Retransplantation for recurrent hepatitis C

Improved retransplant outcomes: early evidence of the share35 impact

BACKGROUND

Share 35 prioritizes offers of deceased donor livers to regional candidates with Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) ≥35 over local candidates with lower MELD scores. Analysis of Share35 has shown that overall 1- or 2-year post-transplant (LTx) outcomes have been unchanged while waitlist mortality has been reduced. However, these studies exclude retransplant (reLTx) recipients. This study aims to investigate the outcomes of liver retransplants in evaluating the impact of the Share35 policy.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of data from the United Network for Organ Sharing database over the period June 2011-June 2015 was performed.

RESULTS

A total of 19,748 LTx and 312 reLTx recipients were identified. Of the LTx recipients, 9626 (48.7%) underwent transplant pre-Share 35 and 10,122 (51.3%) post-Share 35. 123 (39.4%) reLTx recipients underwent retransplantation pre-Share 35 and 189 (60.6%) post-Share 35. ReLTx recipients experienced improved 2-year graft survival post-Share 35 compared to pre-Share 35 (67% vs. 21.1%). Patient survival also improved at 2-years for reLTx recipients post-Share 35 compared to pre-Share 35 (69.2% vs. 33.1%). Transplant post-Share 35 was protective for both 2-year graft (HR = 0.669, CI = 0.454-0.985, p = 0.04) and patient (HR = 0.659, CI = 0.44-0.987, p = 0.003) survival.

CONCLUSION

Share35 is associated with improved outcomes after retransplantation.

Methods for Contrasting Gap Time Hazard Functions: Application to Repeat Liver Transplantation

In studies featuring a sequence of ordered events, gap times between successive events are often of interest. Despite the rich literature in this area, very few methods for comparing gap times have been developed. We propose methods for estimating a hazard ratio connecting the first and second gap times. Specifically, a two-stage procedure is developed based on estimating equations. At the first stage, a proportional hazards model is fitted for the first gap time. Weighted estimating equations are then solved at the second stage to estimate the hazard ratio between the first and second gap times. The proposed estimator has a closed form and, being analogous to a standardized mortality ratio, is easy to interpret. Large sample properties of the proposed estimators are derived, with simulation studies used to evaluate finite sample characteristics. Extension of the approach to accommodate a piecewise constant hazard ratio is considered. The proposed methods are applied to contrast repeat (second) versus primary (first) liver transplants with respect to graft failure, based on national registry data.

Impact of comorbidity on waiting list and post-transplant outcomes in patients undergoing liver retransplantation

AIM

To determine the impact of Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) on waiting list (WL) and post liver retransplantation (LRT) survival.

METHODS

Comparative study of all adult patients assessed for primary liver transplant (PLT) (n = 1090) and patients assessed for LRT (n = 150), 2000-2007 at our centre. Demographic, clinical and laboratory variables were recorded.

RESULTS

Median age for all patients was 53 years and 66% were men. Median model for end stage liver disease (MELD) score was 15. Median follow-up was 7-years. For retransplant patients, 84 (56%) had ≥ 1 comorbidity. The most common comorbidity was renal impairment in 66 (44.3%). WL mortality was higher in patients with ≥ 1 comorbidity (76% vs 53%, P = 0.044). CCI (OR = 2.688, 95%CI: 1.222-5.912, P = 0.014) was independently associated with WL mortality. Patients with MELD score ≥ 18 had inferior WL survival (Log-Rank 6.469, P = 0.011). On multivariate analysis, CCI (OR = 2.823, 95%CI: 1.563-5101, P = 0.001), MELD score ≥ 18 (OR 2.506, 95%CI: 1.044-6.018, P = 0.04), and requirement for organ support prior to LRT (P < 0.05) were associated with reduced post-LRT survival. Donor/graft parameters were not associated with survival (P = NS). Post-LRT mortality progressively increased according to the number of transplanted grafts (Log-Rank 18.455, P < 0.001). Post-LRT patient survival at 1-, 3- and 5-years were significantly inferior to those of PLT at 88% vs 73%, P < 0.001, 81% vs 71%, P = 0.018 and 69% vs 55%, P = 0.006, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Comorbidity increases WL and post-LRT mortality. Patients with MELD ≥ 18 have increased WL mortality. Patients with comorbidity or MELD ≥ 18 may benefit from earlier LRT. LRT for ≥ 3 grafts may not represent appropriate use of donated grafts.

Hepatitis C virus recurrence after liver transplantation in Hungary. Trends over the past 10 years

Introduction: Management of hepatitis C virus recurrence is a challenge after liver transplantation. Aim: The aim of the authors was to analyse the outcome of liver transplantation performed in hepatitis C virus positive patients during the past ten years and to compare recent data with a previous report of the authors. Method: The authors retrospectively evaluated the data (donors, recipients, perioperative characteristics, patient and graft survival, serum titer of hepatitis C virus RNA, histology) of 409 patients who underwent liver transplantation between 2003 and 2012. Results: 156 patients were transplanted due to hepatitis C virus associated liver cirrhosis (38%). Worse outcome was observed in these patients in comparison to hepatitis C virus negative recipients. The cumulative patient survival rates at 1, 5, and 10 year were 80%, 61%, 51% in the hepatitis C virus positive group and 92%, 85%, 79% in the hepatitis C virus negative group, respectively (p<0.001). The cumulative graft survival rates at 1, 5 and 10 year were 79%, 59% and 50% in hepatitis C virus positive and 89%, 80% and 70% in hepatitis C virus negative patients (p<0.001). Hepatitis C virus recurrence was observed in the majority of the patients (132 patients, 85%), mainly within the first year (83%). The authors observed recurrence within 6 months in 71 patients (56%), and within 3 months in 26 patients (20%). The mean hepatitis C virus recurrence free survival was 243 days. Higher rate of de novo diabetes was detected in case of early recurrence. The cumulative patient survival rates at 1, 3, 5, 10 years were 98%, 89.5%, 81% and 65% when hepatitis C virus recurrence exceeded 3 months and 64%, 53%, 30.5% and 30.5% in patients with early recurrence (p<0.001). Conclusions: Poor outcome of liver transplantation in hepatitis C virus positive patients is still a challenge. Hepatitis C virus recurrence is observed earlier after liver transplantation in comparison with a previous report of the authors. De novo diabetes occurs more frequently in case of early recurrence. Despite an immediate start of antiviral treatment, early recurrence has a significant negative impact on the outcome of transplantation. Orv. Hetil., 2013, 154, 1058–1066.

The effect and safety of the treatment of recurrent hepatitis C infection after orthotopic liver transplantation with pegylated interferon α2b and ribavirin

INTRODUCTION

Recurrent hepatitis C infection in the posttransplant setting is a serious problem. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy, safety, indications, optimal time of administration and adequate duration of antiviral therapy with pegylated interferon alpha 2 b (PEG-IFN) and ribavirin (RIB).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 2003 and 2009, 16 patients received antiviral therapy (PEG-IFN: 0.8-1.6 μg/kg/wk, RIB 800-1200 mg/d) for at least 6 months. Patients with a biochemical without a virologicalresponse after 12 months of therapy received antiviral treatment for a further 6 months. Hepatitis C virus load was determined at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after start of therapy. Liver biopsy was performed in all patients before the beginning and after the end of treatment.

RESULTS

The mean period of antiviral therapy was 14 months. The four patients who received the full-length treatment (12 months, 33%) showed sustained virological responses (SVR) and 8 showed virological and biochemical responses (VR, BR). Patients with SVR showed significant improvement in the grading and staging of HAI (histological activity index; P=.03). Nine patients had several side effects under antiviral treatment. Acute rejection episodes were not observed.

CONCLUSION

The antiviral treatment combination using PEG-IFN and RIB for recurrent hepatitis C is effective procedure. The SVR of 33% after 12 months of treatment with significant improvement in HAI grading and staging and stable HAI in all treated patients favor early initiation and 12-month administration of antiviral treatment. Furthermore, all patients with BR without VR, who underwent antiviral treatment for a further 6 months, achieved a VR. However, the optimal duration of treatment needs to be investigated in large prospective studies.

Impact of MELD on waitlist outcome of retransplant candidates

Under the current allocation system for liver transplantation (LTx), primary and retransplantation (ReTx) are treated identically. The aims of this study were (1) to compare the risk of death between ReTx and primary LTx candidates at a given MELD score and (2) to gauge the impact of the MELD-based allocation system on the waitlist outcome of ReTx candidates. Based on data of all waitlist registrants in the United States between 2000 and 2006, unique adult patients with chronic liver disease were identified and followed forward to determine mortality within six months of registration. There were a total of 45,943 patients waitlisted for primary LTx and 2081 registered for ReTx. In the MELD era (n = 30,175), MELD was significantly higher among ReTx candidates than primary LTx candidates (median, 21 vs. 15). Within a range of MELD scores where most transplantation took place, mortality was comparable between ReTx and primary candidates after adjusting for MELD. The probability for LTx increased significantly following implementation of the MELD-based allocation in both types of candidates. We conclude that by and large, primary and ReTx candidates fare equitably under the current MELD-based allocation system, which has contributed to a significant increase in the probability of LTx.

Hepatitis C virus sensitivity to combined antiviral therapy in liver transplant versus immunocompetent patients

Recurrent hepatitis C virus (HCV) after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) frequently causes allograft failure, because viral aggressiveness has been shown to be increased among immunosuppressed patients. Several studies have reported lower efficacy of antiviral therapy after OLT associated with worse tolerability. The aim of this study was to compare the logarithmic falls in viral loads at 4 and 12 weeks of treatment with pegylated interferon alpha and ribavirin among OLT versus immunocompetent patients. OLT patients (group 1) were recruited from 3 Spanish centers. Two age- and sex-matched controls (group 2) were randomly assigned to each case. We excluded coinfection with human immunodeficiency virus or hepatitis B or cholestatic hepatitis. Among group 1 (n = 66) were 72.7% men with an overall mean age of 52.7 +/- 10.1 years; 90.9% were genotype 1. The mean baseline viral load was 6.0 +/- 0.6 log10 IU/mL, and 19% of patients had cirrhosis. Among group 2 (n = 132) were 72.7% men with an overall mean age of 50.1 +/- 10.1 years; 92.4% were genotype 1. The mean baseline viral load was 5.9 +/- 0.5 log10 IU/mL, and 17% of patients had cirrhosis. There were no significant differences in patient characteristics between the 2 groups. The logarithmic falls in viral loads at 4 weeks of treatment were similar in groups 1 and 2: 2.3 +/- 2.1 vs 2.4 +/- 1.9 log10 IU/mL (P = .49); they were also similar at 12 weeks of treatment: 3.9 +/- 1.9 vs 3.7 +/- 2.4 log10 IU/mL (P = .66). In conclusion, in our study HCV sensitivity to combined antiviral therapy was the same among transplant versus immunocompetent patients.

Improving outcomes of liver retransplantation: an analysis of trends and the impact of Hepatitis C infection

Retransplantation (RT) in Hepatitis C (HCV) patients remains controversial.

AIMS

To study trends in RT and evaluate the impact of HCV status in the context of a comprehensive recipient and donor risk assessment. The UNOS database between 1994 and October 2005 was utilized to analyze 46 982 LT and RT. Graft and patient survival along with patient and donor characteristics were compared for 2283 RT performed in HCV and non-HCV patients during 1994-1997, 1998-2001 and 2002-October 2005. Overall HCV prevalence at RT increased from 36% in the initial period to 40.6% after 2002. In our study group, 1-year patient and graft survival post-RT improved over the same time intervals from 65.0% to 70.7% and 54.87% to 65.8%, respectively. HCV was only associated with decreased patient and graft survival with a retransplant (LT-RT) interval (RI) >90 days. Independent predictors of mortality for RT with RI >90 days were patient age, MELD score >25, RI <1 year, warm ischemia time > or =75 min and donor age > or =60 (significant for HCV patients only). Outcomes of RT are improving, but can be optimized by weighing recipient factors, anticipation of operative factors and donor selection.

Liver retransplantation of patients with hepatitis C infection is associated with acceptable patient and graft survival

Infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the leading cause of liver transplantation (LT), while liver retransplantation (RT) for HCV is controversial as a result of concerns over poor outcomes. We sought to compare patient and graft survival after RT in patients with and without HCV. We performed a retrospective chart review of all patients undergoing RT at our center between February 1998 and April 2004. Indications for RT, HCV status, patient, and donor characteristics, laboratory values, and hospitalization status at RT were collected. A total of 108 patients (48 HCV and 60 non-HCV) underwent RT during the study period, with mean post-RT follow-up of 1,096 days (range, 0-2,888 days). Grafts from donors aged>60 years were used less frequently in HCV patients at RT (6%) compared with LT (47%), P<0.001. There was no difference between HCV vs. non-HCV patients in 1- and 3-year patient survival (respectively, 79% vs. 63%, and 71% vs. 63%) and graft survival (respectively, 67% vs. 66%, and 59% vs. 56%). Post-RT mortality and graft failure in HCV patients occurred within the first year in 89% of patients, and 83% were unrelated to HCV recurrence. We conclude that patients should not be excluded from consideration for retransplantation solely on the basis of a diagnosis of HCV.

Intravenous interferon during the anhepatic phase of liver retransplantation and prevention of recurrence of cholestatic hepatitis C virus

Cholestatic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection post orthotopic liver transplantation is associated with a poor prognosis. We describe 2 patients who received interferon and ribavirin for cholestatic HCV infection with clearance of HCV RNA from the serum. Both developed signs of graft failure necessitating repeat orthotopic liver transplantation, and at surgery, interferon was administered during the anhepatic phase to prevent graft reinfection. Both patients are doing well with no evidence of recurrent viremia at 36 and 24 months of follow-up after repeat transplantation, respectively. Our results suggest that in those with cholestatic HCV infection, repeat transplantation after viral clearance is feasible and can occur without reinfection of the graft, challenging the current practice of denying retransplantation for patients with cholestatic HCV. The role of anhepatic administration of interferon deserves further examination, and this combination may provide a solution in a subset of patients with an otherwise poor prognosis.

The recurrence of hepatitis C virus after liver transplantation

A hazai májátültetési programban magas a hepatitis C-vírus (HCV) okozta végstádiumú májbetegség miatt végzett májátültetések aránya. Célkitűzés: A szerzők dolgozatukban elemzik a C-hepatitis miatt májátültetésen átesett betegek adatait. Módszer: Az 1995 óta végzett 295 primer májátültetés adatainak retrospektív elemzése: donor- és recipiens-, valamint perioperatív és túlélési adatok, szérumvírus-RNS-titer, percutan májbiopsziák szövettani eredményei. Eredmények: A műtét 111 betegnél történt HCV-fertőzés miatt, ez az elvégzett májátültetések 37,6%-a. A vizsgált 111 beteg közül 22 beteg (20%) a posztoperatív időszakban, a vírus kiújulásának észlelése előtt, egyéb okból meghalt. A 89 beteg közül 16 esetben (18%) a vírus visszatérését még nem észlelték, 73 betegnél (82%) azonban a vírus kiújulása szövettanilag igazolható volt. Negyven betegnél (56%) a C-vírus okozta hepatitis kiújulását egy éven belül észlelték, közülük 28 esetben (39%) 6 hónapon belül, 12 esetben hat hónapon túl, de 1 éven belül (17%), és 32 betegnél (44%) egy éven túl. A végstádiumú C-cirrhosis miatt májátültetett betegek kumulatív 1, 3, 5 és 10 éves túlélése 73%, 67%, 56% és 49% volt. A HCV-negatív, májátültetett betegeknél ezek az értékek 80%, 74%, 70% és 70%, a különbség szignifikáns. A májgraft kumulatív túlélése HCV-pozitív betegeknél 72%, 66%, 56% és 49% volt, míg HCV-negatív betegeknél 76%, 72%, 68% és 68%, itt nem szignifikáns a különbség. Korai kiújulás esetén szignifikánsan magasabb szérumvírus-RNS-titert mértek az első 6 hónapban májátültetés után. A májátültetés után 6 hónappal vett protokollbiopszia korai kiújulás esetén magasabb Knodell-pontszámot eredményezett, mint késői kiújuláskor. A fibrosisindex esetében ez fordítva volt. A májátültetéstől az első antivirális kezelésig eltelt idő 1995–2002 között átlagosan 20 hónap volt, 2003 óta 8 hónap. Következtetések: Az idősebb donorokból származó, marginális májgraftok magasabb vértranszfúzió-igény mellett történő beültetése előrevetíti a hamarabb bekövetkező vírusrekurrenciát. Ezt a tendenciát erősíti a posztoperatív akut rejectio és az emiatt adott szteroid boluskezelés. A kombinált antivirális kezelés protokollja különbözik az általánosan alkalmazottól: az ún. „stopszabály” nem érvényes. Vírusnegatívvá a betegek csak kevesebb mint 10%-a válik, melynek a fenntartott immunszuppresszió az oka. A májátültetés után korán, akár fél éven belül elkezdett antivirális kezelés a beteg- és grafttúlélést pozitívan befolyásolja, és feltehetően csökkenti a HCV-reinfekció miatti retranszplantációk számát. A második májátültetésnél akkor várhatók jó eredmények, ha időben történik, a recipiens még megfelelő fizikai állapota mellett. Ennek megítélésében a MELD-score segít.

Recurrent viral liver disease (hepatitis B and C) after liver transplantation

Hepatitis C represents more than 35% of liver transplant candidates worldwide. Meanwhile, hepatitis B continues to be an important cause of end-stage liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma in Asia and Africa. Recurrent viral liver disease is a significant event after liver transplantation and continues to be one of the main causes of graft dysfunction and loss in the middle and long-term follow-up. Mechanisms of liver reinfection and disease recurrence vary between these two viruses and pre-emptive as well as the therapeutic approaches are different. Hepatitis B patients can be managed with immune globulin immediately after liver transplant and various agents such as nucleotide and nucleoside analogues can be associated. As a result, disease recurrence has been delayed or prevented in these patients. Individuals transplanted for hepatitis C are known to have universal reinfection and a high rate of disease recurrence has been reported in the literature. Strategies to treat hepatitis C recurrence are limited to the use of pegylated interferon and ribavirin when disease is demonstrated histologically and biochemically, although other strategies have been described with limited or no success. We herein review the mechanisms of disease recurrence and the current as well as the future therapeutic approaches to prevent and to treat these diseases.

Management of hepatitis C infection after liver transplantation

Recurrent hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) has been associated with progression to cirrhosis in approximately 20% of patients, 5 years postoperatively. Accelerated decompensation has also been noted when compared with cirrhosis in non-transplant patients. Different treatment strategies are available for recurrent HCV infection post-OLT, but efforts are hindered by the modest response rates, poor tolerability and the risk of rejection as well as graft loss. Anti-HCV immunoglobulin therapy to prevent graft infection with HCV has no established role at present but studies are ongoing. Treatment prior to transplantation in patients with decompensated cirrhosis has been evaluated but the results are too preliminary to make firm recommendations. Prophylactic interferon-based antiviral therapy in the early postoperative period to prevent graft infection was shown to have low response rates and high rates of adverse effects. Treatment of established recurrent HCV infection with combination peginterferon (pegylated interferon) and ribavirin is associated with 10-59% sustained virological response and the predictive value of a positive early virological response has been validated in the post-transplant setting. Improvement in inflammatory activity after viral eradication is well established, but fibrosis regression or stabilisation is less predictable and factors such as rejection and biliary complications may still contribute to graft loss. Most studies have initiated therapy at least 6 months postoperatively in order to optimise patient tolerance and enable the addition of ribavirin. The use of adjuvant agents to treat drug-induced neutropenia and anaemia in this population is evolving and becoming a crucial part of therapy. Determination of optimal doses of both pegylated interferon and ribavirin, and guidance on when to stop treatment, as well as improving tolerability are important steps in achieving higher response rates and minimising drug toxicity.

The status of liver transplantation for hepatitis C

The hepatitis C virus (HCV) infects 3% of the world's population, or approximately 170 million people. Most of those acutely infected progress to chronic infection and are unresponsive to existing antiviral treatment. Over a 20-year period, chronic HCV infection leads to cirrhosis and the sequelae of end-stage liver disease, including hepatic encephalopathy, ascites, variceal haemorrhage and hepatocellular carcinoma. Orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) is the optimal treatment for decompensated HCV cirrhosis, but is limited by organ availability and universal graft reinfection. This review discusses the results with OLT for HCV from the Dumont-UCLA Liver Transplant Center and discusses future directions in the management of HCV.

Management of recurrent viral hepatitis B and C after liver transplantation

Liver transplant teams are often faced with the challenges of managing viral recurrence after liver transplantation. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains the most challenging viral disease in the transplant community. Strategies to prevent and delay viral recurrence have slowly developed over the past 5 years. Hepatitis B virus (HBV), previously a contraindication for liver transplantation due to recurrence and cholestasis with allograft failure, is now one of the more favorable indications for liver transplantation as a result of current therapeutic options. This review investigates the up-to-date information on treatment outcomes for HCV and HBV in the period following liver transplant.

Recurrent hepatitis C after retransplantation: factors affecting graft and patient outcome

Retransplantation (re-LT) of patients with recurrent hepatitis C virus (HCV) carries significant morbidity and mortality, negatively impacting on an already scarce donor allograft pool. In this study, we investigated the outcome of allografts and patients after re-LT due to recurrent HCV. Between 1989 and 2002, 47 patients were retransplanted at our institution due to HCV-related graft failure. Clinical HCV recurrence after re-LT was diagnosed when patients had acute liver enzyme elevation correlated with histological recurrence. The independent influence of these variables on survival was tested using Cox regression model. Chi-squared tests were used to examine the influence of individual demographic and pre/perioperative variables on recurrence. Thirty-one (66%) patients died after re-LT (median 2.2 months). Donor age >60, clinical HCV recurrence, and graft failure due to cirrhosis were significant risk factors for mortality (risk ratios of 3.6, 3.3, and 2.4, respectively). Pre-LT MELD score was lower among survivors (22+/- 5 vs. 27+/- 8). Following re-LT, 38 patients had at least one biopsy due to acute liver dysfunction; 19 of them (50%) had recurrence within the first 3 months. High-dose solumedrol was correlated with early recurrence. No association was found between time of recurrence after the first LT and time of recurrence after re-LT. In conclusion, patients with cirrhosis due to recurrent HCV undergoing re-LT have an extremely high mortality rate; older allografts should be avoided in retransplanting these patients. The timing of clinical recurrence after initial liver transplantation is not predictive of the timing of recurrence after re-LT. Patients experiencing early graft failure due to accelerated forms of HCV should not be denied re-LT with the expectation that a similar disease course will occur after re-LT.

When shouldn't we retransplant?

1. In the setting of early graft failure after primary transplantation, orthotopic liver retransplantation (re-OLT) should be undertaken within the first 7 days, but it should be discouraged within 8-30 days, since re-OLT within this intermediate frame is associated with the worst results. 2. Late retransplantation should be cautioned in severely ill patients who exhibit Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores >25, require mechanical ventilation, have advanced renal insufficiency, and in advanced-age recipients. 3. Re-OLT should not be undertaken with extended and older donors particularly when retransplantation for recurrent disease is considered. 4. Prognostic models that take into account the severity of disease and the effect of the organ to be transplanted should be developed to better predict outcomes after re-OLT. 5. Accurate definitions of acceptable outcomes after retransplantation and "futile re-OLT" are desperately needed.

Liver retransplantation: a single-center outcome and financial analysis

Retransplantation of the liver (re-OLTx) accounts for approximately 10% of all liver transplants in the United States. The decision to offer a patient a second liver transplant has significant financial, ethical, and outcome implications. This large, single-center experience describes some outcome and financial data to consider when making this decision. One thousand three liver transplants were performed in 921 patients at our center. Patients were divided into adult and pediatric groups, and further by whether they received a single transplant or more than one. Overall survival, variation in survival by timing of re-OLTx, and survival in adults with hepatitis C were investigated, as were hospital charges and cost of re-OLTx. Adults, but not children, had a significant decrement in survival following a second transplant. Second transplants more than double the cost of the initial transplant, but there is a significantly higher cost associated with early retransplantation compared to the cost associated with late retransplantation (costs of first and second transplants included in both cases). This difference is due to a longer length of stay and associated cost in the ICU. Adult patients retransplanted early have the same overall survival compared to those done late. The sample size of the adult HCV re-OLTx population was too small to reach statistical significance despite their observed poorer outcome.

Successful treatment of hepatitis C reinfection with interferon-alpha2b and ribavirin after liver transplantation

INTRODUCTION

Recurrence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) is a virtually universal occurrence, and a significant proportion of patients develop chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of interferon (IFN)-alpha2b plus ribavirin (RIBA) in the treatment of recurrent HCV after OLT over the long term.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Fifteen patients with recurrent HCV infection (positive serum HCV RNA, elevated serum aminotransferases, histological activity) were started on IFN-alpha2b (3-6 million units administered subcutaneously three times a week) plus RIBA (800-1200 mg/day) 18+/-5 months after OLT. HCV RNA was determined 1, 3, 6, 9, 12 and 18 months after initiation of treatment. Liver biopsy was performed before and after therapy. The patients were followed up for a mean of 33+/-5 months.

RESULTS

Thirteen patients (87%) were treated for at least 6 months and nine patients (60%) for 12 months. After 3 months, 11 patients (73%) were free from HCV RNA (<50 copies/ml); the virological end-of-treatment response was 67%. Five patients (33%) remained HCV RNA-negative 6 months posttreatment (sustained response (SR)). During the follow-up period, four patients (27%) died of liver failure, recurrent HCV after virological response, or HCC. The histological activity index improved significantly for both inflammatory activity and fibrosis, from 8.8 to 4.7 and from 7.3 to 4.8, respectively. In none of the patients were signs of rejection observed.

CONCLUSION

Combination therapy with IFN and RIBA in transplanted patients with chronic hepatitis C is an effective treatment that results in a high virological SR rate. It is well tolerated and leads to an improvement in histological outcome.

Analysis of long-term outcomes of 3200 liver transplantations over two decades: a single-center experience

OBJECTIVE

Few studies have evaluated long-term outcomes after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). This work analyzes the experience of nearly 2 decades by the same team in a single center. Outcomes of OLT and factors affecting survival were analyzed.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of 3200 consecutive OLTs that were performed at our institution, between February 1984 and December 31, 2001.

RESULTS

Of 2662 recipients, 578 (21.7%) and 659 (24.7%) were pediatric and urgent patients, respectively. Overall 1-, 5-, 10-, and 15-year patient and graft survival estimates were 81%, 72%, 68%, 64% and 73%, 64%, 59%, 55%, respectively. Patient survival significantly improved in the second (1992-2001) versus the era I (1984-1991) of transplantation (P < 0.001). Similarly, graft survival was better in the era II of transplantation (P < 0.02). However, biliary and infectious complications increased in era II. When OLT indications were considered, best recipient survival was obtained in children with biliary atresia (82%, 79%, and 78% at 1, 5, and 10 years, respectively), while malignant disease in adult patients resulted in the worst outcomes of 68% and 43% at 1 and 5 years, post-OLT. Further, patients <18 years and nonurgent recipients exhibited superior survival when compared with recipients >18 years (P < 0.001) or urgent patients (P < 0.001). Of 13 donor and recipient variables, era of OLT, recipient age, urgent status, donor age, donor length of hospital stay, etiology of liver disease, retransplantation, warm and cold ischemia, but not graft type (whole, split, living-donor), significantly impacted patient survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term benefits of OLT are greatest in pediatric and nonurgent patients. Multiple factors involving the recipient, etiology of liver disease, donor characteristics, operative variables, and surgical experience influence long-term survival outcomes. By balancing and matching these factors with a given recipient, optimum results can be achieved.

Management of hepatitis C virus infection in the setting of liver transplantation

1. Posttransplantation recurrence of hepatitis C virus infection is a universal phenomenon with a highly variable natural history. 2. Approximately 10% to 25% of hepatitis C virus- infected recipients of liver allografts will develop cirrhosis within 5 years' after transplantation. 3. The 1-year actuarial risk of hepatic decompensation after recurrence of cirrhosis approximates 42%. 4. Some of the factors associated with aggressive recurrence include donor and recipient age, recent year of transplantation, recipient gender and race, the use of antithymocyte globulin, and high dose of corticosteroids. 5. Highly aggressive recurrent hepatitis C virus infection leading to cirrhosis fares poorly after retransplantation in the presence of hyperbilirubinemia and renal failure, with a 1-year survival of approximately 40%. 6. Elevated serum aminotransferases are a poor indicator or recurrent disease. 7. Current sustained virological response after combination pegylated alpha interferon and ribavirin treatment is approximately 25%. 8. There is no consensus on initiation time point, duration of treatment, or dosage. Given immunosuppression, at least 48 weeks of therapy is a reasonable approach. 9. Treatment for 48 weeks is cost effective. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for men aged 55 years is $29,100 per life-year saved.

Hepatitis C is a risk factor for death after liver retransplantation

Retransplantation for liver allograft failure associated with hepatitis C virus (HCV) has been increasing due to nearly universal posttransplant HCV recurrence and has been demonstrated to be associated with poor outcomes. We report on the risk factors for death after retransplantation among liver recipients with HCV. A retrospective cohort of liver transplant recipients who underwent retransplantation between January 1997 and December 2002 was identified in the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients database. Cox regression was used to assess the relative effect of HCV diagnosis on mortality risk after retransplantation and was adjusted for multiple covariates. Of 1,718 liver retransplantations during the study period, 464 (27%) were associated with a diagnosis of HCV infection. Based on Cox regression, retransplant recipients with HCV had a 30% higher covariate-adjusted mortality risk than those without HCV diagnosis (hazard ratio [HR], 1.30; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.10-1.54; P = 0.002). Other covariates associated with significant relative risk of death after retransplantation included older recipient age, presence in an intensive care unit (ICU), serum creatinine, and donor age. Additional regression analysis revealed that the increase in mortality risk associated with HCV was concentrated between 3 and 24 months postretransplantation, among patients age 18 to 39 at retransplant, and in patients retransplanted during the years 2000 to 2002. In conclusion, HCV liver recipients account for a considerable proportion of all retransplantations performed. Surprisingly, younger age predicted a higher mortality for recipients with HCV undergoing liver retransplantation. This may reflect a willingness to retransplant younger patients with an increased severity of illness or a more virulent HCV infection in this population. Although HCV was predictive of an increased risk of death, consideration of other characteristics of HCV patients, including donor and recipient age and need for preoperative ICU care may identify those at significantly higher risk.

Should patients with chronic hepatitis C infection be transplanted?

Chronic hepatitis C (HCV) infection affects more than 170 million people throughout the world and 2 to 3 million Americans. End-stage liver disease secondary to chronic HCV infection is the most frequent indication for liver transplantation in this country. Currently, the gold standard for treatment for immunocompetent patients is a combination of peginterferon (PEG-IFN) and ribavirin for 6 to 12 months depending on the genotype. This treatment achieves a sustained virological response (SVR) in 54% to 61% of patients overall. Almost 50% of patients do not respond or have recurrences posttreatment and progress in over 10 to 20 years into chronic liver disease and its complications. Liver transplantation is the only therapeutic modality that impacts on quality of life and survival of these patients. However, recurrence of HCV in the new allograft is universal with accelerated progression to cirrhosis in 5 to 10 years. Response to treatment is usually low (20% to 30%), and associated with significant side effects and depression. A significant percentage of patients with recurrent HCV after transplantation require retransplantation to control the complications of end-stage liver disease. Other solid organ transplants recipients already HCV-positive, or infected at the time of transplantation from blood transfusions or an infected graft, develop accelerated, progressive liver disease facilitated by the adverse effects of immunosuppression in addition to HCV replication. To prevent morbidity, mortality, and high costs related to the consequences of HCV infection, all solid organ transplant candidates should be tested for HCV infection and treated appropriately with PEG-IFN and ribavirin prior to transplantation.

Factors that identify survival after liver retransplantation for allograft failure caused by recurrent hepatitis C infection

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is becoming the most common indication for liver retransplantation (ReLTx). This study was a retrospective review of the medical records of liver transplant patients at our institution to determine factors that would identify the best candidates for ReLTx resulting from allograft failure because of HCV recurrence. The patients were divided into 2 groups on the basis of indication for initial liver transplant. Group 1 included ReLTx patients whose initial indication for LTx was HCV. Group 2 included patients who received ReLTx who did not have a history of HCV. We defined chronic allograft dysfunction (AD) as patients with persistent jaundice (> 30 days) beginning 6 months after primary liver transplant in the absence of other reasons. HCV was the primary indication for initial orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) in 491/1114 patients (44%) from July 1996 to February 2004. The number of patients with AD undergoing ReLTx in Groups 1 and 2 was 22 and 12, respectively. The overall patient and allograft survival at 1 year was 50% and 75% in Groups 1 and 2, respectively (P = .04). The rates of primary nonfunction and technical problems after ReLTx were not different between the groups. However, the incidence of recurrent AD was higher in Group 1 at 32% versus 17% in Group 2 (P = .04). Important factors that predicted a successful ReLTx included physical condition at the time of ReLTx (P = .002) and Child-Turcotte-Pugh score (P = .008). In conclusion, HCV is associated with an increased incidence of chronic graft destruction with a negative effect on long-term results after ReLTx. The optimum candidate for ReLTx is a patient who can maintain normal physical activity. As the allograft shortage continues, the optimal use of cadaveric livers continues to be of primary importance. The use of deceased donor livers in patients with allograft failure caused by HCV remains a highly controversial issue.

Natural history of hepatitis C following liver transplantation

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Currently, chronic hepatitis C virus-infection-related cirrhosis is the most common indication for liver transplantation in the USA and most parts of the world. While the incidence of new hepatitis C virus cases has decreased, the prevalence of infection will not peak until the year 2040. In addition, as the duration of infection increases, the proportion of new patients with cirrhosis will double by 2020 in an untreated patient population. If this model is correct, the projected increase in the need for liver transplantation secondary to chronic hepatitis C virus infection will place an impossible burden on an already limited supply of organs. In this article we present a comprehensive review of post-transplant hepatitis C virus infection and address the major challenges that face the transplant community.

RECENT FINDINGS

Hepatitis C virus infection recurs virtually in every post-transplant patient. Typically, serum levels of hepatitis C virus RNA increase rapidly from week 2 post-liver transplant, achieving 1-year post-liver transplant levels that are 10-20-fold greater than the mean pre-liver transplant levels. Progression of chronic hepatitis C virus is more aggressive after liver transplantation with a cumulative probability of developing graft cirrhosis estimated to reach 30% at 5 years. Approximately 10% of the patients with recurrent disease will die or require re-transplantation within 5 years post-transplantation. Interventions to prevent, improve, or halt the recurrence of hepatitis C virus infection have been evaluated by multiple small studies worldwide with similar overall rates of virological clearance of approximately 9-30%. Current consensus recommends combination therapy with pegylated interferon and ribavirin for those patients with histological recurrence of hepatitis C virus infection and fibrosis of >/= 2/4. Therapy is adjusted to tolerance and rescued with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor and erythropoietin for bone marrow suppression.

SUMMARY

The major challenges that face the transplant community in the coming years include new strategies to meet the growing demand for limited organ donor supplies and improvement of treatment for those patients in whom recurrence of viral disease has occurred. Only with improved antiviral treatments and strategies will we make a significant impact on this problem.

Pilot study of pegylated interferon alfa-2b and ribavirin for recurrent hepatitis C after liver transplantation

Recurrent hepatitis C is often treated with an interferon and ribavirin combination therapy, but the results have been disappointing. Given the promising results reported with pegylated interferon and ribavirin for hepatitis C, we were interested in evaluating the effectiveness of this treatment in liver transplant recipients with recurrent hepatitis C (HCV).

METHODS

Between November 2001 and September 2002, patients with recurrent HCV were screened to determine if they were eligible for treatment. Liver function tests, HCV-RNA, and liver biopsies were performed on all patients prior to treatment. HCV-RNA was repeated at 3 months, the end of treatment (EOT), and 6 months after EOT for patients who were HCV-RNA negative at EOT. Patients were prospectively followed after starting weekly pegylated interferon alfa-2b 1.5 mcg/kg per week and ribavirin 800 mg per day (Schering-Plough, Kenilworth, NJ, USA) with folic acid 1 mg per day.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine patients eligible for treatment displayed a median age of 50.4 years. Eighteen patients completed treatment, 4 remain on treatment, and 17 were intolerant. Sustained HCV-RNA eradication occurred in 66.7% of patients who completed treatment. Side effects led to treatment withdrawal in 17 patients (43.6%) In an intention-to treat analysis, sustained HCV-RNA eradication occurred in 30.8% of patients.

CONCLUSION

Side effects are an important limiting factor in the treatment of recurrent HCV with pegylated interferon and ribavirin. However, these results are encouraging as sustained HCV eradication occurred in at least 66.7% of patients who completed treatment. Prospective randomized trials are required to assess the effectiveness of this treatment and its impact on quality of life and histology.

Recurrent Hepatitis C in Liver Allografts

RATIONALE AND DESIGN

The accuracy of a prospective histopathologic diagnosis of rejection and recurrent hepatitis C (HCV) was determined in 48 HCV RNA-positive liver allograft recipients enrolled in an "immunosuppression minimization protocol" between July 29, 2001 and January 24, 2003. Prospective entry of all pertinent treatment, laboratory, and histopathology results into an electronic database enabled a retrospective analysis of the accuracy of histopathologic diagnoses and the pathophysiologic relationship between recurrent HCV and rejection.

RESULTS

Time to first onset of acute rejection (AR) (mean, 107 days; median, 83 days; range, 7-329 days) overlapped with the time to first onset of recurrent HCV (mean, 115 days; median, 123 days; range, 22-315 days), making distinction between the two difficult. AR and chronic rejection (CR) with and without co-existent HCV showed overlapping but significantly different liver injury test profiles. One major and two minor errors occurred (positive predictive values for AR = 91%; recurrent HCV = 100%); all involved an overdiagnosis of AR in the context of recurrent HCV. Retrospective analysis of the mistakes showed that major errors can be avoided altogether and the impact of unavoidable minor errors can be minimized by strict adherence to specific histopathologic criteria, close clinicopathologic correlation including examination of HCV RNA levels, and a conservative approach to the use of additional immunosuppression. In addition, histopathologic diagnoses of moderate and severe AR and CR were associated with relatively low HCV RNA levels, whereas relatively high HCV RNA levels were associated with a histopathologic diagnosis of hepatitis alone, particularly the cholestatic variant of HCV.

CONCLUSIONS

Liver allograft biopsy interpretation can rapidly and accurately distinguish between recurrent HCV and AR/CR. In addition, the histopathologic observations suggest that the immune mechanism responsible for HCV clearance overlap with those leading to significant rejection.

Retransplantation for recurrent hepatitis C: positive aspects

1. The prevalence of retransplantation for hepatitis C (HCV) patients is stable (around 40%). 2. Survival models to predict outcome of retransplantation do not show that HCV is an independent variable with poor outcomes. 3. Using Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores from the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) database from 1996-2002, retransplantation for HCV had similar outcomes to other causes of retransplantation. 4. Poorer outcomes were noted for retransplantation with MELD scores greater than 25. 5. Minimal survival thresholds need to be developed for retransplantation for all causes of retransplantation.

The clinical and immunologic impact of using interferon and ribavirin in the immunosuppressed host

1. Allograft infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) in immunosuppressed adults results in decreased allograft and patient survival. 2. Risk factors for accelerated progression of hepatitis C related to immunosuppression include treated episodes of acute cellular rejection (ACR), pulse therapy with methylprednisolone, and use of OKT3. 3. Both interferon alfa (IFN-alpha) and ribavirin (RVN) show antiviral actions against HCV and stimulate innate and adaptive immunity to increase cytolysis and polarize T helper subtype 1 (T(H)1) responses. In addition, IFN-alpha inhibits fibrogenesis in the liver. 4. Both IFN-alpha and RVN have been studied in immunosuppressed liver transplant recipients as prophylaxis or treatment of established hepatitis C to reduce allograft failure and patient mortality. Reported protocols include monotherapies with RVN, standard IFN-alpha, and pegylated IFN-alpha and combination therapies using RVN and either standard IFN-alpha or pegylated IFN-alpha. 5. The clinical impact of using IFN-alpha and RVN in highly selected immunosuppressed patients varied among studies. Combination therapy with standard IFN-alpha and RVN resulted in the greatest sustained biochemical and virological responses. However, no therapy prevented progression of acute cholestatic hepatitis C despite evidence of virological responses. Substantial proportions of patients developed adverse events requiring dose reduction or discontinuation that compromised efficacy. RVN monotherapy was not only virologically ineffective, but may have stimulated hepatic fibrosis. Current data regarding monotherapy or combination therapy with pegylated IFN-alpha are limited, but encouraging. 6. Despite potent immunostimulatory actions of both IFN-alpha and RVN that enhance natural killer, T(H)1, their use did not significantly increase the incidence of ACR. 7. Additional studies are needed to resolve the controversy over prophylaxis versus treatment of established disease and the potential utility of low-dose maintenance IFN-alpha therapy to retard fibrogenesis without clearing HCV. 8. After new, less toxic, and more potent antiviral agents become available, they should be tested immediately in patients with hepatitis C post-liver transplantation.

Controversies in the management of hepatitis C virus infection after liver transplantation

Recurrence of hepatitis C virus infection after liver transplantation is universal. A significant percentage of these patients develop progressive graft injury and cirrhosis. Those factors that modulate disease progression in liver transplant recipients with recurrent hepatitis C virus infection remain controversial and are poorly understood. Treatment of recurrent hepatitis C virus after liver transplantation with either interferon or interferon and ribavirin has yielded only limited success. Regardless of this, treatment is instituted. Peginterferon is more effective than standard interferon for treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus infection in the nontransplantation setting when used either alone or with ribavirin. The effectiveness of peginterferon, both with and without ribavirin in the posttransplantation setting, is currently being explored. In this review those factors thought to affect disease progression in patients with recurrent hepatitis C virus will be discussed, strategies that have been used to treat recurrent hepatitis C virus will be reviewed, and the impact that peginterferon may have on hepatitis C virus infection in the pretransplantation and posttransplantation setting will be explored.

Treatment of hepatitis C virus infection in the allograft

1. Recurrence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the graft is associated with a reduced quality of life and worse graft survival. 2. Pretransplantation, the severity of HCV recurrence may be reduced by reducing the pretransplantation load, by avoiding the use of organs from older donors, and by reducing the ischemic times. The effect of split livers on recurrence rates is uncertain. 3. The optimal immunosuppression regime has not been established but a heavy induction regime and treatment for acute rejection are associated with more viral replication and more graft damage. 4. Presently, there is no convincing evidence for preemptive treatment of HCV. 5. There are many studies on the effect of interferon with and without ribavirin for the treatment of HCV hepatitis. However, few are prospective, randomized, and controlled. 6. The current best treatment is with pegylated interferon and ribavirin; the dose and duration of treatment need to be established. Side-effects of treatment are common and reduction/withdrawal is frequent, but the regime is cost-effective. 7. The role of newer treatments remains to be established.

Poor survival after liver retransplantation: is hepatitis C to blame?

Data from 1990 to 1996 suggest that the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in repeated orthotopic liver transplantation (re-OLT) is increasing, and patient survival may be worse. Aims of the study are to: (1) assess the prevalence of HCV in re-OLT, (2) compare survival between primary OLT and re-OLT for HCV versus non-HCV diseases, and (3) evaluate Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores in re-OLT. The United Network for Organ Sharing database for adult patients undergoing primary OLT or re-OLT from January 1996 to June 2002 was analyzed. Patients with malignancy or those who underwent re-OLT within 30 days of primary OLT were excluded. A total of 22,120 primary OLTs and 2,129 re-OLTs were performed. HCV was noted in 9,564 primary OLTs (43.2%) and 899 re-OLTs (42.2%). Overall 1, 3, and 5-year patient survival rates were 86%, 79%, and 73% for primary OLT, but 67%, 56%, and 52% for re-OLT (P <.001). Survival rates of patients with HCV at 1, 3, and 5 years were 86%, 76%, and 68% for primary OLT and 61%, 50%, and 45% for re-OLT (P <.001). Survival was less for patients with HCV compared with those with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and hepatitis B for re-OLT (P <.01). However, survival after re-OLT was no different for those with HCV than for those with all other causes. MELD scores between 11 and 20 were the most common for re-OLT. A marked decreased in survival was noted in all patients who underwent re-OLT with MELD scores greater than 25. HCV prevalence in OLT has reached a plateau in recent years. Survival after re-OLT is inferior to that for primary OLT, but re-OLT survival appears to have improved. Survival after re-OLT is lower in patients with HCV compared with those with AIH and hepatitis B, but no different than for those with most other liver diseases. Survival appeared worse in patients who underwent re-OLT with a MELD score greater than 25.

Retransplantation of liver: primary graft nonfunction and hepatitis C virus are associated with worse outcome

It is not known whether the outcome of liver retransplantation (re-LT) is dependent on the indication for re-LT or cause of liver disease. In this study, our aim is to compare the outcome of re-LT in adults with that of primary liver transplantation (PLT) and determine whether the outcome of re-LT is dependent on its indication. United Network for Organ Sharing data from 1988 to 2001 were used for the study. Of 34,267 patients who met our inclusion criteria, 761 patients underwent re-LT for primary graft nonfunction (PGNF; group 1), 3,428 patients underwent re-LT for other reasons (group 2), and 30,078 patients underwent PLT (group 3). There was a greater incidence of PGNF (9.4% v 4.0%; P <.001) and regrafting (23.1% v 7.4%; P <.001) in the re-LT groups compared with the PLT group. Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression analysis, after adjusting for confounding risk factors, showed significantly lower short- and long-term patient and graft survival in the re-LT groups compared with the PLT group. Kaplan-Meier survival showed lower patient and graft survival in group 1 compared with group 2. However, only graft, not patient, survival was lower in group 1 by Cox regression analysis when adjusted for other risk factors. Patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection who underwent re-LT had lower patient and graft survival compared with those without HCV infection, and HCV was an independent predictor of mortality after re-LT. Re-LT was associated with a greater rate of complications and lower patient and graft survival compared with PLT. Re-LT for PGNF and HCV infection was associated with lower patient and graft survival compared with re-LT for other causes.

Pegylated interferon for recurrent hepatitis C in liver transplant recipients with renal failure: a prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis C (HCV) universally recurs following orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT), representing an important cause for retransplantation. Although it is often treated with interferon and ribavirin, ribavirin is contraindicated in the presence of renal failure. In this setting of renal failure, pegylated-interferon monotherapy may be useful for recurrent HCV in liver transplant patients.

METHODS

Between June 2001 and November 2002, patients with recurrent HCV were screened to determine if they were eligible for treatment. Renal failure was defined as serum creatinine greater than 1.8 mg/dL. HCVRNA and liver biopsies were performed prior to treatment, end of treatment (EOT) and 6 months after EOT for those who were HCV-RNA negative at EOT. Patients were followed prospectively after starting weekly pegylated-interferon alpha 2b 1.0 microg/kg (Schering-Plough, Kenilworth, NJ, USA).

RESULTS

Among the 45 patients with recurrent HCV screened, 9 were eligible, including 8 men and 1 woman of average age 55 years. Eight patients were intolerant to the treatment requiring discontinuation within the first 3 months. Two patients developed a sustained response to HCV eradication. One patient who completed treatment has normal liver tests but is still viremic.

CONCLUSIONS

Pegylated-interferon alpha 2b is poorly tolerated in liver transplant recipients with recurrent HCV and chronic renal failure. Larger, prospective studies are required to determine the optimum duration of treatment and the impact of treatment on histology and quality of life.