research: A PubMed-based bibliometric analysis. Transpl Immunol 2021; 68:101432. [PMID: 34186171 DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2021.101432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Arab world consists of 22 countries situated in the Middle East and North Africa, tied together by linguistic and cultural bonds. Over numerous past decades, this region tended to fall behind regarding biomedical research. Organ, tissue, and cell transplantation are life-saving and life-improving treatments for various diseases. Given the positive correlation between research activity and the improvement of the clinical frame of transplantation, this article intended to examine the regional activity of transplantation research between 2005 and 2019. METHODS Using the PubMed database, the number of transplantation-related articles published by each country, and regarding 26 different procedures, was assessed. The results were normalized with respect to each country's average population & average Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In addition, the co-occurrence of keywords and the co-authorships were analyzed by VOS Viewer. RESULTS Arab countries contributed to 1.25% of total transplantation publications. The number of transplantation publications had an inflection in 2013, with the last six years alone contributing to 65.27% of the overall regional transplantation-related publications. Kuwait and Lebanon ranked first in terms of publications per million persons, while Egypt ranked first in terms of publications per national GDP. Stem cell, bone & kidney transplantations had the highest number of Arab transplantation-related publications. Low levels of collaboration between authors and organizations were observed, besides a modest but increasing trend towards experimental work on animals and newer therapies. CONCLUSION Despite the increase in transplant-related research activity in recent years, the Arab world still lags behind in this field compared to the worldwide contribution.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jad El Masri
- Faculty of Medicine, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon; Faculty of Medicine, Neuroscience Research Center, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | - Said El Hage
- Faculty of Medicine, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon; Faculty of Medicine, Neuroscience Research Center, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon; INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, Epidémiologie Clinique et Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Pascale Salameh
- Faculty of Medicine, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon; Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon; INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, Epidémiologie Clinique et Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon; University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia, Cyprus
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Abdel Monem MS, Farid SF, Abbassi MM, Youssry I, Andraues NG, Hassany M, Selim YMM, El-Sayed MH. The potential hepatoprotective effect of metformin in hepatitis C virus-infected adolescent patients with beta thalassemia major: Randomised clinical trial. Int J Clin Pract 2021; 75:e14104. [PMID: 33617679 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.14104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Iron overload-induced oxidative stress and transfusion-acquired hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection are the main reasons of liver damage in beta thalassemia major (β-TM). OBJECTIVES Based on metformin's hepatic benefits in nondiabetic populations, the study aims to investigate the safety and the potential hepatoprotective effect of metformin in HCV-infected β-TM adolescent patients. METHODS This was a prospective, randomised, parallel, controlled, open-label study in which 60 HCV-infected β-TM adolescent patients aged 11 to 18 years and receiving no antiviral therapy were selected and randomly assigned to treatment or control group in 1:1 allocation. Both groups were receiving β-TM standard-of-care regimen, whereas metformin (500 mg, twice daily) was added to the treatment group's regimen only. Patients were prospectively followed up for 6 months with assessment of liver biochemical profile, oxidative stress markers, liver fibrosis, clinical symptom improvement and metformin's adverse effects. RESULTS Aspartate aminotransferase serum level decreased significantly over time in the treatment group only (P = .013). However, improvement was not clinically significant and did not attain normality. Change in total antioxidant capacity and malondialdehyde serum levels indicated significantly improved oxidative stress status in the treatment group versus significant deterioration in the control group (P < .001). Fibrosis grade improvement was observed in 14 patients in the treatment group versus one improved case in the control group. CONCLUSION The use of metformin in HCV-infected β-TM adolescent patients as an adjuvant antioxidant hepatoprotective agent is promising and can improve liver damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona S Abdel Monem
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Samar F Farid
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Maggie M Abbassi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ilham Youssry
- Pediatric Hematology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nevine G Andraues
- Department of Pediatrics and Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Hassany
- National Hepatology and Tropical Medicine Research Institute, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Yasmeen M M Selim
- Pediatric Hematology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Manal H El-Sayed
- Department of Pediatrics and Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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Naga IS, Kamel AAF, Ooda SA, Elbab HMF, El-Sharkawy RM. Effect of directly acting anti-viral agents on immunological imprints in chronic HCV-4a patients: interleukin-10 and vascular endothelial growth factor genes expression level. EGYPTIAN LIVER JOURNAL 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s43066-021-00108-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Hepatitis C virus infection is a global health challenge with Egypt being one of the highly affected countries. IL-10 has been suggested as a suitable marker to assess necroinflammation and to monitor the progression of liver damage. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a potent angiogenic factor playing a central role in many physiological as well as pathological processes. Several factors can be predictive of the response to treatment and achievement of SVR; some of which are host-related, and others are virus-related. The gene expression of IL-10 and VEGF have multiple effects for treatment response. The aim of the present work was to study the effect of treatment with directly acting agents (DAA) on the expression of VEGF and IL-10 genes in chronic hepatitis C virus-infected Egyptian genotype-4a patients. Twenty-five HCV subjects where evaluated for IL-10 and VEGF gene expression before and after treatment with DAA.
Results
IL-10 expression was downregulated in 92% of the cases. VEGF expression was heterogeneous showing spreading of values along a wide range with 64% of the cases being downregulated.
Conclusion
DAAs do not completely reverse the immunological imprints established upon chronic HCV infection.
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Frazzoni L, Sikandar U, Mazzella G, Fuccio L, Bazzoli F, Brillanti S, Azzaroli F. A multimedia multilanguage web-based platform can assess and increase the awareness on HCV infection of Pakistani people living in Italy. J Viral Hepat 2021; 28:764-770. [PMID: 33586276 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Global eradication of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is hindered by infection persistence among high-prevalence ethnic groups with insufficient access to care. Educational interventions to raise awareness on HCV have led to identification of submerged HCV cases. Our aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of a web-based platform to assess and raise the awareness of HCV among Pakistani people living in northern Italy. We created a website in Italian and Urdu language (https://survey-hcv6.webnode.it), and shared it to Pakistani people in Emilia-Romagna through Facebook groups. Participants had to fill a 15-item questionnaire on HCV infection, then watch a video on HCV, and respond to the questionnaire again. McNemar's chi-square and negative binomial multivariable regression analysis yielding incidence rate ratio (IRR) were applied. 339 subjects from 600 (57%) participated and filled the baseline questionnaire. The knowledge on HCV infection was scanty. For instance, 32% were not aware of HCV, 42% only knew that HCV infection may be long term, and only 14% knew the access to DAA treatment is provided by the Health Service. Independent predictors of worse knowledge on HCV were male gender (IRR 1.19), low instruction level (IRR 1.26), Urdu language preference (IRR 1.22), past use of intravenous drugs (1.2) and no previous HCV testing (IRR 1.36). The educational video significantly improved the knowledge on HCV among 67 subjects who refilled the questionnaire, as 97% were later aware of HCV, 99% of the long-term duration of HCV infection and 93% of the access to DAAs provided by Italian Health Service. We found a modest level of knowledge on HCV infection among Pakistani people in northern Italy, identifying predictors of worse awareness. We provided a multimedia platform which significantly improved the knowledge on HCV infection. Consequently, this approach might translate into an improved linkage to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Frazzoni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Gastroenterology Unit, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Usama Sikandar
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Gastroenterology Unit, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Mazzella
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Gastroenterology Unit, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Fuccio
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Gastroenterology Unit, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Franco Bazzoli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Gastroenterology Unit, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Azzaroli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Gastroenterology Unit, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Huang Y, Pan H, Gao Q, Lv P, Xu X, Zhao Z. The role of a two-assay serological testing strategy for anti-HCV screening in low-prevalence populations. Sci Rep 2021; 11:8689. [PMID: 33888806 PMCID: PMC8062551 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-88138-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
HCV screening depends mainly on a one-assay anti-HCV testing strategy that is subject to an increased false-positive rate in low-prevalence populations. In this study, a two-assay anti-HCV testing strategy was applied to screen HCV infection in two groups, labelled group one (76,442 people) and group two (18,415 people), using Elecsys electrochemiluminescence (ECL) and an Architect chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA), respectively. Each anti-HCV-reactive serum was retested with the other assay. A recombinant immunoblot assay (RIBA) and HCV RNA testing were performed to confirm anti-HCV positivity or active HCV infection. In group one, 516 specimens were reactive in the ECL screening, of which CMIA retesting showed that 363 (70.3%) were anti-HCV reactive (327 positive, 30 indeterminate, 6 negative by RIBA; 191 HCV RNA positive), but 153 (29.7%) were not anti-HCV reactive (4 positive, 29 indeterminate, 120 negative by RIBA; none HCV RNA positive). The two-assay strategy significantly improved the positive predictive value (PPV, 64.1% & 90.1%, P < 0.05). In group two, 87 serum specimens were reactive according to CMIA screening. ECL showed that 56 (70.3%) were anti-HCV reactive (47 positive, 8 indeterminate, 1 negative by RIBA; 29 HCV RNA positive) and 31 (29.7%) were anti-HCV non-reactive (25 negative, 5 indeterminate, 1 positive by RIBA; none HCV RNA positive). Again, the PPV was significantly increased (55.2% & 83.9%, P < 0.05). Compared with a one-assay testing strategy, the two-assay testing strategy may significantly reduce false positives in anti-HCV testing and identify inactive HCV infection in low-seroprevalence populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanfang Huang
- Clinical Laboratory, Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huifen Pan
- Clinical Laboratory, Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qin Gao
- Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Health Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Panpan Lv
- Clinical Laboratory, Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoqin Xu
- Clinical Laboratory, Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhen Zhao
- Clinical Laboratory, Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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