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Yuan Z, Yang X, Hu Z, Gao Y, Yan P, Zheng F, Hong K, Cen K, Mai Y, Bai Y, Guo Y, Zhou J. Investigating the impact of inflammatory response-related genes on renal fibrosis diagnosis: a machine learning-based study with experimental validation. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38381715 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2024.2317992] [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: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Renal fibrosis plays a crucial role in the progression of renal diseases, yet the lack of effective diagnostic markers poses challenges in scientific and clinical practices. In this study, we employed machine learning techniques to identify potential biomarkers for renal fibrosis. Utilizing two datasets from the GEO database, we applied LASSO, SVM-RFE and RF algorithms to screen for differentially expressed genes related to inflammatory responses between the renal fibrosis group and the control group. As a result, we identified four genes (CCL5, IFITM1, RIPK2, and TNFAIP6) as promising diagnostic indicators for renal fibrosis. These genes were further validated through in vivo experiments and immunohistochemistry, demonstrating their utility as reliable markers for assessing renal fibrosis. Additionally, we conducted a comprehensive analysis to explore the relationship between these candidate biomarkers, immunity, and drug sensitivity. Integrating these findings, we developed a nomogram with a high discriminative ability, achieving a concordance index of 0.933, enabling the prediction of disease risk in patients with renal fibrosis. Overall, our study presents a predictive model for renal fibrosis and highlights the significance of four potential biomarkers, facilitating clinical diagnosis and personalized treatment. This finding presents valuable insights for advancing precision medicine approaches in the management of renal fibrosis.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziwei Yuan
- Department of Endocrinology, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xuejia Yang
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zujian Hu
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yuanyuan Gao
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Penghua Yan
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Fan Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Kai Hong
- Department of General Surgery, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Kenan Cen
- Department of General Surgery, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Yifeng Mai
- Department of General Surgery, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Yongheng Bai
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yangyang Guo
- Department of General Surgery, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Jingzong Zhou
- Department of Endocrinology, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, Zhejiang, China
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Gee MFW, Palladino A, Levy HR, De Vol E, Kiaei D. Derivation and validation of Transform equations to convert historical Enhanced liver fibrosis (ELF) scores to modern equivalents. Clin Chim Acta 2024; 552:117696. [PMID: 38070667 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2023.117696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The Siemens Healthineers ELF™ Test was designed in 2004 with 2 algorithms to allow choice in histological alignment. Consequently, historical and modern algorithms are not fully harmonized, complicating comparisons involving early datasets. We derived transform equations to equate all ELF score versions, allowing historical data to be used in systematic reviews and meta-analyses. METHODS Historical ELF equations were graphed pairwise versus their modern equivalent to assess correlation and derive four transforms. Transforms were validated using multiple datasets and evaluated for median absolute bias, number of samples reflecting clinically significant bias, number of discordant samples, bias at established cutoffs, and regression slope and y-intercept. RESULTS Three transforms were validated equating Scheuer-aligned and/or age-included historical ELF equations (Immuno 1) to later equations aligned to Ishak and omitting age. A fourth transform corrected ADVIA Centaur® / Atellica® IM ELF scores miscalculated using the Scheuer Immuno 1 equation. Transformed data were well within allowable ELF bias limits. CONCLUSIONS All transforms enabled accurate comparison of ELF scores generated by all historical algorithms to the current ADVIA Centaur / Atellica IM Analyzer ELF score. The transforms presented in this report should be used in systematic reviews and meta-analyses to facilitate comparisons to historical data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew F W Gee
- Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics Inc., 511 Benedict Ave, Tarrytown, NY, United States.
| | - Agostino Palladino
- Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics Inc., 511 Benedict Ave, Tarrytown, NY, United States.
| | - H Roma Levy
- Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics Inc., 511 Benedict Ave, Tarrytown, NY, United States.
| | - Edward De Vol
- Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics Inc., 511 Benedict Ave, Tarrytown, NY, United States.
| | - David Kiaei
- Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics Inc., 511 Benedict Ave, Tarrytown, NY, United States.
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Rabindranath M, Zaya R, Prayitno K, Orchanian-Cheff A, Patel K, Jaeckel E, Bhat M. A Comprehensive Review of Liver Allograft Fibrosis and Steatosis: From Cause to Diagnosis. Transplant Direct 2023; 9:e1547. [PMID: 37854023 PMCID: PMC10581596 DOI: 10.1097/txd.0000000000001547] [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: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in posttransplant care, long-term outcomes for liver transplant recipients remain unchanged. Approximately 25% of recipients will advance to graft cirrhosis and require retransplantation. Graft fibrosis progresses in the context of de novo or recurrent disease. Recurrent hepatitis C virus infection was previously the most important cause of graft failure but is now curable in the majority of patients. However, with an increasing prevalence of obesity and diabetes and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease as the most rapidly increasing indication for liver transplantation, metabolic dysfunction-associated liver injury is anticipated to become an important cause of graft fibrosis alongside alloimmune hepatitis and alcoholic liver disease. To better understand the landscape of the graft fibrosis literature, we summarize the associated epidemiology, cause, potential mechanisms, diagnosis, and complications. We additionally highlight the need for better noninvasive methods to ameliorate the management of graft fibrosis. Some examples include leveraging the microbiome, genetic, and machine learning methods to address these limitations. Overall, graft fibrosis is routinely seen by transplant clinicians, but it requires a better understanding of its underlying biology and contributors that can help inform diagnostic and therapeutic practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhumitha Rabindranath
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rita Zaya
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Khairunnadiya Prayitno
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ani Orchanian-Cheff
- Library and Information Services, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Keyur Patel
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Elmar Jaeckel
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mamatha Bhat
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Mei L, Ma Y, Zhao L, Chen Q, Zhou L, Yang H, Liu J, Li J. Correlation between serum liver fibrosis markers and early gastroesophageal varices among patients with compensated liver cirrhosis: a cross-sectional analysis. BMC Gastroenterol 2022; 22:515. [PMID: 36510159 PMCID: PMC9746016 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-022-02546-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Portal hypertension is a common complication of chronic liver diseases responsible for most liver cirrhosis consequences. In patients with portal hypertension, oesophagogastric variceal bleeding is a leading cause of death. Most research has focused on high-risk gastroesophageal varices and bleeding, with only a few studies on early varices. However, early intervention of gastroesophageal varices was found to better improve the prognosis and reduce mortality, but there is still no relevant research. Ultrasonic endoscopy is a combination of endoscopy and ultrasonic imaging. It can gastroscopically detect varices around the oesophagus and stomach and detect oesophageal collateral veins and perforating veins earlier, which is helpful for the early diagnosis of varices. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the correlation between serum fibrosis markers and early gastroesophageal varices in compensated cirrhosis patients. METHODS This study included 791 patients with compensated cirrhosis. The selected patients were categorized into three groups. The early gastroesophageal varices group included patients with gastroesophageal varices found by endoscopic ultrasonography but not by gastroscopy. The no gastroesophageal varices group underwent endoscopic ultrasonography and gastroscopy without varices. In addition, gastroesophageal varices can be detected with both techniques. Multiple logistic regression analysis explored the association of serum fibrosis markers with early gastroesophageal varices. RESULTS Among the 791 compensated liver cirrhosis patients, 198 patients were without gastroesophageal varices, 279 patients had early gastroesophageal varices, 314 patients had gastroesophageal varices, and both techniques could detect varices. There was a positive correlation between serum fibrosis markers and early gastroesophageal varices. In univariate logistic regression analysis, the patients with early gastroesophageal varices had lower platelet counts (P = 0.034) and higher aspartate aminotransferase (P = 0.046), total bilirubin (P = 0.041), hyaluronic acid (P < 0.001), laminin (P < 0.001), type III procollagen (P = 0.005), type IV collagen (P = 0.002), liver stiffness measurement (P = 0.001), APRI (P = 0.019) and FIB-4 (P = 0.002). Multivariate analysis showed that laminin (OR 1.011; 95% CI 1.004-1.017, P = 0.001) was an independent risk factor for predicting early gastroesophageal varices in compensated cirrhosis patients. CONCLUSION Higher laminin was independently associated with early gastroesophageal varices in compensated cirrhosis patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Mei
- grid.265021.20000 0000 9792 1228Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Clinical School of the Second People’s Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China ,Department of Hepatology, Tianjin Second People’s Hospital, No. 7, Sudi South Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300192 China
| | - Ying Ma
- grid.265021.20000 0000 9792 1228Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Clinical School of the Second People’s Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China ,Department of Hepatology, Tianjin Second People’s Hospital, No. 7, Sudi South Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300192 China
| | - Lili Zhao
- Department of Hepatology, Tianjin Second People’s Hospital, No. 7, Sudi South Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300192 China
| | - Qingling Chen
- grid.265021.20000 0000 9792 1228Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Clinical School of the Second People’s Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China ,Department of Hepatology, Tianjin Second People’s Hospital, No. 7, Sudi South Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300192 China
| | - Li Zhou
- Department of Hepatology, Tianjin Second People’s Hospital, No. 7, Sudi South Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300192 China
| | - Hang Yang
- grid.265021.20000 0000 9792 1228Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Clinical School of the Second People’s Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China ,Department of Hepatology, Tianjin Second People’s Hospital, No. 7, Sudi South Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300192 China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Hepatology, Tianjin Second People’s Hospital, No. 7, Sudi South Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300192 China
| | - Jia Li
- Department of Hepatology, Tianjin Second People’s Hospital, No. 7, Sudi South Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300192 China
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Mikołajczyk-Korniak N, Bączkowska T, Tronina O, Durlik M. Noninvasive Diagnostic Methods for the Assessment of Hepatic Fibrosis in Liver Transplant Recipients. Transplant Proc 2022; 54:1042-1048. [PMID: 35660278 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2022.02.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic fibrosis in liver transplant recipients is the main predictive factor for graft function. Diagnostic methods for hepatic fibrosis staging should be available, reproducible, and noninvasive, if possible. We aimed to compare diagnostic methods for the assessment of hepatic fibrosis in transplant recipients: liver biopsy as a reference method, dynamic elastography, and direct and indirect blood markers (the ELF test [Enhanced Liver Fibrosis] test and the FibroTest). We sought to set a cutoff value for each method in order to assess significant liver fibrosis (F ≥2). METHODS The study involved 62 patients after liver transplantation. Fibrosis was assessed in biopsy specimens using the METAVIR Score System (F0-F4). To identify clinically significant cutoff values of hepatic fibrosis (F ≥2, F ≥3, F = 4) for each method compared, a receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used. RESULTS Area under ROC for the prediction of significant fibrosis (F ≥2), advanced fibrosis (F ≥3), and cirrhosis (F = 4) for the study group was 0.5938, 0.8952, and 0.9583 for dynamic elastography; 0.7295, 0.7072, and 0.8409 for the ELF test; and 0.4863, 0.8049, and 0.8723 for the FibroTest. The cutoff value for F ≥2 for dynamic elastography was 4.65 kPa; for the ELF test, 9.27; and for the FibroTest, 0.72. CONCLUSIONS The sensitivity and specificity of the tests studied, as compared with biopsy results, increase with increasing severity of hepatic fibrosis. The noninvasive diagnostic methods are of limited value in the diagnosis of early fibrosis stages. In the diagnostic assessment of hepatic fibrosis in its advanced stages, dynamic elastography can be used in conjunction with ELF test as a noninvasive alternative to liver biopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Mikołajczyk-Korniak
- Department of Transplantation Medicine, Nephrology and Internal Diseases, Transplantation Institute, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Teresa Bączkowska
- Department of Transplantation Medicine, Nephrology and Internal Diseases, Transplantation Institute, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Olga Tronina
- Department of Transplantation Medicine, Nephrology and Internal Diseases, Transplantation Institute, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Durlik
- Department of Transplantation Medicine, Nephrology and Internal Diseases, Transplantation Institute, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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Yoshino K, Taura K, Okuda Y, Ikeno Y, Uemoto Y, Nishio T, Yamamoto G, Tanabe K, Koyama Y, Seo S, Kaido T, Okajima H, Imai T, Tanaka S, Uemoto S. Efficiency of acoustic radiation force impulse imaging for the staging of graft fibrosis after liver transplantation. Hepatol Res 2019; 49:394-403. [PMID: 30471140 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Revised: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
AIM Liver biopsy is the gold standard for assessing liver fibrosis (LF) after liver transplantation (LT), but its invasiveness limits its utility. This study aimed to evaluate the usefulness of liver stiffness measurement (LSM) using acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) imaging to assess LF after LT. METHODS Between September 2013 and January 2017, 278 patients who underwent liver biopsy after LT in Kyoto University Hospital (Kyoto, Japan) were prospectively enrolled. Liver stiffness measurement was carried out using ARFI imaging; its value was expressed as shear wave velocity (Vs) [m/s]. The LF was evaluated according to METAVIR score (F0-F4). The diagnostic performance of Vs for F2≤ and F3≤ was assessed and compared with that of laboratory tests using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. RESULTS The median Vs values increased according to the progression of LF (F0, 1.18 (0.78-1.92); F1, 1.35 (0.72-3.54); F2, 1.55 (1.05-3.37); F3, 1.84 (1.41-2.97)). The Vs had the highest area under the ROC curve (AUROC) for the prediction of both F2 ≤ and F3 ≤ fibrosis (F2, 0.77; and F3, 0.85). With the cut-off value of Vs >1.31, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were 89.4%, 53.3%, 37.3%, and 94.2% in predicting F2≤, respectively. Shear wave velocity diagnosed LF better than any laboratory tests regardless of the type of primary disease. CONCLUSIONS Acoustic radiation force impulse helps to assess graft LF after LT. The high sensitivity suggested that ARFI might reduce the frequency of liver biopsies by detecting patients who are unlikely to have significant fibrosis after LT. (Unique trial no. UMIN R000028296.).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenji Yoshino
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kojiro Taura
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Okuda
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshinobu Ikeno
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yusuke Uemoto
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takahiro Nishio
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Gen Yamamoto
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kazutaka Tanabe
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yukinori Koyama
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Satoru Seo
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Toshimi Kaido
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hideaki Okajima
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takumi Imai
- Department of Clinical Biostatistics/Clinical Biostatistics Course, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine and Public Health, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shiro Tanaka
- Department of Clinical Biostatistics/Clinical Biostatistics Course, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine and Public Health, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shinji Uemoto
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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7
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Imai H, Kamei H, Onishi Y, Ishizu Y, Ishigami M, Goto H, Ogura Y. Diagnostic Usefulness of APRI and FIB-4 for the Prediction of Liver Fibrosis After Liver Transplantation in Patients Infected with Hepatitis C Virus. Transplant Proc 2018; 50:1431-1436. [PMID: 29705278 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2018.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/01/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aspartate transaminase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) and fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) are well known as representative indirect serum biomarkers related to liver fibrosis. The usefulness of these markers for the diagnosis of liver fibrosis after liver transplantation (LT) in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients and the influence of splenectomy were investigated. METHODS From June 2003 to May 2014, 31 HCV-infected patients who underwent LT and postoperative follow-up liver biopsies were included in this study. The association between liver fibrosis and serum biomarkers and the influence of splenectomy on APRI and FIB-4 were also investigated. RESULTS A total of 195 biopsy specimens were collected, and liver fibrosis was identified as: F0, 59.7%; F1, 34.1%; and F2, 6.3%. Both APRI and FIB-4 were significantly higher in patients who showed F1 and F2 in liver biopsy specimen than F0 (P values, .009 and .022, respectively); sensitivity and specificity of APRI were, respectively, 63.4% and 66.7%, and those of FIB-4 were 57.7% and 69.6%. In 11 patients (35.5%) who underwent splenectomy at the time of LT, the cutoff values for APRI and FIB-4 were 0.61 and 1.41, which were significantly lower than the corresponding values (1.00 and 3.64) of patients without splenectomy. CONCLUSIONS APRI and FIB-4 could effectively estimate liver fibrosis after LT for HCV-related liver disease. For LT patients with splenectomy, APRI and FIB-4 were also useful to estimate liver fibrosis, but the standard values should be adjusted lower than those for patients without splenectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Imai
- Department of Transplantation Surgery, Nagoya University School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - H Kamei
- Department of Transplantation Surgery, Nagoya University School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Y Onishi
- Department of Transplantation Surgery, Nagoya University School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Y Ishizu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagoya University School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - M Ishigami
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagoya University School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - H Goto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagoya University School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Y Ogura
- Department of Transplantation Surgery, Nagoya University School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan.
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Marfà S, Jimenez W. Fibrinogen α-Chain as a Serum Marker of Liver Disease. BIOMARKERS IN DISEASE: METHODS, DISCOVERIES AND APPLICATIONS 2017. [PMCID: PMC7123997 DOI: 10.1007/978-94-007-7675-3_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is the hepatic response to an insult characterized by an accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins. If the underlying cause is not treated or eliminated, the disease can progress and may lead to several clinical complications including hepatocellular carcinoma or even death. Thus, detection, staging, and follow-up of liver fibrosis are the main issues in the prognosis and treatment of patients with chronic liver disease. In recent years, new advances in mass spectrometry-based proteomics technology and protein fractionation techniques have improved protein identification as well as protein quantification in many different samples and diseases including liver fibrosis. In particular, the fibrinogen α chain and more specifically the serum levels of the 5.9 kDa fragment of fibrinogen α C-chain have shown to be altered in several hepatic etiologies. In fact, these results have been reproduced by different laboratories, and recently a marked downregulation of this protein fragment has also been described in the initial stages of liver fibrosis. In this chapter, we have described the potential role of fibrinogen α chain and particularly the 5.9 kDa fragment of fibrinogen α C-chain as a circulating marker of liver fibrosis.
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Crespo G, Gambato M, Millán O, Casals G, Ruiz P, Londoño MC, Mira A, Forns X, Brunet M, Jiménez W, Navasa M. Early non-invasive selection of patients at high risk of severe hepatitis C recurrence after liver transplantation. Transpl Infect Dis 2016; 18:471-9. [PMID: 26992003 DOI: 10.1111/tid.12526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2015] [Revised: 12/04/2015] [Accepted: 01/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The early identification of patients at high risk of severe post liver transplant hepatitis C recurrence is relevant, as these patients may be treated using interferon (IFN)-free regimens. METHODS In a retrospective study with prospectively collected data, we investigated whether the use of several non-invasive methods (fibrosis 4 index [FIB-4], AST-to-platelets ratio index [APRI], enhanced liver fibrosis test [ELF], IFN-γ-inducible protein 10 [IP-10], and transient elastography by Fibroscan) and their combinations 6 months after transplantation could identify those recipients at higher risk of severe recurrence, defined by the presence of significant fibrosis (F ≥2) and/or portal hypertension (hepatic venous pressure gradient ≥6 mmHg) 12 months after transplant. Seventy-two hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected liver transplant patients and 10 recipients in whom HCV was eradicated before transplantation were included in the study. RESULTS The levels of all biomarkers were significantly higher in HCV-infected recipients than in controls. Among HCV recipients, levels of biomarkers were significantly higher in patients with severe recurrence. Although there were no statistically significant differences between biomarkers, APRI, ELF, and FIB-4 obtained the highest area under the ROC curve values. The combination of serum biomarkers with Fibroscan increased the negative and positive predictive values, although diagnostic accuracy of individual tests was not significantly improved. CONCLUSIONS Patients at higher risk of severe HCV recurrence can be identified early, 6 months after transplantation, using readily available non-invasive methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Crespo
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Gambato
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - O Millán
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - G Casals
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - P Ruiz
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M C Londoño
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Mira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - X Forns
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Brunet
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - W Jiménez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Navasa
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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10
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Babaei Z, Parsian H. Hyaluronic acid algorithm-based models for assessment of liver fibrosis: translation from basic science to clinical application. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2016; 15:131-40. [PMID: 27020628 DOI: 10.1016/s1499-3872(16)60062-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The estimation of liver fibrosis is usually dependent on liver biopsy evaluation. Because of its disadvantages and side effects, researchers try to find non-invasive methods for the assessment of liver injuries. Hyaluronic acid has been proposed as an index for scoring the severity of fibrosis, alone or in algorithm models. The algorithm model in which hyaluronic acid was used as a major constituent was more reliable and accurate in diagnosis than hyaluronic acid alone. This review described various hyaluronic acid algorithm-based models for assessing liver fibrosis. DATA SOURCE A PubMed database search was performed to identify the articles relevant to hyaluronic acid algorithm-based models for estimating liver fibrosis. RESULT The use of hyaluronic acid in an algorithm model is an extra and valuable tool for assessing liver fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS Although hyaluronic acid algorithm-based models have good diagnostic power in liver fibrosis assessment, they cannot render the need for liver biopsy obsolete and it is better to use them in parallel with liver biopsy. They can be used when frequent liver biopsy is not possible in situations such as highlighting the efficacy of treatment protocol for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Babaei
- Student Research Committee & Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, and Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.
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11
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Analysis of Post-Liver Transplant Hepatitis C Virus Recurrence Using Serial Cluster of Differentiation Antibody Microarrays. Transplantation 2015; 99:e120-6. [PMID: 25706280 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000000617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) reinfection of the liver allograft after transplantation is universal, with some individuals suffering severe disease recurrence. Predictive markers of recurrent disease severity are urgently needed. In this study, we used a cluster of differentiation (CD) microarray to predict the severity of HCV recurrence after transplantation. METHODS The CD antibody microarray assays of live leukocytes were performed on peripheral blood taken in the first year after transplantation. The results were grouped into phases defined as; Pre-transplant (day 0), Early (day 3 to week 2), Mid (week 4 to week 10), and Late (week 12 to week 26). Hepatitis C virus severity was based on fibrosis stages in the first 2 years (F0-1 mild and F2-4 severe). RESULTS Serial blood samples from 16 patients were taken before and after liver transplantation. A total of 98 assays were performed. Follow-up was 3 years or longer. Comparing recurrence severity, significantly greater numbers of CD antigens were differentially expressed on the pretransplant samples compared to any posttransplant timepoints. Five differentially expressed CD antigens before transplantation (CD27 PH, CD182, CD260, CD41, and CD34) were significantly expressed comparing severe to mild recurrence, whereas expression of only CD152 was significant in the late phase after transplantation. No relationship was observed between the donor or recipient interleukin-28B genotypes and HCV recurrence severity. CONCLUSIONS This study shows that circulating leukocyte CD antigen expression has utility in assessing recurrent HCV disease severity after liver transplantation and serves as a proof of principle. Importantly, pretransplant CD antigen expression is most predictive of disease outcome.
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12
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Dhanasekaran R, Sanchez W, Mounajjed T, Wiesner RH, Watt KD, Charlton MR. Impact of fibrosis progression on clinical outcome in patients treated for post-transplant hepatitis C recurrence. Liver Int 2015; 35:2433-41. [PMID: 26058570 DOI: 10.1111/liv.12890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2015] [Accepted: 06/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Patients who achieve sustained virological response (SVR) following the treatment of post-liver transplant (LT) recurrence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection have improved outcomes. The full impact of eradication of HCV on allograft histology is, however, not clearly known. METHODS We studied allograft histology in protocol-based paired liver biopsies in consecutive LT recipients who underwent post-LT treatment of recurrence of HCV. RESULTS A total of 116 patients were treated with interferon-based therapy for recurrent HCV. Paired pre-treatment baseline biopsies and post-treatment biopsies were available in 83.2% of patients. SVR was achieved in 37.9% of patients. Among the patients who achieved SVR, 20.5% had progression of fibrosis on post-treatment biopsies vs. 65.5% of patients with non-response/relapse (P < 0.001). The impact of virological response on fibrosis progression was sustained and a similar outcome was observed in the subset of patients who had 4-5 year post-treatment biopsies available. In the SVR group, 12.8% progressed to fibrosis stage ≥3 on post-treatment biopsies vs. 37.9% in the non-response/relapse group (P = 0.001). The 5-year survival in patients with progression of fibrosis 86% vs. 98% among patients who had improvement/stable fibrosis [P = 0.003; HR 3.8 (1.2-11.8)]. A small subset of patients who achieve SVR unfortunately still experience progression of fibrosis, most commonly associated with plasma cell hepatitis. CONCLUSIONS In post-transplant patients treated for HCV, SVR is associated with improved graft survival and also with sustained and significant improvement in histological outcome. Importantly, progression of fibrosis still occurred in a small subset of patients who achieved SVR.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - William Sanchez
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Taofic Mounajjed
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Russell H Wiesner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Kymberly D Watt
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Michael R Charlton
- Intermountain Transplant Center, Intermountain Medical Center, Murray, UT, USA
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13
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Bhat M, Ghali P, Rollet-Kurhajec KC, Bhat A, Wong P, Deschenes M, Sebastiani G. Serum fibrosis biomarkers predict death and graft loss in liver transplantation recipients. Liver Transpl 2015; 21:1383-94. [PMID: 26194602 DOI: 10.1002/lt.24217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2015] [Revised: 06/25/2015] [Accepted: 07/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Noninvasive serum fibrosis biomarkers predict clinical outcomes in pretransplant patients with chronic liver disease. We investigated the role of serum fibrosis biomarkers and of changes in biomarkers in predicting death and graft loss after liver transplantation (LT). We included 547 patients who underwent LT between 1991 and 2012 and who met the following criteria: patient and graft survival > 12 months; serum fibrosis biomarkers aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI), fibrosis score 4 (FIB-4), and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) fibrosis score available at 1 year after LT; and a minimum follow-up of 1 year. Delta of fibrosis biomarkers was defined as (end of follow-up score--baseline score)/follow-up duration. Baseline and delta fibrosis biomarkers were associated with death: APRI > 1.5 (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 2.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.4-3.3; P < 0.001) and delta APRI > 0.5 (aHR, 5.3; 95% CI, 3.4-8.2; P < 0.001); FIB-4 > 3.3 (aHR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.3-2.8; P = 0.002) and delta FIB-4 > 1.4 (aHR, 2.4; 95% CI, 1.4-4.1; P = 0.001); and NAFLD fibrosis score > 0.7 (aHR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.3-2.9; P = 0.002) and delta NAFLD fibrosis score (aHR, 3.7; 95% CI, 2.6-5.4; P < 0.001). Baseline and delta fibrosis biomarkers were associated also with graft loss. In conclusion, serum fibrosis biomarkers 1 year after LT and changes in serum fibrosis biomarkers predict death and graft loss in LT recipients. They may help in risk stratification of LT recipients and identify patients requiring closer monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamatha Bhat
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
| | - Peter Ghali
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
| | - Kathleen C Rollet-Kurhajec
- Chronic Viral Illness Service, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
| | - Aparna Bhat
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
| | - Philip Wong
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
| | - Marc Deschenes
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
| | - Giada Sebastiani
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada.,Chronic Viral Illness Service, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
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14
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Neuman MG, Cohen LB, Nanau RM. Hyaluronic acid as a non-invasive biomarker of liver fibrosis. Clin Biochem 2015; 49:302-15. [PMID: 26188920 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2015.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2015] [Revised: 07/07/2015] [Accepted: 07/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Chronic liver diseases may cause inflammation and progressive scarring, over time leading to irreversible hepatic damage (cirrhosis). As a result, the need to assess and closely monitor individuals for risk factors of components of matrix deposition and degradation, as well as the severity of the fibrosis using biomarkers, has been increasingly recognized. AIM Our aim is to review the use of biomarker for diagnosing and defining the severity of liver fibrosis. METHODS A systematic literature review was done using the terms "hyaluronic acid" and "liver fibrosis" as well as the name of each biomarker or algorithm known to be employed. PubMed and Google Scholar were searched, and English language articles indexed between January 2010 and October 2014 in which HA was used as a marker of liver fibrosis were retrieved, regardless of the underlying liver disease. Each author read the publications separately and the results were analyzed and discussed. RESULTS Biomarkers offer a potential prognostic or diagnostic indicator for disease manifestation, progression, or both. Serum biomarkers, including HA, have been used for many years. Emerging biomarkers such as metalloproteinases have been proposed as tools that provide valuable complementary information to that obtained from traditional biomarkers. Moreover, markers of extracellular matrix degradation provide powerful predictions of risk. In order for biomarkers to be clinically useful in accurately diagnosing and treating disorders, age-specific reference intervals that account for differences in gender and ethnic origin are a necessity. CONCLUSIONS This review attempts to provide a comprehensive analysis of the emerging risk biomarkers of liver fibrosis and to describe the clinical significance and analytical considerations of each biomarker pointing out sentinel features of disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela G Neuman
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, CEO In Vitro Drug Safety & BioTechnology, Banting Institute, 100 College Street, Lab 217, Toronto, Ontario M5G 0A3, Canada
| | - Lawrence B Cohen
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, CEO In Vitro Drug Safety & BioTechnology, Banting Institute, 100 College Street, Lab 217, Toronto, Ontario M5G 0A3, Canada; Sunnybrook HSC, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Radu M Nanau
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, CEO In Vitro Drug Safety & BioTechnology, Banting Institute, 100 College Street, Lab 217, Toronto, Ontario M5G 0A3, Canada
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15
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Abstract
Chronic HCV infection is the leading indication for liver transplantation. However, as a result of HCV recurrence, patient and graft survival after liver transplantation are inferior compared with other indications for transplantation. HCV recurrence after liver transplantation is associated with considerable mortality and morbidity. The development of HCV-related fibrosis is accelerated after liver transplantation, which is influenced by a combination of factors related to the virus, donor, recipient, surgery and immunosuppression. Successful antiviral therapy is the only treatment that can attenuate fibrosis. The advent of direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) has changed the therapeutic landscape for the treatment of patients with HCV. DAAs have improved tolerability, and can potentially be used without PEG-IFN for a shorter time than previous therapies, which should result in better outcomes. In this Review, we describe the important risk factors that influence HCV recurrence after liver transplantation, highlighting the mechanisms of fibrosis and the integral role of hepatic stellate cells. Indirect and direct assessment of fibrosis, in addition to new antiviral therapies, are also discussed.
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16
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Mariño Z, Mensa L, Crespo G, Miquel R, Bruguera M, Pérez-Del-Pulgar S, Bosch J, Forns X, Navasa M. Early periportal sinusoidal fibrosis is an accurate marker of accelerated HCV recurrence after liver transplantation. J Hepatol 2014; 61:270-7. [PMID: 24703854 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2014.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2013] [Revised: 03/18/2014] [Accepted: 03/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Significant liver fibrosis (F ⩾ 2) and portal hypertension (hepatic venous pressure gradient [HVPG] ⩾ 6 mmHg) 1 year after liver transplantation (LT) are predictors of severe hepatitis C recurrence. Periportal sinusoidal fibrosis (SF) is an early expression of the fibrogenic process in response to liver injury. We aimed to evaluate whether SF in early liver biopsies represents an early and accurate marker for identifying patients with severe HCV recurrence after LT. METHODS A total of 101 HCV LT patients with early biopsy (<6 months), and HVPG measurement and/or liver biopsy one year after LT were included. Early biopsies were stained with Sirius Red and SF was graded semi-quantitatively. Results were compared between groups (significant SF vs. non-significant SF) and correlated with the development of severe HCV recurrence one year after LT. RESULTS Patients with early significant SF had older donor age and higher necroinflammatory activity (NIA). The presence of early significant SF enabled identification of 78.9% and 90.6% of patients with F ⩾ 2 and HVPG ⩾ 6 mmHg, respectively, one year after LT. Donor age and NIA were independent predictors of significant fibrosis (F ⩾ 2) one year after LT, whereas donor age, ALT (3 months), NIA, and SF grade were independent predictors of portal hypertension (HVPG ⩾ 6). CONCLUSIONS Significant SF in early biopsies is a good predictor of severe hepatitis C recurrence. This histological finding, when combined with simple variables, may be useful to select the best candidates for early antiviral therapy after LT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe Mariño
- Liver Unit, Institut de Malalties Digestives, Hospital Clínic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Mensa
- Liver Unit, Institut de Malalties Digestives, Hospital Clínic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gonzalo Crespo
- Liver Unit, Institut de Malalties Digestives, Hospital Clínic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rosa Miquel
- Pathology Unit, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miquel Bruguera
- Liver Unit, Institut de Malalties Digestives, Hospital Clínic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sofía Pérez-Del-Pulgar
- Liver Unit, Institut de Malalties Digestives, Hospital Clínic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaume Bosch
- Liver Unit, Institut de Malalties Digestives, Hospital Clínic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Forns
- Liver Unit, Institut de Malalties Digestives, Hospital Clínic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miquel Navasa
- Liver Unit, Institut de Malalties Digestives, Hospital Clínic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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17
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Fernández-Yunquera A, Ripoll C, Bañares R, Puerto M, Rincón D, Yepes I, Catalina V, Salcedo M. Everolimus immunosuppression reduces the serum expression of fibrosis markers in liver transplant recipients. World J Transplant 2014; 4:133-140. [PMID: 25032102 PMCID: PMC4094948 DOI: 10.5500/wjt.v4.i2.133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2013] [Revised: 01/29/2014] [Accepted: 02/19/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To evaluate the expression of serum fibrosis markers in liver transplantation (LT) recipients on everolimus monotherapy compared to patients on an anti-calcineurin regimen.
METHODS: This cross-sectional case-control study included LT patients on everolimus monotherapy (cases) (E) (n = 30) and matched controls on an anti-calcineurin regimen (calcineurin inhibitors, CNI), paired by etiology of liver disease and time since LT (n = 30). Clinical characteristics, blood tests and elastography were collected. Serum levels of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), angiopoietin-1, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), platelet derived growth factor, amino-terminal propeptide of type III procollagen (PIIINP), hyaluronic acid (HA), VCM-1 (ng/mL), interleukin (IL)-10, interferon-inducible protein 10 (IP-10), vascular endothelial growth factor and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) (pg/mL) were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Expression of these markers between E and CNI was compared. Stratified analysis was done according to factors that may influence liver fibrosis. Variables are described with medians (interquartillic range) or percentages.
RESULTS: A total of 60 patients [age: 59 (49-64), hepatitis C virus (HCV): n = 21 (35%), time from LT: 73 mo (16-105)] were included. Patients had been on everolimus for a median of 15 mo. No differences in inflammatory activity, APRI test or liver elastography were found between the groups. No significant differences were observed between the groups in serum levels of PIIINP, metalloproteinase type = 1, angiopoietin, HGF, IP-10, TNF-α, IL-10 and vascular cell adhesion molecule. Patients on E had a lower expression of TGF-β [E: 12.7 (3.7-133.6), CNI: 152.5 (14.4-333.2), P = 0.009] and HA [E: 702.89 (329.4-838.2), CNI: 1513.6 (691.9-1951.4), P = 0.001] than those on CNI. This difference was maintained in the stratified analysis when recipient age is more than 50 years (TFG-β1: P = 0.06; HA: P = 0.005), in patients without active neoplasia (TFG-β1, P = 0.009; HA: P = 0.01), according to time since LT (> than 5 years, TFG-β1: P = 0.001; HA: P = 0.002), related to previous history of biliary complications (HA: P = 0.01) and HCV recurrence (HA: P = 0.004). Liver transplant recipients with everolimus monotherapy had less serum expression of TGF-β y HA than matched patients with anti-calcineurins. This difference remains when classifying patients according to donor age and time since LT. Due to the small sample size, when examining patients with a prior history of biliary complications or recurrent HCV, the difference was non-significant but trends towards the lower expression of TFG-β1 in the everolimus group. Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) plays a role in the transformation of quiescent hepatocellular stellate cell to their active profibrotic state, and experimental models have demonstrated the potential activity of mTOR inhibition in attenuating fibrogenesis.
CONCLUSION: This study supports a possible role of everolimus in liver fibrosis modulation after LT in a clinical setting and suggests that tailoring immunosuppression could avoid fibrosis progression in the allograft.
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18
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Alten TA, Negm AA, Voigtländer T, Jaeckel E, Lehner F, Brauner C, Wedemeyer H, Manns MP, Lankisch TO. Safety and performance of liver biopsies in liver transplant recipients. Clin Transplant 2014; 28:585-9. [DOI: 10.1111/ctr.12352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tim A. Alten
- Department of Radiology; Hannover Medical School; Hannover Germany
| | - Ahmed A. Negm
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology; Hannover Medical School; Hannover Germany
- Integrated Research and Treatment Center - Transplantation (IFB-Tx); Hannover Medical School; Hannover Germany
| | - Torsten Voigtländer
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology; Hannover Medical School; Hannover Germany
- Integrated Research and Treatment Center - Transplantation (IFB-Tx); Hannover Medical School; Hannover Germany
| | - Elmar Jaeckel
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology; Hannover Medical School; Hannover Germany
- Integrated Research and Treatment Center - Transplantation (IFB-Tx); Hannover Medical School; Hannover Germany
| | - Frank Lehner
- Department of Visceral Surgery; Hannover Medical School; Hannover Germany
| | - Christin Brauner
- Integrated Research and Treatment Center - Transplantation (IFB-Tx); Hannover Medical School; Hannover Germany
| | - Heiner Wedemeyer
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology; Hannover Medical School; Hannover Germany
- Integrated Research and Treatment Center - Transplantation (IFB-Tx); Hannover Medical School; Hannover Germany
| | - Michael P. Manns
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology; Hannover Medical School; Hannover Germany
- Integrated Research and Treatment Center - Transplantation (IFB-Tx); Hannover Medical School; Hannover Germany
| | - Tim O. Lankisch
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology; Hannover Medical School; Hannover Germany
- Integrated Research and Treatment Center - Transplantation (IFB-Tx); Hannover Medical School; Hannover Germany
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Crespo G, Lens S, Gambato M, Carrión JA, Mariño Z, Londoño MC, Miquel R, Bosch J, Navasa M, Forns X. Liver stiffness 1 year after transplantation predicts clinical outcomes in patients with recurrent hepatitis C. Am J Transplant 2014; 14:375-83. [PMID: 24410892 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.12594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2013] [Revised: 10/21/2013] [Accepted: 11/14/2013] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The value of transient elastography (TE) to assess clinical outcomes in hepatitis C recurrence after liver transplantation (LT) has not been explored so far. We studied 144 hepatitis C-infected and 48 non-hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected LT recipients and evaluated the prognostic value of TE 1 year after transplantation to predict clinical decompensations and graft and patient survival. In HCV patients, cumulative probabilities of liver decompensation 5 years after LT were 8% for patients with liver stiffness measurement (LSM) <8.7 kilopascals (kPa) versus 47% for patients with LSM ≥ 8.7 kPa (p<0.001). Five-year graft and patient cumulative survival were 90% and 92% in patients with LSM<8.7 kPa (p<0.001) and 63% and 64% in patients with LSM ≥ 8.7 kPa, respectively (p<0.001). Patients with low LSM 1 year after LT had excellent outcomes independently from receiving antiviral treatment or achieving sustained virological response (SVR). In contrast, graft survival significantly improved in patients with LSM ≥ 8.7 kPa who achieved SVR. No association between outcomes and LSM at 12 months was observed in non-HCV patients. In conclusion, LSM 1 year after LT is a valuable tool to predict hepatitis C-related outcomes in recurrent hepatitis C and can be used in clinical practice to identify the best candidates for antiviral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Crespo
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, CIBEREHD, IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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20
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Shetty S, Adams DH, Hubscher SG. Post-transplant liver biopsy and the immune response: lessons for the clinician. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2014; 8:645-61. [DOI: 10.1586/eci.12.65] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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21
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Affiliation(s)
- Ah Ram Sul
- Department of New Health Technology Assessment Research, National Evidence-based Healthcare Collaborating Agency, Seoul, Korea
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22
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Crespo G, Forns X, Navasa M. [Serum markers of liver fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C infection. Prognostic value of noninvasive markers of fibrosis in liver transplantation]. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2013; 35 Suppl 2:17-22. [PMID: 23298655 DOI: 10.1016/s0210-5705(12)70045-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis must be evaluated in patients with chronic hepatitis C, since its severity will affect prognosis and the indication of antiviral therapy. Combining serological markers of fibrosis in algorithms or scores can identify a substantial number of patients with significant fibrosis and most patients with liver cirrhosis, thus potentially avoiding a large number of biopsies. Although these algorithms should be interpreted with caution, due to their possible limitations, their high reproducibility, applicability and availability make them an essential tool in the current evaluation of patients with chronic hepatitis C infection. In contrast, serological markers have been found to be less effective in the diagnosis of fibrosis in the context of recurrent hepatitis C infection after liver transplantation. However, an algorithm for direct markers has shown excellent predictive ability in liver transplant recipients with hepatitis C. Consequently, this algorithm seems to be an excellent tool to establish prognosis and indicate antiviral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonzalo Crespo
- Servicio de Hepatología, Institut de Malalties Digestives, IDIBAPS, CIBERehd Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, España
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23
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Conti F. The challenge of non-invasive evaluation of fibrosis after liver transplantation. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2013; 37:314-5. [PMID: 23622711 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2013.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2013] [Accepted: 03/12/2013] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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24
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Verna EC. Hepatitis C virus: Management of recurrent disease. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2013; 2:177-180. [PMID: 30992857 PMCID: PMC6448642 DOI: 10.1002/cld.220] [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: 03/11/2013] [Revised: 04/11/2013] [Accepted: 05/18/2013] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth C. Verna
- Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY
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25
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Isgro G, Calvaruso V, Andreana L, Luong TV, Garcovich M, Manousou P, Alibrandi A, Maimone S, Marelli L, Davies N, Patch D, Dhillon AP, Burroughs AK. The relationship between transient elastography and histological collagen proportionate area for assessing fibrosis in chronic viral hepatitis. J Gastroenterol 2013; 48:921-9. [PMID: 23124603 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-012-0694-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2012] [Accepted: 09/11/2012] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Collagen proportionate area (CPA) has a better correlation with hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) than with Ishak stage. Liver stiffness measurement (LSM) is proposed as non invasive marker of portal hypertension/disease progression. Our aim was to compare LSM and CPA with Ishak staging in chronic viral hepatitis, and HVPG in HCV hepatitis after transplantation. METHODS One hundred and sixty-nine consecutive patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections pre/post liver transplantation (LT), had a liver biopsy combined with LSM (transient elastography), CPA (biopsies stained with Sirius Red and evaluated by digital image analysis and expressed as CPA) and HVPG (measured contemporaneously with transjugular biopsies in LT HCV patients). RESULTS LSM was dependent on CPA in HBV (r (2) = 0.61, p < 0.0001), HCV (r (2) = 0.59, p < 0.0001) and LT groups (r (2) = 0.64, p < 0.0001). In all three groups, CPA and Ishak were predictors of LSM, but multivariately CPA was better related to LSM (HBV: r (2) = 0.61, p < 0.0001; HCV: r (2) = 0.59, p < 0.0001; post-LT: r (2) = 0.68, p < 0.0001) than Ishak stage. In the LT group, multiple regression analysis including HVPG, LSM, aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI) and Ishak stage/grade, showed that only CPA was related to HVPG (r (2) = 0.41, p = 0.01), both for HVPG ≥6 mmHg (OR 1.34, 95 % CI 1.14-1.58; p < 0.0001) or ≥10 mmHg (OR 1.25, 95 % CI 1.06-1.47; p = 0.007). CONCLUSION CPA was related to LSM in HBV or HCV hepatitis pre/post-LT. CPA was better related to LSM than Ishak stage. In the LT HCV group, CPA was better related to HVPG than Ishak stage/grade, LSM or APRI. CPA may represent a better comparative histological index for LSM, rather than histological stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graziella Isgro
- The Royal Free Sheila Sherlock Liver Centre and University Department of Surgery UCL, Royal Free Hospital, Pond Street, Hampstead, London, NW3 2QG, UK
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Crespo S, Bridges M, Nakhleh R, McPhail A, Pungpapong S, Keaveny AP. Non-invasive assessment of liver fibrosis using magnetic resonance elastography in liver transplant recipients with hepatitis C. Clin Transplant 2013; 27:652-8. [PMID: 23837611 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.12180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver biopsy has been the reference standard when evaluating fibrosis due to recurrent hepatitis after liver transplantation. Magnetic resonance elastography estimates liver stiffness, correlating to fibrosis. AIM To investigate the utility of elastography in staging liver fibrosis in transplant recipients with hepatitis C. METHODS Fifty-four patients, ≥12 months post-transplant, underwent elastography within three months of biopsy. Discriminatory capability for METAVIR fibrosis stages F0-2 vs. F3-4 and receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis were determined. RESULTS On biopsy, 27 patients had METAVIR fibrosis score 0-1; 12 had a 3 or 4. There was significant correlation between histologic fibrosis and shear stiffness (R² = 0.588, p < 0.0001). Using a cutoff value of 3.5 kPa, elastography was 91% sensitive and 72% specific in differentiating fibrosis scores of ≥3 from 0 to 1. The AUC of elastography in predicting a fibrosis score of ≥3 was 0.92. Multivariate analysis revealed no correlation between the grade of histologic inflammation and liver stiffness measured by magnetic resonance elastography (R² = 0.265, p = 0.47). CONCLUSION Magnetic resonance elastography is an accurate non-invasive technique for excluding stage ≥3 graft in recipients with hepatitis C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Crespo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
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27
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Berenguer M, Schuppan D. Progression of liver fibrosis in post-transplant hepatitis C: mechanisms, assessment and treatment. J Hepatol 2013; 58:1028-41. [PMID: 23262248 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2012.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2012] [Revised: 12/10/2012] [Accepted: 12/10/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis results from an excessive wound healing response in most chronic liver diseases, such as hepatitis C. Despite great advances in antiviral therapy in recent years, progressive liver fibrosis remains a major problem for patients with recurrent hepatitis C after liver transplantation. Liver biopsy remains a central tool in the management of HCV-positive liver transplant recipients, but reliable non-invasive methods for the assessment of liver fibrosis, such as ultrasound elastography, are increasingly being incorporated in the management of post-transplant patients, helping predict prognosis, guide treatment decisions, and stratify patients for emerging antifibrotic therapies. In this manuscript, we will review the natural history as well as tools to monitor fibrosis progression in the HCV-positive liver transplant recipient, the mechanisms underlying rapid fibrosis progression in up to 30% of these patients, the effect of antiviral therapies and highlight promising antifibrotic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Berenguer
- University Valencia, Dept. of Medicine, Hepatology & Liver Transplantation Unit, La Fe Hospital and CIBEREHD, National Network Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology Research, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain.
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28
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Karnik GS, Shetty K. Management of recurrent hepatitis C in orthotopic liver transplant recipients. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2013; 27:285-304. [PMID: 23714341 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2013.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
End-stage liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma from chronic hepatitis C are the most common indications for orthotopic liver transplantation and the incidence of both are projected to increase over the next decade. Recurrent hepatitis C virus infection of the allograft is associated with an accelerated progression to cirrhosis, graft loss, and death. This article presents an overview of the natural history of hepatitis C virus recurrence in liver transplant recipients and guidance on optimal management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geeta S Karnik
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC 20007, USA.
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29
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Monitoring hepatitis C infection in the liver allograft. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY = JOURNAL CANADIEN DE GASTROENTEROLOGIE 2013; 27:129-30. [PMID: 23516676 DOI: 10.1155/2013/297218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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30
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Gehrau RC, Mas VR, Villamil FG, Dumur CI, Mehta NK, Suh JL, Maluf DG. MicroRNA signature at the time of clinical HCV recurrence associates with aggressive fibrosis progression post-liver transplantation. Am J Transplant 2013; 13:729-37. [PMID: 23312020 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.12047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2012] [Revised: 10/08/2012] [Accepted: 11/02/2012] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Diagnosis and prediction of the severity of hepatitis C virus recurrence (HCVrec) after liver transplantation (LT) remain a challenge. MicroRNAs have been recently recognized as potential disease biomarkers. Archival liver biopsy samples from 43 HCV+ LT recipients were collected at clinical HCVrec time and at 3 years post-LT. Patients were classified as progressors (P = F0/F1) or nonprogressors (NP = F3/F4) according to the severity of fibrosis on the 3-year biopsy. Training (n = 27) and validation (n = 16) sets were defined. RNA was isolated from all biopsies at clinical HCVrec time, labeled and hybridized to miRNA-arrays. Progressors versus nonprogressors were compared using the two-sample t-test. A p-value ≤0.01 was considered significant. The ingenuity pathway analysis tool was used for microRNA and miRNA:mRNA ontology data integration. Nine microRNAs were differentially expressed between groups. A supervised cluster analysis separated samples in two well-defined groups (progressors vs. nonprogressors). Pathway analysis associated those microRNAs with hepatitis, steatosis, fibrosis, cirrhosis and T cell-related immune response. Data integration identified 17 genes from a previous genomic study as 9-microRNAs signature targets. Seven microRNAs were successfully validated in the validation set using QPCR. We have identified a 9-microRNA signature able to identify early post-LT patients at high risk of severe HCVrec during long-term follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- R C Gehrau
- Transplant Division, Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
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31
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Fernández-Varo G. Marcadores serológicos de fibrosis. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2012; 35 Suppl 2:10-6. [DOI: 10.1016/s0210-5705(12)70044-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Abstract
Recurrent HCV disease is the most common cause of graft loss and patient mortality in HCV-infected liver transplant (LT) recipients. Risk factors for more severe recurrence that are potentially modifiable are older donor age, prolonged cold ischaemia time, prior treated acute rejection, CMV hepatitis, IL28B donor genotype, and post-LT insulin resistance. The most effective means of preventing HCV recurrence is eradicating HCV prior to LT. Select wait-list candidates with compensated or mildly decompensated disease can be considered for antiviral treatment with peginterferon, ribavirin (and protease inhibitor if genotype 1). For the majority of LT patients, HCV treatment must be delayed until post-transplant. Treatment is generally undertaken if histologic severity reaches grade 3 or 4 necroinflammation or stage ≥2 fibrosis, or if cholestatic hepatitis. Achievement of sustained viral response (SVR) post-LT is associated with stabilization of fibrosis and improved graft survival. SVR is attained in ~30% of patients treated with peginterferon and ribavirin. Poor tolerability of therapy is a limitation. Combination therapy with telaprevir or boceprevir added to peginterferon and ribavirin is anticipated to increase efficacy but with higher rates of adverse effects and challenges in managing drug-drug interactions between the protease inhibitors and calcineurin inhibitors/sirolimus.
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ARFI, FibroScan, ELF, and their combinations in the assessment of liver fibrosis: a prospective study. J Hepatol 2012; 57:281-7. [PMID: 22521355 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2012.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2011] [Revised: 03/01/2012] [Accepted: 03/12/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Our aim was to evaluate a serologic marker (ELF) and two ultrasound-based methods (FibroScan and ARFI), as well as their combinations, in the assessment of liver fibrosis. METHODS One-hundred and forty-six patients (87 liver transplant recipients, 59 non-transplant patients) who underwent liver biopsy were prospectively included. We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of FibroScan, ARFI, ELF and the combination of ELF with either ARFI or FibroScan. After analyzing in separate transplant and non-transplant patients, the whole cohort was divided into a training set and a validation set. RESULTS ARFI imaging was successfully performed across the whole cohort, while FibroScan failed in 16 (11%) patients. The three methods showed similar AUROCs and best cut-off values in transplant and non-transplant patients. In the training set, differences between the AUROCs of ARFI, FibroScan and ELF to diagnose F⩾2 (0.879, 0.861, and 0.764, respectively) and cirrhosis (0.936, 0.918, and 0.841) were not statistically significant, although both ultrasound-based methods showed higher accuracy than ELF. The combination of ELF with ARFI or FibroScan increased the negative and positive predictive values of single tests for the diagnosis of F ≥ 2 and cirrhosis. Similar results were obtained when the methods were tested in the validation set. CONCLUSIONS ARFI is as effective as either FibroScan or ELF in the non-invasive assessment of liver fibrosis, and its inclusion in an ultrasound device could facilitate its incorporation into routine clinical practice. The combination of ARFI or FibroScan with ELF may help better identify patients with or without significant fibrosis or cirrhosis.
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Rigamonti C, Fraquelli M, Bastiampillai AJ, Caccamo L, Reggiani P, Rossi G, Colombo M, Donato MF. Transient elastography identifies liver recipients with nonviral graft disease after transplantation: a guide for liver biopsy. Liver Transpl 2012; 18:566-76. [PMID: 22271627 DOI: 10.1002/lt.23391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Transient elastography (TE) reliably predicts the severity of recurrent hepatitis C virus after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT); however, its accuracy in evaluating nonviral liver graft damage is unknown. Between 2006 and 2009, 69 OLT recipients [37 for hepatitis B virus/hepatitis D virus (recurrence-free), 20 for autoimmune/cholestatic liver disease, 6 for alcoholic liver disease, and 6 for mixed etiologies] underwent protocol/on-demand liver biopsy (LB) and concomitant TE. A histological diagnosis of graft disease was made according to criteria defined by the Banff working group. Sixty-five patients (94%) had reliable TE examinations during a median post-OLT follow-up of 18 months (range = 7-251 months). LB samples (median length = 35 mm) showed graft damage in 28 patients (43%): idiopathic chronic hepatitis (11), steatohepatitis (3), rejection (3), cholangitis (2), and autoimmune/cholestatic recurrence (9). Patients with graft damage had significantly higher serum liver enzyme levels and TE results (median = 7.8 kPa, range = 5.4-27.4 kPa) than the 37 patients without graft damage (median = 5.3 kPa, range = 3.1-7.4 kPa, P < 0.001). By a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, 2 TE cutoffs for the diagnosis of graft damage were identified: 5.3 kPa with 100% sensitivity and 7.4 kPa with 100% specificity. The pretest probability of graft damage was 43%; in patients with TE values ≤5.3 kPa, the posttest probability of graft damage fell to 0%, but in patients with TE results >7.4 kPa, the posttest probability increased to 100%. In conclusion, the dual TE cutoff allows accurate discrimination between the absence and presence of nonviral liver graft damage and improves the clinical management of OLT recipients in terms of the selection of patients most in need of LB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Rigamonti
- First Division of Gastroenterology (A. M. and A. Migliavacca Center for Liver Disease), University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
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35
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Berenguer M, Charco R, Manuel Pascasio J, Ignacio Herrero J. Spanish society of liver transplantation (SETH) consensus recommendations on hepatitis C virus and liver transplantation. Liver Int 2012; 32:712-31. [PMID: 22221843 DOI: 10.1111/j.1478-3231.2011.02731.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2011] [Accepted: 11/23/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In November 2010, the Spanish Society of Liver Transplantation (Sociedad Española de Trasplante Hepático, SETH) held a consensus conference. One of the topics of debate was liver transplantation in patients with hepatitis C. This document reviews (i) the natural history of post-transplant hepatitis C, (ii) factors associated with post-transplant prognosis in patients with hepatitis C, (iii) the role of immunosuppression in the evolution of recurrent hepatitis C and response to antiviral therapy, (iv) antiviral therapy, both before and after transplantation, (v) follow-up of patients with recurrent hepatitis C and (vi) the role of retransplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Berenguer
- Spanish Society of Liver Transplantation (Sociedad Española de Trasplante Hepático, SETH)
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36
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Crespo G, Mariño Z, Navasa M, Forns X. Viral hepatitis in liver transplantation. Gastroenterology 2012; 142:1373-1383.e1. [PMID: 22537446 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2012.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2011] [Revised: 01/30/2012] [Accepted: 02/08/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Liver transplantation is the only alternative for patients with end-stage liver disease. Viral hepatitis B and C are among the most common causes of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma and a frequent indication for liver transplantation. Hepatitis B virus immunoglobulin and nucleot(s)ide analogues have facilitated the management of patients with hepatitis B who have received liver transplants and resulted in excellent long-term outcomes. On the contrary, recurrence of hepatitis C is the main cause of graft loss in most transplant programs. Current therapeutic approaches are far from optimal, because sustained virologic responses are only achieved in one-third of treated patients, and adverse effects are common and severe. However, the rapid development of direct-acting antivirals against hepatitis C virus will change the management of this disease and in a few years prevent graft infection with this virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonzalo Crespo
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
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37
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Omata M, Kanda T, Yu ML, Yokosuka O, Lim SG, Jafri W, Tateishi R, Hamid SS, Chuang WL, Chutaputti A, Wei L, Sollano J, Sarin SK, Kao JH, McCaughan GW. APASL consensus statements and management algorithms for hepatitis C virus infection. Hepatol Int 2012; 6:409-435. [PMID: 26201405 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-012-9342-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2011] [Accepted: 01/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver (APASL) convened an international working party on the "APASL Consensus Statements and Management Algorithms for Hepatitis C Virus Infection" in December, 2010, in order to revise "Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver consensus statements on the diagnosis, management and treatment of hepatitis C virus infection (J Gastroenterol Hepatol 22:615-633, 2007)". The working party consisted of expert hepatologists from the Asian-Pacific region gathered at Makuhari, Chiba, Japan on 19 December 2010. New data were presented, discussed and debated to draft a revision. Participants of the consensus meeting assessed the quality of cited studies. Finalized recommendations are presented in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masao Omata
- Yamanashi Prefectural Central Hospital, 1-1-1 Fujimi, Kofu-shi, Yamanashi, 400-8506, Japan.
- The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan.
| | - Tatsuo Kanda
- Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Ming-Lung Yu
- Kaohsiung Municipal Ta-Tung Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital and Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Osamu Yokosuka
- Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Seng-Gee Lim
- National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Ryosuke Tateishi
- The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | | | - Wan-Long Chuang
- Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital and Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | | | - Lai Wei
- Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jose Sollano
- University Santo Tomas Hospital, Manila, Philippines
| | | | - Jia-Horng Kao
- National Taiwan University College of Medicine and National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Geoffrey W McCaughan
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Centenary Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Abstract
Liver disease caused by the hepatitis C virus is the main indication for liver transplantation in Western countries. However, HCV re-infection post-transplantation is constant and recent data confirm that it significantly impairs patient and graft survival. Chronic HCV infection develops in 75-90% of patients, and 5-30% ultimately progress to cirrhosis within 5 years. Because of the impact of HCV recurrence on graft and patient survival, several treatment strategies have been evaluated. Antiviral therapy could be administered before transplantation to suppress viral replication and reduce the risk of recurrence. However, this approach is applicable in around 50% of patients and tolerance is poor, particularly in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Pre-emptive therapy in the early post-transplant period is limited by the high rate of side effects. Frequently, antiviral therapy is initiated when HCV recurs to obtain viral eradication and/or reduce disease progression. Treatment of established graft lesions with Pegylated Interferon (PEG-IFN) and Ribavirin (RBV) combination therapy results in a sustained virological response (SVR) in around 30% of patients. The new classes of potent and direct antiviral agents (DAA) will certainly improve the results of pre- and post-transplant antiviral therapy. However, at the present time, no data are available on the use of these drugs in patients with decompensated cirrhosis or post-transplant hepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Roche
- Centre Hepato-Biliaire, AP-HP Hopital Paul Brousse, Villejuif, France. France
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Abstract
Hepatitis-C-virus- (HCV-) related end-stage cirrhosis is the primary indication for liver transplantation in many countries. Unfortunately, however, HCV is not eliminated by transplantation and graft reinfection is universal, resulting in fibrosis, cirrhosis, and finally graft decompensation. The use of poor quality organs, particularly from older donors, has a highly negative impact on the severity of recurrence and patient/graft survival. Although immunosuppressive regimens have a considerable impact on the outcome, the optimal regimen after liver transplantation for HCV-infected patients remains unclear. Disease progression monitoring with protocol biopsy and new noninvasive methods is essential for predicting patient/graft outcome and starting antiviral treatment with the appropriate timing. Antiviral treatment with pegylated interferon and ribavirin is currently considered the most promising regimen with a sustained viral response rate of around 30% to 35%, although the survival benefit of this regimen remains to be investigated. Living-donor liver transplantation is now widely accepted as an established treatment for HCV cirrhosis and the results are equivalent to those of deceased donor liver transplantation.
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40
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Hübscher SG. Steatosis and fibrosis progression in patients with recurrent hepatitis C infection: complex interactions providing diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Liver Transpl 2011; 17:1374-9. [PMID: 22006866 DOI: 10.1002/lt.22452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Rubín A, Aguilera V, Berenguer M. Liver transplantation and hepatitis C. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2011; 35:805-12. [PMID: 21963086 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2011.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2011] [Accepted: 04/20/2011] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related end-stage cirrhosis with/without hepatocellular carcinoma is the primary indication for liver transplantation in many countries. Unfortunately, HCV is not eliminated by transplantation and graft re-infection is the rule, resulting in HCV-related graft disease. The natural history of recurrent hepatitis is variable; overall, progression to cirrhosis occurs in 20-30% and allograft failure in 10% after 5-10 years from transplantation. The use of poor quality organs, particularly from old donors, has a significant negative impact on disease severity and transplant outcome. In contrast, antiviral therapy, particularly if it results in permanent eradication of the virus, is associated with improved histology, reduced rate of graft decompensation and enhanced outcome. Disease monitoring, through protocol liver biopsies and new non-invasive tools, is essential to select patients at need of antiviral therapy. Peginterferon with ribavirin, used similarly to what is done in the non-transplant setting, is currently the treatment of choice; sustained viral response is achieved in about 35% of cases. Side effects, particularly anemia, are extremely frequent and sometimes severe (rejection, de novo autoimmune hepatitis). Retransplantation (RT) is the last option for the small subset of patients with allograft failure due to HCV recurrence who fulfil minimum criteria based on RT survival models.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Rubín
- Hepatology-liver transplantation unit, Digestive medicine service, and Ciberehd, National network center for hepatology and gastroenterology research, Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Bulevar Sur s/n, 46026 Valencia, Spain
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42
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Limaye AR, Firpi RJ. Management of recurrent hepatitis C infection after liver transplantation. Clin Liver Dis 2011; 15:845-58. [PMID: 22032532 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2011.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Recurrence of hepatitis C virus remains a near-universal phenomenon after liver transplantation (LT) and is responsible for the high morbidity and low survival seen in these patients. The severity of recurrent disease varies depending on multiple factors, only some of which are modifiable. Antiviral therapy is associated with improved outcomes, but viral clearance is only attainable in a small percentage of this patient population. This patient population is in need of new therapeutic options, and it remains to be seen whether direct-acting antiviral agents will be the answer to this ongoing therapeutic question.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alpna R Limaye
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, USA
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Guha IN, Myers RP, Patel K, Talwalkar JA. Biomarkers of liver fibrosis: what lies beneath the receiver operating characteristic curve? Hepatology 2011; 54:1454-62. [PMID: 21725995 DOI: 10.1002/hep.24515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2011] [Accepted: 06/17/2011] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Noninvasive biomarkers of liver fibrosis represent an intense area of research with the goals of improving patient care, disease stratification, and aiding the development of future antifibrotic therapies. Despite the rapid progress in recent years, there remain questions about how diagnostic studies are designed, statistical methods to account for spectrum bias, clinically relevant thresholds of fibrosis that should be delineated, how diagnostics can be improved, and strengthening the reference test to judge emerging biomarkers. This review discusses the current methods to address these issues and where further progress is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indra Neil Guha
- Liver Unit, University of Nottingham, NIHR NDDC BRU, Nottingham, UK.
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44
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Magnetic Resonance Elastography and Biomarkers to Assess Fibrosis From Recurrent Hepatitis C in Liver Transplant Recipients. Transplantation 2011; 92:581-6. [DOI: 10.1097/tp.0b013e31822805fa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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45
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What is the long-term outcome of the liver allograft? J Hepatol 2011; 55:702-717. [PMID: 21426919 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2011.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2010] [Revised: 03/11/2011] [Accepted: 03/13/2011] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
With improved long-term survival following liver transplantation (LT), issues relating to the assessment of the liver allograft in long-term survivors are becoming increasingly relevant. Histological abnormalities are commonly present in late post-transplant biopsies, including protocol biopsies from patients who appear to be well with good graft function. Recurrent disease is the commonest recognised cause of abnormal graft histology, but may be modified by the effects of immunosuppression or interactions with other graft complications, resulting in complex or atypical changes. Other abnormalities seen in late post-transplant biopsies include rejection (which often has different appearances to those seen in the post-transplant period), de novo disease, "idiopathic" post-transplant hepatitis (IPTH) and nodular regenerative hyperplasia. In many cases graft dysfunction has more than one cause and liver biopsy may help to identify the predominant cause of graft damage. Problems exist with the terminology used to describe less well understood patterns of graft injury, but there is emerging evidence to suggest that late rejection, de novo autoimmune hepatitis and IPTH may all be part of an overlapping spectrum of immune-mediated injury occurring in the late post-transplant liver allograft. Careful clinico-pathological correlation is very important and the wording of the biopsy report should take into account therapeutic implications, particularly whether changes in immunosuppression may be indicated. This article will provide an overview of the main histological changes occurring in long-term survivors post-LT, focusing on areas where the assessment of late post-transplant biopsies is most relevant clinically.
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Segovia-Silvestre T, Reichenbach V, Fernández-Varo G, Vassiliadis E, Barascuk N, Morales-Ruiz M, Karsdal MA, Jiménez W. Circulating CO3-610, a degradation product of collagen III, closely reflects liver collagen and portal pressure in rats with fibrosis. FIBROGENESIS & TISSUE REPAIR 2011; 4:19. [PMID: 21813019 PMCID: PMC3170588 DOI: 10.1186/1755-1536-4-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2011] [Accepted: 08/03/2011] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Background Hepatic fibrosis is characterized by intense tissue remodeling, mainly driven by matrix metalloproteinases. We previously identified CO3-610, a type III collagen neoepitope generated by matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, and tested its performance as a fibrosis marker in rats with bile-duct ligation. In this study, we assessed whether CO3-610 could be used as a surrogate biomarker of liver fibrosis and portal hypertension in carbon tetrachloride-induced experimental fibrosis. Results For this study, 68 Wistar rats were used. Serum CO3-610 was measured by ELISA. Liver fibrosis was quantified by Sirius red staining. Serum hyaluronic acid (HA) was measured with a binding-protein assay. Gene expression of collagens I and III, Mmp2 and Mmp9, and tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinase 1 (Timp1) and 2(Timp2) was quantified by PCR. Hemodynamic measurements were taken in a subgroup of animals. A close direct relationship was found between serum CO3-610 and hepatic collagen content (r = 0.78; P < 0.001), superior to that found for serum HA (r = 0.49; P < 0.05). CO3-610 levels in rats with severe fibrosis (43.5 ± 3.3 ng/mL, P < 0.001) and cirrhosis (60.6 ± 4.3 ng/mL, P < 0.001) were significantly higher than those in control animals (26.6 ± 1.3 ng/mL). Importantly, a highly significant relationship was found between serum CO3-610 and portal hypertension (r = 0.84; P < 0.001). Liver Mmp9 expression increased significantly in fibrotic animals but decreased to control levels in cirrhotic ones. Conclusions Circulating CO3-610 behaves as a reliable indicator of hepatic remodeling and portal hypertension in experimental fibrosis. This peptide could ultimately be a useful marker for the management of liver disease in patients.
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Lladó L, Ramos E. [Use of biological markers in the differential diagnosis of sepsis after liver transplant]. Cir Esp 2011; 90:85-90. [PMID: 21530952 DOI: 10.1016/j.ciresp.2011.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2010] [Accepted: 01/28/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The use of biological markers is developing in the field of liver transplant. Biomarkers are being studied in different contexts: 1) detection of tolerant patient; 2) recurrence of hepatitis C virus; 3) diagnosis and prognosis of liver cancers, and 4) diagnosis of infection. The immunological changes occurring in the transplant patient given their previous cirrhotic condition, the immunosuppression received, and possible intercurrent diagnoses (rejection, recurrence of hepatitis C virus…) highlight the importance of finding useful biomarkers in clinical practice to diagnose infection. After a review of the usefulness of biomarkers, we should perhaps add the serial determination of C-reactive protein in the immediate post-operative period, and later on procalcitonin, in the infection diagnosis algorithm. Although the determination of procalcitonin appears to be the most reliable biomarker in the differential diagnosis of sepsis and rejection, the studies carried out make it difficult to establish conclusions on its real clinical usefulness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Lladó
- Unidad de Trasplante Hepático, Servicio de Cirugía General y Digestiva, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona, España.
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J.S. Cross T, Jothimani D, Heneghan MA, Harrison PM. Non-invasive assessment of fibrosis in liver grafts due to hepatitis C virus recurrence. Clin Transplant 2011; 25:345-51. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-0012.2011.01396.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Martínez SM, Crespo G, Navasa M, Forns X. Noninvasive assessment of liver fibrosis. Hepatology 2011; 53:325-35. [PMID: 21254180 DOI: 10.1002/hep.24013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 299] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2010] [Accepted: 09/20/2010] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Liver biopsy has long been an important tool for assessing the degree of liver fibrosis. Information on the presence and degree of liver fibrosis is useful before making therapeutic decisions or predicting disease outcomes. The need to stage liver fibrosis, however, should decrease as treatment options become more successful (as has occurred with viral hepatitis). In recent years, noninvasive tests have demonstrated a reasonable ability to identify significant fibrosis, cirrhosis in particular, nor is it surprising that liver disease specialists and patients favor a noninvasive approach. However, only those tests with the highest diagnostic accuracy, cost-effectiveness, and availability should be implemented. Apart from their diagnostic accuracy, the potential ability of these tests to predict disease outcomes (a more relevant endpoint) should be compared with that of liver biopsy. Indeed, the use of a standardized system to evaluate the utility of biomarkers would facilitate their implementation in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella M Martínez
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, IDIBAPS (Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer) and CIBERehd (Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas), Barcelona, Spain
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Cholongitas E, Tsochatzis E, Goulis J, Burroughs AK. Noninvasive tests for evaluation of fibrosis in HCV recurrence after liver transplantation: a systematic review. Transpl Int 2010; 23:861-70. [PMID: 20704691 DOI: 10.1111/j.1432-2277.2010.01142.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Noninvasive tests (NIT) for evaluation of hepatic fibrosis have not been evaluated extensively in liver transplantation. We systematically reviewed the literature regarding NIT after liver transplantation. We identified 14 studies evaluating NIT based on serum markers and/or liver imaging techniques: 10 studies assessed NIT in recipients with recurrent HCV infection for fibrosis and four studies evaluated predictors of progression of fibrosis in recurrent HCV. Transient Elastography (TE) had good discrimination for significant fibrosis (median AUROC: 0.88). Among the serum NIT, APRI had good performance (median AUROC: 0.75). TE performed better than serum (direct and indirect) NIT for significant fibrosis with median AUROC 0.88 (vs. 0.66, P < 0.001), median sensitivity 0.86 (vs. 0.56, P = 0.002), median NPV 0.90 (vs. 0.74, P = 0.05) and median PPV 0.80 (vs. 0.63, P = 0.02). TE compared to indirect serum NIT, had better performance, but was not superior to APRI score. Finally, direct, compared to indirect NIT, were not significantly different except for specificity: median: 0.83 vs. 0.69, respectively, P = 0.04. In conclusion, NIT could become an important tool in clinical management of liver transplant recipients, but whether they can improve clinical practice needs further evidence. Their optimal combination with liver biopsy and assessment of collagen content requires investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelos Cholongitas
- The 4th Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School of Aristotle University, Greece. Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
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