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MacIsaac MB, Whitton B, Anderson J, Cogger S, Vella-Horne D, Penn M, Weeks A, Elmore K, Pemberton D, Winter RJ, Papaluca T, Howell J, Hellard M, Stoové M, Wilson D, Pedrana A, Doyle JS, Clark N, Holmes JA, Thompson AJ. Point-of-care HCV RNA testing improves hepatitis C testing rates and allows rapid treatment initiation among people who inject drugs attending a medically supervised injecting facility. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024; 125:104317. [PMID: 38281385 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2024.104317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To achieve hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination targets, simplified care engaging people who inject drugs is required. We evaluated whether fingerstick HCV RNA point-of-care testing (PoCT) increased the proportion of clients attending a supervised injecting facility who were tested for hepatitis C. METHODS Prospective single-arm study with recruitment between 9 November 2020 and 28 January 2021 and follow-up to 31 July 2021. Clients attending the supervised injecting facility were offered HCV RNA testing using the Xpert® HCV Viral Load Fingerstick (Cepheid, Sunnyvale, CA) PoCT. Participants with a positive HCV RNA test were prescribed direct acting antiviral (DAA) therapy. The primary endpoint was the proportion of clients who engaged in HCV RNA PoCT, compared to a historical comparator group when venepuncture-based hepatitis C testing was standard of care. RESULTS Among 1618 clients who attended the supervised injecting facility during the study period, 228 (14%) engaged in PoCT. This was significantly higher than that observed in the historical comparator group (61/1,775, 3%; p < 0.001). Sixty-five (28%) participants were HCV RNA positive, with 40/65 (62%) receiving their result on the same day as testing. Sixty-one (94%) HCV RNA positive participants were commenced on DAA therapy; 14/61 (23%) started treatment on the same day as diagnosis. There was no difference in the proportion of HCV RNA positive participants commenced on treatment with DAA therapy when compared to the historical comparator group (61/65, 94% vs 22/26, 85%; p = 0.153). However, the median time to treatment initiation was significantly shorter in the PoCT cohort (2 days (IQR 1-20) vs 41 days (IQR 22-76), p < 0.001). Among participants who commenced treatment and had complete follow-up data available, 27/36 (75%) achieved hepatitis C cure. CONCLUSIONS HCV RNA PoCT led to a significantly higher proportion of clients attending a supervised injecting facility engaging in hepatitis C testing, whilst also reducing the time to treatment initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael B MacIsaac
- Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bradley Whitton
- Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jenine Anderson
- Medically Supervised Injecting Room, North Richmond Community Health, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shelley Cogger
- Medically Supervised Injecting Room, North Richmond Community Health, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
| | - Dylan Vella-Horne
- Medically Supervised Injecting Room, North Richmond Community Health, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
| | - Matthew Penn
- Medically Supervised Injecting Room, North Richmond Community Health, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anthony Weeks
- Medically Supervised Injecting Room, North Richmond Community Health, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kasey Elmore
- Medically Supervised Injecting Room, North Richmond Community Health, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
| | - David Pemberton
- Medically Supervised Injecting Room, North Richmond Community Health, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rebecca J Winter
- Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia; Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Timothy Papaluca
- Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jessica Howell
- Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Margaret Hellard
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark Stoové
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - David Wilson
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alisa Pedrana
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joseph S Doyle
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nicolas Clark
- Medically Supervised Injecting Room, North Richmond Community Health, Richmond, Victoria, Australia; Department of Addiction Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jacinta A Holmes
- Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alexander J Thompson
- Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
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Chen B, Xu B, Cui HY, Ma ZH, Guo WH, Pei LJ, Xing WG. Comparison of effectiveness and cost of different HCV testing strategies in high-risk populations in China. J Med Virol 2024; 96:e29433. [PMID: 38293900 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
High-risk populations are the predominant populations affected by hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, and there is an urgent need for efficient and cost-effective HCV testing strategies for high-risk populations to identify potential undiagnosed HCV-infected individuals. This study compared several commonly used testing strategies and conducted effectiveness and cost analysis to select the appropriate testing strategy for diagnosing HCV infection in high-risk populations. Among the 2093 samples from high-risk populations in this study, 1716 were HCV negative, 237 were current HCV infection, 137 were past HCV infection, and three were acute early HCV infection. It was found that out of 237 patients with HCV current infection, Strategy A could detect 225 cases, with a missed detection rate of 5.06%, and the total cost was 33 299 RMB. In addition, Strategy B could detect 237 cases of current HCV infection, and the HCV missed detection rate was 0.00%, and the total cost was 147 221 RMB. While 137 cases of past HCV infection could be distinguished by strategy C, but 14 cases with current HCV infection were missed, with an HCV-positive missed detection rate of 5.91%, and the total cost for Strategy C was 43 059 RMB. In conclusion, in high-risk populations, the HCV positivity rate is typically higher. If feasible, the preferred approach is to directly conduct HCV RNA testing, which effectively minimizes the risk of missing cases. However, in situations with limited resources, it is advisable to initially choose a highly sensitive method for anti-HCV screening, followed by HCV RNA testing on reactive samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui, China
| | - Bing Xu
- Center for Global Public Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Hai-Yan Cui
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhumadian Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Henan, China
| | - Zhong-Hui Ma
- Department of Communicable and Endemic Disease Control and Prevention, Fangshan District Center for Disease Control and Prevention in Beijing, Beijing, China
| | - Wen-Hui Guo
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Li-Jian Pei
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Wen-Ge Xing
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
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3
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Chen YJ, Lin YC, Wu MT, Kuo JY, Wang CH. Prevention of Viral Hepatitis and HIV Infection among People Who Inject Drugs: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Viruses 2024; 16:142. [PMID: 38257842 PMCID: PMC10820947 DOI: 10.3390/v16010142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the current evidence on preventing blood-borne virus infections among people who inject drugs (PWID). We conducted a comprehensive search across three databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library) for relevant articles published in English between 2014 and 2023. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines, assessed the quality of the paper using the revised Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool (ROB 2), and conducted a meta-analysis using RevMan 5.3. Completing the harm reduction program (HRP) participation and receiving all three vaccine doses resulted in a 28% reduction in the risk of HBV infection (OR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.37-1.42). Various interventions increased the willingness of PWIDs to undergo HCV treatment (OR: 5.91, 95% CI: 2.46-14.24) and promoted treatment adherence (OR: 15.04, 95% CI: 2.80-80.61). Taking PrEP, participating in HRP, and modifying risky behaviors were associated with a 33% reduction in the risk of HIV infection (OR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.61-0.74). Conducting referrals, providing counseling, and implementing antiretroviral therapy resulted in a 44% reduction in the risk of viral transmission (OR: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.47-0.66). Co-infection may potentially compromise effectiveness, so it is important to consider drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yen-Ju Chen
- Research Assistant Center, Tainan Municipal Hospital (Managed by Show Chwan Medical Care Corporation), Tainan 701033, Taiwan; (Y.-J.C.); (Y.-C.L.); (M.-T.W.)
- Department of Food Nutrition, Chung Hwa University of Medical Technology, Tainan 717302, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chen Lin
- Research Assistant Center, Tainan Municipal Hospital (Managed by Show Chwan Medical Care Corporation), Tainan 701033, Taiwan; (Y.-J.C.); (Y.-C.L.); (M.-T.W.)
| | - Meng-Tien Wu
- Research Assistant Center, Tainan Municipal Hospital (Managed by Show Chwan Medical Care Corporation), Tainan 701033, Taiwan; (Y.-J.C.); (Y.-C.L.); (M.-T.W.)
| | - Jenn-Yuan Kuo
- Department of Hepatogastroenterology, Tainan Municipal Hospital (Managed by Show Chwan Medical Care Corporation), Tainan 701033, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Hsiang Wang
- Department of Hepatogastroenterology, Tainan Municipal Hospital (Managed by Show Chwan Medical Care Corporation), Tainan 701033, Taiwan
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4
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Howell J, Seaman C, Wallace J, Xiao Y, Scott N, Davies J, de Santis T, Adda D, El-Sayed M, Feld JJ, Gane E, Lacombe K, Lesi O, Mohamed R, Silva M, Tu T, Revill P, Hellard ME. Pathway to global elimination of hepatitis B: HBV cure is just the first step. Hepatology 2023; 78:976-990. [PMID: 37125643 PMCID: PMC10442143 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis B (HBV) is a major cause of global morbidity and mortality, and the leading cause of liver cancer worldwide. Significant advances have recently been made toward the development of a finite HBV treatment that achieves permanent loss of HBsAg and HBV DNA (so-called "HBV cure"), which could provide the means to eliminate HBV as a public health threat. However, the HBV cure is just one step toward achieving WHO HBV elimination targets by 2030, and much work must be done now to prepare for the successful implementation of the HBV cure. In this review, we describe the required steps to rapidly scale-up future HBV cure equitably. We present key actions required for successful HBV cure implementation, integrated within the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Health Sector Strategy (GHSS) 2022-2030 framework. Finally, we highlight what can be done now to progress toward the 2030 HBV elimination targets using available tools to ensure that we are preparing, but not waiting, for the cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Howell
- Disease Elimination, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department Gastroenterology, St Vincent’s Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chris Seaman
- Disease Elimination, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jack Wallace
- Disease Elimination, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Yinzong Xiao
- Disease Elimination, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nick Scott
- Disease Elimination, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jane Davies
- Department Global Health and Infectious diseases, Menzies School of Public Health, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Teresa de Santis
- Department Global Health and Infectious diseases, Menzies School of Public Health, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | | | - Manal El-Sayed
- Department Paediatrics, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Jordan J. Feld
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Edward Gane
- Department Medicine, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Karine Lacombe
- Sorbonne Université, IPLESP, Saint-Antoine Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Olufunmilayo Lesi
- Global HIV, Hepatitis, and STI Programme, World Health Organisation, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Rosmawati Mohamed
- Department of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Marcelo Silva
- Department Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Austral University Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Thomas Tu
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney and Westmead Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- University of Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Peter Revill
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory (VIDRL), Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Margaret E. Hellard
- Disease Elimination, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department Infectious Diseases, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department Infectious Diseases, School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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5
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Abu N, Mohd Bakhori N, Shueb RH. Lateral Flow Assay for Hepatitis B Detection: A Review of Current and New Assays. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:1239. [PMID: 37374824 DOI: 10.3390/mi14061239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
From acute to chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular cancer, hepatitis B infection causes a broad spectrum of liver diseases. Molecular and serological tests have been used to diagnose hepatitis B-related illnesses. Due to technology limitations, it is challenging to identify hepatitis B infection cases at an early stage, particularly in a low- and middle-income country with constrained resources. Generally, the gold-standard methods to detect hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection requires dedicated personnel, bulky, expensive equipment and reagents, and long processing times which delay the diagnosis of HBV. Thus, lateral flow assay (LFA), which is inexpensive, straightforward, portable, and operates reliably, has dominated point-of-care diagnostics. LFA consists of four parts: a sample pad where samples are dropped; a conjugate pad where labeled tags and biomarker components are combined; a nitrocellulose membrane with test and control lines for target DNA-probe DNA hybridization or antigen-antibody interaction; and a wicking pad where waste is stored. By modifying the pre-treatment during the sample preparation process or enhancing the signal of the biomarker probes on the membrane pad, the accuracy of the LFA for qualitative and quantitative analysis can be improved. In this review, we assembled the most recent developments in LFA technologies for the progress of hepatitis B infection detection. Prospects for ongoing development in this area are also covered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norhidayah Abu
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian 16150, Kelantan, Malaysia
- Advanced Materials Research Centre (AMREC), SIRIM Berhad, Lot 34, Jalan Hi-Tech 2/3, Kulim Hi-Tech Park, Kulim 09000, Kedah, Malaysia
| | - Noremylia Mohd Bakhori
- Advanced Materials Research Centre (AMREC), SIRIM Berhad, Lot 34, Jalan Hi-Tech 2/3, Kulim Hi-Tech Park, Kulim 09000, Kedah, Malaysia
| | - Rafidah Hanim Shueb
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian 16150, Kelantan, Malaysia
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6
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Gholami A, Mousavi SM, Masoumzadeh R, Binazadeh M, Bagheri Lankarani K, Omidifar N, Arjmand O, Chiang WH, Moghadami M, Pynadathu Rumjit N. Advanced Theranostic Strategies for Viral Hepatitis Using Carbon Nanostructures. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:1185. [PMID: 37374770 DOI: 10.3390/mi14061185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
There are several treatment protocols for acute viral hepatitis, and it is critical to recognize acute hepatitis in its earliest stages. Public health measures to control these infections also rely on rapid and accurate diagnosis. The diagnosis of viral hepatitis remains expensive, and there is no adequate public health infrastructure, while the virus is not well-controlled. New methods for screening and detecting viral hepatitis through nanotechnology are being developed. Nanotechnology significantly reduces the cost of screening. In this review, the potential of three-dimensional-nanostructured carbon substances as promising materials due to fewer side effects, and the contribution of these particles to effective tissue transfer in the treatment and diagnosis of hepatitis due to the importance of rapid diagnosis for successful treatment, were extensively investigated. In recent years, three-dimensional carbon nanomaterials such as graphene oxide and nanotubes with special chemical, electrical, and optical properties have been used for the diagnosis and treatment of hepatitis due to their high potential. We expect that the future position of nanoparticles in the rapid diagnosis and treatment of viral hepatitis can be better determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Gholami
- Biotechnology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Science, Shiraz 71439-14693, Iran
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Science, Shiraz 71439-14693, Iran
| | - Seyyed Mojtaba Mousavi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei 10607, Taiwan
| | - Reza Masoumzadeh
- Department of Medical, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71439-14693, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Binazadeh
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Shiraz 71557-13876, Iran
| | - Kamran Bagheri Lankarani
- Health Policy Research Center, Health Institute, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71439-14693, Iran
| | - Navid Omidifar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Science, Shiraz 71439-14693, Iran
- Department of Pathology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71439-14693, Iran
| | - Omid Arjmand
- Department of Chemical Engineering, South Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran 14687-63785, Iran
| | - Wei-Hung Chiang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei 10607, Taiwan
| | - Mohsen Moghadami
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71439-14693, Iran
| | - Nelson Pynadathu Rumjit
- Nanotechnology and Catalysis Research Centre (NANOCAT), Level 3, Block A, Institute for Advanced Studies (IAS), University of Malaya (UM), Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
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Howell J, Van H, Pham MD, Sawhney R, Li F, Bhat P, Lubel J, Kemp W, Bloom S, Majumdar A, McCaughan G, Spelman T, Doyle JS, Hellard M, Visvanathan K, Thompson A, Anderson D. A novel point-of-care test for cirrhosis based on dimeric to monomeric IgA ratio in blood: a pilot cohort study. Hepatol Commun 2023; 7:e0106. [PMID: 36995999 PMCID: PMC10069834 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Dimeric IgA to monomeric IgA ratio (dIgA ratio) is a biomarker of gut mucosal leakage in liver cirrhosis. We evaluated the diagnostic performance of a novel point-of-care (POC) dIgA ratio test for cirrhosis. METHODS Plasma samples from people with chronic liver disease were analyzed using the BioPoint POC dIgA ratio antigen immunoassay lateral flow test. Cirrhosis was defined by Fibroscan>12.5 kPa, clinical evidence of cirrhosis or liver histopathology. POC dIgA test diagnostic accuracy was determined in a test cohort using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis; optimal cutoffs for sensitivity and specificity were then applied to a validation cohort. RESULTS A total of 1478 plasma samples from 866 patients with chronic liver disease were included (test cohort n = 260, validation cohort n = 606). In all, 32% had cirrhosis; 44% Child-Pugh A, 26% Child-Pugh B, and 29% Child-Pugh C. Median POC dIgA ratio was higher in cirrhosis (0.9) compared with no cirrhosis (0.4, p < 0.001), and in Child-Pugh class B/C compared with A cirrhosis (1.4 Child-Pugh B/C vs. 0.6 Child-Pugh A, p < 0.001). POC dIgA ratio test had good diagnostic accuracy for liver cirrhosis in the test cohort (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve=0.80); a dIgA ratio cutoff of 0.6 had a sensitivity of 74% and specificity of 86%. POC dIgA test accuracy was moderate in the validation cohort (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve=0.75; positive predictive value 64%, negative predictive value 83%). Using a dual cutoff approach, 79% of cirrhosis cases were correctly diagnosed and further testing was avoided in 57%. CONCLUSIONS POC dIgA ratio test had moderate accuracy for cirrhosis. Further studies evaluating the accuracy of POC dIgA ratio testing for cirrhosis screening are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Howell
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- St Vincent’s Hospital and University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Huy Van
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Minh D. Pham
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rohit Sawhney
- St Vincent’s Hospital and University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Eastern Health, Box Hill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Fan Li
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - John Lubel
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Alfred Hospital and Monash Central Clinical School, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - William Kemp
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Alfred Hospital and Monash Central Clinical School, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Avik Majumdar
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Geoff McCaughan
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Centenary Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Joseph S. Doyle
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Margaret Hellard
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kumar Visvanathan
- St Vincent’s Hospital and University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alexander Thompson
- St Vincent’s Hospital and University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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8
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Diagnostic Performance of the HCV Core Antigen Test To Identify Hepatitis C in HIV-Infected Patients: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Microbiol 2023; 61:e0133122. [PMID: 36537787 PMCID: PMC9879113 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.01331-22] [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: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The standard algorithm for diagnosing hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has two steps, an HCV antibody test for screening and a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) for confirmation. However, the HCV core antigen (HCVcAg) detection assay is an alternative for one-step diagnosis. We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the Abbott ARCHITECT HCV Ag assay to detect active hepatitis C in serum/plasma in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA), through a systematic review and meta-analysis. PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were searched until 20 September 2022 (PROSPERO, CRD42022348351). We included studies evaluating Abbott ARCHITECT HCV Ag assay (index assay) versus NAATs (reference test) in PLWHA coinfected with HCV who did not receive antiviral treatment for HCV. Meta-analysis was performed with the MIDAS module using Stata and random-effects models. The QUADAS-2 tool evaluated the risk of bias. The bivariate analysis was conducted on 11 studies with 2,407 samples. Pooled sensitivity was 0.95 (95% CI = 0.92 to 0.97), specificity 0.97 (95% CI = 0.93 to 0.99), positive likelihood ratio 37.76 (95% CI = 12.84 to 111.02), and negative likelihood ratio 0.06 (95% CI = 0.04 to 0.09). The area under the curve was 0.97 (95% CI = 0.20 to 1.00). For low prevalence (≤5%), the posttest probability that an individual with a positive test was a true positive ranged from 4% to 67%, whereas, at high prevalence (≥10%), the posttest probability was between 81% and 87%, indicating that a confirmatory test should be necessary, particularly with prevalence values of ≤1%. Regardless of prevalence, the probability that an individual with a negative test was a false negative was close to zero, indicating that the individual was not infected with HCV. In conclusion, the accuracy of the Abbott ARCHITECT HCV Ag assay was very good for HCV screening in serum/plasma samples from PLWHA. The clinical utility to confirm HCV infection was acceptable in high-prevalence settings (≥10%) but poor in low-prevalence settings (≤1%). Furthermore, it was excellent in excluding active HCV infection.
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9
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Kumar M, Pahuja S, Khare P, Kumar A. Current Challenges and Future Perspectives of Diagnosis of Hepatitis B Virus. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13030368. [PMID: 36766473 PMCID: PMC9914745 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13030368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
It is estimated that approximately 260 million people worldwide are infected with the hepatitis B virus (HBV), which is one of the leading causes of liver disease and liver cancer throughout the world. Compared with developed countries, low-income and middle-income countries have limited access to resources and advanced technologies that require highly specialized staff for HBV diagnosis. In spite of the heavy burden caused by hepatitis B virus, 90% of people are still undiagnosed. The World Health Organization (WHO) goal of eliminating hepatitis B by 2030 seems very difficult to achieve due to the existing diagnostic infrastructure in low-resource regions. The majority of diagnostic laboratories still use hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-based tests. WHO's elimination plan is at risk of derailment due to phases like the window period, immune control, and occult HBV infection (OBI) not being detected by standard tests. Here, in this article, we are focusing on various diagnostic platforms for the better diagnosis of HBV. The aim of the elimination of HBV can only be achieved by detecting all phases of HBV infection, which can be executed by a combined approach of using new marker assays along with advanced pretesting and testing methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj Kumar
- National Institute of Biologicals, Noida 201309, India
| | - Sangeeta Pahuja
- Department of Immunohaematology and Blood Transfusion, Lady Hardinge Medical College and Associated Hospitals, New Delhi 110001, India
| | - Prashant Khare
- Center for Advanced Biotechnology Research, Xenesis Institute, 5th Floor, Plot 68, Sector 44, Gurugram 122003, India
| | - Anoop Kumar
- National Institute of Biologicals, Noida 201309, India
- Correspondence:
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Adjei CA, Stutterheim SE, Bram F, Naab F, Ruiter RAC. Correlates of hepatitis B testing in Ghana: The role of knowledge, stigma endorsement and knowing someone with hepatitis B. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:e4564-e4573. [PMID: 35701984 PMCID: PMC10083906 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis B testing is the gateway for prevention and care. However, previous studies document low hepatitis B testing uptake in sub-Saharan Africa. This study investigated knowledge, stigma endorsement and knowing someone with hepatitis B as correlates of hepatitis B testing behaviours among people in the Greater Accra and Northern regions of Ghana. A cross-sectional survey was completed by 971 participants (Greater Accra = 503, and Northern region = 468) between October 2018 and January 2019. Approximately 54% of the participants reported having been tested for hepatitis B. The logistic regression analyses showed that having greater hepatitis B knowledge was positively associated with hepatitis B testing (OR = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.14-1.30). Higher hepatitis B stigma endorsement was negatively related to hepatitis B testing (OR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.96-0.99). Also, participants who knew someone (i.e. parent, sibling and/or friend) with hepatitis B were more likely to have tested compared to those who did not know someone with hepatitis B (OR = 7.15, 95% CI: 5.04-10.14). This study demonstrates that knowing someone with hepatitis B increases the likelihood of testing, highlighting the need to create safe and non-judgmental contexts for people with hepatitis B (PWHB) to disclose if they want to. Also, given that greater hepatitis B knowledge increases testing and hepatitis B stigma endorsement impedes testing, interventions that increase knowledge and reduce stigma should be incorporated in efforts to promote testing in Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah E. Stutterheim
- Department of Health PromotionCare and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht UniversityMaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Fleuren Bram
- Department of Work and Social PsychologyMaastricht UniversityMaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Florence Naab
- Department of Maternal and Child HealthUniversity of GhanaAccraGhana
| | - Robert A. C. Ruiter
- Department of Work and Social PsychologyMaastricht UniversityMaastrichtThe Netherlands
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Alaama AS, Khattabi H, Mugisa B, Atta H, Hermez J, Hutin YJ. Progress towards elimination of viral hepatitis by 2030 in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region, 2019. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 7:862-870. [PMID: 35817075 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(22)00082-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The WHO Global Health Sector Strategy and hepatitis regional action plan for the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) proposed strategic directions for countries to progress towards the elimination of viral hepatitis by 2030. In 2019, we reviewed progress to gain a picture of current pressures and identify priority actions for member states to reach this goal. We collected data from country, regional, and global reports published in 2015-19, questionnaires completed by countries, and convened a regional consultation with programme managers and partners. We analysed these data along three thematic areas: governance and finance, strategic information, and service delivery. 15 of the 22 EMR countries completed the review. Of these, 10 (67%) had a national strategy and six (40%) allocated funds to it. 11 (73%) countries had testing and treatment guidelines in line with WHO recommendations. Ten (67%) countries had burden and coverage estimates, four (27%) reported on the cascade of care for hepatitis C virus (HCV), three (20%) reported on the cascade of care for hepatitis B (HBV), and three (20%) had mortality estimates. By 2019, the regional hepatitis B vaccination coverage among infants was 82% for the third dose and 33% for the timely birth dose. For harm reduction, 27 syringes were distributed per injecting drug user per year. Between 2015 and 2019, HCV diagnosis increased from 18% to 33% and treatment for hepatitis C increased from 12% to 26%. Within the same time period, diagnosis of HBV diagnosis increased from 2% to 14% and treatment initiation increased from less than 1% to 2%. EMR countries made progress in governance, policy development, coverage of the third dose of the hepatitis B vaccine, and testing and treatment for HCV infection. However, birth dose vaccination, injection safety, harm reduction, and testing and treatment are limited by insufficient financing. Core interventions need to be included within national universal health coverage packages as an initial move towards elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Sabry Alaama
- Universal Health Coverage: Department of Communicable Disease Prevention and Control, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt.
| | | | - Bridget Mugisa
- Universal Health Coverage: Department of Communicable Disease Prevention and Control, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hoda Atta
- Universal Health Coverage: Department of Communicable Disease Prevention and Control, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Joumana Hermez
- Universal Health Coverage: Department of Communicable Disease Prevention and Control, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Yvan J Hutin
- Universal Health Coverage: Department of Communicable Disease Prevention and Control, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt
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Said ZNA, El-Sayed MH. Challenge of managing hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus infections in resource-limited settings. World J Hepatol 2022; 14:1333-1343. [PMID: 36158908 PMCID: PMC9376770 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v14.i7.1333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The global burden of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections and coinfection represents a major public health concern, particularly in resource-limited settings. Elimination of HCV by 2030 has become foreseeable, with effective direct-acting antiviral oral therapies and the availability of affordable generics in low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs). However, access to oral nucleos(t)ide therapy for HBV remains critical and is limited outside the existing global HIV program platforms despite affordable prices. Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HBV through scaling up of birth dose implementation in LMICs is essential to achieve the 2030 elimination goal. Most individuals living with HBV and/or HCV in resource-limited settings are unaware of their infection, and with improved access to medications, the most significant barrier remains access to affordable diagnostics and preventive strategies. The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic interrupted hepatitis elimination programs, albeit offered opportunities for improved diagnostic capacities and raised political awareness of the critical need for strengthening health care services and universal health coverage. This review underpins the HBV and HCV management challenges in resource-limited settings, highlighting the current status and suggested future elimination strategies in some of these countries. Global efforts should continue to improve awareness and political commitment. Financial resources should be secured to access and implement comprehensive strategies for diagnosis and linkage to care in resource-constrained settings to fulfill the 2030 elimination goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Nabil Ahmed Said
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Faculty of Medicine for Girls Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Manal Hamdy El-Sayed
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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13
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Diagnostic Accuracy of Point-of-Care HCV Viral Load Assays for HCV Diagnosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12051255. [PMID: 35626411 PMCID: PMC9141110 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12051255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the widespread availability of curative treatment with direct-acting antivirals, a significant proportion of people with HCV remain undiagnosed and untreated. New point-of-care (PoC) HCV RNA assays that can be used in clinical settings may help expand access to testing and treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of PoC HCV viral load assays compared to laboratory-based testing. Methods: We searched three databases for studies published before May 2021 that evaluated PoC HCV RNA assays against a laboratory NAT reference standard (Prospero CRD42021269022). Random effects bivariate models were used to summarize the estimates. Stratified analyses were performed based on geographic region, population (PWID, etc.), and specimen type (serum/plasma or fingerstick; fresh or frozen). We used the GRADE approach to assess the certainty of the evidence. Results: A total of 25 studies were eligible. We evaluated five different commercially available viral load assays. The pooled sensitivity and specificity were 99% (95% CI: 98−99%) and 99% (95% CI: 99−100%), respectively. High sensitivity and specificity were observed across different assays, study settings (including LMICs and HICs), and populations. There was a small but statistically significant reduction in sensitivity for fingersticks compared to serum or plasma samples (98% vs. 100%, p < 0.05), but the specificity was similar between frozen and fresh samples. The evidence was rated as moderate-high certainty. Conclusions: PoC HCV viral load assays demonstrate excellent diagnostic performance in various settings and populations. The WHO now recommends using PoC HCV viral load assays as an additional strategy to promote access to confirmatory viral load testing and treatment.
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Navvabi N, Khadem Ansari MH, Navvabi A, Chalipa HR, Zitricky F. Comparative assessment of immunochromatography and ELISA diagnostic tests for HBsAg detection in PCR-confirmed HBV infection. REVISTA DE GASTROENTEROLOGÍA DE MÉXICO 2021; 87:176-180. [PMID: 34776394 DOI: 10.1016/j.rgmxen.2021.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2020] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIMS Viral hepatitis, which appears most frequently at birth or during childhood, is a disease whose transmission routes include tears, bile, sexual fluids, sweat, milk, urine, feces, and saliva. The aim of the present study was to analyze the specificity of the immunochromatographic and ELISA diagnostic tests for hepatitis B surface antigen and compare them with PCR testing. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study sample was made up of 140 men and 60 women referred to the Urmia Medical University hospital to undergo PCR testing for HBV diagnosis. The ELISA test was performed using the Pioneer Medicine Company kit (Tehran, Iran). RESULTS The results of the HBs-Ag rapid test and the ELISA test were compared with the PCR test. The HBs-Ag rapid test had 97% sensitivity and 91% specificity, whereas the ELISA test had 78% sensitivity and 76% specificity. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION According to our results, the immunochromatographic test was accurate for diagnosing HBs-Ag in blood and the ELISA test had acceptable sensitivity and specificity, compared with PCR testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Navvabi
- Departamento de Biología de Tumor e Inmunoterapia, Facultad de Medicina de Pilsen, Universidad Charles, Praga, Czech Republic.
| | - M H Khadem Ansari
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Escuela de Medicina de Urmia, Urmia, Iran
| | - A Navvabi
- Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Marinas y Tecnología, Universidad de Hormozgan, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - H R Chalipa
- Departamento de Biotecnología Microbiana, Universidad Islámica Azad, Urmia, Iran
| | - F Zitricky
- Laboratorio de Neurofisiología Experimental, Centro Biomédico, Facultad de Medicina de Pilsen, Universidad Charles, Praga, Czech Republic
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Shenge JA, Osiowy C. Rapid Diagnostics for Hepatitis B and C Viruses in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. FRONTIERS IN VIROLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fviro.2021.742722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The global health challenge posed by hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) persists, especially in low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs), where underdiagnosis of these viral infections remains a barrier to the elimination target of 2030. HBV and HCV infections are responsible for most liver-related mortality worldwide. Infected individuals are often unaware of their condition and as a result, continue to transmit these viruses. Although conventional diagnostic tests exist, in LMIC they are largely inaccessible due to high costs or a lack of trained personnel, resulting in poor linkage to care and increased infections. Timely and accurate diagnosis is needed to achieve elimination of hepatitis B and C by the year 2030 as set out by the World Health Organization Global Health Sector Strategy. In this review rapid diagnostic tests allowing for quick and cost-effective screening and diagnosis of HBV and HCV, are discussed, as are their features, including suitability, reliability, and applicability in LMIC, particularly those within Africa.
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Barathan M, Riazalhosseini B, Iyadorai T, Vellasamy KM, Vadivelu J, Chang LY, Zulpa AK, Larsson M, Shankar EM, Mohamed R. Comparative expression of pro-inflammatory and apoptotic biosignatures in chronic HBV-infected patients with and without liver cirrhosis. Microb Pathog 2021; 161:105231. [PMID: 34619310 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2021.105231] [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: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The interplay of immune mediators is paramount to optimal host anti-viral immune responses, especially against chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Here, we investigated the dynamic changes in host immune responses in chronic HBV-infected individuals with and without liver cirrhosis by examining the signatures of apoptosis and plasma levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and cytotoxic proteins. A total of 40 chronic HBV patients with and without liver cirrhosis were studied for plasma levels of immune mediators, and signatures of apoptosis in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). The intracellular concentrations of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in patients with chronic HBV with liver cirrhosis was relatively higher as compared to chronic HBV patients. The onset of apoptosis was sustained due to ongoing liver inflammation in concert with plasma TNF-α and IL-6 levels. Plasma VEGF was upregulated among chronic HBV patients with liver cirrhosis, whereas CCL2, CCL5 and granzyme B levels were down-regulated. High levels of ROS, IL-6 and TNF-α correlated with ongoing inflammation among chronic HBV patients with liver cirrhosis, which likely attributed to the expression of biosignatures of apoptosis and activation in immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muttiah Barathan
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Lembah Pantai, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia
| | - Behnaz Riazalhosseini
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Lembah Pantai, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia
| | - Thevambiga Iyadorai
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Lembah Pantai, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia
| | - Kumutha Malar Vellasamy
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Lembah Pantai, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia
| | - Jamuna Vadivelu
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Lembah Pantai, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia
| | - Li-Yen Chang
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Lembah Pantai, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia
| | - Ahmad Khusairy Zulpa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Lembah Pantai, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia
| | - Marie Larsson
- Division of Molecular Medicine and Virology, Department of Biomedicine and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Esaki M Shankar
- Infection Biology, Department of Life Sciences, Central University of Tamil Nadu, Thiruvarur, 610 005, India.
| | - Rosmawati Mohamed
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Lembah Pantai, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia.
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Challenges for hepatitis B virus cure in resource-limited settings in sub-Saharan Africa. Curr Opin HIV AIDS 2021; 15:185-192. [PMID: 32141888 DOI: 10.1097/coh.0000000000000619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The aim of this article is to highlight the unique challenges for hepatitis B virus (HBV) cure faced in resource-limited settings (RLS) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where access to disease prevention measures, medical testing, and treatment are limited. RECENT FINDINGS SSA RLS face challenges, which need to be anticipated as HBV cure research advances. There is a paucity of data because of lack of HBV surveillance and limited access to laboratories. Interruption of transfusion-transmitted infections, perinatal mother-to-child-transmissions, and transmission in people-who-infect-drug networks has not been achieved fully. Although RLS in SSA are within the epicenter of the HIV pandemic, unlike for HIV, there is no population-based testing for HBV. Public health response to HBV is inadequate with concomitant political inertia in combatting HBV infection. SUMMARY A functional HBV cure will improve the diagnosis/treatment cascade, decrease costs and accelerate HBV elimination. There is a concerted effort to find a HBV cure, which will be finite, not require life-long treatment, adherence, and continued monitoring. Increased research, improved financial, infrastructural and human resources will positively impact on implementation of HBV cure, when available. We can emulate major strides made in tackling HIV and the strength of advocacy groups in soliciting policymakers to take action.
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The Role of microRNAs in Cholangiocarcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147627. [PMID: 34299246 PMCID: PMC8306241 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), an aggressive malignancy, is typically diagnosed at an advanced stage. It is associated with dismal 5-year postoperative survival rates, generating an urgent need for prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs that are associated with cancer regulation, including modulation of cell cycle progression, apoptosis, metastasis, angiogenesis, autophagy, therapy resistance, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition. Several miRNAs have been found to be dysregulated in CCA and are associated with CCA-related risk factors. Accumulating studies have indicated that the expression of altered miRNAs could act as oncogenic or suppressor miRNAs in the development and progression of CCA and contribute to clinical diagnosis and prognosis prediction as potential biomarkers. Furthermore, miRNAs and their target genes also contribute to targeted therapy development and aid in the determination of drug resistance mechanisms. This review aims to summarize the roles of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of CCA, their potential use as biomarkers of diagnosis and prognosis, and their utilization as novel therapeutic targets in CCA.
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Shahid I, Alzahrani AR, Al-Ghamdi SS, Alanazi IM, Rehman S, Hassan S. Hepatitis C Diagnosis: Simplified Solutions, Predictive Barriers, and Future Promises. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:1253. [PMID: 34359335 PMCID: PMC8305142 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11071253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The simplification of current hepatitis C diagnostic algorithms and the emergence of digital diagnostic devices will be very crucial to achieving the WHO's set goals of hepatitis C diagnosis (i.e., 90%) by 2030. From the last decade, hepatitis C diagnosis has been revolutionized by the advent and approval of state-of-the-art HCV diagnostic platforms which have been efficiently implemented in high-risk HCV populations in developed nations as well as in some low-to-middle income countries (LMICs) to identify millions of undiagnosed hepatitis C-infected individuals. Point-of-care (POC) rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs; POC-RDTs), RNA reflex testing, hepatitis C self-test assays, and dried blood spot (DBS) sample analysis have been proven their diagnostic worth in real-world clinical experiences both at centralized and decentralized diagnostic settings, in mass hepatitis C screening campaigns, and hard-to-reach aboriginal hepatitis C populations in remote areas. The present review article overviews the significance of current and emerging hepatitis C diagnostic packages to subvert the public health care burden of this 'silent epidemic' worldwide. We also highlight the challenges that remain to be met about the affordability, accessibility, and health system-related barriers to overcome while modulating the hepatitis C care cascade to adopt a 'test and treat' strategy for every hepatitis C-affected individual. We also elaborate some key measures and strategies in terms of policy and progress to be part of hepatitis C care plans to effectively link diagnosis to care cascade for rapid treatment uptake and, consequently, hepatitis C cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imran Shahid
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Al-Abidiyah, P.O. Box 13578, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia; (A.R.A.); (S.S.A.-G.); (I.M.A.)
| | - Abdullah R. Alzahrani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Al-Abidiyah, P.O. Box 13578, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia; (A.R.A.); (S.S.A.-G.); (I.M.A.)
| | - Saeed S. Al-Ghamdi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Al-Abidiyah, P.O. Box 13578, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia; (A.R.A.); (S.S.A.-G.); (I.M.A.)
| | - Ibrahim M. Alanazi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Al-Abidiyah, P.O. Box 13578, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia; (A.R.A.); (S.S.A.-G.); (I.M.A.)
| | - Sidra Rehman
- Functional Genomics Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), Islamabad 45550, Pakistan;
| | - Sajida Hassan
- Viral Hepatitis Program, Laboratory of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA;
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Stockdale AJ, Silungwe NM, Shawa IT, Kreuels B, Gordon MA, Geretti AM. Diagnostic performance evaluation of hepatitis B e antigen rapid diagnostic tests in Malawi. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:487. [PMID: 34044776 PMCID: PMC8157469 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06134-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The World Health Organization (WHO) has targeted a reduction in viral hepatitis-related mortality by 65% and incidence by 90% by 2030, necessitating enhanced hepatitis B treatment and prevention programmes in low- and middle-income countries. Hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) status is used in the assessment of eligibility for antiviral treatment and for prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT). Accordingly, the WHO has classified HBeAg rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) as essential medical devices. Methods We assessed the performance characteristics of three commercially available HBeAg RDTs (SD Bioline, Alere, South Africa; Creative Diagnostics, USA; and Biopanda Reagents, UK) in two hepatitis B surface antigen-positive cohorts in Blantyre, Malawi: participants of a community study (n = 100) and hospitalised patients with cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma (n = 94). Two investigators, blinded to the reference test result, independently assessed each assay. We used an enzyme-linked immunoassay (Monolisa HBeAg, Bio-Rad, France) as a reference test and quantified HBeAg concentration using dilutions of the WHO HBeAg standard. We related the findings to HBV DNA levels, and evaluated treatment eligibility using the TREAT-B score. Results Among 194 HBsAg positive patients, median age was 37 years, 42% were femaleand 26% were HIV co-infected. HBeAg prevalence was 47/194 (24%). The three RDTs showed diagnostic sensitivity of 28% (95% CI 16–43), 53% (38–68) and 72% (57–84) and specificity of 96–100% for detection of HBeAg. Overall inter-rater agreement κ statistic was high at 0.9–1.0. Sensitivity for identifying patients at the threshold where antiviral treatment is recommended for PMTCT, with HBV DNA > 200,000 IU/ml (39/194; 20%), was 22, 49 and 54% respectively. Using the RDTs in place of the reference HBeAg assay resulted in 3/43 (9%), 5/43 (12%) and 8/43 (19%) of patients meeting the TREAT-B treatment criteria being misclassified as ineligible for treatment. A relationship between HBeAg concentration and HBeAg detection by RDT was observed. A minimum HBeAg concentration of 2.2–3.1 log10IU/ml was required to yield a reactive RDT. Conclusions Commercially available HBeAg RDTs lack sufficient sensitivity to accurately classify hepatitis B patients in Malawi. This has implications for hepatitis B public health programs in sub-Saharan Africa. Alternative diagnostic assays are recommended. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12879-021-06134-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J Stockdale
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Programme, Blantyre, Malawi. .,Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Ronald Ross Building, 8 West Derby Street, Liverpool, L69 7BE, UK.
| | | | - Isaac Thom Shawa
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Programme, Blantyre, Malawi.,University of Malawi College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Benno Kreuels
- University of Malawi College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi.,Department of Tropical Medicine, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany.,First Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Melita A Gordon
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Programme, Blantyre, Malawi.,Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Ronald Ross Building, 8 West Derby Street, Liverpool, L69 7BE, UK
| | - Anna Maria Geretti
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Ronald Ross Building, 8 West Derby Street, Liverpool, L69 7BE, UK
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Duarte G, Pezzuto P, Barros TD, Mosimann G, Martinez-Espinosa FE. Brazilian Protocol for Sexually Transmitted Infections 2020: viral hepatitis. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2021; 54:e2020834. [PMID: 34008732 PMCID: PMC8210490 DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-834-2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
This article discusses viral hepatitis, a theme addressed by the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines to Comprehensive Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections and, more precisely, by the Clinical Protocols and Therapeutic Guidelines for Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C and Coinfections, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health. Besides the broad spectrum of health impairment, hepatitis A, B, and C viruses also present different transmission forms, whether parenteral, sexual, vertical, or fecal-oral. Among the strategies suggested for the control of viral hepatitis, in addition to behavioral measures, are expanded diagnosis, early vaccination against hepatitis A and hepatitis B viruses, and access to available therapeutic resources. Considering vertical transmission of the hepatitis B and hepatitis C viruses, screening for pregnant women with chronic hepatitis B and C is an essential perinatal health strategy, indicating with precision those who can benefit from the prophylactic interventions. Viral hepatitis A, B, and C are responsible for more than 1.34 million deaths worldwide every year, from which 66% are the result of hepatitis B, 30% of hepatitis C, and 4% of hepatitis A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geraldo Duarte
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
| | - Paula Pezzuto
- Ministério da Saúde, Secretaria de Vigilância em Saúde, Brasília, DF, Brasil
| | - Tiago Dahrug Barros
- Ministério da Saúde, Secretaria de Vigilância em Saúde, Brasília, DF, Brasil
| | - Gláucio Mosimann
- Ministério da Saúde, Secretaria de Vigilância em Saúde, Brasília, DF, Brasil
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Self-testing for HIV, HBV, and HCV using finger-stick whole-blood multiplex immunochromatographic rapid test: A pilot feasibility study in sub-Saharan Africa. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0249701. [PMID: 33836036 PMCID: PMC8034751 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0249701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The burden of HIV, HBV, and HCV infections remains disproportionately high in sub-Saharan Africa, with high rates of co-infections. Multiplex rapid diagnostic tests for HIV, HBV and HCV serological testing with high analytical performances may improve the “cascade of screening” and quite possibly the linkage-to-care with reduced cost. Based on our previous field experience of HIV self-testing, we herein aimed at evaluating the practicability and acceptability of a prototype finger-stick whole-blood Triplex HIV/HCV/HBsAg self-test as a simultaneous serological screening tool for HIV, HBV, and HCV in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Methods A cross-sectional multicentric study consisting of face-to-face, paper-based, and semi-structured questionnaires with a home-based and facility-based recruitment of untrained adult volunteers at risk of HIV, HBV, and HCV infections recruited from the general public was conducted in 2020 in urban and rural areas in the DRC. The practicability of the Triplex self-test was assessed by 3 substudies on the observation of self-test manipulation including the understanding of the instructions for use (IFU), on the interpretation of Triplex self-test results and on its acceptability. Results A total of 251 volunteers (mean age, 28 years; range, 18–49; 154 males) were included, from urban [160 (63.7%)] and rural [91 (36.3%)] areas. Overall, 242 (96.4%) participants performed the Triplex self-test and succeeded in obtaining a valid test result with an overall usability index of 89.2%. The correct use of the Triplex self-test was higher in urban areas than rural areas (51.2% versus 16.5%; aOR: 6.9). The use of video IFU in addition to paper-based IFU increased the correct manipulation and interpretation of the Triplex self-test. A total of 197 (78.5%) participants correctly interpreted the Triplex self-test results, whereas 54 (21.5%) misinterpreted their results, mainly the positive test results harboring low-intensity band (30/251; 12.0%), and preferentially the HBsAg band (12/44; 27.3%). The rates of acceptability of reuse, distribution of the Triplex self-test to third parties (partner, friend, or family member), linkage to the health care facility for confirmation of results and treatment, and confidence in the self-test results were very high, especially among participants from urban areas. Conclusions This pilot study shows evidence for the first time in sub-Saharan Africa on good practicability and high acceptability of a prototype Triplex HIV/HCV/HBsAg self-test for simultaneous diagnosis of three highly prevalent chronic viral infections, providing the rational basis of using self-test harboring four bands of interest, i.e. the control, HIV, HCV, and HBsAg bands. The relatively frequent misinterpretation of the Triplex self-test points however the necessity to improve the delivery of this prototype Triplex self-test probably in a supervised setting. Finally, these observations lay the foundations for the potential large-scale use of the Triplex self-test in populations living in sub-Saharan Africa at high risk for HIV, HBV, and HCV infections.
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23
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Bajis S, Applegate TL, Grebely J, Matthews GV, Dore GJ. Novel Hepatitic C Virus (HCV) Diagnosis and Treatment Delivery Systems: Facilitating HCV Elimination by Thinking Outside the Clinic. J Infect Dis 2021; 222:S758-S772. [PMID: 33245354 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiaa366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organization has set a goal to eliminate hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection as public health threat by 2030. Although the advent of highly effective and tolerable direct-acting antiviral therapy has paved the way for HCV elimination, most people with HCV infection remain undiagnosed and untreated globally, with striking disparities between high-income and low- to middle-income countries. Novel decentralized and cost-effective "test-and-treat" strategies are critically needed to identify the millions of people unaware of their status and link them to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Bajis
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tanya L Applegate
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gail V Matthews
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gregory J Dore
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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24
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Duarte G, Pezzuto P, Barros TD, Mosimann Junior G, Martínez-Espinosa FE. [Brazilian Protocol for Sexually Transmitted Infections 2020: viral hepatitis]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 30:e2020834. [PMID: 33729415 DOI: 10.1590/s1679-4974202100016.esp1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
This article discusses viral hepatitis, a theme addressed by the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines to Comprehensive Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections and, more precisely, by the Clinical Protocols and Therapeutic Guidelines for Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C and Coinfections, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health. Besides the broad spectrum of health impairment, hepatitis A, B and C viruses also present different forms of transmission, whether parenteral, sexual, vertical or oral. Among the strategies suggested for the control of viral hepatitis, in addition to behavioral measures, are expanded diagnosis, early vaccination against hepatitis A and hepatitis B viruses, and access to available therapeutic resources. Considering vertical transmission of the hepatitis B and hepatitis C viruses, screening for pregnant women with chronic hepatitis B and C is an important perinatal health strategy, indicating with precision those who can benefit from the prophylactic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geraldo Duarte
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
| | - Paula Pezzuto
- Ministério da Saúde, Secretaria de Vigilância em Saúde, Brasília, DF, Brasil
| | - Tiago Dahrug Barros
- Ministério da Saúde, Secretaria de Vigilância em Saúde, Brasília, DF, Brasil
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25
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Recent Advances of Hepatitis B Detection towards Paper-Based Analytical Devices. ScientificWorldJournal 2021; 2021:6643573. [PMID: 33727897 PMCID: PMC7937490 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6643573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) still remains a major global public health problem. One-half to one-third of the total HBV infected people died due to late detection of HBV. Serological antigen and viral HBV detections can help in the diagnosis, referral, and treatment of HBV. Available methods for HBV detection mostly used bulky instruments. Miniaturization of devices for HBV detection has been started by narrowing down the size of the devices. Several methods have also been proposed to increase the selectivity and sensitivity of the miniaturized methods, such as sandwich recognition of the biomarkers and the use of nano- to micro-sized materials. This review presents recent HBV detections in the last two decades from laboratory-based instruments towards microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (µPADs) for point-of-care testing (POCT) purposes. Early and routine analysis to detect HBV as early as possible could be achieved by POCT, especially for areas with limited access to a central laboratory and/or medical facilities.
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26
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Howell J, Pedrana A, Schroeder SE, Scott N, Aufegger L, Atun R, Baptista-Leite R, Hirnschall G, ‘t Hoen E, Hutchinson SJ, Lazarus JV, Olufunmilayo L, Peck R, Sharma M, Sohn AH, Thompson A, Thursz M, Wilson D, Hellard M. A global investment framework for the elimination of hepatitis B. J Hepatol 2021; 74:535-549. [PMID: 32971137 PMCID: PMC7505744 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2020.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS More than 292 million people are living with hepatitis B worldwide and are at risk of death from cirrhosis and liver cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) has set global targets for the elimination of viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030. However, current levels of global investment in viral hepatitis elimination programmes are insufficient to achieve these goals. METHODS To catalyse political commitment and to encourage domestic and international financing, we used published modelling data and key stakeholder interviews to develop an investment framework to demonstrate the return on investment for viral hepatitis elimination. RESULTS The framework utilises a public health approach to identify evidence-based national activities that reduce viral hepatitis-related morbidity and mortality, as well as international activities and critical enablers that allow countries to achieve maximum impact on health outcomes from their investments - in the context of the WHO's 2030 viral elimination targets. CONCLUSION Focusing on hepatitis B, this health policy paper employs the investment framework to estimate the substantial economic benefits of investing in the elimination of hepatitis B and demonstrates how such investments could be cost saving by 2030. LAY SUMMARY Hepatitis B infection is a major cause of death from liver disease and liver cancer globally. To reduce deaths from hepatitis B infection, we need more people to be tested and treated for hepatitis B. In this paper, we outline a framework of activities to reduce hepatitis B-related deaths and discuss ways in which governments could pay for them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Howell
- Disease Elimination Programme, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia; School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Alisa Pedrana
- Disease Elimination Programme, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia,School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sophia E. Schroeder
- Disease Elimination Programme, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia,School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nick Scott
- Disease Elimination Programme, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia,School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Rifat Atun
- Harvard T H Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ricardo Baptista-Leite
- Universidade Catolica Portuguesa, Lisbon, Portugal,Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Gottfried Hirnschall
- Strategic Information, Global Hepatitis Programme, World Health Organization,Formerly Department of HIV and Global Hepatitis Programme, World Health Organization
| | - Ellen ‘t Hoen
- Global Health Unit, University Medical Centre, Groningen, the Netherlands,Medicines Law & Policy, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sharon J. Hutchinson
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK,Health Protection Scotland, Meridian Court, Cadogan St, Glasgow, UK
| | - Jeffrey V. Lazarus
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lesi Olufunmilayo
- Department of Medicine, Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Nigeria
| | | | - Manik Sharma
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hamad General Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Annette H. Sohn
- TREAT Asia/amfAR, Foundation for AIDS Research, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Alexander Thompson
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia,Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mark Thursz
- Department of Hepatology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - David Wilson
- Disease Elimination Programme, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia,School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Margaret Hellard
- Disease Elimination Programme, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia,School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia,Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Australia
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27
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Prabdial‐Sing N, Gaelejwe L, Makhathini L, Thaver J, Manamela MJ, Malfeld S, Spearman CW, Sonderup M, Scheibe A, Young K, Hausler H, Puren AJ. The performance of hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody point-of-care tests on oral fluid or whole blood and dried blood spot testing for HCV serology and viral load among individuals at higher risk for HCV in South Africa. Health Sci Rep 2021; 4:e229. [PMID: 33614978 PMCID: PMC7876859 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS To enhance screening and diagnosis in those at-risk of hepatitis C virus (HCV), efficient and improved sampling and testing is required. We investigated the performance of point-of-care (POC) tests and dried blood spots (DBS) for HCV antibody and HCV RNA quantification in individuals at higher risk for HCV (people who use and inject drugs, sex workers and men who have sex with men) in seven South African cities. METHODS Samples were screened on the OraQuick HCV POC test (471 whole blood and 218 oral fluid); 218 whole blood and DBS paired samples were evaluated on the ARCHITECT HCV antibody (Abbott) and HCV viral load (COBAS Ampliprep/COBAS TaqMan version 2) assays. For HCV RNA quantification, 107 dB were analyzed with and without normalization coefficients. RESULTS POC on either whole blood or oral fluid showed an overall sensitivity of 98.5% (95% CI 97.4-99.5), specificity of 98.2% (95% CI 98.8-100) and accuracy of 98.4% (95% CI 96.5-99.3). On the antibody immunoassay, DBS showed a sensitivity of 96.0% (95% CI 93.4-98.6), specificity of 97% (95% CI 94.8-99.3) and accuracy of 96.3% (95% CI 93.8-98.8). A strong correlation (R 2 = 0.90) between viral load measurements for DBS and plasma samples was observed. After normalization, DBS viral load results showed an improved bias from 0.5 to 0.16 log10 IU/mL. CONCLUSION The POC test performed sufficiently well to be used for HCV screening in at-risk populations. DBS for diagnosis and quantification was accurate and should be considered as an alternative sample to test. POC and DBS can help scale up hepatitis services in the country, in light of our elimination goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nishi Prabdial‐Sing
- Centre for Vaccines and ImmunologyNational Institute for Communicable DiseasesJohannesburgSouth Africa
- Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of WitwatersrandJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Lucinda Gaelejwe
- Centre for Vaccines and ImmunologyNational Institute for Communicable DiseasesJohannesburgSouth Africa
- Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of WitwatersrandJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Lillian Makhathini
- Centre for Vaccines and ImmunologyNational Institute for Communicable DiseasesJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Jayendrie Thaver
- Centre for Vaccines and ImmunologyNational Institute for Communicable DiseasesJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Morubula Jack Manamela
- Centre for Vaccines and ImmunologyNational Institute for Communicable DiseasesJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Susan Malfeld
- Centre for Vaccines and ImmunologyNational Institute for Communicable DiseasesJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - C. Wendy Spearman
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Mark Sonderup
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Andrew Scheibe
- TB HIV CareCape TownSouth Africa
- Department of Family MedicineUniversity of PretoriaPretoriaSouth Africa
| | | | | | - Adrian J. Puren
- Centre for Vaccines and ImmunologyNational Institute for Communicable DiseasesJohannesburgSouth Africa
- Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of WitwatersrandJohannesburgSouth Africa
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28
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Khalil IA, Younis MA, Kimura S, Harashima H. Lipid Nanoparticles for Cell-Specific in Vivo Targeted Delivery of Nucleic Acids. Biol Pharm Bull 2020; 43:584-595. [PMID: 32238701 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b19-00743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The last few years have witnessed a great advance in the development of nonviral systems for in vivo targeted delivery of nucleic acids. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are the most promising carriers for producing clinically approved products in the future. Compared with other systems used for nonviral gene delivery, LNPs provide several advantages including higher stability, low toxicity, and greater efficiency. Additionally, systems based on LNPs can be modified with ligands and devices for controlled biodistribution and internalization into specific cells. Efforts are ongoing to improve the efficiency of lipid-based gene vectors. These efforts depend on the appropriate design of nanocarriers as well as the development of new lipids with improved gene delivery ability. Several ionizable lipids have recently been developed and have shown dramatically improved efficiency. However, enhancing the ability of nanocarriers to target specific cells in the body remains the most difficult challenge. Systemically administered LNPs can access organs in which the capillaries are characterized by the presence of fenestrations, such as the liver and spleen. The liver has received the most attention to date, although targeted delivery to the spleen has recently emerged as a promising tool for modulating the immune system. In this review, we discuss recent advances in the use of LNPs for cell-specific targeted delivery of nucleic acids. We focus mainly on targeting liver hepatocytes and spleen immune cells as excellent targets for gene therapy. We also discuss the potential of endothelial cells as an alternate approach for targeting organs with a continuous endothelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikramy A Khalil
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University.,Faculty of Pharmacy, Assiut University
| | - Mahmoud A Younis
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University.,Faculty of Pharmacy, Assiut University
| | - Seigo Kimura
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University
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29
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Li C, Liang J, Xiang H, Chen H, Tian J. Effectiveness of direct-acting antivirals in maintenance hemodialysis patients complicated with chronic hepatitis C. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e23384. [PMID: 33235113 PMCID: PMC7710190 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000023384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is very common in maintenance hemodialysis patients, causing high morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and adverse events of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) in maintenance hemodialysis patients complicated with chronic hepatitis C in real-world clinical practice.In this retrospective observational study, hemodialysis patients with chronic hepatitis C infection in the Third Central Hospital of Tianjin outpatient were screened, and appropriate treatment plans were selected accordingly. Totally 25 patients diagnosed with chronic hepatitis C and treated with DAAs for 12 weeks or 24 weeks were included. The sustained virologic response (SVR) rate obtained 12 weeks post-treatment (SVR12) was evaluated. Laboratory indexes and adverse reactions during the treatment process were also assessed.A total of 25 cases met the eligibility criteria and provided informed consent. Except for 1 patient who discontinued the treatment due to gastrointestinal bleeding, the remaining 24 cases completed the treatment cycle with 100% rapid virologic response (RVR) and 100% SVR12, with no serious adverse reactions recorded.Maintenance hemodialysis patients complicated with chronic hepatitis C in Chinese real-world setting tolerate DAAs very well, with a viral response rate reaching 100%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunhong Li
- Depatrment of Nephrology, The Third Central Clinical College of Tianjin Medical University
- Department of Nephrology, The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin
| | - Jing Liang
- Depatrment of Nephrology, The Third Central Clinical College of Tianjin Medical University
- Department of Nephrology, The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin
| | - Huiling Xiang
- Department of Nephrology, The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin
| | - Haiyan Chen
- Department of Blood Purification Center, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jie Tian
- Department of Nephrology, The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin
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30
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Xiao Y, Thompson AJ, Howell J. Point-of-Care Tests for Hepatitis B: An Overview. Cells 2020; 9:cells9102233. [PMID: 33023265 PMCID: PMC7650625 DOI: 10.3390/cells9102233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the heavy disease burden posed by hepatitis B, around 90% of people living with hepatitis B are not diagnosed globally. Many of the affected populations still have limited or no access to essential blood tests for hepatitis B. Compared to conventional blood tests which heavily rely on centralised laboratory facilities, point-of-care testing for hepatitis B has the potential to broaden testing access in low-resource settings and to engage hard-to-reach populations. Few hepatitis B point-of-care tests have been ratified for clinical use by international and regional regulatory bodies, and countries have been slow to adopt point-of-care testing into hepatitis B programs. This review presents currently available point-of-care tests for hepatitis B and their roles in the care cascade, reviewing evidence for testing performance, utility, acceptability, costs and cost-effectiveness when integrated into hepatitis B diagnosis and monitoring programs. We further discuss challenges and future directions in aspects of technology, implementation, and regulation when adopting point-of-care testing in hepatitis B programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinzong Xiao
- Burnet Institute, 3004 Melbourne, VIC, Australia;
- Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent’s Hospital, 3065 Fitzroy, VIC, Australia;
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Melbourne, 3010 Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Alexander J. Thompson
- Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent’s Hospital, 3065 Fitzroy, VIC, Australia;
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Melbourne, 3010 Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Jessica Howell
- Burnet Institute, 3004 Melbourne, VIC, Australia;
- Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent’s Hospital, 3065 Fitzroy, VIC, Australia;
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Melbourne, 3010 Parkville, VIC, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 3004 Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Correspondence:
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31
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Pedrana A, Howell J, Scott N, Schroeder S, Kuschel C, Lazarus JV, Atun R, Baptista-Leite R, 't Hoen E, Hutchinson SJ, Aufegger L, Peck R, Sohn AH, Swan T, Thursz M, Lesi O, Sharma M, Thwaites J, Wilson DP, Hellard M. Global hepatitis C elimination: an investment framework. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 5:927-939. [PMID: 32730786 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(20)30010-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
WHO has set global targets for the elimination of hepatitis B and hepatitis C as a public health threat by 2030. However, investment in elimination programmes remains low. To help drive political commitment and catalyse domestic and international financing, we have developed a global investment framework for the elimination of hepatitis B and hepatitis C. The global investment framework presented in this Health Policy paper outlines national and international activities that will enable reductions in hepatitis C incidence and mortality, and identifies potential sources of funding and tools to help countries build the economic case for investing in national elimination activities. The goal of this framework is to provide a way for countries, particularly those with minimal resources, to gain the substantial economic benefit and cost savings that come from investing in hepatitis C elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alisa Pedrana
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Jessica Howell
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Nick Scott
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Sophia Schroeder
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Christian Kuschel
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jeffrey V Lazarus
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rifat Atun
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T H Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ricardo Baptista-Leite
- Institute of Health Sciences, Universidade Catolica Portuguesa, Lisbon, Portugal; Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Ellen 't Hoen
- Global Health Unit, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands; Medicines Law & Policy, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sharon J Hutchinson
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK; Health Protection Scotland, Glasgow, UK
| | - Lisa Aufegger
- Centre for Health Policy, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Raquel Peck
- World Hepatitis Alliance, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Annette H Sohn
- TREAT Asia/amfAR-Foundation for AIDS Research Bangkok, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tracy Swan
- Independent consultant, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mark Thursz
- Department of Hepatology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Manik Sharma
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - John Thwaites
- Monash Sustainable Development Institute and ClimateWorks Australia, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - David P Wilson
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Margaret Hellard
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Doherty Institute and Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Peng P, Xu Y, Di Bisceglie AM, Fan X. A novel target enrichment strategy in next-generation sequencing through 7-deaza-dGTP-resistant enzymatic digestion. BMC Res Notes 2020; 13:445. [PMID: 32948245 PMCID: PMC7499927 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-020-05292-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Owing to the overwhelming dominance of human and commensal microbe sequences, low efficiency is a major concern in clinical viral sequencing using next-generation sequencing. DNA composed of 7-deaza-2′-deoxyguanosine 5′-triphosphate (c7dGTP), an analog of deoxyguanosine triphosphate (dGTP), is resistant to selective restriction enzymes. This characteristic has been utilized to develop a novel strategy for target enrichment in next-generation sequencing. Results The new enrichment strategy is named target enrichment via enzymatic digestion in next-generation sequencing (TEEDseq). It combined 7-deaza-2′-deoxyguanosine 5′-triphosphate (c7dGTP)-involved primer extension, splinter-assisted intracellular cyclization, c7dGTP)-resistant enzymatic digestion, and two-phase rolling cycle amplification. We first estimated c7dGTP for its efficiency in PCR amplification and its resistance to three restriction enzymes, AluI, HaeIII, and HpyCH4V. We then evaluated TEEDseq using a serum sample spiked with a 1311-bp hepatitis B virus (HBV) fragment. TEEDseq achieved an HBV on-target rate of 3.31 ± 0.39%, which was equivalent to 454× the enrichment of direct Illumina sequencing. Therefore, the current study has provided a concept proof for TEEDseq as an alternative option for clinical viral sequencing that requires an enrichment in next-generation sequencing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Peng
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63104, USA.,Wuhan Pulmonary Hospital, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Yanjuan Xu
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63104, USA
| | - Adrian M Di Bisceglie
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63104, USA.,Saint Louis University Liver Center, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63104, USA
| | - Xiaofeng Fan
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63104, USA. .,Saint Louis University Liver Center, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63104, USA.
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Li L, Lin C, Liang LJ, Pham QL, Feng N, Nguyen AT. HCV infection status and care seeking among people living with HIV who use drugs in Vietnam. AIDS Care 2020; 32:83-90. [PMID: 32297556 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2020.1739209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
HCV co-infection is widespread among people living with HIV who use drugs (PLHWUD). However, HCV testing was inconsistently implemented among PLHWUD. The low infection awareness and mental health challenges together impede PLHWUD's treatment-seeking. The study used baseline data of a randomized controlled trial conducted in Vietnam. HCV infection status was collected through self-report and medical record review. A linear mixed-effects regression model was used to examine the relationships between PLHWUD's perceived barriers to seeking healthcare, their depressive symptoms, and the consistencies in HCV status reports. Among the 181 PLHWUD in the study, one-third (64; 35.4%) had inconsistent self-reports and medical records of HIV infection status. The agreement between the two records was fair (Kappa statistics = 0.43). PLHWUD with consistent HCV infection confirmed by both medical records and self-reports perceived lower levels of healthcare-seeking barriers than those with discrepant HCV reports (estimated difference = -1.59, SE = 0.71, P = 0.027). Depressive symptoms were significantly correlated with healthcare-seeking barriers among those with discrepant HCV results (estimate = 0.17, SE = 0.06, P = 0.007). There is an urgent need to extend HCV screening efforts and increase HCV awareness among PLHWUD. Explicit HCV result notification and integrated mental health support are recommended to facilitate patients' access to needed care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior - Center for Community Health, the University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Chunqing Lin
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior - Center for Community Health, the University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Li-Jung Liang
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior - Center for Community Health, the University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Quang Loc Pham
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior - Center for Community Health, the University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Nan Feng
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior - Center for Community Health, the University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Anh Tuan Nguyen
- National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Hanoi, Vietnam
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Gane EJ, Charlton MR, Mohamed R, Sollano JD, Tun KS, Pham TTT, Payawal DA, Gani RA, Muljono DH, Acharya SK, Zhuang H, Shukla A, Madan K, Saraf N, Tyagi S, Singh KR, Cua IHY, Jargalsaikhan G, Duger D, Sukeepaisarnjaroen W, Purnomo HD, Hasan I, Lesmana LA, Lesmana CRA, Kyi KP, Naing W, Ravishankar AC, Hadigal S. Asian consensus recommendations on optimizing the diagnosis and initiation of treatment of hepatitis B virus infection in resource-limited settings. J Viral Hepat 2020; 27:466-475. [PMID: 31785182 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Revised: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Asia has an intermediate-to-high prevalence of and high morbidity and mortality from hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Optimization of diagnosis and initiation of treatment is one of the crucial strategies for lowering disease burden in this region. Therefore, a panel of 24 experts from 10 Asian countries convened, and reviewed the literature, to develop consensus guidance on diagnosis and initiation of treatment of HBV infection in resource-limited Asian settings. The panel proposed 11 recommendations related to diagnosis, pre-treatment assessment, and indications of therapy of HBV infection, and management of HBV-infected patients with co-infections. In resource-limited Asian settings, testing for hepatitis B surface antigen may be considered as the primary test for diagnosis of HBV infection. Pre-treatment assessments should include tests for complete blood count, liver and renal function, hepatitis B e-antigen (HBeAg), anti-HBe, HBV DNA, co-infection markers and assessment of severity of liver disease. Noninvasive tests such as AST-to-platelet ratio index, fibrosis score 4 or transient elastography may be used as alternatives to liver biopsy for assessing disease severity. Considering the high burden of HBV infection in Asia, the panel adopted an aggressive approach, and recommended initiation of antiviral therapy in all HBV-infected, compensated or decompensated cirrhotic individuals with detectable HBV DNA levels, regardless of HBeAg status or alanine transaminase levels. The panel also developed a simple algorithm for guiding the initiation of treatment in noncirrhotic, HBV-infected individuals. The recommendations proposed herein, may help guide clinicians, to optimize the diagnosis and improvise the treatment rates for HBV infection in Asia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael R Charlton
- Director Transplant Institute, Center for Liver Diseases, University of Chicago Biological Sciences, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Rosmawati Mohamed
- Department of Medicine, University Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Kyaw Soe Tun
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatobiliary Medicine, Defense Services Medical Academy, Yangon, Myanmar
| | | | | | - Rino Alvani Gani
- Liver Transplantation Team, Ciptomangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - David Handojo Muljono
- Hepatitis Department, Medicine Hepatitis Department, Eijkman Institute for Molecular Biology, Jakarta, Indonesia.,Universitas Hasanuddin, Makassar, Indonesia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Subrat Kumar Acharya
- Odisha Department of Gastroenterology Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Hui Zhuang
- Infectious Disease Center, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Akash Shukla
- Department of Gastroenterology, LTM Medical College & Sion Hospital, Mumbai, India
| | - Kaushal Madan
- Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Max Smart Super Specialty Hospital, India
| | - Neeraj Saraf
- Clinical/Transplant Hepatology Institute of Digestive & Hepatobiliary Sciences, Medanta - The Medicity, Gurgaon, India
| | | | | | - Ian Homer Yee Cua
- Section of Hepatology Institute of Digestive and Liver Diseases, St. Luke's Medical Center, Quezon, Philippines
| | - Ganbolor Jargalsaikhan
- Department Liver Center, Department International Graduate Program in Medicine (IGPM) Institution, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.,College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Davadoorj Duger
- Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Wattana Sukeepaisarnjaroen
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Medicine Srinagarind Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Hery Djagat Purnomo
- Division Gastroentero Hepatology Internal Medicine, Dr Kariadi Hospital, Medical Faculty Diponegoro University, Semarang, Indonesia
| | - Irsan Hasan
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital Jalan Diponegoro, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | | | - Cosmas Rinaldi Adithya Lesmana
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary Division, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Khin Pyone Kyi
- Myanmar Liver Foundation; Liver Foundation, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Win Naing
- Department of Hepatology, Yangon General Hospital, University of Medicine, Yangon, Myanmar
| | | | - Sanjay Hadigal
- Medical Affairs, Mylan Pharmaceuticals Private Limited, Bangalore, India
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DNA Microsystems for Biodiagnosis. MICROMACHINES 2020; 11:mi11040445. [PMID: 32340280 PMCID: PMC7231314 DOI: 10.3390/mi11040445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Researchers are continuously making progress towards diagnosis and treatment of numerous diseases. However, there are still major issues that are presenting many challenges for current medical diagnosis. On the other hand, DNA nanotechnology has evolved significantly over the last three decades and is highly interdisciplinary. With many potential technologies derived from the field, it is natural to begin exploring and incorporating its knowledge to develop DNA microsystems for biodiagnosis in order to help address current obstacles, such as disease detection and drug resistance. Here, current challenges in disease detection are presented along with standard methods for diagnosis. Then, a brief overview of DNA nanotechnology is introduced along with its main attractive features for constructing biodiagnostic microsystems. Lastly, suggested DNA-based microsystems are discussed through proof-of-concept demonstrations with improvement strategies for standard diagnostic approaches.
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Architect i2000 SR has improved turnaround time for infectious disease serology testing over Vitros ECiQ. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2020; 97:115049. [PMID: 32340767 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2020.115049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vitros ECiQ and Architect i2000 SR are two automated instruments used to detect serology biomarkers of hepatitis A, B and C viruses, and HIV infections. We compared performance of the Architect to the Vitro EciQ after implementation at our institution. METHODS A retrospective review was performed to compare patient samples tested on the Vitros ECiQ or Architect for hepatitis and HIV serological assays. The positivity rate, frequency of equivocal results, turnaround times (TAT), and hands-on time (HOT) were analyzed. RESULTS There was no statistical difference in the positivity rate between the two instruments, with the exception of two assays. An increase in equivocal results was observed for the Architect (0.2% vs 0.5%). Notably, the TAT for the Architect i2000 was shorter for all except one assay (31.6 vs 33.7 hours) and demonstrated improved workflow. CONCLUSIONS Overall, both instruments performed comparably. Architect had shorter TAT over Vitros.
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Abstract
Currently, despite the use of a preventive vaccine for several decades as well as the use of effective and well-tolerated viral suppressive medications since 1998, approximately 250 million people remain infected with the virus that causes hepatitis B worldwide. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) are the leading causes of liver cancer and overall mortality globally, surpassing malaria and tuberculosis. Linkage to care is estimated to be very poor both in developing countries and in high-income countries, such as the United States, countries in Western Europe, and Japan. In the United States, by CDC estimates, only one-third of HBV-infected patients or less are aware of their infection. Some reasons for these low rates of surveillance, diagnosis, and treatment include the asymptomatic nature of chronic hepatitis B until the very late stages, a lack of curative therapy with a finite treatment duration, a complex natural history, and a lack of knowledge about the disease by both care providers and patients. In the last 5 years, more attention has been focused on the important topics of HBV screening, diagnosis of HBV infection, and appropriate linkage to care. There have also been rapid clinical developments toward a functional cure of HBV infection, with novel compounds currently being in various phases of progress. Despite this knowledge, many of the professional organizations provide guidelines focused only on specific questions related to the treatment of HBV infection. This focus leaves a gap for care providers on the other HBV-related issues, which include HBV's epidemiological profile, its natural history, how it interacts with other viral hepatitis diseases, treatments, and the areas that still need to be addressed in order to achieve HBV elimination by 2030. Thus, to fill these gaps and provide a more comprehensive and relevant document to regions worldwide, we have taken a global approach by using the findings of global experts on HBV as well as citing major guidelines and their various approaches to addressing HBV and its disease burden.
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Elimination of hepatitis C in Europe: can WHO targets be achieved? Clin Microbiol Infect 2020; 26:818-823. [PMID: 31978546 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2020.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Revised: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects 71 million people worldwide. The availability of highly efficient direct-acting antivirals has revolutionized the treatment landscape with over 95% cure rates. The WHO has launched a global programme to achieve rather ambitious HCV elimination targets for 2030. OBJECTIVES This article aims to provide a critical overview of the current HCV elimination programmes in Europe highlighting the elements that should be implemented to achieve elimination and those that are already in place to promote this process. SOURCES Review of the recently published literature and opinion of experts in the field. CONTENT Elimination of hepatitis C as a public health threat appears to be a difficult task, which should be subdivided into smaller targets, the so-called micro-elimination goals, to increase chances of success. Macro-elimination strategies based on mass-screening are difficult to implement. Evidence supporting the efficacy of micro-elimination comes from key populations, such as people who inject drugs. HCV elimination is proceeding at different speeds in Europe. Some countries are on target with the WHO's objectives whereas others lack economic support and political advocacy, and have insufficient infrastructures to achieve this. The absence of an effective prophylactic vaccine is hampering the process and should be overcome. IMPLICATIONS Elimination of hepatitis C worldwide appears plausible, but in several countries probably not within the time frame suggested by the WHO. In the absence of vaccination, universal access to HCV treatment would act as a 'therapeutic' option to reduce transmission, especially in high-risk populations.
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Saludes V, Antuori A, Folch C, González N, Ibáñez N, Majó X, Colom J, Matas L, Casabona J, Martró E. Utility of a one-step screening and diagnosis strategy for viremic HCV infection among people who inject drugs in Catalonia. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2019; 74:236-245. [PMID: 31706159 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2019.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Catalonia (Spain), people who inject drugs (PWID) face numerous barriers to access to mainstream healthcare services for hepatitis C confirmatory diagnosis and treatment, so simplified testing strategies for viremic infection are urgently needed. Among PWID attending harm-reduction services in Catalonia, we aimed (i) to assess the utility of an in-house HCV-RNA detection assay on dried blood spots (DBS) as a one-step screening and confirmatory diagnosis strategy for hepatitis C, (ii) to estimate the prevalence of viremic HCV infection, and (iii) to identify factors associated with unawareness of viremic infection. METHODS A cross-sectional study of current PWID (N = 410) was performed in four harm-reduction services. All participants underwent HCV antibody point-of-care testing and parallel DBS collection for centralized RNA testing. An epidemiological questionnaire was administered. Paired EDTA-plasma samples were additionally collected for HCV viral load testing in 300 participants. RESULTS HCV-RNA testing from DBS was feasible and showed 97.2% sensitivity and 100% specificity for viral loads >3000 IU/mL in real-life conditions. No significant differences in the performance when detecting viremic infections were observed between this one-step testing strategy vs. the conventional two-step algorithm involving venepuncture. Overall HCV seroprevalence was 79.8%, and prevalence of viremic infection was 58.5%. Importantly, 35.8% of viremic HCV participants were unaware of their status, and no specific socio-demographic or bio-behavioral factors independently associated with unawareness of viremic infection were identified. Among participants reporting a past or current HCV infection, 29.0% stated having received HCV antiviral treatment. CONCLUSION The high viremic HCV infection burden among PWID attending HRS, estimated for the first time in Catalonia, together with the low levels of awareness of viremic status and access to treatment, suggest that scaling up this one-step screening and diagnosis strategy to the network of harm-reduction services would help to achieve HCV elimination targets set by the World Health Organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verónica Saludes
- Microbiology Department, Laboratori Clínic Metropolitana Nord, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Crta. del Canyet s/n, Badalona, 08916 Barcelona, Spain; Genetics and Microbiology Department, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Spain; Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Badalona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Adrián Antuori
- Microbiology Department, Laboratori Clínic Metropolitana Nord, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Crta. del Canyet s/n, Badalona, 08916 Barcelona, Spain; Genetics and Microbiology Department, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Spain; Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Badalona, Spain
| | - Cinta Folch
- Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Badalona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Centre for Epidemiological Studies on Sexually Transmitted Infections and HIV/AIDS of Catalonia (CEEISCAT), Public Health Agency of Catalonia (ASPCAT), Badalona, Spain
| | - Noemí González
- El Local, Fundació IPSS, Sant Adrià del Besòs, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Núria Ibáñez
- Program on Substance Abuse, ASPCAT, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Majó
- Program on Substance Abuse, ASPCAT, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joan Colom
- Program for the Prevention, Control and Care of HIV, Sexually Transmitted Infections and Viral Hepatitis, ASPCAT, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lurdes Matas
- Microbiology Department, Laboratori Clínic Metropolitana Nord, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Crta. del Canyet s/n, Badalona, 08916 Barcelona, Spain; Genetics and Microbiology Department, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jordi Casabona
- Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Badalona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Centre for Epidemiological Studies on Sexually Transmitted Infections and HIV/AIDS of Catalonia (CEEISCAT), Public Health Agency of Catalonia (ASPCAT), Badalona, Spain
| | - Elisa Martró
- Microbiology Department, Laboratori Clínic Metropolitana Nord, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Crta. del Canyet s/n, Badalona, 08916 Barcelona, Spain; Genetics and Microbiology Department, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Spain; Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Badalona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
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Abstract
Conventional skin and blood sampling techniques for disease diagnosis, though effective, are often highly invasive and some even suffer from variations in analysis. With the improvements in molecular detection, the amount of starting sample quantity needed has significantly reduced in some diagnostic procedures, and this has led to an increased interest in microsampling techniques for disease biomarker detection. The miniaturization of sampling platforms driven by microsampling has the potential to shift disease diagnosis and monitoring closer to the point of care. The faster turnaround time for actionable results has improved patient care. The variations in sample quantification and analysis remain a challenge in the microsampling field. The future of microsampling looks promising. Emerging techniques are being clinically tested and monitored by regulatory bodies. This process is leading to safer and more reliable diagnostic platforms. This review discusses the advantages and disadvantages of current skin and blood microsampling techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benson U W Lei
- Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes Campus, Building MM - MM2-01F, GPO Box 2471, Mawson Lakes Blvd, Mawson Lakes, Adelaide, SA, 5095, Australia.,Dermatology Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - Tarl W Prow
- Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes Campus, Building MM - MM2-01F, GPO Box 2471, Mawson Lakes Blvd, Mawson Lakes, Adelaide, SA, 5095, Australia. .,Dermatology Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia.
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Pauly MD, Kamili S, Hayden TM. Impact of nucleic acid extraction platforms on hepatitis virus genome detection. J Virol Methods 2019; 273:113715. [PMID: 31419455 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2019.113715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Revised: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Detection and quantification of viral nucleic acids are important for diagnosing current viral infections and monitoring response to antiviral therapy. Automated nucleic acid extraction and purification platforms are routinely used during the first step in these processes in clinical and research laboratories. Here, we compare the extraction efficiencies of four MagNA Pure magnetic bead-based nucleic acid extraction platforms and associated kits using samples positive for nucleic acids from HAV, HBV, HCV, HDV, and HEV. These five hepatitis viruses are diverse in their virion structures and type of nucleic acid that compose their genomes. We found that the most efficient nucleic acid extraction platform and corresponding kit, when averaged across all tested viruses, was the MagNA Pure 96, which yielded twice as much detectable nucleic acid as the other platforms. However, the relative efficiencies of the different platforms varied by virus type, suggesting that an extraction platform that is more efficient for one virus type will not necessarily function better with a different virus type. Our results show that the choice of a nucleic acid extraction platform influences the sensitivity of the methodology and has the potential to generate false-negative results especially in samples with low levels of viral nucleic acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Pauly
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, National Center for HIV, Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd, NE, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Saleem Kamili
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, National Center for HIV, Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd, NE, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Tonya M Hayden
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, National Center for HIV, Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd, NE, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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Sayan M, Arikan A, Sanlidag T. Comparison of Performance Characteristics of DxN VERIS System versus Qiagen PCR for HBV Genotype D and HCV Genotype 1b Quantification. Pol J Microbiol 2019; 68:139-143. [PMID: 31050262 PMCID: PMC7256835 DOI: 10.21307/pjm-2019-008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The Beckman Coulter DxN VERIS system is a fully automated, closed molecular diagnostic instrument for viral load quantification of hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus. In this study, the analytical performance of this new system was compared to routine diagnostic Qiagen PCR kit by using the same clinical samples. The DxN VERIS system demonstrated a high analytical performance. The DxN VERIS allows random access, which means that samples can be uploaded straight on to the system at any time; so, it provides an improvement of workflow, staff productivity and allows faster turn-around of viral load results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murat Sayan
- Kocaeli University, Faculty of Medicine, Clinical Laboratory, PCR Unit , Kocaeli , Turkey ; Near East University, Research Center of Experimental Health Sciences , Nicosia , Northern Cyprus
| | - Ayse Arikan
- Near East University, Research Center of Experimental Health Sciences , Nicosia , Northern Cyprus ; Near East University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology , Nicosia , Northern Cyprus
| | - Tamer Sanlidag
- Near East University, Research Center of Experimental Health Sciences , Nicosia , Northern Cyprus ; Celal Bayar University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology , Manisa , Turkey
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43
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Vázquez-Morón S, Ardizone Jiménez B, Jiménez-Sousa MA, Bellón JM, Ryan P, Resino S. Evaluation of the diagnostic accuracy of laboratory-based screening for hepatitis C in dried blood spot samples: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2019; 9:7316. [PMID: 31086259 PMCID: PMC6514168 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-41139-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The dried blood spot (DBS) is increasingly used for the hepatitis C virus (HCV) screening. Our objective was to perform a meta-analysis of the methodology for HCV screening in DBS samples, particularly in the type of diagnostic assay used. We performed a meta-analysis of all eligible studies published to date (March 2018). The literature search revealed 26 studies: 21 for detection of anti-HCV antibodies and 10 for detection of HCV-RNA. Statistical analyses were performed using Meta-DiSc and STATA (MIDAS module). For detection of HCV antibodies, pooled diagnostic accuracy measures were as follows: sensitivity 96.1%, specificity 99.2%, positive likelihood ratio (PLR) 105, negative likelihood ratio (NLR) 0.04, diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) 2692.9, and summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) 0.997 ± 0.001. For detection of HCV-RNA, the pooled diagnostic accuracy measures were as follows: sensitivity 97.8%, specificity 99.2%, PLR 44.8, NLR 0.04, DOR 1966.9, and SROC 0.996 ± 0.013. Similar values of pooled diagnostic accuracy measures were found according to the type of anti-HCV antibody detection assay (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, rapid diagnostic test, and chemiluminescence assays) and HCV-RNA detection assay (real-time polymerase chain reaction and transcription-mediated amplification). The analysis of external validity showed a high negative predicted value (NPV) for both approaches, but a low positive predicted value (PPV) when prevalence was < 10%, particularly in HCV-RNA tests. Finally, this meta-analysis is subject to limitations, especially publication bias and significant heterogeneity between studies. In conclusion, HCV screening in DBS samples has an outstanding diagnostic performance, with no relevant differences between the techniques used. However, external validity may be limited when the HCV prevalence is low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Vázquez-Morón
- Unidad de Infección Viral e Inmunidad. Centro Nacional de Microbiología - Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Spain
| | - Beatriz Ardizone Jiménez
- Unidad de Infección Viral e Inmunidad. Centro Nacional de Microbiología - Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Spain
| | - María A Jiménez-Sousa
- Unidad de Infección Viral e Inmunidad. Centro Nacional de Microbiología - Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Spain
| | - José M Bellón
- Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Pablo Ryan
- Hospital Universitario Infanta Leonor (HUIL). Vallecas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Salvador Resino
- Unidad de Infección Viral e Inmunidad. Centro Nacional de Microbiología - Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Spain.
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Katamba C, Chungu T, Lusale C. HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B coinfections in Mkushi, Zambia: a cross-sectional study. F1000Res 2019; 8:562. [PMID: 32802310 PMCID: PMC7417957 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.17983.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACTBackground: Human Immunodeficiency Virus, syphilis and Hepatitis B Virus are major global public health problems, they are sexually transmitted infections with overlapping modes of transmission and affected populations. Objective: The aim of this study is to assess the seroprevalence of HIV 1, hepatitis B virus and syphilis coinfections among newly diagnosed HIV individuals aged 16 to 65 years, initiating on antiretroviral therapy, in Mkushi, Zambia. Methods: A total number of 126 sera were collected from HIV 1 infected patients attending Mkushi district hospital/ART clinic for antiretroviral therapy initiation. Hepatitis B surface antigen test and serologic test for syphilis were conducted between March and May 2018. Results: Of the 126 participants (out of 131 enrollments), Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) was detected with a prevalence of 9.5% among newly diagnosed HIV infected patients, while that of syphilis was as high as 40.5% in this same population group. Three patients recorded HIV coinfections with both syphilis and hepatitis B virus (2.4%) at the same time. After analysis, the results indicate that there was no significant association between gender for both dependent variables: HIV/syphilis or HIV/hepatitis B virus coinfections (alpha significance level > 0.05). Those who had a history of syphilis infection in the past were more likely than those who had none to be HIV-syphilis coinfected (53.6% vs 34%, respectively; odd ratio [OR] 2.236; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.045 - 4.782). Conclusion: The high prevalence rates for HIV, HBV, and syphilis coinfections strongly indicate the need for HBV and syphilis screening for HIV infected individuals. Furthermore, the high number of patients previously treated for syphilis who retest positive for syphilis in this study calls for use of the Venereal Disease Research Laboratory test to identify true syphilis infection (titers ≥ 1:8 dilutions, strongly suggestive).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Theresa Chungu
- ART Department, Mkushi District Hospital, Mkushi, Zambia
| | - Chisali Lusale
- ART Department, Mkushi District Hospital, Mkushi, Zambia
- Administration Department, Mkushi District Hospital, Mkushi, Zambia
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Katamba C, Chungu T, Lusale C. HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B coinfections in Mkushi, Zambia: a cross-sectional study. F1000Res 2019; 8:562. [PMID: 32802310 PMCID: PMC7417957 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.17983.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Human immunodeficiency virus, syphilis and hepatitis B virus (HBV) are major global public health problems. They are sexually transmitted diseases with overlapping modes of transmission and affected populations. The aim of this study is to assess the seroprevalence of HIV 1, hepatitis B virus and syphilis coinfections among newly diagnosed HIV individuals aged 16 to 65 years, initiating on antiretroviral therapy, in Mkushi, Zambia. Methods: A total number of 126 sera were collected from HIV 1 infected patients attending Mkushi district hospital/ART clinic for antiretroviral therapy initiation. Hepatitis B surface antigen test and serologic test for syphilis were conducted between March and May 2018. Results: Of the 126 participants, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) was detected with a prevalence of 9.5% among newly diagnosed HIV infected patients, while that of syphilis was as high as 40.5% in this same population group. Three patients recorded HIV coinfections with both syphilis and hepatitis B virus (2.4%) at the same time. After analysis, the results indicate that there was no significant association between gender for both dependent variables: HIV/syphilis or HIV/hepatitis B virus coinfections (alpha significance level > 0.05). Those who had a history of syphilis infection in the past were more likely than those who had none to be HIV-syphilis coinfected (53.6% vs 34%, respectively; odd ratio [OR] 2.236; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.045 - 4.782). Conclusion: The high prevalence rates for HIV, HBV, and syphilis coinfections strongly indicate the need for HBV and syphilis screening for HIV infected individuals. Furthermore, the high number of patients previously treated for syphilis who retest positive for syphilis in this study calls for use of the Venereal Disease Research Laboratory test to identify true syphilis infection (titers ≥ 1:8 dilutions, strongly suggestive).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Theresa Chungu
- ART Department, Mkushi District Hospital, Mkushi, Zambia
| | - Chisali Lusale
- ART Department, Mkushi District Hospital, Mkushi, Zambia
- Administration Department, Mkushi District Hospital, Mkushi, Zambia
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Yang J, Wang B, Zhang CF, Xu XH, Zhang M. A C 21-Steroidal Glycoside from Cynanchum atratum Attenuates Concanavalin A-Induced Liver Injury in Mice. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24061087. [PMID: 30893870 PMCID: PMC6471381 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24061087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cynatratoside A (CyA) is a C21 Steroidal glycoside with pregnane skeleton isolated from the root of Cynanchum atratum Bunge (Asclepiadaceae). This study aimed to investigate the effects of CyA on concanavalin A (Con A)-induced autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and the underlying mechanism. CyA was orally administered to mice at 10 and 40 mg/kg 8 h before and 1 h after Con A treatment. The effects of CyA on Con A-induced spleen and liver in mice were assessed via histopathological changes, T lymphocyte amounts and the expressions of IL-1β and ICAM-1. Con A-induced L-02 hepatocytes were used to evaluate whether CyA (0.1–10 μM) can directly protect hepatocytes from cytotoxicity and the possible mechanism. The results revealed that CyA treatment could significantly improve the histopathological changes of spleen and liver, reduce the proliferation of splenic T lymphocytes, and decrease the expressions of IL-1β and ICAM-1 in liver. The experiment in vitro showed that CyA inhibited Con A-induced hepatotoxicity in a concentration-dependent manner. CyA (10 μM) significantly increased/decreased the expression of Bcl-2/Bax and reduced the levels of cleaved caspases-9 and -3. Our study demonstrated for the first time that CyA has a significant protective effect on Con A-induced AIH by inhibiting the activation and adhesion of T lymphocytes and blocking hepatocyte apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Yang
- School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
| | - Bin Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
| | - Chao-Feng Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
| | - Xiang-Hong Xu
- School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
| | - Mian Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
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Labib PL, Goodchild G, Pereira SP. Molecular Pathogenesis of Cholangiocarcinoma. BMC Cancer 2019; 19:185. [PMID: 30819129 PMCID: PMC6394015 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-019-5391-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cholangiocarcinomas are a heterogeneous group of malignancies arising from a number of cells of origin along the biliary tree. Although most cases in Western countries are sporadic, large population-based studies have identified a number of risk factors. This review summarises the evidence behind reported risk factors and current understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of cholangiocarcinoma, with a focus on inflammation and cholestasis as the driving forces in cholangiocarcinoma development. RISK FACTORS FOR CHOLANGIOCARCINOGENESIS Cholestatic liver diseases (e.g. primary sclerosing cholangitis and fibropolycystic liver diseases), liver cirrhosis, and biliary stone disease all increase the risk of cholangiocarcinoma. Certain bacterial, viral or parasitic infections such as hepatitis B and C and liver flukes also increase cholangiocarcinoma risk. Other risk factors include inflammatory disorders (such as inflammatory bowel disease and chronic pancreatitis), toxins (e.g. alcohol and tobacco), metabolic conditions (diabetes, obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) and a number of genetic disorders. MOLECULAR PATHOGENESIS OF CHOLANGIOCARCINOMA Regardless of aetiology, most risk factors cause chronic inflammation or cholestasis. Chronic inflammation leads to increased exposure of cholangiocytes to the inflammatory mediators interleukin-6, Tumour Necrosis Factor-ɑ, Cyclo-oxygenase-2 and Wnt, resulting in progressive mutations in tumour suppressor genes, proto-oncogenes and DNA mismatch-repair genes. Accumulating bile acids from cholestasis lead to reduced pH, increased apoptosis and activation of ERK1/2, Akt and NF-κB pathways that encourage cell proliferation, migration and survival. Other mediators upregulated in cholangiocarcinoma include Transforming Growth Factor-β, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, Hepatocyte Growth Factor and several microRNAs. Increased expression of the cell surface receptor c-Met, the glucose transporter GLUT-1 and the sodium iodide symporter lead to tumour growth, angiogenesis and cell migration. Stromal changes are also observed, resulting in alterations to the extracellular matrix composition and recruitment of fibroblasts and macrophages that create a microenvironment promoting cell survival, invasion and metastasis. CONCLUSION Regardless of aetiology, most risk factors for cholangiocarcinoma cause chronic inflammation and/or cholestasis, leading to the activation of common intracellular pathways that result in reactive cell proliferation, genetic/epigenetic mutations and cholangiocarcinogenesis. An understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of cholangiocarcinoma is vital when developing new diagnostic biomarkers and targeted therapies for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter L. Labib
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London (Royal Free Hospital Campus), Royal Free Hospital, Pond Street, London, NW3 2QG UK
| | - George Goodchild
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London (Royal Free Hospital Campus), Royal Free Hospital, Pond Street, London, NW3 2QG UK
| | - Stephen P. Pereira
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London (Royal Free Hospital Campus), Royal Free Hospital, Pond Street, London, NW3 2QG UK
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Hepatoprotective activity of metformin: A new mission for an old drug? Eur J Pharmacol 2019; 850:1-7. [PMID: 30753869 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2019.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2018] [Revised: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Metformin, as a dimethyl biguanide prescribed as the first-line medication for treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, is one of the most frequently used drugs, worldwide. However, the beneficial effects of metformin are not limited to insulin sensitizing and blood glucose lowering effects as recent clinical trials deciphered lower cancer risk in metformin users. In addition, metformin protected the liver against chemical or viral hepatotoxicants through various mechanisms including activation of AMPK via inhibition of mitochondrial complex I, inhibition of mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) and inhibition of Smads phosphorylation. Clinical trials are under way to assess possible additive effects of metformin when co-administered along with the standard regimen for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment. This review outlines the molecular mechanisms behind protective activity of metformin against different liver diseases.
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Silva VCM, Calux SJ, Lemos MF, Compri AP, Santos APDT, Oba IT, Mendes-Correa MCJ, Moreira RC. Fluctuations in serological hepatitis C virus levels in HIV patients. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2019; 51:737-741. [PMID: 30517526 DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0239-2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have identical transmission routes, explaining the high prevalence of coinfections. The main aim of this study was to detect fluctuations in serological HCV levels in HIV patients. METHODS We analyzed samples of 147 patients who attended an outpatient service that supports HIV/AIDS patients in São Paulo city. We also recruited 22 HCV-monoinfected patients who attended the Instituto Adolfo Lutz Laboratory in São Paulo city, to compare the test results. Serological testing of the blood samples was performed for the detection of HCV antibodies. The samples were then analyzed using real-time PCR for RNA viral quantification and sequencing. RESULTS We found that 13.6% of the study population was coinfected with HIV and HCV. In 20% of coinfected patients, fluctuations in serology results were detected in samples collected during the follow-up. No changes in anti-HCV serological markers were observed in HCV-monoinfected patients. An HCV viral load was detected in 9,5% of the samples collected from HIV patients. CONCLUSIONS Our findings provide important clinical data to public health professionals and highlight the importance of periodic monitoring of HCV/HIV coinfected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Samira Julien Calux
- Laboratório de Hepatites Virais, Centro de Virologia, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | | | - Adriana Parise Compri
- Laboratório de Hepatites Virais, Centro de Virologia, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | | | - Isabel Takano Oba
- Laboratório de Hepatites Virais, Centro de Virologia, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | | | - Regina Célia Moreira
- Laboratório de Hepatites Virais, Centro de Virologia, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
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Ejeta E, Dabsu R. Prevalence of Hepatitis C Virus and HIV Infection Among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care Clinic in Western Ethiopia. Front Med (Lausanne) 2019; 5:366. [PMID: 30729110 PMCID: PMC6352848 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2018.00366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 12/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background:Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and HIV infection remain a major public health challenge in Sub-Saharan Africa. The HCV and HIV infection among pregnant women have a serious outcome on maternal and newborn health. There is limited information in this regards in West part of Ethiopia. This study aims to identify the sero- prevalence and predictor factors of HCV and HIV infection among pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) in Western Ethiopia. Methods: An institutional based cross-sectional study was conducted from July to September, 2014 among 421 pregnant women's attending ANC services in purposively selected health facilities of western Ethiopia. The HCV and HIV infections were diagnosed by detection antibodies from aseptically collected serum sample. HCV was identified using an enzyme linked immune sorbent assay (ELISA) while HIV infection was tested with rapid HIV tests following the national HIV test algorithm. The pretested and structured questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic data, and potential predictor factors of HCV and HIV infection. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 statistical software. Result: The overall sero-prevalence of HCV and HIV among the study population was 8.1% and 1.0%, respectively. The prevalence of HCV/HIV co-infection was 0.23% (1/421). Among HIV infected women, the prevalence of HCV infection was 25% (1/4). The risk of HCV infection was significantly low for urban residents (AOR = 0.38, 95%CI: 0.16-0.90) and illiterate (AOR = 0.24, 95%CI: 0.06-0.85). However, the history of blood transfusion was significantly increases the risk of HIV infection (AOR = 19.52, 95%CI: 1.80-150.6). Conclusion: Our study confirms public health importance of HCV and HIV infections among pregnant women in the study area. The study suggests need of attention for rural residents and educated segment of the population for HCV prevention, and national blood blank to check HIV test method used for blood transfusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eyasu Ejeta
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Medical and Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia.,Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences and Pathology, College Health Sciences, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Regea Dabsu
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Medical and Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
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