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Su F, Jacobson IM. Chronic Hepatitis B: Treat all Who Are Viremic? Clin Liver Dis 2023; 27:791-808. [PMID: 37778770 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2023.06.001] [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] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
The main aim of antiviral therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is to prevent disease progression and reduce the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In general, treatment is recommended for select patient groups viewed as being at higher risk of developing adverse outcomes from CHB. However, patients who do not meet treatment criteria under current international guidelines may still benefit from antiviral therapy to reduce CHB-related complications. Moreover, well-tolerated antiviral drugs that are highly effective at suppressing viral replication are now widely available, and withholding therapy from patients with viremia is increasingly controversial. In this article, we review traditional treatment paradigms and argue the merits of expanding treatment eligibility to patients with CHB who do not meet current treatment criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Su
- Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 150 East 32nd Street, Suite 101, New York, NY 10016, USA; New York University Langone Transplant Institute, 317 East 34th Street, 8th Floor, New York, NY 10016, USA.
| | - Ira M Jacobson
- Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 150 East 32nd Street, Suite 101, New York, NY 10016, USA
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2
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Hu M, Liao G, Wei S, Qian Z, Chen H, Xia M, Xie Q, Peng J. Effective Analysis of Antiviral Treatment in Patients with HBeAg-Seropositive Chronic Hepatitis B with ALT < 2 Upper Limits of Normal: A Multi-center Retrospective Cohort Study. Infect Dis Ther 2023; 12:637-647. [PMID: 36633817 PMCID: PMC9925662 DOI: 10.1007/s40121-022-00757-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although the indications for antiviral therapy for patients with chronic hepatitis B have been gradually expanded in different guidelines, antiviral treatment efficacy remains unclear among HBeAg-seropositive patients with alanine aminotransferase (ALT) < 2 upper limits of normal (ULN). This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of antiviral therapy for these patients. METHODS In total, 102 treatment-naive patients who were HBeAg seropositive with ALT < 2 ULN and had received nucleotide analogs were included, and their clinical data were retrospectively analyzed. RESULTS After 96-week treatment, 84.3% (n = 86), 26.5% (n = 27) and 20.6% (n = 21) patients achieved virological response, HBeAg seroclearance and HBeAg seroconversion, respectively. Logistic regression analysis revealed that baseline AST (odds ratio [OR] = 1.069, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.014-1.127, p = 0.014), serum HBV DNA (OR = 0.540, 95% CI 0.309-0.946, p = 0.031) and quantitative HBsAg levels (OR = 0.147, 95% CI 0.036-0.597, p = 0.007) were independent factors for virological response. At baseline, HBsAg < 4.63 log10 IU/ml was identified as a strong predictor for the 96-week virological response, with a concordance rate of 0.902. Moreover, the levels of liver stiffness values (8.30 ± 3.86 vs. 6.17 ± 1.91, p < 0.001) at week 96 had significantly declined compared to baseline. CONCLUSION Nucleotide analog treatment effectively suppressed HBV DNA in patients with HBeAg-seropositive chronic hepatitis B with ALT < 2 × ULN and greatly improved liver fibrosis. The study also found that HBsAg < 4.63 log10 IU/ml was a strong predictor of the virological response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meixin Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guichan Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sufang Wei
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, China
| | - Zhe Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongjie Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Muye Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiuli Xie
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, China
| | - Jie Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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3
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Thilakanathan C, Kayes T, Di Girolamo J, Nguyen V, Glass A, Manandhar S, Lawler J, Meredith C, Maley M, Lloyd A, Levy MT. Predicting hepatitis B e Antigen seroconversion after pregnancy-The SydPregScore. Liver Int 2023; 43:69-76. [PMID: 35861306 PMCID: PMC10087847 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Achieving Hepatitis B e antigen seroconversion (HBeAg SC) at an earlier age confers a better prognosis. We examined baseline and post-partum factors associated with HBeAg SC after pregnancy. We developed a tool, the SydPregScore, to estimate the likelihood of HBeAg SC in the years after pregnancy. METHODS A retrospective analysis of an HBeAg-positive pregnant cohort was conducted. Variables including baseline age, parity, alanine aminotransferase level, HBV viral load, quantitative HBsAg, use of antiviral therapy and post-partum flare were collected. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses to determine predictors of HBeAg SC and develop a predictor score were performed. RESULTS We analysed HBeAg SC rates in 220 pregnancies to 149 HBeAg-positive women from 2006 to 2019. At baseline, their median age was 33 (IQR 29-37), ALT 23 U/L (IQR 17-33) and viral load 8 log10 IU/mL (IQR 6.3-8.2 log10 IU/mL). The majority (133/198, 67.2%) received short-course antiviral therapy to prevent mother-to-child transmission, and 109/192 (56.8%) had a post-partum flare. HBeAg SC occurred in 74/220 (33.6%) after pregnancy (median follow-up 814 days, IQR 405-1531). Multivariate analysis identified baseline viral load <8 log10 IU/mL (HR 2.426 [1.224-4.809], p = .011), baseline ALT ≥2 ULN (HR 2.726 [1.299-5.721], p = .008) and age <35 (HR 2.859 [1.255-6.513], p = .012) to be positive predictors of HBeAg SC. The 'SydPreg Score' estimated the probability of HBeAg SC at 2000 days as 10%, 30%, 70% and 80% for 0, 1, 2, and 3 predictors respectively. CONCLUSION The SydPreg Score allows the prediction of HBeAg SC in the years after pregnancy. Even in those without elevated ALT, age <35 and viral load <8 log10 IU/mL can identify women with a good chance of subsequent HBeAg SC. Those without a chance may benefit from viral suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthuja Thilakanathan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, Australia.,South Western Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales Sydney, Liverpool, Sydney, Australia
| | - Tahrima Kayes
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Julia Di Girolamo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Vi Nguyen
- South Western Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales Sydney, Liverpool, Sydney, Australia
| | - Anne Glass
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sicha Manandhar
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Joseph Lawler
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Bankstown Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Chris Meredith
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Bankstown Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michael Maley
- South Western Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales Sydney, Liverpool, Sydney, Australia.,Sydney South West Pathology Service, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Andrew Lloyd
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Miriam T Levy
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, Australia.,South Western Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales Sydney, Liverpool, Sydney, Australia
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4
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Hong YM, Yoon KT. [Definition and Management of the Immune Tolerance Phase in Chronic Hepatitis B]. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY 2022; 79:156-160. [PMID: 35473773 DOI: 10.4166/kjg.2022.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
In the natural course of chronic hepatitis B, the immune tolerance phase is characterized by HBeAg positivity, very high levels of HBV DNA, and persistent normal alanine aminotransferase. The international guideline recommendation for patients in this phase is observation without antiviral treatment because of the low risk of disease progression and the lack of effective antiviral agents. However, recent retrospective studies have shown that progression to hepatic fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma may occur in patients who are in the immune tolerance phase. Despite the conceptual definition and clinical diagnostic criteria for this phase, it is difficult to accurately diagnose the true immune tolerance phase. Therefore, we should pay attention to the clinical evaluation and interpretation of the immune tolerance phase and understand the clinical situations in which antiviral treatments should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Mi Hong
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pusan National University College of Medicine, Yangsan, Korea.,Research Institute for Convergence of Biomedical Science and Technology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Korea.,Liver Center, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Ki Tae Yoon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pusan National University College of Medicine, Yangsan, Korea.,Research Institute for Convergence of Biomedical Science and Technology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Korea.,Liver Center, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Korea
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5
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KASL clinical practice guidelines for management of chronic hepatitis B. Clin Mol Hepatol 2022; 28:276-331. [PMID: 35430783 PMCID: PMC9013624 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2022.0084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
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6
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Furquim d'Almeida A, Ho E, Van Hees S, Vanwolleghem T. Clinical management of chronic hepatitis B: A concise overview. United European Gastroenterol J 2021; 10:115-123. [PMID: 34846093 PMCID: PMC8830276 DOI: 10.1002/ueg2.12176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, over 250 million people are chronically infected with the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Infected patients have an up to 100-fold increased risk for liver-related complications, including cirrhosis, hepatic decompensation and hepatocellular carcinoma. Nonetheless, the majority of the infections remains asymptomatic, stressing the importance of HBV screening and linkage to care. Excellent clinical outcomes are seen during nucleos(t)ide analogue (NA) therapy, which often is continued indefinitively due to a lack of functional cure. Increasing evidence suggests that NA discontinuation following long-term treatment induced viral suppression in patients without a functional cure may be a favourable option. Reliable biomarkers are, however, urgently needed to select the patients that would benefit from NA withdrawal. In addition, renewed and novel approaches to improve screening and linkage to care are other fundamental factors in the optimisation of the clinical management of chronic hepatitis B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arno Furquim d'Almeida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,Viral Hepatitis Research Group, Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Erwin Ho
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,Viral Hepatitis Research Group, Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Stijn Van Hees
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,Viral Hepatitis Research Group, Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Thomas Vanwolleghem
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,Viral Hepatitis Research Group, Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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7
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Jeng WJ, Lok AS. Should Treatment Indications for Chronic Hepatitis B Be Expanded? Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 19:2006-2014. [PMID: 32434068 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2020.04.091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIM Antiviral therapy has greatly improved the outcomes of patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and active liver disease or advanced fibrosis/cirrhosis. However, current treatment does not eradicate HBV and long-term treatment is needed in most patients to maintain clinical benefit. Thus, professional society guidelines do not recommend treatment of all patients with chronic HBV infection. This review article will examine evidence for and against expansion of treatment to patients in whom treatment is not recommended based on current guidelines. RESULTS Available data support expanding treatment to immune tolerant patients and patients in the grey zones who have evidence of active/advanced liver disease based on liver biopsy or non-invasive tests and those who remain in the immune tolerant phase after age 40. Evidence supporting treatment expansion to confirmed inactive carriers and other immune tolerant patients is lacking. CONCLUSIONS HBV treatment indications can be more liberal when new therapies that can achieve HBsAg loss safely in a high percentage of patients after a finite course of treatment are available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Juei Jeng
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou branch, Taiwan; Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taiwan
| | - Anna S Lok
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
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8
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Shah NJ, Aloysius MM, Sharma NR, Pallav K. Advances in treatment and prevention of hepatitis B. World J Gastrointest Pharmacol Ther 2021. [DOI: 10.4292/wjg.v12.i4.56] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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9
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Shah NJ, Aloysius MM, Sharma NR, Pallav K. Advances in treatment and prevention of hepatitis B. World J Gastrointest Pharmacol Ther 2021; 12:56-78. [PMID: 34316384 PMCID: PMC8290928 DOI: 10.4292/wjgpt.v12.i4.56] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) continues to contribute to worldwide morbidity and mortality significantly. Scientists, clinicians, pharmaceutical companies, and health organizations have dedicated substantial Intellectual and monetary resources to finding a cure, increasing immunization rates, and reducing the global burden of CHB. National and international health-related organizations including the center for disease control, the national institute of health, the American Association for the study of liver disease (AASLD), The European association for the study of the Liver (EASL), The Asia Pacific association for the study of the Liver (APASL) and the world health organization release periodic recommendations for disease prevention and treatment. Our review of the most recent guidelines by EASL, AASLD, APASL, and Taiwan Association for the Study of the Liver revealed that an overwhelming majority of cited studies were published before 2018. We reviewed Hepatitis B-related literature published 2018 onwards to identify recent developments and current barriers that will likely direct future efforts towards eradicating hepatitis B. The breakthrough in our understanding of the hepatitis B virus life cycle and resulting drug development is encouraging with significant room for further progress. Data from high-risk populations, most vulnerable to the devastating effects of hepatitis B infection and reactivation remain sparse. Utilization of systems approach, optimization of experimental models, identification and validation of next-generation biomarkers, and precise modulation of the human immune response will be critical for future innovation. Within the foreseeable future, new treatments will likely complement conventional therapies rather than replace them. Most Importantly, pragmatic management of CHB related population health challenges must be prioritized to produce real-world results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niraj James Shah
- Department of Internal Medicine, Digestive Disease, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, United States
| | - Mark M Aloysius
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, Scranton, PA 18505, United States
| | - Neil Rohit Sharma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Interventional Oncology and Surgical Endoscopy, Parkview Regional Medical Center, Parkview Cancer Institute, Fort Wayne, IN 46845, United States
| | - Kumar Pallav
- Department of Internal Medicine, Interventional Oncology and Surgical Endoscopy, Parkview Regional Medical Center, Parkview Cancer Institute, Fort Wayne, IN 46845, United States
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10
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Jeon MY, Kim BK, Lee JS, Lee HW, Park JY, Kim DY, Ahn SH, Han KH, Kim SU. Negligible risks of hepatocellular carcinoma during biomarker-defined immune-tolerant phase for patients with chronic hepatitis B. Clin Mol Hepatol 2020; 27:295-304. [PMID: 33317247 PMCID: PMC8046628 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2020.0216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/Aims The immune-tolerant (IT) phase of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients is not generally indicative of antiviral therapy (AVT). We assessed and compared the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) during the IT-phase stringently defined by a low fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index, compared to that in patients undergoing AVT. Methods Among 125 untreated patients that were hepatitis B e-antigen positive, hepatitis B virus-DNA >20,000 IU/mL, with normal alanine aminotransferase level from 2012 to 2018, those with a FIB-4 index of <1.45 were classified into the IT-group. The cumulative probability of HCC was estimated using Kaplan-Meier analysis. All patients were assessed until HCC development (intention-to-treat [ITT] analysis), whereas those suspected of experiencing CHB phase switch were assessed using the per-protocol (PP) and censored at the time of phase switch. Results The cumulative probability of HCC at 1-, 3-, and 5-years among the IT-group was zero, compared to AVT-treated patients with FIB-4 indices <1.45 during the same period: 0.2%, 0.6%, and 1.4%, respectively (P=0.264 for ITT and P=0.533 for PP). Among the initially screened 125 untreated patients, those with a FIB-4 index of ≥1.45 had a higher risk of HCC compared to the IT-group (P=0.005). Furthermore, among AVT-treated patients, those with a FIB-4 index of ≥1.45 had a higher risk of HCC compared to their counterpart (P<0.001). Conclusions The risk of HCC was negligible in the IT-group stringently defined by a low FIB-4 index. However, given that a higher HCC risk exists among untreated patients with higher FIB-4, appropriate criteria for AVT should be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi Young Jeon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Yonsei Liver Center, Severance Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Beom Kyung Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Yonsei Liver Center, Severance Hospital, Seoul, Korea.,Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae Seung Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Yonsei Liver Center, Severance Hospital, Seoul, Korea.,Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hye Won Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Yonsei Liver Center, Severance Hospital, Seoul, Korea.,Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jun Yong Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Yonsei Liver Center, Severance Hospital, Seoul, Korea.,Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Do Young Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Yonsei Liver Center, Severance Hospital, Seoul, Korea.,Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Hoon Ahn
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Yonsei Liver Center, Severance Hospital, Seoul, Korea.,Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kwang-Hyub Han
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Yonsei Liver Center, Severance Hospital, Seoul, Korea.,Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seung Up Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Yonsei Liver Center, Severance Hospital, Seoul, Korea.,Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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11
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Sinn DH. [Natural History and Treatment Indications of Chronic Hepatitis B]. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY 2020; 74:245-250. [PMID: 31765552 DOI: 10.4166/kjg.2019.74.5.245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2019] [Revised: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
HBV is the most common etiology of both liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma in Korea. Despite much progress made, the currently available antiviral therapies cannot eradicate or eliminate this virus. Hence, the benefits and risks of antiviral therapy should be carefully evaluated on an individual basis and within the context of the clinical situation. The ultimate goals of treatment are to decrease the mortality from liver disease. The benefits of antiviral therapy come from prevention of progression of liver disease. Understanding the natural history of chronic HBV infection is a key step in the decision making process to treat patients with chronic HBV infection. Generally, chronic hepatitis B patients in the immune tolerant phase and immune inactive phase are not recommended to undergo antiviral treatment, except for those patients in special conditions (e.g., immunosuppression or anticancer chemotherapy). Chronic hepatitis B patients in the immune active phase are recommended for antiviral therapy. For patients with liver cirrhosis, treatment should be considered when serum HBV DNA is detectable regardless of the serum level of ALT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Hyun Sinn
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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12
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Liem KS, Gehring AJ, Feld JJ, Janssen HLA. Challenges With Stopping Long-term Nucleos(t)ide Analogue Therapy in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis B. Gastroenterology 2020; 158:1185-1190. [PMID: 31809724 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2019.10.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 09/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- K Seng Liem
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Adam J Gehring
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jordan J Feld
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; McLaughlin-Rotman Centre for Global Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Harry L A Janssen
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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13
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Fu X, Lou H, Chen F, Gao X, Lin Z. Hepatitis B core antibody and liver stiffness measurements predict HBeAg seroconversion in HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B patients with minimally elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels. Clin Exp Med 2020; 20:241-248. [PMID: 32052245 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-019-00603-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels between 1 and 2 times the upper limit of normal (ULN) are common in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection. There are few clinical studies focused on this group of patients because of the poorer treatment outcomes compared to those with more than 2 × ULN ALT level. However, treatments are necessary to reduce liver damage for patients with minimally elevated ALT levels. And biomarkers are needed in predicting the treatment response. In this study, a total of 106 patients with CHB were enrolled and treated with entecavir, telbivudine or tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. Liver stiffness was measured by transient elastography, and quantitative levels of hepatitis B core antibody (HBcAb) were detected by ELISA. At week 96, 31 (29.25%) patients achieved hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) seroconversion. Notably, baseline HBcAb levels and liver stiffness measurements (LSM) were higher in patients who achieved HBeAg seroconversion. The multivariate analysis showed that the baseline HBcAb levels and LSM were independent predictors for HBeAg seroconversion. The area under receiver operating characteristic curve of baseline HBcAb, LSM and the combination of them for HBeAg seroconversion was 0.714, 0.720 and 0.717, respectively. In addition, we discovered that the patients with baseline HBcAb levels ≥ 4.15 log10 IU/mL and LSM ≥ 9.85 kPa had higher rates of HBeAg seroconversion. Therefore, the measurement of HBcAb and liver stiffness might be good approaches for the optimization of antiviral therapy for HBeAg-positive CHB patients with minimally elevated ALT levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xihua Fu
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology Unit, Panyu Central Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Haibo Lou
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology Unit, Panyu Central Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Fang Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology Unit, Panyu Central Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xueping Gao
- Department of Hepatology, Huizhou Municipal Central Hospital, Huizhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Zhanzhou Lin
- Department of Hepatology, Huizhou Municipal Central Hospital, Huizhou, Guangdong, China.
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14
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Lee HW, Chan HLY. Unresolved issues of immune tolerance in chronic hepatitis B. J Gastroenterol 2020; 55:383-389. [PMID: 32016713 PMCID: PMC7080668 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-020-01665-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
During the natural course of chronic hepatitis B virus infection, immune-tolerant phase is characterized by high viral replication, the presence of HBV e antigen (HBeAg), and normal or minimally elevated serum alanine aminotransferase. Immune-tolerant phase is usually regarded as a benign course of the disease. International guidelines recommend observation rather than treatment during immune-tolerant phase. In this article, we review unresolved issues related to the definition of true immune-tolerant phase and the benefit of antiviral treatment. Defining true immune-tolerant phase requires a careful approach and long-term follow-up. In previous studies, many patients were misclassified as being immune-tolerant phase. Noninvasive methods of assessing fibrosis are warranted for patients in the immune-tolerant phase. Yet, there has been controversy over the benefit and harm of antiviral treatment for immune-tolerant phase patients. Thus, further larger scale studies are needed to investigate the prognosis of patients in true immune-tolerant phase and their need for antiviral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Won Lee
- grid.10784.3a0000 0004 1937 0482Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong ,grid.10784.3a0000 0004 1937 0482Insitute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong ,grid.15444.300000 0004 0470 5454Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Henry Lik-Yuen Chan
- grid.10784.3a0000 0004 1937 0482Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong ,grid.10784.3a0000 0004 1937 0482Insitute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
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15
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Attar BM. CON: All Patients With Immune-Tolerated Hepatitis B Virus Do Not Need to Be Treated. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2020; 15:25-30. [PMID: 32104574 PMCID: PMC7041959 DOI: 10.1002/cld.893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
http://aasldpubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/hub/journal/10.1002/(ISSN)2046-2484/video/15-1-reading-attar a video presentation of this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashar M. Attar
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyCook County HealthChicagoIL
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16
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Wu Y, Fan J, Liao G, Xia M, Jiang D, Peng J, Zhang X, Liu H. Genetic variations in the CXCR5 gene decrease the risk of clinical relapse after discontinuation of nucleos(t)ide analogue therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis B. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2019; 78:104124. [PMID: 31765828 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2019.104124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Discontinuation of nucleos(t)ide analogue (NA) therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) remains a global but controversial problem. Clinical outcomes of NA cessation depend on the interplay between viral factors and host immunity. Recent studies have shown that genetic polymorphisms might influence the immune response in chronic HBV infection. A total of 33 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from 16 genes (BCL6, CD40, CD40L, CTLA-4, CXCL13, CXCR5, ICOS, IL-21, HLA-C, NTCP, UBE2L3, STAT4, IFN-λ3, CYP27B1, INST10, and IPS1) were selected and analyzed in 106 CHB patients enrolled in an off-treatment cohort. Significantly unbalanced distributions between patients who experienced clinical relapse and those who did not were found regarding two SNPs, rs676925 in CXCR5 and rs733618 in CTLA-4. Furthermore, the genotype 'GC' of rs676925 were associated with decreased risk of clinical relapse, implicating that rs676925 may serve as a protective factor for HBV control and facilitate a virus-specific immune response. We also compared the expression of CXCR5 in lymphocytes and its ligand CXCL13 in plasma between different genotypes of rs676925. However, no significant differences were observed. In conclusion, this study suggested that the rs676925 'GC' genotype of the CXCR5 gene were associated with decreased risk of clinical relapse after discontinuation of long-term NA therapy in CHB patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaojiao Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guichan Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Muye Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Deke Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Xiaoyong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Hongyan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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17
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KASL clinical practice guidelines for management of chronic hepatitis B. Clin Mol Hepatol 2019; 25:93-159. [PMID: 31185710 PMCID: PMC6589848 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2019.1002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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18
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Chan HLY. Okuda lecture: Challenges of hepatitis B in the era of antiviral therapy. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 34:501-506. [PMID: 30402981 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.14534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Revised: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Nucleos(t)ide analogs (NAs) are effective, safe, and convenient antiviral therapy to suppress replication of hepatitis B virus, which can be translated into improved long-term outcome of chronic hepatitis B patients. The current recommended first-line NAs, namely, entecavir and tenofovir, are largely free from problems of drug resistance. Nonetheless, there are still a few challenges in the era of NA. First, the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma can only be reduced but not eliminated, particularly among cirrhotic patients. For cirrhotic patients who have persistent low-level viremia on NA, that is, partial responders, the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma is higher than those with complete viral suppression. The best strategy to manage partial responders to entecavir or tenofovir is uncertain. Second, immune-tolerant patients are very difficult to treat with NA. A significant proportion of immune-tolerant patients will have detectable viremia despite a few years of continuous NA treatment, and the rate of hepatitis B e-antigen seroconversion is very low. Third, most patients need long-term treatment as NA cannot eliminate covalently closed circular DNA in the hepatocytes. Some patients can consider stop NA according to treatment guidelines, but viral and clinical relapses often occur after treatment cessation. There is no concrete consensus on when one should stop NA in a hepatitis B e-antigen-negative patient among different treatment guidelines. New biomarkers such as hepatitis B surface antigen level can be used to select patients to stop NA, but the data are still preliminary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Lik Yuen Chan
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
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19
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Wong GLH. Management of chronic hepatitis B patients in immunetolerant phase: what latest guidelines recommend. Clin Mol Hepatol 2018; 24:108-113. [PMID: 29353469 PMCID: PMC6038942 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2017.0068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The natural history of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is complex and may run through different immune phases that may overlap. In particulars, the immune-tolerant phase is the most interesting and not as well understood as we thought. The concept of true immune tolerance have been under challenged from immunology points of view. The major international guidelines have not yet reached a consensus on the definition of the immune-tolerant phase. While positive hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg), high serum hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA and normal serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels are the three key features of this phase, some guidelines also put age into consideration. A new nomenclature, Phase 1 or HBeAg-positive chronic HBV infection, is given by the latest European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) published in April 2017. While current guidelines advise against starting antiviral treatment for immune-tolerant CHB patients, some new data suggest treating such patients may reduce the risk of liver fibrosis progression and hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Lai-Hung Wong
- Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR, China
- State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR, China
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20
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Dolman GE, Koffas A, Mason WS, Kennedy PT. Why, who and when to start treatment for chronic hepatitis B infection. Curr Opin Virol 2018; 30:39-47. [PMID: 29655092 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2018.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Revised: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B remains a major global health challenge due to morbidity and mortality from hepatocellular carcinoma and complications of liver cirrhosis. Current treatment regimens are non-curative and, once initiated, treatment is of indefinite duration for the majority. The decision to initiate treatment decisions is based on risk stratification. Advances in our understanding of the natural history of chronic hepatitis B have led to a paradigm shift in recommendations for treatment. Emerging non-invasive biomarkers of disease activity will further enhance disease stratification. In this review, we summarise the guidance from major international societies on treatment for chronic hepatitis B and explore some of the novel approaches to disease assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace E Dolman
- Barts Liver Centre, Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, UK
| | - Apostolos Koffas
- Gastroenterology Unit, University Hospital of Larisa, Thessaly, Greece
| | | | - Patrick Tf Kennedy
- Barts Liver Centre, Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, UK.
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