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Zhang Y, Hu X, Chang J, Li W, Huang C, Zhang H, Shen J, Shang N, Meng F. A new method to estimate the histological stage of primary biliary cholangitis. Eur Radiol 2024; 34:770-779. [PMID: 37606661 PMCID: PMC10853305 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-023-10106-3] [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] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the diagnostic efficacy of the periportal hypoechoic band (PHB) in the histological stage of patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). METHODS We prospectively included 77 cases of PBC pathologically or clinically confirmed, and high-frequency ultrasound (HFUS) measurements of the PHB were performed in all included patients. Ludwig staging system of histopathology was used as the gold standard. RESULTS The width of the PHB was positively correlated with histological staging (r = 0.844, p < 0.001). By area under the receiving operating characteristic curve (AUROC), the best cutoff value for PHB for advanced stage (≥ stage 3) was 2.4 mm (AUROC: 0.934; 95%CI: 0.841-0.981) and 0.93 for sensitivity, and 0.91 for specificity, the concordance rates of PHB vs. liver biopsy was 90.3%. The correct rate for early-stage PBC was 87.9% and for the progressive stage was 93.1%. After multi-factor regression analysis, the PHB (OR = 1.331, CI = 1.105-1.603, p = 0.003) and total bilirubin (OR = 1.156, CI = 1.041-1.285, p = 0.007) were independent influencing factors for progressive PBC. CONCLUSIONS Measurement of the PHB to assess advanced PBC is a simple and effective method. This method may complement current methods for the histological staging assessment of patients with PBC. REGISTRATION Clinical trial registration: ChiCTR 2000032053, 2020/04/19. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT The measurement of periportal hypoechoic band (PHB) provides a simple and easy assessment of the degree of disease progression in patients with PBC and provides an important clinical reference in predicting the histological staging of PBC from an ultrasound perspective. KEY POINTS • The PHB is correlated with histological staging in the patient with PBC. • The area under the ROC curves of PHB for detecting advanced stage (≥ stage 3) were 0.934 and 0.93 for sensitivity, and 0.91 for specificity, the concordance rates of PHB vs. liver biopsy was 90.3%. The application of PHB can better assess the advanced PBC. • Measurement of the PHB to assess advanced PBC is a simple and effective method that can significantly reduce the need for liver biopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Zhang
- Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No 8, Xitoutiao, Youanmenwai, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Xing Hu
- Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No 8, Xitoutiao, Youanmenwai, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Jing Chang
- Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No 8, Xitoutiao, Youanmenwai, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Weihua Li
- Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No 8, Xitoutiao, Youanmenwai, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Chunyang Huang
- Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No 8, Xitoutiao, Youanmenwai, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Haiping Zhang
- Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No 8, Xitoutiao, Youanmenwai, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Jianjun Shen
- Handan Infectious Disease Hospital, Congtai District, No. 472, Heping Road, Handan, China
| | - Ning Shang
- Handan Infectious Disease Hospital, Congtai District, No. 472, Heping Road, Handan, China
| | - Fankun Meng
- Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No 8, Xitoutiao, Youanmenwai, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, China.
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Zhang Y, Hu X, Chang J, Li W, Huang C, Zhang H, Shen J, Shang N, Meng F. Ultrasound imaging findings in primary biliary cholangitis. BMC Gastroenterol 2023; 23:448. [PMID: 38114916 PMCID: PMC10729522 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-023-03083-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our study aimed to analyze the characteristics of ultrasound images corresponding to each histological stage of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). METHODS We prospectively analyzed 75 confirmed cases of PBC and used liver biopsy as the gold standard to determine the disease stage. RESULTS The typical ultrasound images of patients with PBC were characterized by a thickening of the portal vein wall (PVW) and periportal hypoechoic band (PHB) width with increasing histological stages, and significant increases in the left hepatic lobe diameter (LHLD) in stage II (by 64.0%) and stage III (by 69.2%). PHB width (r = 0.857, p < 0.001), PVW thickness (r = 0.488, p < 0.001), and spleen area (r = 0.8774, p < 0.001) were positively correlated with the histological stage. Significant changes were noted in the liver surface, echo texture, and edge between different stages. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve of composite indicators were 0.965 for predicting progressive PBC(≥ stage 2), and 0.926 for predicting advanced PBC(≥ stage 3). CONCLUSIONS The ultrasound imaging characteristics of patients with PBC varied according to the histological staging. LHLD, PVW thickness, and PHB width were significantly correlated with the histological stage. A combination of high- and low-frequency ultrasound imaging can provide relevant cues regarding the degree of PBC progression and important clinical reference values. The application of all the ultrasound image findings as the composite indicators can better predict progressive and advanced PBC, providing important clinical reference values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No 8, Xitoutiao, Youanmenwai, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Xing Hu
- Department of Ultrasound, Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No 8, Xitoutiao, Youanmenwai, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Jing Chang
- Pathology Department, Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Weihua Li
- Institute of Hepatology, Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chunyang Huang
- Second Department of Liver Disease Center, Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Haiping Zhang
- Clinical Laboratory Center and Clinical Research Center for Autoimmune Liver, Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jianjun Shen
- Function Diagnosis Department, Handan Infectious Disease Hospital, Handan, China
| | - Ning Shang
- Function Diagnosis Department, Handan Infectious Disease Hospital, Handan, China
| | - Fankun Meng
- Department of Ultrasound, Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No 8, Xitoutiao, Youanmenwai, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, China.
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Zhou YJ, Ying GX, Dong SL, Xiang B, Jin QF. Gut microbial profile of treatment-naive patients with primary biliary cholangitis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1126117. [PMID: 37223092 PMCID: PMC10200865 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1126117] [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: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and aims The pathogenesis of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is associated with alterations of gut microbiota. We compared the gut microbiota of PBC patients and healthy controls from Zhejiang Province and assessed the use of these data for the diagnosis of PBC. Methods First, 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to characterize the gut microbiota of treatment-naive PBC patients (n=25) and matched healthy controls (n=25). Then, the value of gut microbiota composition for the diagnosis of PBC and assessment of PBC severity was determined. Results The gut microbiota of PBC patients had lower diversity based on three different metrics of alpha-diversity (ace, Chao1, and observed features) and fewer overall genera (all p<0.01). PBC patients had significant enrichment of four genera and significant depletion of eight genera. We identified six amplicon sequence variants (Serratia, Oscillospirales, Ruminococcaceae, Faecalibacterium, Sutterellaceae, and Coprococcus) as optimal biomarkers to distinguish PBC patients from controls based on receiver operating characteristic analysis (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.824). PBC patients who were anti-gp210-positive had lower levels of Oscillospiraceae than those who were anti-gp210-negative. KEGG functional annotation suggested the major changes in the gut microbiota of PBC patients were related to lipid metabolism and biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. Conclusion We characterized the gut microbiota of treatment-naive PBC patients and healthy controls from Zhejiang Province. The PBC patients had significant alterations in their gut microbiota, suggesting that gut microbiota composition could be useful as a non-invasive tool for the diagnosis of PBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-jun Zhou
- Department of Hepatology, Affiliated Hangzhou Xixi Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Gao-xiang Ying
- Department of Hepatology, Affiliated Hangzhou Xixi Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shi-lei Dong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhejiang Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Bo Xiang
- Department of Hepatology, Affiliated Hangzhou Xixi Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qiao-fei Jin
- Department of Hepatology, Affiliated Hangzhou Xixi Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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The prognostic value of antibodies to gp210 among patients with primary biliary cholangitis in Northeast China. Dig Liver Dis 2022; 54:1094-1100. [PMID: 34789400 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2021.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whether the anti-gp210 antibody can be used as a biomarker in patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) remains controversial. AIMS We aimed to investigate the association between anti-gp210 antibodies and prognosis in ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA)-treated PBC patients. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 180 UDCA-treated PBC patients to assess the prognostic value of anti-gp210 antibodies using the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazard regression analysis. RESULTS Of the patients included in our analysis, 50 (27.8%) were anti-gp210 positive, and 130 (72.2%) were anti-gp210 negative. The incidence of liver-related death or transplantation was more common in the anti-gp210 + group (22.0 vs. 9.2%, P=0.022). The five-year transplant-free survival rates of anti-gp210-positive patients vs. anti-gp210-negative patients were 77.0% and 90.3%, respectively. We found that the probability of transplant-free survival was significantly lower in the anti-gp210-positive patients than in the anti-gp210-negative patients (log-rank P=0.004). After adjusting for potential confounders using multivariable Cox regression model, positivity for anti-gp210 antibody (hazard ratio: 4.619, 95% confidence interval: 1.895-11.261, P=0.001) was found to be independently associated with an increase in liver-related mortality or transplantation. CONCLUSION In this cohort of UDCA-treated PBC patients, positivity for anti-gp210 antibody was independently associated with a higher risk of liver-related death or transplantation.
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Rocha HC, Vilela EG. Clinical aspects and prognosis of patients with inflammatory bowel disease associated with autoimmune liver diseases. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2021; 45:83-90. [PMID: 34023469 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastrohep.2021.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are chronic conditions that may be accompanied by autoimmune liver disease (AILD), most commonly primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). The objective of this study was to evaluate the behaviour of patients with IBD associated with AILD and compare a PSC group with a non-PSC group. METHODS Medical records of patients with IBD associated with PSC, autoimmune cholangitis, primary biliary cholangitis, small-duct PSC, autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and overlapping syndromes were assessed. RESULTS Fifty-four patients were included: 48 (88.9%) had ulcerative colitis and six (11.1%) had Crohn's disease; 35 (64.8%) had PSC and 19 (35.2%) did not have PSC. There was no difference in outcomes (surgical treatment for IBD, liver transplantation or death) between the groups. Time since the diagnosis of IBD was associated with surgical treatment of IBD (p=0.041; OR: 1.139, 95% CI: 1.006-1.255). Time since the diagnosis of AILD (p=0.003; OR: 1.259, 95% CI: 1.1-1.396), as well as portal hypertension at diagnosis (p=0.014; OR: 18.22, 95% CI: 1.815-182.96), were associated with liver transplantation. In addition, previous diagnosis of AIH was associated with de novo IBD (p=0.012; OR: 7.1, 95% CI: 1.215-42.43). CONCLUSION Both groups had similar disease behaviour. A longer time since the diagnosis of IBD increased the risk for surgical treatment (13.9%/year). A 25.9%/year increase in liver transplantation was observed after the diagnosis of AILD, which was increased 18.22 times by the presence of portal hypertension. In addition, the diagnosis of AIH was associated with an increase in the number of diagnoses of de novo IBD (7.1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrique C Rocha
- Alfa Institute of Gastroenterology - Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Eduardo G Vilela
- Alfa Institute of Gastroenterology - Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil
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Clinical significance of IgG antimitochondrial M2 antibody levels in primary biliary cholangitis: A single center study from China. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0242164. [PMID: 33180817 PMCID: PMC7661052 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0242164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and objective The relationship between antimitochondrial antibody (AMA) levels and the severity or prognosis of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is unclear. This study explored the clinical significance of serum IgG antimitochondrial M2 antibody (IgG-M2) levels. Methods From 2008 to 2017, a retrospective analysis was conducted with PBC patients who had available quantitative values of serum IgG-M2 levels obtained with ELISA based on triple expression hybrid clones. The patients were divided into two groups based on high and low concentrations of IgG-M2. Baseline parameters, the incidence of adverse events, and prognosis were compared. Results Among the 530 PBC patients, the levels of albumin, cholinesterase, hemoglobin, fibrinogen and triglycerides and the red blood cell count were significantly lower in the high-concentration group than in the low-concentration group (n = 263, 49.6%). The red cell distribution width (RDW) and levels of serum immunoglobulin (Ig) G, IgM and IgA were significantly higher in the high-concentration group than in the low-concentration group. Spearman’s correlation analysis suggested that the correlation between the above baseline indicators and IgG-M2 levels was statistically significant but weak (r < 0.2, P < 0.05). In total, 203 patients were followed up, of whom 87 (42.9%) were in the high-concentration group. During the median follow-up period of 52 months (range: 28–75), 121 (59.6%) experienced hepatic decompensation, and 37 (18.2%) died or underwent liver transplantation. There was no significant difference in the incidence of complications or survival (log-rank test: P = 0.079) between the two groups. One year after ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) treatment, the two groups had similar responses. In addition, the levels of IgG-M2 did not fluctuate significantly during treatment. Conclusion IgG-M2 levels were not related to the disease severity, prognosis or efficacy of UDCA. The levels of IgG-M2 did not change significantly during treatment.
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Extrahepatic malignancies in primary biliary cirrhosis: a comparative study at two European centers. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2016; 48:254-62. [PMID: 25205363 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-014-8446-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Limited information and divergent results are available on the prevalence/incidence, survival, and risk factors for developing extrahepatic malignancies (EMs) in primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC). The aim of the study was to analyze the epidemiology and survival rates for EM in PBC patients. The study was conducted on two series of patients followed up at two European centers (361 in Padova, Italy, and 397 in Barcelona, Spain) for a mean 7.7 ± 7 and 12.2 ± 7 years, respectively. The cancer incidence was compared with the standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) calculated using the Cancer Registry of the Veneto Region (Italy) and the Cancer Registry of Tarragona (Spain). Seventy-two patients developed EM. The prevalence of cases was similar in Padova (9.7 %) and Barcelona (9.4 %). The overall cancer incidence was similar to the expected incidence for the general population in the same geographical area (SIR = 1.2), and so was the crude EM rate (855.01 vs 652.86 per 100,000 patient-years, respectively, RR = 1.3). Logistic regression analysis showed that advanced histological stage and extrahepatic autoimmune diseases were significantly associated with the onset of EM. Survival was similar for PBC patients with and without EM (p = n.s.), and actual survival was similar to the one predicted by the Mayo model. The incidence of EM in PBC patients was found similar in Italy and Spain and no different from that of the general population. Advanced histological stage and extrahepatic autoimmune disease were risk factors significantly associated with EM developing in PBC. The onset of cancer in PBC patients does not influence the natural history of their liver disease.
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Wang L, Han Q, Chen H, Wang K, Shan GL, Kong F, Yang YJ, Li YZ, Zhang X, Dong F, Wang Q, Xu D, Hu ZJ, Wang SH, Keating A, Bi YL, Zhang FC, Zhao RCH. Allogeneic bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell transplantation in patients with UDCA-resistant primary biliary cirrhosis. Stem Cells Dev 2014; 23:2482-9. [PMID: 24835895 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2013.0500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of allogeneic bone marrow mesenchymal stromal/stem cell transplantation (BM-MSCT) for patients with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA)-resistant primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC). Ten patients were enrolled in this trial of BM-MSCT. All patients were permitted to concurrently continue their previous UDCA treatment. The efficacy of BM-MSCT in UDCA-resistant PBC was assessed at various time points throughout the 12-month follow up. No transplantation-related side effects were observed. The life quality of the patients was improved after BM-MSCT as demonstrated by responses to the PBC-40 questionnaire. Serum levels of ALT, AST, γ-GT, and IgM significantly decreased from baseline after BM-MSCT. In addition, the percentage of CD8+ T cells was reduced, while that of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ T cells was increased in peripheral lymphocytic subsets. Serum levels of IL-10 were also elevated. Notably, the optimal therapeutic outcome was acquired in 3 to 6 months and could be maintained for 12 months after BM-MSCT. In conclusion, allogeneic BM-MSCT in UDCA-resistant PBC is safe and appears to be effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wang
- 1 Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH) , Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, China
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Hirschfield GM. Diagnosis of primary biliary cirrhosis. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol 2011; 25:701-12. [PMID: 22117636 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpg.2011.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2011] [Revised: 10/05/2011] [Accepted: 10/25/2011] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Primary biliary cirrhosis is the archetypal autoimmune liver disease, with the disease label describing a chronic granulomatous lymphocytic small bile duct cholangitis, which now most commonly presents asymptomatically and at an early pre-cirrhotic stage. Disease is more common than thought, with 1 in 1000 women over the age of 40 affected. Characteristic immunologic features of the disease assist clinicians in ready non-invasive diagnosis of patients, even if asymptomatic with only anicteric/cholestatic liver biochemical profiles. Over 90% of patients are anti-mitochondrial antibody positive, and for those negative, a significant proportion have highly specific anti-nuclear antibody profiles. Liver biopsy remains useful in certain settings where clarity is needed to confirm diagnosis, exclude alternative disease, and assess the relative contribution of PBC to other co-existent liver injury, and seeks to demonstrate in particular the classic bile duct lesions, as well as the degree of interface activity.
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Moreira RK, Revetta F, Koehler E, Washington MK. Diagnostic utility of IgG and IgM immunohistochemistry in autoimmune liver disease. World J Gastroenterol 2010; 16:453-7. [PMID: 20101770 PMCID: PMC2811797 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v16.i4.453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To assess the role of IgM and IgG immunohistochemistry (IHC) in the evaluation of autoimmune liver conditions - autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC).
METHODS: Forty one biopsies from untreated patients diagnosed with autoimmune liver disease (AIH, n = 20; PBC, n = 13; PSC, n = 8) and fourteen biopsies of patients with chronic hepatitis C were selected. IgM and IgG-positive plasma cells were counted in each sample.
RESULTS: A predominance of IgG-positive plasma cells was seen in AIH (90% of cases), PSC (75% of cases), and chronic hepatitis C (100% of cases), while IgM-positive plasma cells predominated in PBC (92.8% of cases). The IgM /IgG ratio (< 1 or ≥ 1) accurately distinguished PBC from AIH in 90.9% of cases (sensitivity = 92.3%, specificity = 90%), and PBC from either AIH or PSC in 87.8% of cases (sensitivity = 92.3%, specificity = 85.7%).
CONCLUSION: Plasmacytic infiltrates expressing predominantly IgM are characteristic of PBC, while other forms of liver disease analyzed in this study, including AIH, typically show an IgG-predominant plasma cell infiltrate. Our data indicate that IgM and IgG IHC may be a useful tool when PBC is a diagnostic consideration.
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Campsen J, Zimmerman M, Trotter J, Wachs M, Bak T, Steinberg T, Kaplan M, Kam I. Liver transplantation for primary biliary cirrhosis: results of aggressive corticosteroid withdrawal. Transplant Proc 2009; 41:1707-12. [PMID: 19545712 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2008.10.095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2008] [Accepted: 10/06/2008] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A subset of patients with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) may require long-term corticosteroid (CS) therapy following liver transplantation (OLT) due to concern over the possibility of recurrence. Our center has attempted to minimize CS use in all of our OLT recipients. In this study, we review our experience in this cohort to determine (1) patient outcome including PBC recurrence following transplantation and (2) the long-term requirement for CS use in PBC patients. METHODS From 1988 to 2006, 1102 OLTs were performed in 1032 adults at the University of Colorado, of which 70 patients (6.8%) with PBC received 74 allografts. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used to evaluate predictors of CS withdrawal. Thirteen potential predictors of CS discontinuation were considered: age, gender, body mass index (BMI), race, type of graft (cadaveric or living donor [LD]), recurrence of PBC, warm ischemia time, and immunosuppressant. RESULTS Overall survival at 5 years was 85%. The 1-, 5-, and 10-year recurrence-free survivals were 90%, 72%, and 54%, respectively. PBC recurred in 18 patients (25.7%). Of these, none received a second transplant due to disease recurrence. At the time of last follow-up, 73% of recipients were steroid free. Independent predictors of CS discontinuation are age (>54; P = .0059) and LD graft type (P = .0008). Conversely, cyclosporine (P = .0007), female gender (P = .0216), and BMI > 31 (P = .0306) were negatively associated with CS withdraw. Importantly, steroid discontinuation did not influence PBC recurrence. CONCLUSIONS While long-term outcomes in PBC patients are favorable, disease recurrence can generally be managed medically without the need for a second transplant. Using an aggressive CS minimization approach, nearly three-quarters of the patients were CS free at the time of last follow-up. Increasing age and LD grafts were associated with successful CS withdraw. Conversely, cyclosporine use, female gender, and increasing BMI were associated with unsuccessful steroid discontinuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Campsen
- Department of Transplant Surgery, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
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Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) can occur in all age groups. AIH affects women more commonly than men (3:1). Clinical presentation may be an acute hepatitis up to fulminant liver failure, but can also be asymptomatic. AIH is characterized by lymphoplasmacellular infiltrates on liver biopsy, elevated liver enzymes in serum and the absence of active viral markers. Patients characteristically present with hypergammaglobulinemia, elevated serum levels of IgG and autoantibodies. Corticosteroids are the drug of choice for induction of remission, azathioprine the drug of choice for maintenance of remission. Rapid response to immunosuppressive treatment supports the diagnosis and leads to a good long-term prognosis.Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) are immune mediated diseases affecting bile ducts. While PBC has a slow progression to cirrhosis and complications mostly will be limited to complications of cirrhosis, PSC additionally carries a high risk of developing cholangiocellular carcinoma. The treatment of choice in PBC and PSC is oral ursodeoxycholic acid which may slow progression of liver disease and may ameliorate lab findings.
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Li XJ, Yang JH. Clinical and pathological features of primary biliary cirrhotic patients with negative anti-mitochondria antibody M 2 subtype. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2009; 17:1676-1679. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v17.i16.1676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To explore the clinical and pathological features of primary biliary cirrhotic (PBC) patients with negative anti-mitochondria antibody M2 subtype (AMA-M2).
METHODS: Fifty six PBC cases from the second affiliated hospital of Kunming Medical College between AD 2000 and 2007 were selected. The clinical data (general status, laboratory findings) and pathologic data were reviewed in 22 cases of negative AMA-M2 antibody. And the clinical data of the negative AMA-M2 anti-body cases were compared with the positive ones.
RESULTS: The general status and laboratory findings (biochemical data, immune function) of AMA-M2 antibody negative were compared with the positive ones, with no significant difference observed (all P > 0.05). Remarkable changes in bile ducts, especially in small bile ducts were observed in 22 negative AMA-M2 antibody cases. Those changes were related to staging. Inflammatory cells, mainly lymphocytes were seen around the bile duct. Remarkable infiltrated inflammatory cells, mainly lymphocytes, even lymphoid follicles were observed in the portal area. Liver cells changed mildly and were non-specific. The changes of different stages existed and intermixed in one sample.
CONCLUSION: Liver biopsy is useful to confirm to diagnosis of PBC with negative M2 antibody and an important criteria for staging determination.
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Mendes F, Lindor KD. Antimitochondrial antibody-negative primary biliary cirrhosis. Gastroenterol Clin North Am 2008; 37:479-84, viii. [PMID: 18499032 DOI: 10.1016/j.gtc.2008.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
There is a subset of patients who have biochemical and histologic features consistent with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) who lack antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA). This entity is usually referred to as AMA-negative PBC or alternatively autoimmune cholangitis. Patients who have AMA-negative PBC are believed to have a similar clinical course, response to treatment, and prognosis as their AMA-positive counterparts. As more sensitive and specific serologic tests are developed to detect serum AMA, it is possible we may find that these patients initially believed to be AMA-negative are indeed AMA-positive, suggesting a single disease process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Mendes
- Division of Hepatology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
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Hirschfield GM, Heathcote EJ. Antimitochondrial antibody-negative primary biliary cirrhosis. Clin Liver Dis 2008; 12:323-31; viii-ix. [PMID: 18456183 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2008.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is considered a classic autoimmune disease insofar as 95% of patients are seropositive for specific antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA). Yet it is still the case that the remaining 5% of patients have equivalent disease but test persistently AMA negative. Although variations exist in the immunologic profile of these patients, clinically there are no discernable differences, and although the diagnostic threshold is higher, the treatment and prognosis mirror that of classic disease. Previous terminology, therefore, has been abandoned in favor of the description, AMA-negative PBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gideon M Hirschfield
- Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, 399 Bathurst Street, 6B Fell, Room 154, Toronto, Ontario M5T 2S8, Canada
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16
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Holtmeier J, Leuschner M, Schneider A, Leuschner U, Caspary WF, Braden B. 13C-methacetin and 13C-galactose breath tests can assess restricted liver function even in early stages of primary biliary cirrhosis. Scand J Gastroenterol 2006; 41:1336-41. [PMID: 17060128 DOI: 10.1080/00365520600670125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The 13C-methacetin breath test quantitatively evaluates cytochrome P450-dependent liver function. The 13C-galactose breath test non-invasively measures the galactose oxidation capacity of the liver. The aim of this study was to find out whether these breath tests are sensitive parameters also in non-cirrhotic patients with primary biliary cirrhosis. MATERIAL AND METHODS Nineteen patients with early-stage primary biliary cirrhosis (no cirrhotic alterations in the liver biopsy, Ludwig stage I-III) and 20 healthy controls underwent the 13C-methacetin and 13C-galactose breath tests. RESULTS Patients with primary biliary cirrhosis metabolized less 13C-methacetin than controls (cumulative recovery within 30 min 7.5+/-2.4% versus 14.0+/-2.6%; p < 0.001). When a cut-off > 9.8% was used for the cumulative recovery after 30 min, the methacetin breath test reached 84.2% sensitivity and 95.0 specificity. In the 13C-galactose breath test, the percentage recovery at 60 min in patients was 3.1+/-1.3%/h, and 6.3+/-1.1%/h in controls (p < 0.001). Using a cut-off > 4.7%/h, the galactose breath test reached 89.5% sensitivity and 95.0 specificity. CONCLUSIONS In non-cirrhotic, early-stage, primary biliary cirrhosis the 13C-methacetin breath test and the 13C-galactose breath test reliably indicate decreased liver function. The 13C-galactose breath test can also predict the histological score.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Holtmeier
- Medical Department I, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University of Frankfurt/Main, Germany
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17
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Petrogiannopoulos C, Papamichael K, Karachalios G, Karachaliou I, Kostakos N, Barbati K, Zacharof A. Autoimmune cholangitis presented as fever of unknown origin. Chemotherapy 2006; 52:282-4. [PMID: 17008778 DOI: 10.1159/000095958] [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: 05/03/2005] [Accepted: 09/05/2005] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune cholangitis is a rare chronic cholestatic liver disease. Fever of unknown origin is defined as a temperature higher than 38.3 degrees C that lasts for more than 3 weeks with no obvious source despite appropriate investigation. We describe the case of a 62-year-old woman who presented with fever, fatigue and weight loss. The serum biochemical study showed an increase in alkaline phosphatase and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase levels. Antinuclear, antimitochondrial, anti-smooth-muscle antibodies and antibodies against the cytoplasm of neutrophils were negative. Liver biopsy was compatible with autoimmune cholangitis. The patient was successfully treated with methylprednisolone and ursodeoxycholic acid. We describe here a rare case of fever as preceding and leading symptom of autoimmune cholangitis.
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18
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Romero-Gómez M, Wichmann I, Crespo J, Parés A, Rodrigo L, Alvarez A, Diago M, Pons-Romero F, Sanchez-Munoz D, Aguilar-Reina J, Andrade RJ, Salmeron J, Sánchez-Pobre P, Rebollo JM, Martin-Vivaldi R, Castellano-Megias V, Nuñez-Roldan A, Bruguera M. Serum immunological profile in patients with chronic autoimmune cholestasis. Am J Gastroenterol 2004; 99:2150-7. [PMID: 15554996 DOI: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2004.40416.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AIM To compare patients who had biochemical and histological features of chronic autoimmune cholestasis (CAIC) using serological autoantibody profiling. METHODS Patients (n = 174 CAIC; 79 AMA(-) and 95 AMA(+)) were profiled for the following antibodies: antinuclear antibodies (ANAs), antimitochondrial antibodies (AMAs), antismooth muscle actin (SMA, mainly F-actin), antiperinuclear cytoplasmic neutrophil antibodies (pANCAs), anti-SP100, anti-GP210, anti-M2 (2-oxo-acid dehydrogenase complexes), and antisoluble liver antigen (SLA). Liver specimens were reviewed according to staging, biliary interface activity, lobular hepatitis, granulomas, cholestasis, and florid ductal lesion. RESULTS In patients who were AMA(-) by indirect immunofluorescence (IIF), 34.6% were positive for anti-M2 by immunoblotting. In 49 definitively AMA(-) patients, 24 (48.9%) showed ANA-primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC)-related antibodies (rim-like, multiple nuclear dots, anti-SP100, or anti-GP210). There were no differences in immunological, biochemical, or histopathological features between IIF-AMA(+) patients and AMA(-) patients with anti-M2 or ANA-PBC-related antibodies. AIH-related autoantibodies were found in 13 patients (7.5%). Patients with AMAs or ANA-PBC-related antibodies had higher IgM levels, whereas patients with antibodies highly specific for AIH had higher AST, bilirubin, and IgG levels, and AIH scores, and higher grades of lobular hepatitis. Overall, three distinct categories of patients were observed: AMA(+) or AMA(-) patients with ANA-PBC-related antibodies; AMA(-) patients with non-PBC-related ANAs; and patients with AIH-related antibodies together with serum PBC markers. CONCLUSION Since these three groups had immunological, biochemical, and histopathological differences, they ought to be considered as separate clinical subentities rather than as merely AMA(-) or AMA(+) patients with autoimmune cholestasis.
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Abstract
AMA are detected in the serum of 92% to 95% of patients with PBC using indirect immunofluorescent methods. AIC is the term used to describe the 5% to 8% of AMA-negative PBC patients who uniformly have ANA and SMA. Recent applications of more sensitive and specific tests to detect serum AMA have shown that most, if not all, patients with AIC actually do have AMA. Emerging evidence that AMA and mitochondrial autoantigens play important roles in the immunopathogenesis of NSDC also suggests that AIC and PBC are likely to be a single disease, exhibiting variation in the types of autoantibodies and in both the concentrations and immunoglobulin isotypes of AMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- John M Vierling
- Center for Liver Diseases and Transplantation, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA.
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20
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Abstract
Primary biliary cirrhosis is a chronic cholestatic liver disease of adults. This disorder is characterised histologically by chronic non-suppurative destruction of interlobular bile ducts leading to advanced fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver failure. The precise aetiopathogenesis of primary biliary cirrhosis remains unknown, although dysregulation of the immune system and genetic susceptibility both seem to be important. Affected patients are typically middle-aged women with abnormal serum concentrations of alkaline phosphatase. Presence of antimitochondrial antibody in serum is almost diagnostic of the disorder. Identification of primary biliary cirrhosis is important, because effective treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid has been shown to halt disease progression and improve survival without need for liver transplantation. However, therapeutic options for disease-related complications-including fatigue and metabolic bone disease-remain unavailable. Mathematical models have been developed that accurately predict the natural history of primary biliary cirrhosis in individuals. Despite advances in understanding of the disease, it remains one of the major indications for liver transplantation worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayant A Talwalkar
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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Gisbert JP, Jones EA, Pajares JM, Moreno-Otero R. Review article: is there an optimal therapeutic regimen for antimitochondrial antibody-negative primary biliary cirrhosis (autoimmune cholangitis)? Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2003; 17:17-27. [PMID: 12492729 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2036.2003.01381.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Testing for antimitochondrial antibodies is the most useful laboratory procedure in the diagnosis of primary biliary cirrhosis; nevertheless, 5-10% of patients with typical features of primary biliary cirrhosis do not have detectable antimitochondrial antibodies, their condition being referred to as antimitochondrial antibody-negative primary biliary cirrhosis or "autoimmune cholangitis". Uncertainty exists whether antimitochondrial antibody-positive and -negative primary biliary cirrhosis represent distinct entities. We reviewed studies that compared: (i) the clinical, laboratory and histological characteristics of antimitochondrial antibody-positive and -negative primary biliary cirrhosis; (ii) the response to treatment of both conditions; and (iii) the response of autoimmune cholangitis to ursodeoxycholic acid and immunosuppressive therapy. Antimitochondrial antibody-positive and -negative primary biliary cirrhosis were characterized by similar clinical, laboratory and histological abnormalities, clinical course and survival. Antimitochondrial antibody status did not seem to affect the response to ursodeoxycholic acid. At present, the efficacy of therapies for autoimmune cholangitis has not been established in controlled trials. Of 52 patients with autoimmune cholangitis treated with ursodeoxycholic acid in 13 uncontrolled studies, 83% had serum biochemical improvement. Also, a favourable effect of immunosuppressive drugs occurred in 57% of 54 patients with autoimmune cholangitis in 17 uncontrolled studies. Each of these trials included very few patients and most evaluated the effects of treatment on surrogate markers of disease only. No marker that consistently distinguished patients who would respond favourably to ursodeoxycholic acid or immunosuppression was apparent. Consequently, treatment is, at present, empirical. However, ursodeoxycholic acid may be given when histology reveals bile duct lesions, whereas immunosuppressive therapy should probably be reserved for patients exhibiting interface hepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- J P Gisbert
- Servicio de Gastroenterología y Hepatología, Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Diego de León 62, E-28006 Madrid, Spain.
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O'Donohue J, Wong T, Portmann B, Williams R. Immunohistochemical differences in the portal tract and acinar infiltrates between primary biliary cirrhosis and autoimmune cholangitis. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2002; 14:1143-50. [PMID: 12362106 DOI: 10.1097/00042737-200210000-00016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antimitochondrial antibody-negative primary biliary cirrhosis, or autoimmune cholangitis, may be indistinguishable clinically and histologically from antimitochondrial antibody-positive primary biliary cirrhosis. AIMS We aimed to compare the phenotypic markers of the portal and acinar infiltrates in autoimmune cholangitis and antimitochondrial antibody-positive primary biliary cirrhosis. PATIENTS AND METHODS Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded liver sections were identified from 32 patients with a clinical and histological diagnosis of primary biliary cirrhosis. Thirteen were antimitochondrial antibody-negative (autoimmune cholangitis group) and 19 were antimitochondrial antibody-positive. The groups were well matched for age, histological stage, liver biochemistry and drug treatment. Immunohistochemical staining was performed using monoclonal antibodies against CD3 (pan T cell), CD8 (cytotoxic), CD45RO (memory), CD45RA (naive), CD68 (macrophages) and against the secreted form of eosinophilic cationic protein (EG2). RESULTS In autoimmune cholangitis, both portal and acinar CD3 cell counts were significantly higher than in antimitochondrial antibody-positive primary biliary cirrhosis (median portal count 421 vs 257 cells/graticule, P< 0.03; median acinar count 18 vs 9 cells/graticule, P< 0.02). There were no differences between the groups in portal or lobular CD8, CD45RO, CD45RA, CD68 or EG2. Of the total group (antimitochondrial antibody positives and negatives), there were significantly more CD45RA cells in early (stage 1) compared with cirrhotic (stage 4) disease (median 19.3 vs 14 cells/graticule, P< 0.03). EG2 staining was found in eight of the 32 sections overall, but not in the patients with stage 1 disease (P< 0.04). CONCLUSION CD3 counts are higher in autoimmune cholangitis than in antimitochondrial antibody-positive primary biliary cirrhosis in both portal and acinar areas. However, there are no significant differences in memory/naïve T-cell subsets between both conditions and, in both, loss of naive T lymphocytes and secretion of eosinophilic cationic protein occur with disease progression. This implies that the effector pathways of bile duct destruction are similar in autoimmune cholangitis and primary biliary cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- John O'Donohue
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK. john.o'
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