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Ingiliz P, Lutz T, Schewe K, Baumgarten A, Krznaric I, Mauss S, Christensen S, Bickel M, Schmidt AJ, Sabranski M, He F, Jain S, Martin NK, Rockstroh JK, Boesecke C. Recently acquired HCV infection in men who have sex with men in Germany in the direct-acting antivirals era and during the COVID-19 pandemic. HIV Med 2024; 25:967-975. [PMID: 38812289 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) are key to eliminating hepatitis C virus (HCV). In men who have sex with men (MSM) with HIV co-infection, recently acquired HCV infection is common. Sexual practices and reinfection rates may hamper micro-elimination despite high treatment rates. METHODS The cohort included MSM with recently acquired HCV infection from 2014 to 2021. The patients' demographic, clinical, behavioural, and laboratory data and treatment and reinfection outcomes were documented. RESULTS A total of 237 men with recently acquired HCV infection were included: 216 (91%) had HIV. The median age was 46 years (interquartile range [IQR] 39-52), and the median CD4 count was 660/mm3 (IQR 527-835). The annual incidence of recently acquired HCV remained between 0.28% and 0.43% but dropped to 0.02% in 2021 during the COVID pandemic, almost reaching micro-elimination. The reinfection incidence was 15.5 per 100 patient-years (95% confidence interval 12.6-18.8), and reinfection was associated with the use of crystal methamphetamine (p = 0.032) and ketamine (p = 0.042). In total, 31.3% had multiple reinfections, and four reinfections occurred in users of pre-exposure prophylaxis. CONCLUSIONS High treatment and cure rates did not lead to HCV elimination. A change in sexual behaviour, potentially imposed by COVID-19 restrictions, led to micro-elimination in the NoCo cohort. As recently acquired HCV is prevalent in MSM with and without HIV, surveillance is necessary to consolidate elimination goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Ingiliz
- ZIBP, Berlin, Germany
- APHP Henri-Mondor University Hospital, INSERM U955, Créteil, France
| | | | | | | | | | - Stefan Mauss
- Center for HIV and Hepatogastroenterology, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Stefan Christensen
- Centrum für Interdisziplinäre Medizin, Münster, Germany
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | | | - Axel J Schmidt
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Feng He
- Biostatistics Research Center, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Sonia Jain
- Biostatistics Research Center, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Nastasha K Martin
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Jürgen K Rockstroh
- Department of Medicine I, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner-site Cologne-Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Christoph Boesecke
- Department of Medicine I, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner-site Cologne-Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Fierer DS, Carollo JR, Rodriguez-Caprio G, Radix A, Vail R, Chavez R, Bungay KJ, Dillon SM. Hepatitis C Virus Reinfection Among Men Who Have Sex With Men With HIV in New York City. Clin Infect Dis 2024:ciae297. [PMID: 39023296 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciae297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) reinfection rates are substantially higher than primary infection rates among men who have sex with men (MSM) with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in European cohorts. The behaviors mediating this high rate of transmission among MSM are poorly characterized. METHODS We performed a prospective cohort study in New York City (NYC) of MSM with HIV who cleared HCV to determine the incidence of and risk factors for HCV reinfection. We assessed the risk behaviors for primary HCV in NYC: receipt of semen in the rectum, and sexualized methamphetamine use, along with route of use. Multivariable analysis was performed with Andersen-Gill extension of the Cox proportional hazards model. RESULTS From 2000 through 2018, among 304 MSM with HIV who cleared HCV, 42 reinfections occurred over 898 person-years, for an incidence rate of 4.7 per 100 person-years. Assessing 1245 postclearance visits, only receipt of semen into the rectum was associated with reinfection (hazard ratio, 9.7 [95% confidence interval: 3.3-28.3], P < .001); methamphetamine use was not. CONCLUSIONS The high HCV reinfection rate over almost 2 decades demonstrates that sexual transmission of HCV is not inefficient or unusual and that direct-acting antiviral treatment is not sufficient for HCV elimination among MSM in NYC. The contrasts between both the rates of and risk factors for primary and HCV reinfection suggest that HCV prevalence is highly heterogenous among sexual networks and that sexualized methamphetamine use, rather than mediating transmission, is instead a surrogate marker for the highest HCV prevalence networks. As neither condoms nor treatment have been successful strategies for HCV prevention in NYC, novel interventions are needed to stem this sexually transmitted HCV epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel S Fierer
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jesse R Carollo
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, New York, New York, USA
| | - Gabriela Rodriguez-Caprio
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, New York, New York, USA
| | - Asa Radix
- Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, Department of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Rona Vail
- Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, Department of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Robert Chavez
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Department of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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Wu H, Shih ST, Applegate TL, Kwon JA, Cunningham EB, Grebely J, Gray RT. Impact of simplified HCV diagnostic strategies on the HCV epidemic among men who have sex with men in the era of HIV oral pre-exposure prophylaxis in Taiwan: a modelling study. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26251. [PMID: 38695100 PMCID: PMC11063777 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Simplified hepatitis C virus (HCV) diagnostic strategies have the potential to improve HCV diagnoses and treatment. We aimed to investigate the impact of simplified HCV diagnostic strategies on HCV incidence and its effect on HCV diagnosis and treatment among men who have sex with men (MSM) regardless of HIV status and use of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in Taiwan. METHODS A compartmental deterministic model was developed to describe the natural history of HCV disease progression, the HCV care cascade and the HIV status and PrEP using among MSM. The model was calibrated to available data for HCV and HIV epidemiology and population demographics in Taiwan. We simulated the epidemic from 2004 and projected the impact of simplified testing strategies on the HCV epidemic among MSM over 2022-2030. RESULTS Under the current testing approach in Taiwan, total HCV incidence would increase to 12.6 per 1000 person-years among MSM by 2030. Single-visit point-of-care RNA testing had the largest impact on reducing the number of new HCV infections over 2022-2030, with a 31.1% reduction (interquartile range: 24.9%-32.8%). By 2030, single-visit point-of-care HCV testing improved HCV diagnosis to 90.9%, HCV treatment to 87.7% and HCV cure to 81.5% among MSM living with HCV. Compared to status quo, prioritized simplified HCV testing for PrEP users and MSM living with diagnosed HIV had considerable impact on the broader HCV epidemic among MSM. A sensitivity analysis suggests that reinfection risk would have a large impact on the effectiveness of each point-of-care testing scenario. CONCLUSIONS Simplified HCV diagnostic strategies could control the ongoing HCV epidemic and improve HCV testing and treatment among Taiwanese MSM. Single-visit point-of-care RNA testing would result in large reductions in HCV incidence and prevalence among MSM. Efficient risk-reduction strategies will need to be implemented alongside point-of-care testing to achieve HCV elimination among MSM in Taiwan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huei‐Jiuan Wu
- The Kirby InstituteUNSWSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- Department of Public HealthCollege of MedicineNational Cheng Kung UniversityTainanTaiwan
| | | | | | - Jisoo A. Kwon
- The Kirby InstituteUNSWSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | | | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby InstituteUNSWSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
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4
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Hage K, Boyd A, Davidovich U, Zantkuijl P, Hoornenborg E, Matser A, Generaal E, Schinkel J, Todesco E, van der Valk M, Rougier H, Lacombe K, Prins M. Evaluating interventions to reduce behaviour associated with HCV reinfection in men who have sex with men: study protocol for a non-blinded, phase 2, randomised trial. Trials 2023; 24:193. [PMID: 36922871 PMCID: PMC10015546 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-023-07161-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As highly effective therapy against hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is available with rapid uptake, there is newfound optimism for HCV elimination. Nevertheless, certain key populations have a high risk of HCV reinfection, in particular men who have sex with men (MSM) in Western European countries. Modelling data indicate that HCV elimination will not be feasible without reduction in risk behaviour, thus supporting the need for effective interventions aimed at reducing risk behaviour and preventing reinfections in MSM. METHODS The ICECREAM study is an international, multi-centred, phase 2, 3-arm randomised trial comparing run-in and intervention periods enrolling MSM with a history of a cured or spontaneously cleared HCV infection. Individuals are followed in routine care for 6 months (i.e. run-in period) and then randomly allocated (1:1:1) to one of the following: a tailored, interactive online risk-reduction behavioural intervention, a validated home-based HCV-RNA self-sampling test service using dried blood spots, or a combination of both. After randomisation, individuals are followed every 6 months until 18 months (i.e. intervention period). Interventions are delivered in addition to standard of care. Online questionnaire measuring risk behaviour over the past 6 months is administered at every visit. The primary outcome is the proportion at risk of HCV infection during run-in versus intervention periods assessed by using the HCV-MOSAIC risk score. The risk score consists of six self-reported HCV-related risk behaviours. Secondary outcomes include incidence of HCV reinfection, changes in the individual risk behaviour items and changes in sexual well-being since changes in sexual behaviour may have an impact on sexual experience. Two hundred forty-six MSM aged 18 years or older will be invited to participate. DISCUSSION The ICECREAM study is a trial aimed at establishing interventions that could effectively decrease the incidence of HCV re-infection in MSM with a previous HCV infection. By offering an online behavioural risk-reduction intervention and HCV-RNA self-sampling, both of which are aimed to influence risk behaviour, we are able to provide products to at-risk MSM that could further reduce population-level HCV incidence and ultimately help reach HCV micro-elimination. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04156945. Registered on November 8, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kris Hage
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands. .,Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Infectious Diseases, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands. .,Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Anders Boyd
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Stichting hiv monitoring, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Udi Davidovich
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,University of Amsterdam, Department of Psychology, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Elske Hoornenborg
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Amy Matser
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ellen Generaal
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Centre for Infectious Disease Control (Cib), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Janke Schinkel
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eve Todesco
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique (IPLESP), APHP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Laboratoire de virologie, Paris, France
| | - Marc van der Valk
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Stichting hiv monitoring, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hayette Rougier
- IMEA, Institut de Médecine et d'Épidémiologie Appliquée, Paris, France
| | - Karine Lacombe
- Faculté de médecine, Sorbonne Université, Inserm IPLESP, Hôpital St Antoine, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Infectious Diseases, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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5
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Chan DPC, Wong BCK, Wong KH, Poon CM, Chan CP, Cheung DKF, Wong NS, Lee SS. Clustered HCV transmission in HIV-positive MSM and the impacts of interventions for achieving microelimination. J Infect 2023; 86:493-496. [PMID: 36822408 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2023.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Denise Pui Chung Chan
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Bonnie Chun Kwan Wong
- Special Preventive Programme, Centre for Health Protection, Department of Health, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ka Hing Wong
- Special Preventive Programme, Centre for Health Protection, Department of Health, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chin Man Poon
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chin Pok Chan
- JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Danny King Fai Cheung
- Special Preventive Programme, Centre for Health Protection, Department of Health, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ngai Sze Wong
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China; JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Shui Shan Lee
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging InfectiousDiseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China.
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Maasoumy B, Ingiliz P, Spinner CD, Cordes C, Stellbrink HJ, Schulze zur Wiesch J, Schneeweiß SM, Deterding K, Müller T, Kahlhöfer J, Dörge P, von Karpowitz M, Manns MP, Wedemeyer H, Cornberg M. Sofosbuvir plus velpatasvir for 8 weeks in patients with acute hepatitis C: The HepNet acute HCV-V study. JHEP Rep 2022; 5:100650. [PMID: 36852107 PMCID: PMC9957891 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2022.100650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims EASL guidelines recommend 8 weeks of treatment with sofosbuvir plus velpatasvir (SOF/VEL) for the treatment of acute or recently acquired HCV infection, but only 6- and 12-week data are available. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a shortened 8-week SOF/VEL treatment for acute HCV monoinfection. Methods In this investigator-initiated, prospective, multicentre, single-arm study, we recruited 20 adult patients with acute HCV monoinfection from nine centers in Germany. Patients received SOF/VEL (400/100 mg) as a fixed-dose combination tablet once daily for 8 weeks. The primary efficacy endpoint was the proportion of patients with sustained virological response 12 weeks after the end of treatment (SVR12). Results The median HCV RNA viral load at baseline was 104,307 IU/ml; the distribution of HCV genotypes was as follows: GT1a/1b/2/3/4: n = 12/1/1/3/3. Thirteen (65%) of the 20 patients were taking medication for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis. SVR12 was achieved in all patients who complied with the study protocol (n = 18/18 [100%], per protocol analysis), but the primary endpoint was not met in the intention-to-treat analysis (n = 18/20 [90%]) because two patients were lost to follow-up. One serious adverse event (unrelated to study drug) occurred during 12 weeks of post-treatment follow-up. Conclusions The 8-week treatment with SOF/VEL was well tolerated and highly effective in all adherent patients with acute HCV monoinfection. Early treatment of hepatitis C might effectively prevent the spread of HCV in high-risk groups. Clinical Trial Number NCT03818308. Impact and implications The HepNet acute HCV-V study (NCT03818308), an investigator-initiated, single-arm, multicenter pilot study, demonstrates the efficacy and safety of 8 weeks of daily treatment with the fixed-dose combination sofosbuvir/velpatasvir (400/100 mg) in patients with acute hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. All patients who completed therapy and were followed-up achieved sustained virologic response. Thus, early treatment with SOF/VEL which might effectively prevent the spread of HCV in high-risk groups can be recommended for patients with acute HCV monoinfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Maasoumy
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Germany,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), HepNet Study-House, Hannover, Germany,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Patrick Ingiliz
- Zentrum für Infektiologie Berlin-Prenzlauer Berg, Berlin, Germany,University Hospital Henri-Mondor, INSERM U955, Créteil, France
| | - Christoph D. Spinner
- Technical University of Munich, School of Medicine, University Hospital Rechts der Isar, Department of Internal Medicine II, Munich, Germany
| | | | | | - Julian Schulze zur Wiesch
- Medical Department, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Germany
| | | | - Katja Deterding
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Germany,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Tobias Müller
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany
| | - Julia Kahlhöfer
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Germany,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), HepNet Study-House, Hannover, Germany
| | - Petra Dörge
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Germany,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), HepNet Study-House, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Michael P. Manns
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Germany
| | - Heiner Wedemeyer
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Germany
| | - Markus Cornberg
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Germany,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), HepNet Study-House, Hannover, Germany,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany,Center for Individualized Infection Medicine (CiiM), Hannover, Germany,Corresponding author. Address: Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625 Hannover, Germany; Tel.: +49 511 5326821
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7
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Factor SH, Fierer DS. Can treatment, without prevention, eliminate hepatitis C among men who have sex with men? J Viral Hepat 2022; 29:1048-1049. [PMID: 35748744 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie H Factor
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Daniel S Fierer
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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8
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Castry M, Cousien A, Champenois K, Supervie V, Velter A, Ghosn J, Yazdanpanah Y, Paltiel AD, Deuffic‐Burban S. Cost-effectiveness of hepatitis C virus test-and-treat and risk reduction strategies among men who have sex with men living with HIV in France. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25:e26035. [PMID: 36451286 PMCID: PMC9712801 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Studies suggest that hepatitis C virus (HCV) micro-elimination is feasible among men who have sex with men (MSM) living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), through treatment-as-prevention and interventions aimed at reducing risk behaviours. However, their economic impact is poorly understood. The aim of this study was to assess the cost-effectiveness of HCV screening and risk reduction strategies in France. METHODS A compartmental deterministic mathematical model was developed to describe HCV disease transmission and progression among MSM living with HIV in France. We evaluated different combinations of HCV screening frequency (every 12, 6 or 3 months) and risk reduction strategies (targeting only high-risk or all MSM) from 2021 onwards. The model simulated the number of HCV infections, life-expectancy (LYs), quality-adjusted life-expectancy (QALYs), lifetime costs and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) over a lifetime horizon (leading to an end of the simulation in 2065). RESULTS All strategies increased QALYs, compared with current practices, that is yearly HCV screening, with no risk reduction. A behavioural intervention resulting in a 20% risk reduction in the high-risk group, together with yearly screening, was the least expensive strategy, and, therefore, cost-saving compared to current practices. The ICER per QALY gained for the strategy combining risk reduction for the high-risk group with 6-month HCV screening, compared to risk reduction with yearly screening, was €61,389. It also prevented 398 new HCV infections between 2021 and 2065, with a cost per infection averted of €37,790. All other strategies were dominated (more expensive and less effective than some other available alternative) or not cost-effective (ICER per QALY gained > €100,000). CONCLUSIONS In the French context, current HCV screening practices without risk reduction among MSM living with HIV cannot be justified on economic grounds. Risk reduction interventions targeted to high-risk individuals-alongside screening either once or twice a year-could be cost-effective depending on the policymaker's willingness-to-pay.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Virginie Supervie
- Sorbonne UniversitéInsermInstitut Pierre Louis d’Épidémiologie et de Santé PubliqueParisFrance
| | | | - Jade Ghosn
- Université de ParisIAMEINSERMParisFrance,Service de maladies Infectieuses et tropicalesHôpital Bichat Claude BernardParisFrance
| | - Yazdan Yazdanpanah
- Université de ParisIAMEINSERMParisFrance,Service de maladies Infectieuses et tropicalesHôpital Bichat Claude BernardParisFrance
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9
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Prinsenberg T, Schinkel J, Zantkuijl P, Davidovich U, Prins M, van der Valk M. Internet-guided HCV-RNA testing: A promising tool to achieve hepatitis C micro-elimination among men who have sex with men. J Viral Hepat 2022; 29:677-684. [PMID: 35583928 PMCID: PMC9545250 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
In the Netherlands, hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission occurs primarily in men who have sex with men (MSM). By early diagnosis and immediate treatment of acute HCV infections, HCV micro-elimination in MSM is within reach. In cooperation with the community affected, we developed an online HCV-RNA home-based self-sampling test service. This service combined online HCV self-risk assessment with the possibility to test anonymously for HCV-RNA. The service was available in the Netherlands from February 2018 till December 2020 and was promoted online on various dating sites and offline by community volunteers. Using website user data, test results and an online post-test user survey, we evaluated the service and user experiences. The website page with information about testing was visited by 3401 unique users, of whom 2250 used the HCV-risk assessment tool, 152 individuals purchased 194 HCV-RNA tests, and 104 tests were used, of which 101 gave a conclusive result. The target population of MSM at risk was successfully reached with 44.1% of users receiving the advice to test. The test service had a satisfactory uptake (6.8%, 152/2250), a very high HCV-RNA positivity rate (10.9%, 11/101) and was considered acceptable and easy to use by most MSM. We demonstrate that an HCV-RNA home-based self-sampling test service is successful in diagnosing HCV infections among MSM. This service could be a valuable addition to existing sexual healthcare services as it may reach men who are otherwise not tested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Prinsenberg
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Amsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands,Department of Infectious Diseases Research and PreventionPublic Health Service of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Janke Schinkel
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Amsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands,Department of Medical Microbiology, Section of Clinical Virology, Amsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | | | - Udi Davidovich
- Department of Infectious Diseases Research and PreventionPublic Health Service of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands,Department of Social PsychologyUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Amsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands,Department of Infectious Diseases Research and PreventionPublic Health Service of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Marc van der Valk
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Amsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands,HIV Monitoring FoundationAmsterdamThe Netherlands
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10
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Sun HY, Chiang C, Huang SH, Guo WJ, Chuang YC, Huang YC, Yang CJ, Su LH, Chen YT, Chen YW, Hsu FC, Ho SY, Liu WC, Su YC, Chang SY, Hsiao CF, Hung CC, Yu ML. Three-Stage Pooled Plasma Hepatitis C Virus RNA Testing for the Identification of Acute HCV Infections in At-Risk Populations. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e02437-21. [PMID: 35499354 PMCID: PMC9241589 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02437-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Timely diagnosis and treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection may prevent its transmission. We evaluated the performance and cost reductions of the pooled plasma HCV RNA testing strategy to identify acute HCV infections among people living with HIV (PLWH). PLWH with sexually transmitted infections, elevated aminotransferases within the past 6 months or past HCV infections (high-risk) and those without (low-risk) were enrolled prospectively. Participants underwent three-stage pooled plasma HCV RNA testing every 12 to 24 weeks until detection of HCV RNA or completion of a 48-week follow-up. The three-stage strategy combined 20 individual specimens into a stage 1 pool, 5 individual specimens from the stage 1 pool that tested positive for HCV RNA in the stage 2 mini-pool, followed by testing of individual specimens of the stage 2 mini-pool tested positive for HCV RNA. A simulation was constructed to investigate the cost reductions and pooled sensitivity and specificity under different combinations of HCV prevalence and pool/mini-pool sizes. Between June 25, 2019 and March 31, 2021, 32 cases of incident HCV viremia were identified in 760 high-risk PLWH that were enrolled 834 times, giving an incidence rate of 56.6 per 1000 person-years of follow-up (PYFU). No cases of HCV viremia were identified in 557 low-risk PLWH during a total of 269.2 PYFU. Simulation analysis suggested that this strategy could reduce HCV RNA testing cost by 50% to 86% with HCV viremia prevalence of 1% to 5% and various pooled sizes despite compromised pooled sensitivity. This pooled plasma HCV RNA testing strategy is cost-saving to identify acute HCV infections in high-risk populations with HCV viremia prevalence of 1% to 5%. IMPORTANCE Our three-stage pooled plasma HCV RNA testing successfully identified HCV viremia in high-risk PLWH with a testing cost reduction of 84.5%. Simulation analysis offered detailed information regarding the selection of pool and mini-pool sizes in settings of different HCV epidemiology and the performance of HCV RNA testing to optimize the cost reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsin-Yun Sun
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chieh Chiang
- Department of Mathematics, Tamkang University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Sung-Hsi Huang
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital Hsin-Chu Branch, Hsin-Chu, Taiwan
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Jin Guo
- Institute of Population Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chung Chuang
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chia Huang
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital Biomedical Park Branch, Hsin-Chu, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Jui Yang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Hsin Su
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ting Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yea-Wen Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Fu-Chiang Hsu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Yuan Ho
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chun Liu
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ching Su
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sui-Yuan Chang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Medical Biotechnology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Fu Hsiao
- Institute of Population Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Ching Hung
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Lung Yu
- Hepatobiliary Section, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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11
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Marquez LK, Ingiliz P, Boesecke C, Krznaric I, Schewe K, Lutz T, Mauss S, Christensen S, Rockstroh JK, Jain S, He F, Wertheim JO, Martin NK. Establishing a framework towards monitoring HCV microelimination among men who have sex with men living with HIV in Germany: A modeling analysis. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0267853. [PMID: 35551326 PMCID: PMC9098082 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0267853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prior to direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), HCV incidence rose among men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV infection in Germany despite high hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment rates. We establish a HCV elimination modeling framework to evaluate whether existing treatment rates can achieve the World Health Organization (WHO) incidence target among MSM living with HIV in Germany. METHODS To evaluate progress towards HCV elimination in Germany, we adapted a previously published HCV transmission model among MSM living with diagnosed HIV. We modelled HCV incidence and prevalence until 2030 (relative to 2015) under existing treatment and DAA scale-up and explored potential impacts of disruptions in treatment and behavioral risk reduction due to the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS Continuing current treatment rates will result in stable HCV incidence among MSM living with HIV in Germany between 2015-2030. The WHO HCV incidence target is achievable under DAA scale-up to 100% treatment combined with treatment of those previously diagnosed and untreated (at a rate of 15%/year) and would result in greater reductions with early treatment (3 vs 6 months) reducing incidence from 4.0/100person-years to 0.8/100person-years by 2030. A 12-month disruption to HCV treatment (20% reduction) and risk behaviors (25%,50%,75% reduction) during the COVID-19 pandemic would result in a 15% relative increase in total HCV incidence in 2030 compared to that expected under the status quo. CONCLUSIONS HCV elimination among MSM living with HIV in Germany requires further DAA scale-up among those newly diagnosed combined with efforts to treat those previously diagnosed but untreated. Prospective monitoring will establish whether Germany is on track for HCV microelimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara K Marquez
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Patrick Ingiliz
- Center for Infectiology, Berlin, Germany
- Hepatology Department, Henri-Mondor Hospital, INSERM U955, Créteil, France
| | | | | | | | | | - Stefan Mauss
- Center for HIV and Hepatogastroenterology, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Stefan Christensen
- CIM Münster, Münster, Germany
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Muenster University Hospital, Muenster, Germany
| | | | - Sonia Jain
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Feng He
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Joel O Wertheim
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Natasha K Martin
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
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12
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Chromy D, Bauer DJM, Simbrunner B, Jachs M, Hartl L, Schwabl P, Schwarz C, Rieger A, Grabmeier‐Pfistershammer K, Trauner M, Ferenci P, Mandorfer M, Gschwantler M, Reiberger T. The 'Viennese epidemic' of acute HCV in the era of direct-acting antivirals. J Viral Hepat 2022; 29:385-394. [PMID: 35274399 PMCID: PMC9415118 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The recently reported epidemic of acute hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections -observed predominantly among men who have sex with men (MSM)-may now decline due to wide availability of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). This study aimed to investigate the current trends of acute hepatitis C in Vienna. Patients presenting with acute hepatitis C between 01/2007 and12/2020 at the Vienna General Hospital were retrospectively enrolled and followed after virologic clearance/eradication. The introduction of unrestricted DAA access after 09/17 defined the 'DAA era', as compared to the 'pre-DAA era' prior to 09/17. We identified 134 acute hepatitis C cases in 119 patients with a mean age of 39 ± 9 years at inclusion. The majority of patients were male (92%), HIV-positive (88%) and MSM (85%). In the DAA era, a history of prior chronic HCV infection at inclusion was found in 24% (11/46) compared to 7% (5/73) in the pre-DAA era (p = .012). The annual rate of acute hepatitis C cases increased in the DAA era (17.11 per year) compared to the pre-DAA era (7.76 per year). The DAA era included an AHC-genotype-2 cluster and more HIV-negative acute hepatitis C cases (0% (0/73) vs. 30% (14/46), p < .001). Patients were followed after spontaneous clearance or sustained virologic treatment response (SVR) for a total of 251.88 patient-years (median 1.39 years per patient). In the DAA era, we recorded 15 acute hepatitis C-reinfections - corresponding to an incidence rate of 5.96 (95% CI: 3.57-9.66) reinfections per 100-patient-years. We continue to observe a high incidence of acute hepatitis C in Vienna in the DAA era-primarily among HIV-positive MSM, but increasingly also in HIV-negative MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Chromy
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupViennaAustria,Department of DermatologyMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - David J. M. Bauer
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupViennaAustria
| | - Benedikt Simbrunner
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupViennaAustria
| | - Matthias Jachs
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupViennaAustria
| | - Lukas Hartl
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupViennaAustria
| | - Philipp Schwabl
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupViennaAustria
| | - Caroline Schwarz
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupViennaAustria,Department of Internal Medicine IVWilhelminenspitalWiener Gesundheitsverbund (WiGeV) der Stadt WienViennaAustria
| | - Armin Rieger
- Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupViennaAustria,Department of DermatologyMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Katharina Grabmeier‐Pfistershammer
- Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupViennaAustria,Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and ImmunologyInstitute of ImmunologyMedical University ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Michael Trauner
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupViennaAustria
| | - Peter Ferenci
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Mattias Mandorfer
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupViennaAustria
| | - Michael Gschwantler
- Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupViennaAustria,Department of Internal Medicine IVWilhelminenspitalWiener Gesundheitsverbund (WiGeV) der Stadt WienViennaAustria
| | - Thomas Reiberger
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupViennaAustria
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13
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Chen CT, Lu MY, Hsieh MH, Tsai PC, Hsieh TY, Yeh ML, Huang CI, Tsai YS, Ko YM, Lin CC, Chen KY, Wei YJ, Hsu PY, Hsu CT, Jang TY, Liu TW, Liang PC, Hsieh MY, Lin ZY, Huang CF, Huang JF, Dai CY, Chuang WL, Shih YL, Yu ML. Outreach onsite treatment with a simplified pangenotypic direct-acting anti-viral regimen for hepatitis C virus micro-elimination in a prison. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:263-274. [PMID: 35110949 PMCID: PMC8776526 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i2.263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prisoners are at risk of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, especially among the people who inject drugs (PWID). We implemented an outreach strategy in combination with universal mass screening and immediate onsite treatment with a simplified pan-genotypic direct-acting antivirals (DAA) regimen, 12 wk of sofosbuvir/velpatasvir, in a PWID-dominant prison in Taiwan.
AIM To implement an outreach strategy in combination with universal mass screening and immediate onsite treatment with a simplified pan-genotypic DAA regimen in a PWID-dominant prison in Taiwan.
METHODS HCV-viremic patients were recruited for onsite treatment program for HCV micro-elimination with a pangenotypic DAA regimen, 12 wk of sofosbuvir/ velpatasvir, from two cohorts in Penghu Prison, either identified by mass screen or in outpatient clinics, in September 2019. Another group of HCV-viremic patients identified sporadically in outpatient clinics before mass screening were enrolled as a control group. The primary endpoint was sustained virological response (SVR12, defined as undetectable HCV ribonucleic acid (RNA) 12 wk after end-of-treatment).
RESULTS A total of 212 HCV-viremic subjects were recruited for HCV micro-elimination campaign; 91 patients treated with sofosbuvir/Ledipasvir or glecaprevir/ pibrentasvir before mass screening were enrolled as a control. The HCV micro-elimination group had significantly lower proportion of diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, advanced fibrosis and chronic kidney diseases, but higher levels of HCV RNA. The SVR12 rate was comparable between the HCV micro-elimination and control groups, 95.8% (203/212) vs 94.5% (86/91), respectively, in intent-to-treat analysis, and 100% (203/203) vs 98.9% (86/87), respectively, in per-protocol analysis. There was no virological failure, treatment discontinuation, and serious adverse event among sofosbuvir/velpatasvir-treated patients in the HCV micro-elimination group.
CONCLUSION Outreach mass screening followed by immediate onsite treatment with a simplified pangenotypic DAA regimen, sofosbuvir/velpatasvir, provides successful strategies toward HCV micro-elimination among prisoners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Ting Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital Penghu Branch, National Defense Medical Center, Penghu County 88041, Taiwan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Ying Lu
- Division of Hepatobiliary, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Hsuan Hsieh
- Division of Hepatobiliary, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Chien Tsai
- Division of Hepatobiliary, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Tsai-Yuan Hsieh
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Lun Yeh
- Division of Hepatobiliary, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Ching-I Huang
- Division of Hepatobiliary, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Shan Tsai
- Division of Hepatobiliary, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Min Ko
- Division of Hepatobiliary, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Chih Lin
- Division of Hepatobiliary, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Yu Chen
- Division of Hepatobiliary, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ju Wei
- Division of Hepatobiliary, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Po-Yao Hsu
- Division of Hepatobiliary, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Ting Hsu
- Division of Hepatobiliary, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Tyng-Yuan Jang
- Division of Hepatobiliary, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Ta-Wei Liu
- Division of Hepatobiliary, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Po-Cheng Liang
- Division of Hepatobiliary, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Yen Hsieh
- Division of Hepatobiliary, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Zu-Yau Lin
- Division of Hepatobiliary, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Feng Huang
- Division of Hepatobiliary, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Jee-Fu Huang
- Division of Hepatobiliary, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Yen Dai
- Division of Hepatobiliary, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Long Chuang
- Division of Hepatobiliary, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Lueng Shih
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital Penghu Branch, National Defense Medical Center, Penghu County 88041, Taiwan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Lung Yu
- Division of Hepatobiliary, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- School of Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine, and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 912, Taiwan
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14
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Factors associated with testing for HIV and hepatitis C among behaviorally vulnerable men in Germany: a cross-sectional analysis upon enrollment into an observational cohort. AIDS Res Ther 2021; 18:52. [PMID: 34399787 PMCID: PMC8365908 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-021-00378-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) have shared routes of transmission among men who have sex with men (MSM). Routine testing facilitates early diagnosis and treatment, thereby preventing morbidity and onward transmission. We evaluated factors associated with HIV and HCV testing in a behaviorally vulnerable cohort of predominantly MSM. METHODS From June 2018 through June 2019, the BRAHMS study enrolled adults at ten German outpatient clinics that serve gender and sexual minority populations. Participants completed behavioral questionnaires that captured prior experience with HIV and HCV testing. Multivariable robust Poisson regression was used to evaluate factors potentially associated with testing in the previous 6 months. RESULTS Among 1017 participants with median age 33 (interquartile range 28-39) years, 1001 (98.4%) reported any lifetime history of HIV testing and 787 (77.4%) reported any HCV testing, including 16 (1.6%) known to be living with HCV. Testing within the last 6 months was reported by 921 (90.6%) and 513 (50.4%) for HIV and HCV, respectively. Recent HIV testing was more common among participants with higher education level and recent HCV testing. Recent HCV testing was more common among participants with non-cisgender identity, lifetime history of illicit drug use, hepatitis B immunity or infection, and recent HIV testing. CONCLUSION Prior testing for HIV was common in this cohort, but interventions are needed to improve HCV risk stratification and access to testing. HIV testing infrastructure can be successfully leveraged to support HCV testing, but differentiated preventive care delivery is needed for some vulnerable populations.
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15
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Castry M, Cousien A, Supervie V, Velter A, Ghosn J, Paltiel AD, Yazdanpanah Y, Deuffic-Burban S. Impact of test-and-treat and risk reduction strategies on HCV transmission among MSM living with HIV in France: a modelling approach. Gut 2021; 70:1561-1569. [PMID: 33109688 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2020-321744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Since the early 2000s, there has been an epidemic of HCV occurring among men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV, mainly associated with high-risk sexual and drug-related behaviours. Early HCV diagnosis and treatment, and behavioural risk-reduction, may be effective to eliminate HCV among MSM living with HIV. DESIGN We developed a deterministic dynamic compartmental model to simulate the impact of test-and-treat and risk-reduction strategies on HCV epidemic (particularly on incidence and prevalence) among MSM living with HIV in France. We accounted for HIV and HCV cascades of care, HCV natural history and heterogeneity in HCV risk behaviours. The model was calibrated to primary HCV incidence observed between 2014 and 2017 among MSM living with HIV in care (ANRS CO4-French hospital database on HIV (FHDH)). RESULTS With current French practices (annual HCV screening and immediate treatment), total HCV incidence would fall by 70%, from 0.82/100 person-years in 2015 to 0.24/100 person-years in 2030. It would decrease to 0.19/100 person-years in 2030 with more frequent screening and to 0.19 (0.12)/100 person-years in 2030 with a 20% (50%) risk-reduction. When combining screening every 3 months with a 50% risk-reduction, HCV incidence would be 0.11/100 person-years in 2030, allowing to get close to the WHO target (90% reduction from 2015 to 2030). Similarly, HCV prevalence would decrease from 2.79% in 2015 to 0.48% in 2030 (vs 0.71% with current practices). CONCLUSION Combining test-and-treat and risk-reduction strategies could have a marked impact on the HCV epidemic, paving the way to HCV elimination among MSM living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Castry
- Université de Paris, Inserm, IAME, F-75006 Paris, France
| | | | - Virginie Supervie
- Sorbonne Université, Inserm, Institut Pierre Louis d'Épidémiologie et de Santé Publique, Paris, France
| | - Annie Velter
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Santé Publique France, French national public health agency, Saint-Maurice, France
| | - Jade Ghosn
- Université de Paris, Inserm, IAME, F-75006 Paris, France.,Service de Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Hôpital Bichat Claude-Bernard, F-75018 Paris, France
| | - A David Paltiel
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Yazdan Yazdanpanah
- Université de Paris, Inserm, IAME, F-75006 Paris, France.,Service de Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Hôpital Bichat Claude-Bernard, F-75018 Paris, France
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16
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Gómez-Ayerbe C, Palacios R, Ríos MJ, Téllez F, Sayago C, Martín-Aspas A, Camacho A, Muñoz L, Santos J. Acute hepatitis C virus infection and direct-acting antiviral drugs: Perfect combination to eliminate the epidemic? Int J STD AIDS 2021; 32:1257-1260. [PMID: 34293985 DOI: 10.1177/09564624211033756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Early diagnosis and treatment of incident cases of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is fundamental to eliminate HCV in HIV-positive patients. From January 2016 to December 2019, we attended 40 episodes of acute HCV infection (AHC) in 35 subjects (9 reinfections) who were coinfected with HIV. The patients were treated with direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) in seven hospitals in Andalusia, Spain. All were men who have sex with men (MSM), mean age was 42.9 (±8.3) years and median time of HIV infection was 46.6 months (IQR: 20.4-67.2). All received antiretroviral therapy and had undetectable HIV viral load (except 2 with 65 and 68 copies/mL); median CD4 count was 632 cells/mm3 (IQR: 553-896). Over half (74.3%) also had another concomitant sexually transmitted infection, syphilis (48.6%) being the most common. AHC was asymptomatic in 32 cases (80%). Genotypeic distribution was G1a 65%, G4 32.5% and G1b 3%. Median time to DAA was 6 weeks (IQR: 4.3-18.3) and median baseline HCV RNA was 6.1 Log (IQR: 5.6-6.5). DAA regimens were SOF/LDV (19 episodes), SOF/VEL (14), ELB/GZV (5) and GLP/PIB (2). All presented sustained viral response and none discontinued due to adverse effects. In conclusion, early treatment with DAA in AHC patients proved effective and safe. It could be an excellent strategy to eliminate HCV infection in HIV-coinfected MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Gómez-Ayerbe
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), 16867Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Málaga, Spain
| | - Rosario Palacios
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), 16867Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Málaga, Spain
| | - Maria J Ríos
- 16582Hospital Universitario Virgen Macarena, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Francisco Téllez
- Departamento de Medicina, Universidad de Cádiz, 16875Hospital Universitario de Puerto Real, Puerto Real, Spain
| | - Carmen Sayago
- 16583Hospital Universitario Virgen de Valme, Sevilla, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Jesús Santos
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), 16867Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Málaga, Spain
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17
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Koopsen J, Parker E, Han AX, van de Laar T, Russell C, Hoornenborg E, Prins M, van der Valk M, Schinkel J. Hepatitis C Virus Transmission Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in Amsterdam: External Introductions May Complicate Microelimination Efforts. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 72:e1056-e1063. [PMID: 33289036 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa1830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is unclear whether unrestricted access and high uptake of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) is sufficient to eliminate hepatitis C virus (HCV) in high-risk populations such as men who have sex with men (MSM). This study presents historic trends and current dynamics of HCV transmission among MSM in Amsterdam based on sequence data collected between 1994 and 2019. METHODS Hypervariable region 1 sequences of 232 primary HCV infections and 56 reinfections were obtained from 244 MSM in care in Amsterdam. Maximum-likelihood phylogenies were constructed for HCV genotypes separately, and time-scaled phylogenies were constructed using a Bayesian coalescent approach. Transmission clusters were determined by Phydelity and trends in the proportion of unclustered sequences over time were evaluated using logistic regression. RESULTS Seventy-six percent (218/288) of sequences were part of 21 transmission clusters and 13 transmission pairs. Transmission cluster sizes ranged from 3 to 44 sequences. Most clusters were introduced between the late 1990s and early 2010s and no new clusters were introduced after 2012. The proportion of unclustered sequences of subtype 1a, the most prevalent subtype in this population, fluctuated between 0% and 20% in 2009-2012, after which an increase occurred from 0% in 2012 to 50% in 2018. CONCLUSIONS The proportion of external introductions of HCV infections among MSM in Amsterdam has recently increased, coinciding with high DAA uptake. Frequent international transmission events will likely complicate local microelimination efforts. Therefore, international collaboration combined with international scale-up of prevention, testing, and treatment of HCV infections (including reinfections) is warranted, in particular for local microelimination efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelle Koopsen
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Laboratory of Applied Evolutionary Biology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Edyth Parker
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Laboratory of Applied Evolutionary Biology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Alvin X Han
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Laboratory of Applied Evolutionary Biology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Thijs van de Laar
- Department of Donor Medicine Research, Laboratory of Blood-borne Infections, Sanquin Research, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Medical Microbiology, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Colin Russell
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Laboratory of Applied Evolutionary Biology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Elske Hoornenborg
- Sexually Transmitted Infections Outpatient Clinic, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marc van der Valk
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Janke Schinkel
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Section of Clinical Virology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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18
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Ingiliz P, Wehmeyer MH, Boesecke C, Schulze Zur Wiesch J, Schewe K, Lutz T, Baumgarten A, Simon KG, Hueppe D, Rockstroh JK, Mauss S, Christensen S. Reinfection With the Hepatitis C Virus in Men Who Have Sex With Men After Successful Treatment With Direct-acting Antivirals in Germany: Current Incidence Rates, Compared With Rates During the Interferon Era. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 71:1248-1254. [PMID: 31562816 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciz949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Micro-elimination of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) includes treatment in populations at risk of ongoing HCV transmission, such as men who have sex with men (MSM) or people who inject drugs (PWID). We analyzed the HCV reinfection incidence rates of participants in the German hepatitis C cohort (GECCO) and compared our data to previous findings from the interferon era. METHODS Patients with HCV reinfections in the multi-centric GECCO cohort were compared to patients in whom no reinfection occurred. The HCV reinfection incidence rate in MSM was also compared to the incidence rate in the interferon era (using data from the European Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Treatment Network [NEAT]). RESULTS Between January 2014 and April 2018, 48 HCV reinfections occurred in 2298 individuals (2%), with 2346 cured HCV episodes. The median time to reinfection was 500 days (range 16-1160) and the overall HCV reinfection incidence rate was 1.89 per 100 person-years (py; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.41-2.48). In a multivariate analysis, the transmission risk in MSM was the only independent risk factor of HCV reinfection (odds ratio, 39.3; 95% CI, 4.57-334.40; P = .001). The incidence rate in MSM was 9.02 (95% CI, 6.48-12.26) per 100 py, compared to 1.14 per 100 py in PWID (95% CI, .56-2.09). The incidence rate for a first HCV reinfection in MSM was similar in the direct-acting antiviral era, compared to the interferon era, with a hazard ratio of 1.05 (95% CI, .64-1.74; P = .831). CONCLUSIONS HCV reinfection remains a frequent finding among MSM in Germany. In addition to behavioral interventions, early HCV treatment and retreatment should be implemented for this subgroup to prevent HCV transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Ingiliz
- Center for Infectiology, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Charité University Medical Center, Berlin, Germany
| | - Malte H Wehmeyer
- Medical Department, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Boesecke
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,German Centre for Infection Research, Partner Site Cologne-Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,Infectious Diseases, European Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Treatment Network, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Julian Schulze Zur Wiesch
- Medical Department, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,German Centre for Infection Research, Partner Site Cologne-Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Knud Schewe
- Infectiology Center Hamburg Study Center, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - Juergen K Rockstroh
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,German Centre for Infection Research, Partner Site Cologne-Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,Infectious Diseases, European Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Treatment Network, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Stefan Mauss
- Center for Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Hepatogastroenterology, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Stefan Christensen
- Infectious Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Medicine, Muenster, Germany.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Muenster University Hospital, Muenster, Germany
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19
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Rockstroh JK, Boesecke C. Hepatitis C Virus Treatment as Prevention: Challenges and Opportunities in Men Who Have Sex With Men. J Infect Dis 2021; 222:S782-S788. [PMID: 33245348 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiaa096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Since 2002, a global epidemic of acute hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has been noted in men who have sex with men (MSM). Transmission of HCV, particularly in the context of traumatic sex practices that increase the risk of blood-blood contacts (eg, anal sex and fisting), was initially found in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-coinfected and more recently in HIV-uninfected MSM, especially those receiving pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Early HCV treatment with all-oral direct-acting antiviral combination therapy has been associated with very high HCV cure rates of up to 100%. Indeed, immediate treatment of recently acquired HCV directly after new HCV diagnosis, or after 4 weeks if no 2-log10 drop in HCV RNA level occurs, promises rapid HCV elimination. Reports from the Netherlands, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom all show that with increased treatment uptake in this particular patient group, dramatic reductions in new HCV infections can be achieved. A general consensus on how to best screen for and manage acute HCV infections, along with broad access to rapid HCV therapy initiation, is crucial to attaining HCV elimination, a goal that is challenged by high HCV reinfection rates among MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Kurt Rockstroh
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Germany.,German Centre for Infection Research, partner site Bonn-Cologne, Bonn, Germany
| | - Christoph Boesecke
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Germany.,German Centre for Infection Research, partner site Bonn-Cologne, Bonn, Germany
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20
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The WHO has set ambitious targets for hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination by 2030. In this review, we explore the possibility of HCV micro-elimination in HIV-positive (+) MSM, discussing strategies for reducing acute HCV incidence and the likely interventions required to meet these targets. RECENT FINDINGS With wider availability of directly acting antivirals (DAAs) in recent years, reductions in acute HCV incidence have been reported in some cohorts of HIV+ MSM. Recent evidence demonstrates that treatment in early infection is well tolerated, cost effective and may reduce the risk of onward transmission. Modelling studies suggest that to reduce incidence, a combination approach including behavioural interventions and access to early treatment, targeting both HIV+ and negative high-risk groups, will be required. HCV vaccine trials have not yet demonstrated efficacy in human studies, however phase one and two studies are ongoing. SUMMARY Some progress towards the WHO HCV elimination targets has been reported. Achieving sustained HCV elimination is likely to require a combination approach including early access to DAAs in acute infection and reinfection, validated and reproducible behavioural interventions and an efficacious HCV vaccine.
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21
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Smit C, Boyd A, Rijnders BJA, van de Laar TJW, Leyten EM, Bierman WF, Brinkman K, Claassen MAA, den Hollander J, Boerekamps A, Newsum AM, Schinkel J, Prins M, Arends JE, Op de Coul ELM, van der Valk M, Reiss P. HCV micro-elimination in individuals with HIV in the Netherlands 4 years after universal access to direct-acting antivirals: a retrospective cohort study. Lancet HIV 2020; 8:e96-e105. [PMID: 33357835 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(20)30301-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the Netherlands, access to direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) against hepatitis C virus (HCV) has been unrestricted for chronic infection since 2015. We evaluated whether the nationwide incidence of HCV infections in individuals with HIV has changed since 2015. METHODS In this retrospective cohort study, data from the ATHENA cohort of people with HIV aged 18 years or older attending any of the 24 HIV treatment centres in the Netherlands between 2000 and 2019 were assessed. We used parametric proportional hazards models with a piecewise exponential survival function to model HCV primary infection and reinfection incidence per 1000 person-years. FINDINGS Of the 23 590 individuals without previous HCV infection, 1269 cases of HCV primary infection were documented (incidence 5·2 per 1000 person-years [95% CI 5·0-5·5]). The highest incidence was observed in men who have sex with men (MSM; 7·7 per 1000 person-years [7·3-8·2]) and was lower in people who inject drugs (PWID; 1·7 per 1000 person-years [0·7-4·1]) and other key populations (1·0 per 1000 person-years [0·8-1·2]). In MSM, incidence increased in 2007 to 14·3 per 1000 person-years and fluctuated between 8·7 and 13·0 per 1000 person-years from 2008 to 2015. In 2016, incidence declined to 6·1 cases per 1000 person-years and remained steady between 4·1 and 4·9 per 1000 person-years from 2017 to 2019. Of the 1866 individuals with a previous HCV infection, 274 reinfections were documented (incidence 26·9 per 1000 person-years [95% CI 23·9-30·3]). The highest incidence rate was observed in MSM (38·5 per 1000 person-years [33·9-43·7]) and was lower in PWID (10·9 per 1000 person-years [3·5-33·8]) and other key populations (8·9 per 1000 person-years [6·3-12·5]). In MSM, reinfection incidence fluctuated between 38·0 and 88·9 per 1000 person-years from 2006 to 2015, reaching 55·6 per 1000 person-years in 2015. In 2016, reinfection incidence declined to 41·4 per 1000 person-years, followed by further decreases to 24·4 per 1000 person-years in 2017 and 11·4 per 1000 person-years in 2019. INTERPRETATION The sharp decline in HCV incidence in MSM with HIV shortly after restrictions on DAAs were lifted suggests a treatment-as-prevention effect. HCV incidence was already low in PWID and other groups before unrestricted access. Ongoing HCV transmission is occurring in MSM, as illustrated by a declining but high rate of reinfection, stressing the need for additional preventive measures. FUNDING Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare, and Sport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colette Smit
- Stichting HIV Monitoring, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Anders Boyd
- Stichting HIV Monitoring, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
| | - Bart J A Rijnders
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Thijs J W van de Laar
- Department of Donor Medicine Research, Laboratory of Blood-borne Infections, Sanquin Research and Laboratory of Medical Microbiology, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Eliane M Leyten
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Medical Centre Haaglanden, Den Haag, Netherlands
| | - Wouter F Bierman
- University of Groningen, Department of Internal Medicine, Section Infectious Diseases, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Kees Brinkman
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Mark A A Claassen
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Rijnstate Ziekenhuis, Arnhem, Netherlands
| | - Jan den Hollander
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Maasstad Ziekenhuis, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Anne Boerekamps
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Astrid M Newsum
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Janke Schinkel
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Section of Clinical Virology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Joop E Arends
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Eline L M Op de Coul
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Marc van der Valk
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Peter Reiss
- Stichting HIV Monitoring, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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22
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Recently acquired and early chronic hepatitis C in MSM: Recommendations from the European treatment network for HIV, hepatitis and global infectious diseases consensus panel. AIDS 2020; 34:1699-1711. [PMID: 32694411 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000002622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
: In response to growing evidence of an expanding epidemic of sexually acquired hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in HIV-positive MSM, the European AIDS Treatment Network (NEAT) acute hepatitis C consensus panel developed their first recommendations for HCV prevention and care during a consensus conference in May 2010 in Paris, France. As then, two major breakthroughs have changed the landscape. First, directly acting antivirals (DAA) with high levels of tolerability and HCV cure rates of over 95% are now widely available and will play a large role in the goal of elimination of HCV by 2030 (WHO sector strategy). Second, landmark studies demonstrated that universal test and treatment (UTT) approach as well as the demonstration that HIV cannot be sexually transmitted from a person living with HIV with an undetectable viraemia [undetectable = untransmittable (U = U) campaign] and HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) are very effective HIV biomedical prevention strategies for MSM. The scale-up of these interventions has reduced HIV incidence in MSM and also changed patterns of sexual networks and behaviour, which has contributed to increased HCV incidence among HIV-negative MSM who were eligible for or on PrEP. These recent developments, together with new clinical and scientific insights, underscore the importance of updating the statements and recommendations for acute HCV in both HIV-positive and HIV-negative MSM. In June 2019, experts from different disciplines and organizations including community representatives participated at the second acute HCV consensus conference of NEAT Infectious Diseases (ID) in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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23
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Prinsenberg T, Zantkuijl P, Zuilhof W, Davidovich U, Schinkel J, Prins M, van der Valk M. Design and Implementation of a Multilevel Intervention to Reduce Hepatitis C Transmission Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in Amsterdam: Co-Creation and Usability Study. JMIR Form Res 2020; 4:e19100. [PMID: 32915157 PMCID: PMC7519430 DOI: 10.2196/19100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In the Netherlands, transmission of hepatitis C virus (HCV) occurs primarily among men who have sex with men (MSM). Early HCV testing of at-risk MSM and immediate initiation of treatment will prevent onward transmission, but this may not be sufficient to eliminate HCV in a population with ongoing risk behaviors. Therefore, targeted socioculturally acceptable preventive measures, including behavioral interventions, are urgently needed. Currently, little contextually appropriate information about HCV or risk reduction interventions is available. Objective The objective of this project was to develop an intervention to reduce HCV transmission among MSM in Amsterdam through a co-creation process, with the input of men from the targeted community directly impacting intervention content, design, and implementation. Methods We developed a multilevel intervention targeting 6 levels: individual, community, professional, context, patient, and network. The intervention was developed in close cooperation between health professionals, gay community members, commercial stakeholders, and stakeholders from within the gay community. The co-creation process had 4 phases: a needs assessment, stakeholder engagement, co-creation, and implementation. The co-creation phase continued until consensus was reached between the researchers and community members on the intervention content and design. The final intervention, NoMoreC, was completed within 2 years, and implementation started in February 2018. Results NoMoreC includes web-based and face-to-face components as well as an anonymous HCV testing service. The NoMoreC website provides information about hepatitis C, HCV transmission routes, risk reduction strategies, testing and treatment options, and partner notification. The face-to-face component comprises a risk reduction toolbox, training for health professionals, and providing tailored advice to sex on premises venues. NoMoreC is promoted by an active voluntary campaign team. Conclusions Involving the community and stakeholders in the creation of NoMoreC has been the main strength of this project. It has resulted in an intervention with various components that resonates with the gay community at risk of HCV infection. The uptake and acceptability of the described intervention will be evaluated in the future. The description of the co-creation process and implementation of the project may serve as a rich and useful source for others who want to develop culturally and context appropriate HCV interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Prinsenberg
- Department of Infectious Diseases Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Universitair Medische Centra, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute, Amsterdam Universitair Medische Centra, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | | | - Udi Davidovich
- Department of Infectious Diseases Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Social Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Janke Schinkel
- Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute, Amsterdam Universitair Medische Centra, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Medical Microbiology, Section of Clinical Virology, Amsterdam Universitair Medische Centra, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious Diseases Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Universitair Medische Centra, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute, Amsterdam Universitair Medische Centra, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marc van der Valk
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Universitair Medische Centra, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute, Amsterdam Universitair Medische Centra, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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24
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Boender TS, Op de Coul E, Arends J, Prins M, van der Valk M, van der Meer JT, van Benthem B, Reiss P, Smit C. Acute hepatitis C infection among adults with HIV in the Netherlands between 2003 and 2016: a capture-recapture analysis for the 2013 to 2016 period. Euro Surveill 2020; 25:1900450. [PMID: 32098641 PMCID: PMC7043050 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2020.25.7.1900450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundWith regards to the global strategy towards eliminating viral hepatitis, reliable surveillance systems are essential to assess the national response for eliminating hepatitis C virus (HCV).AimWe aimed to assess the completeness of the two national registries with data on acute HCV infection in people with HIV, and estimated the number of acute HCV infections among adults (aged ≥ 18 years) with HIV in the Netherlands.MethodsIn this observational study, cases of HCV infection and reinfection among adults with a positive or unknown HIV-serostatus were identified from 2003 to 2016 in two national registries: the ATHENA cohort and the National Registry for Notifiable Diseases. For 2013-2016, cases were linked, and two-way capture-recapture analysis was carried out.ResultsDuring 2013-2016, there were an estimated 282 (95% confidence interval (CI): 264-301) acute HCV infections among adults with HIV. The addition of cases with an unknown HIV-serostatus increased the matches (from n = 107 to n = 129), and subsequently increased the estimated total: 330 (95%CI: 309-351). Under-reporting was estimated at 14-20%.ConclusionUnder-reporting of acute HCV infection among people with HIV could partially be explained by an unknown HIV-serostatus, or by differences in HCV stage (acute or chronic) at first diagnosis. Surveillance data should ideally include both acute and chronic HCV infections, and enable to distinguish these as well as initial- and re-infections. National surveillance of acute HCV can be improved by increased notification of infections.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eline Op de Coul
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM); Centre for Infectious Disease Control, Epidemiology and Surveillance, Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Joop Arends
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, UMCU University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Maria Prins
- Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Amsterdam, the Netherlands,Department of Internal Medicine and Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marc van der Valk
- Department of Internal Medicine and Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jan T.M. van der Meer
- Department of Internal Medicine and Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Birgit van Benthem
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM); Centre for Infectious Disease Control, Epidemiology and Surveillance, Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Peter Reiss
- Stichting HIV Monitoring, Amsterdam, the Netherlands,Department of Internal Medicine and Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands,Department of Global Health, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, and Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Colette Smit
- Stichting HIV Monitoring, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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25
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Leyna GH, Makyao N, Mwijage A, Ramadhan A, Likindikoki S, Mizinduko M, Leshabari MT, Moen K, Mmbaga EJ. HIV/HCV co-infection and associated risk factors among injecting drug users in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: potential for HCV elimination. Harm Reduct J 2019; 16:68. [PMID: 31829199 PMCID: PMC6907336 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-019-0346-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Chronic HCV infection causes substantial morbidity and mortality and, in co-infection with HIV, may result in immunological and virological failure following antiretroviral treatment. Estimates of HCV infection, co-infection with HIV and associated risk practices among PWID are scarce in Africa. This study therefore aimed at estimating the prevalence of HCV and associated risk factors among PWID in the largest metropolitan city in Tanzania to inform WHO elimination recommendations. Methods An integrated bio-behavioral survey using respondent-driven sampling was used to recruit PWID residing in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Following face-to-face interviews, blood samples were collected for HIV and HCV testing. Weighted modified Poisson regression modeling with robust standard errors was used in the analysis. Results A total of 611 PWID with a median age of 34 years (IQR, 29–38) were recruited through 4 to 8 waves. The majority of participants (94.3%) were males, and the median age at first injection was 24 years (IQR, 19–30). Only 6.55% (40/611) of participants reported to have been enrolled in opioid treatment programs. The weighted HCV antibody prevalence was 16.2% (95%CI, 13.0–20.1). The corresponding prevalence of HIV infection was 8.7% (95%CI, 6.4–11.8). Of the 51 PWID who were infected with HIV, 22 (43.1%) were HCV seropositive. Lack of access to clean needles (adjusted prevalence ratio (APR), 1.76; 95%CI, 1.44; 12.74), sharing a needle the past month (APR, 1.72; 95%CI, 1.02; 3.00), not cleaning the needle the last time shared (APR, 2.29; 95%CI, 1.00; 6.37), and having unprotected not using a transactional sex (APR, 1.87; 95%CI, 1.00; 3.61) were associated with increased risk of HCV infection. On the other hand, not being on opioid substitution therapy was associated with 60% lower likelihood of infection. Conclusions The HCV antibody prevalence among PWID is lower than global estimates indicating potential for elimination. Improving access to safe injecting paraphernalia, promoting safer injecting practices is the focus of prevention programing. Screening for HIV/HCV co-infection should be intensified in HIV care, opioid substitution programs, and other point of care for PWID. Use of direct-acting antiretroviral treatment would accelerate the achievement of hepatitis infection elimination goal by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Germana Henry Leyna
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65015, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Neema Makyao
- Ministry of Health, Community Development, Gender, Elderly and Children, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Alexander Mwijage
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65015, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Angela Ramadhan
- Ministry of Health, Community Development, Gender, Elderly and Children, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Samuel Likindikoki
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65015, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Mucho Mizinduko
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65015, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Melkizedeck Thomas Leshabari
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65015, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Elia John Mmbaga
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65015, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. .,University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
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