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Bosselmann EA, Engel B, Hartleben B, Wedemeyer H, Jaeckel E, Maasoumy B, Potthoff A, Zender S, Taubert R. Prospective comparison of liver stiffness measurement methods in surveillance biopsies after liver transplantation. FRONTIERS IN TRANSPLANTATION 2023; 2:1148195. [PMID: 38993851 PMCID: PMC11235307 DOI: 10.3389/frtra.2023.1148195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Background Liver stiffness measurements (LSMs) have proven useful for non-invasive detection of fibrosis. Previous studies of LSMs after transplantation were performed in cohorts dominated by hepatitis C reinfections and indication biopsies for the evaluation of graft dysfunction. However, the diagnostic fidelity of LSMs for fibrosis is biased by inflammation e.g., during replicative hepatitis C or rejection. Materials and methods The current study aimed for a head-to-head comparison of two different LSMs, acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) and transient elastography (TE), and a determination of cut-off values for the detection of advanced fibrosis (any LAF score component ≥2) in grafts undergoing surveillance biopsies (svLbx) without recurrent hepatitis C. Results 103 svLbx were paired with valid LSMs at time of biopsy. AUROC analyses showed significant positive correlation with fibrosis for both methods (TE: AUROC = 0.819 (p < 0.001; 95%CI: 0.717-0.921); ARFI: AUROC = 0.771 (p = 0.001; 95%CI: 0.652-0.890). Patients were randomly assigned to training and validation cohorts for both LSM methods. Cut-off values were determined at 1.29 m/s (ARFI) and at 7.5 kPa (TE) in training cohorts. Sensitivity and specificity in training and validation cohorts were: TE: SEN 0.818 and 0.5; SPE 0.742 and 0.885; ARFI: SEN 0.818 and 1.0; SPE 0.75 and 0.586. LSMs were not associated with BANFF criteria for relevant graft injury. Conclusion LSM is a good non-invasive tool to screen for advanced graft fibrosis but not for relevant graft injury in patients with (near) normal liver enzymes. Fibrosis cut-off values identified and validated in svLbx were lower than in previous cohorts using indication biopsies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A Bosselmann
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Bastian Engel
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Björn Hartleben
- Institute for Pathology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Heiner Wedemeyer
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Elmar Jaeckel
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Benjamin Maasoumy
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Andrej Potthoff
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Steffen Zender
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Richard Taubert
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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2
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Rabindranath M, Zaya R, Prayitno K, Orchanian-Cheff A, Patel K, Jaeckel E, Bhat M. A Comprehensive Review of Liver Allograft Fibrosis and Steatosis: From Cause to Diagnosis. Transplant Direct 2023; 9:e1547. [PMID: 37854023 PMCID: PMC10581596 DOI: 10.1097/txd.0000000000001547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in posttransplant care, long-term outcomes for liver transplant recipients remain unchanged. Approximately 25% of recipients will advance to graft cirrhosis and require retransplantation. Graft fibrosis progresses in the context of de novo or recurrent disease. Recurrent hepatitis C virus infection was previously the most important cause of graft failure but is now curable in the majority of patients. However, with an increasing prevalence of obesity and diabetes and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease as the most rapidly increasing indication for liver transplantation, metabolic dysfunction-associated liver injury is anticipated to become an important cause of graft fibrosis alongside alloimmune hepatitis and alcoholic liver disease. To better understand the landscape of the graft fibrosis literature, we summarize the associated epidemiology, cause, potential mechanisms, diagnosis, and complications. We additionally highlight the need for better noninvasive methods to ameliorate the management of graft fibrosis. Some examples include leveraging the microbiome, genetic, and machine learning methods to address these limitations. Overall, graft fibrosis is routinely seen by transplant clinicians, but it requires a better understanding of its underlying biology and contributors that can help inform diagnostic and therapeutic practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhumitha Rabindranath
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rita Zaya
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Khairunnadiya Prayitno
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ani Orchanian-Cheff
- Library and Information Services, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Keyur Patel
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Elmar Jaeckel
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mamatha Bhat
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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3
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Agostini C, Buccianti S, Risaliti M, Fortuna L, Tirloni L, Tucci R, Bartolini I, Grazi GL. Complications in Post-Liver Transplant Patients. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6173. [PMID: 37834818 PMCID: PMC10573382 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12196173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver transplantation (LT) is the treatment of choice for liver failure and selected cases of malignancies. Transplantation activity has increased over the years, and indications for LT have been widened, leading to organ shortage. To face this condition, a high selection of recipients with prioritizing systems and an enlargement of the donor pool were necessary. Several authors published their case series reporting the results obtained with the use of marginal donors, which seem to have progressively improved over the years. The introduction of in situ and ex situ machine perfusion, although still strongly debated, and better knowledge and treatment of the complications may have a role in achieving better results. With longer survival rates, a significant number of patients will suffer from long-term complications. An extensive review of the literature concerning short- and long-term outcomes is reported trying to highlight the most recent findings. The heterogeneity of the behaviors within the different centers is evident, leading to a difficult comparison of the results and making explicit the need to obtain more consent from experts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ilenia Bartolini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, AOU Careggi, 50134 Florence, Italy; (C.A.); (S.B.); (M.R.); (L.F.); (L.T.); (R.T.); (G.L.G.)
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4
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Qazi Arisar FA, Salinas-Miranda E, Ale Ali H, Lajkosz K, Chen C, Azhie A, Healy GM, Deniffel D, Haider MA, Bhat M. Development of a Radiomics-Based Model to Predict Graft Fibrosis in Liver Transplant Recipients: A Pilot Study. Transpl Int 2023; 36:11149. [PMID: 37720416 PMCID: PMC10503435 DOI: 10.3389/ti.2023.11149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Liver Transplantation is complicated by recurrent fibrosis in 40% of recipients. We evaluated the ability of clinical and radiomic features to flag patients at risk of developing future graft fibrosis. CT scans of 254 patients at 3-6 months post-liver transplant were retrospectively analyzed. Volumetric radiomic features were extracted from the portal phase using an Artificial Intelligence-based tool (PyRadiomics). The primary endpoint was clinically significant (≥F2) graft fibrosis. A 10-fold cross-validated LASSO model using clinical and radiomic features was developed. In total, 75 patients (29.5%) developed ≥F2 fibrosis by a median of 19 (4.3-121.8) months. The maximum liver attenuation at the venous phase (a radiomic feature reflecting venous perfusion), primary etiology, donor/recipient age, recurrence of disease, brain-dead donor, tacrolimus use at 3 months, and APRI score at 3 months were predictive of ≥F2 fibrosis. The combination of radiomics and the clinical features increased the AUC to 0.811 from 0.793 for the clinical-only model (p = 0.008) and from 0.664 for the radiomics-only model (p < 0.001) to predict future ≥F2 fibrosis. This pilot study exploring the role of radiomics demonstrates that the addition of radiomic features in a clinical model increased the model's performance. Further studies are required to investigate the generalizability of this experimental tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fakhar Ali Qazi Arisar
- Ajmera Transplant Program, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- National Institute of Liver and GI Diseases, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Emmanuel Salinas-Miranda
- Lunenfeld Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Mount Sinai Hospital, Joseph and Wolf Lebovic Health Complex, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University Health Network/Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hamideh Ale Ali
- Lunenfeld Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Mount Sinai Hospital, Joseph and Wolf Lebovic Health Complex, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University Health Network/Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Katherine Lajkosz
- Department of Biostatistics, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Catherine Chen
- Ajmera Transplant Program, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Amirhossein Azhie
- Ajmera Transplant Program, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gerard M. Healy
- Lunenfeld Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Mount Sinai Hospital, Joseph and Wolf Lebovic Health Complex, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University Health Network/Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Dominik Deniffel
- Lunenfeld Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Mount Sinai Hospital, Joseph and Wolf Lebovic Health Complex, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University Health Network/Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Masoom A. Haider
- Lunenfeld Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Mount Sinai Hospital, Joseph and Wolf Lebovic Health Complex, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University Health Network/Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mamatha Bhat
- Ajmera Transplant Program, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute and Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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5
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Rinaldi L, Giorgione C, Mormone A, Esposito F, Rinaldi M, Berretta M, Marfella R, Romano C. Non-Invasive Measurement of Hepatic Fibrosis by Transient Elastography: A Narrative Review. Viruses 2023; 15:1730. [PMID: 37632072 PMCID: PMC10459581 DOI: 10.3390/v15081730] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Transient elastography by FibroScan® (Echosens, Paris, France) is a non-invasive method that can provide a reliable measurement of liver fibrosis through the evaluation of liver stiffness. Despite its limitations and risks, liver biopsy has thus far been the only procedure able to provide data to quantify fibrosis. Scientific evidence and clinical practice have made it possible to use FibroScan® in the diagnostic work-up of several liver diseases to monitor patients' long-term treatment response and for complication prevention. For these reasons, this procedure is widely used in clinical practice and is still being investigated for further applications. The aim of this narrative review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the main applications of transient elastography in the current clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Rinaldi
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, “Luigi Vanvitelli” University of Campania, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.R.); (R.M.)
| | - Chiara Giorgione
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, “Luigi Vanvitelli” University of Campania, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.R.); (R.M.)
| | - Andrea Mormone
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, “Luigi Vanvitelli” University of Campania, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.R.); (R.M.)
| | - Francesca Esposito
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, “Luigi Vanvitelli” University of Campania, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.R.); (R.M.)
| | - Michele Rinaldi
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, “Federico II” University of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Massimiliano Berretta
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98121 Messina, Italy;
| | - Raffaele Marfella
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, “Luigi Vanvitelli” University of Campania, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.R.); (R.M.)
| | - Ciro Romano
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, “Luigi Vanvitelli” University of Campania, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.R.); (R.M.)
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6
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Azhie A, Sharma D, Sheth P, Qazi-Arisar FA, Zaya R, Naghibzadeh M, Duan K, Fischer S, Patel K, Tsien C, Selzner N, Lilly L, Jaeckel E, Xu W, Bhat M. A deep learning framework for personalised dynamic diagnosis of graft fibrosis after liver transplantation: a retrospective, single Canadian centre, longitudinal study. Lancet Digit Health 2023; 5:e458-e466. [PMID: 37210229 DOI: 10.1016/s2589-7500(23)00068-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recurrent graft fibrosis after liver transplantation can threaten both graft and patient survival. Therefore, early detection of fibrosis is essential to avoid disease progression and the need for retransplantation. Non-invasive blood-based biomarkers of fibrosis are limited by moderate accuracy and high cost. We aimed to evaluate the accuracy of machine learning algorithms in detecting graft fibrosis using longitudinal clinical and laboratory data. METHODS In this retrospective, longitudinal study, we trained machine learning algorithms, including our novel weighted long short-term memory (LSTM) model, to predict the risk of significant fibrosis using follow-up data from 1893 adults who had a liver transplantation between Feb 1, 1987, and Dec 30, 2019, with at least one liver biopsy post transplantation. Liver biopsy samples with indefinitive fibrosis stage and those from patients with multiple transplantations were excluded. Longitudinal clinical variables were collected from transplantation to the date of last available liver biopsy. Deep learning models were trained on 70% of the patients as the training set and 30% of the patients as the test set. The algorithms were also separately tested on longitudinal data from patients in a subgroup of patients (n=149) who had transient elastography within 1 year before or after the date of liver biopsy. Weighted LSTM model performance for diagnosing significant fibrosis was compared against LSTM, other deep learning models (recurrent neural network and temporal convolutional network), and machine learning models (Random Forest, Support vector machines, Logistic regression, Lasso regression, and Ridge regression) and aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI), fibrosis-4 index (FIB-4), and transient elastography. FINDINGS 1893 people who had a liver transplantation (1261 [67%] men and 632 [33%] women) with at least one liver biopsy between Jan 1, 1992, and June 30, 2020, were included in the study (591 [31%] cases and 1302 [69%] controls). The median age at liver transplantation was 53·7 years (IQR 47·3-59·0) for cases and 55·3 years (48·0 to 61·2) for controls. The median time interval between transplant and liver biopsy was 21 months (5 to 71). The weighted LSTM model (area under the curve 0·798 [95% CI 0·790 to 0·810]) consistently outperformed other methods, including unweighted LSTM (0·761 [0·750 to 0·769]; p=0·031) Recurrent Neural Network (0·736 [0·721 to 0·744]), Temporal Convolutional Networks (0·700 [0·662 to 0·747], and Random Forest 0·679 [0·652 to 0·707]), FIB-4 (0·650 [0·636 to 0·663]) and APRI (0·682 [0·671 to 0·694]) when diagnosing F2 or worse stage fibrosis. In a subgroup of patients with transient elastography results, weighted LSTM was not significantly better at detecting fibrosis (≥F2; 0·705 [0·687 to 0·724]) than transient elastography (0·685 [0·662 to 0·704]). The top ten variables predictive for significant fibrosis were recipient age, primary indication for transplantation, donor age, and longitudinal data for creatinine, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total bilirubin, platelets, white blood cell count, and weight. INTERPRETATION Deep learning algorithms, particularly weighted LSTM, outperform other routinely used non-invasive modalities and could help with the earlier diagnosis of graft fibrosis using longitudinal clinical and laboratory variables. The list of most important predictive variables for the development of fibrosis will enable clinicians to modify their management accordingly to prevent onset of graft cirrhosis. FUNDING Canadian Institute of Health Research, American Society of Transplantation, Toronto General and Western Hospital Foundation, and Paladin Labs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirhossein Azhie
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Divya Sharma
- Department of Biostatistics, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Priya Sheth
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Fakhar Ali Qazi-Arisar
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; National Institute of Liver & Gastrointestinal Diseases, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Rita Zaya
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Maryam Naghibzadeh
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kai Duan
- Department of Pathology, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sandra Fischer
- Department of Pathology, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Keyur Patel
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Cynthia Tsien
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nazia Selzner
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Leslie Lilly
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Elmar Jaeckel
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Wei Xu
- Department of Biostatistics, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Biostatistics Division, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mamatha Bhat
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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7
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Fallahzadeh MA, Asrani SK, Vahhab E, Ebrahim VS, Saracino G, Elwir S, Trotter JF. Prediction of long-term morbidity and mortality after liver transplantation using two-dimensional shear wave elastography compared with liver biopsy. Liver Transpl 2022; 28:1618-1627. [PMID: 35255183 DOI: 10.1002/lt.26450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The role of noninvasive liver disease assessment by two-dimensional shear wave elastography (2D-SWE) to diagnose fibrosis is well described in patients with chronic liver disease. However, its role in prognosis, especially after liver transplantation (LT) has not been adequately examined. We hypothesized that elevated liver stiffness measurement (LSM) as measured by 2D-SWE after LT predicts future morbidity and mortality independent of fibrosis by liver biopsy. In a prospective cohort study, consecutive LT recipients underwent concomitant protocol 2D-SWE and protocol liver biopsy (2012-2014), with the assessor blinded to biopsy findings. We examined the baseline correlation of LSM with fibrosis stage and the association between elevated LSM and the development of subsequent clinical outcomes and all-cause mortality. A total of 187 LT recipients (median age 58 years, 38.5% women, median body mass index 26.5 kg/m2 , 55.1% hepatitis C virus, 17.6% nonalcoholic steatohepatitis/cryptogenic) were examined. Median time between LT and biopsy/2D-SWE assessment was 4.0 years, and the median follow-up time after LSM determination was 3.5 years. Median LSM was 9 kPa (8 kPa [F0/F1], 11.5 kPa [F2], 12 kPa [F3/F4]). There was a positive correlation between LSM and fibrosis stage (rs = 0.41; p < 0.001). LSM ≥11 kPa was associated with lower survival within 3 years (84.8 vs. 93.7%; p = 0.04). After adjusting for age, sex, and fibrosis stage, LSM ≥11 kPa was independently associated with mortality (hazard ratio, 2.45; 95% confidence interval, 1.08-5.60). Elevated LSM by 2D-SWE is associated with increased mortality after LT independent of hepatic fibrosis. Given the overall decrease in the use of liver biopsy in the current era, 2D-SWE may serve as a novel noninvasive prognostic tool to predict relevant outcomes late after LT.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Elham Vahhab
- Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | | | | | - Saleh Elwir
- Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
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8
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Eshraghian A, Fattahi MR, Taghavi A, Shamsaeefar A, Mansoorian M, Kazemi K, Nikeghbalian S, Malek-Hosseini SA. Metabolic syndrome, hepatic fibrosis, and steatosis diagnosed by liver stiffness measurement and controlled attenuation parameter after liver transplantation: the impact on long-term survival. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 16:1003-1009. [PMID: 36254767 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2022.2137488] [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] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver stiffness measurement (LSM) and controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) are used for diagnosis of liver fibrosis and steatosis. This study aimed to noninvasively evaluate hepatic steatosis and fibrosis in liver transplant recipients using CAP and LSM and the impact on survival of patients. METHODS In a prospective study, adult liver transplant recipients were included. CAP and LSM obtained during transient elastography (TE) were used for assessment of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis. Patients were followed during 4 years for mortality as the main outcome after liver transplantation. RESULTS From 296 patients, 24.7% and 25% of liver transplant recipients had liver steatosis and fibrosis in CAP and LSM, respectively. In multivariable Cox regression analysis, etiology of liver disease (NASH versus non-NASH) (HR: 3.125; 95% CI: 1.594-6.134; p = 0.001), and post-transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM) (HR: 2.617; 95% CI: 1.396-4.926; p = 0.003) were associated with hepatic steatosis after liver transplantation. In multivariable Cox regression analysis, liver fibrosis was an independent predictor of mortality after liver transplantation (HR: 4.926; 95%CI: 1.779-13.513; p = 0.002). CONCLUSION CAP and LS measurement during TE are useful methods for diagnosis of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis in liver transplant recipients. LS measurement might predict long-term survival of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahad Eshraghian
- Shiraz Transplant Center, Abu-Ali Sina Hospital, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Fattahi
- Gastroenterohepatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Alireza Taghavi
- Gastroenterohepatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Alireza Shamsaeefar
- Shiraz Transplant Center, Abu-Ali Sina Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohsenreza Mansoorian
- Shiraz Transplant Center, Abu-Ali Sina Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Kourosh Kazemi
- Shiraz Transplant Center, Abu-Ali Sina Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Saman Nikeghbalian
- Shiraz Transplant Center, Abu-Ali Sina Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyed Ali Malek-Hosseini
- Shiraz Transplant Center, Abu-Ali Sina Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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9
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Madill-Thomsen KS, Abouljoud M, Bhati C, Ciszek M, Durlik M, Feng S, Foroncewicz B, Francis I, Grąt M, Jurczyk K, Klintmalm G, Krasnodębski M, McCaughan G, Miquel R, Montano-Loza A, Moonka D, Mucha K, Myślak M, Pączek L, Perkowska-Ptasińska A, Piecha G, Reichman T, Sanchez-Fueyo A, Tronina O, Wawrzynowicz-Syczewska M, Więcek A, Zieniewicz K, Halloran PF. The molecular phenotypes of injury, steatohepatitis, and fibrosis in liver transplant biopsies in the INTERLIVER study. Am J Transplant 2022; 22:909-926. [PMID: 34780106 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.16890] [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: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
To extend previous molecular analyses of rejection in liver transplant biopsies in the INTERLIVER study (ClinicalTrials.gov #NCT03193151), the present study aimed to define the gene expression selective for parenchymal injury, fibrosis, and steatohepatitis. We analyzed genome-wide microarray measurements from 337 liver transplant biopsies from 13 centers. We examined expression of genes previously annotated as increased in injury and fibrosis using principal component analysis (PCA). PC1 reflected parenchymal injury and related inflammation in the early posttransplant period, slowly regressing over many months. PC2 separated early injury from late fibrosis. Positive PC3 identified a distinct mildly inflamed state correlating with histologic steatohepatitis. Injury PCs correlated with liver function and histologic abnormalities. A classifier trained on histologic steatohepatitis predicted histologic steatohepatitis with cross-validated AUC = 0.83, and was associated with pathways reflecting metabolic abnormalities distinct from fibrosis. PC2 predicted histologic fibrosis (AUC = 0.80), as did a molecular fibrosis classifier (AUC = 0.74). The fibrosis classifier correlated with matrix remodeling pathways with minimal overlap with those selective for steatohepatitis, although some biopsies had both. Genome-wide assessment of liver transplant biopsies can not only detect molecular changes induced by rejection but also those correlating with parenchymal injury, steatohepatitis, and fibrosis, offering potential insights into disease mechanisms for primary diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Chandra Bhati
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Michał Ciszek
- Department of Immunology, Transplantology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Durlik
- Department of Transplant Medicine, Nephrology and Internal Diseases, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Sandy Feng
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Bartosz Foroncewicz
- Department of Immunology, Transplantology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Michał Grąt
- Department of General, Transplant and Liver Surgery, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Jurczyk
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | | | - Maciej Krasnodębski
- Department of General, Transplant and Liver Surgery, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Geoff McCaughan
- Centenary Research Institute, Australian National Liver Transplant Unit, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Krzysztof Mucha
- Department of Immunology, Transplantology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.,Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marek Myślak
- Department of Clinical Interventions, Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation SPWSZ Hospital, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Leszek Pączek
- Department of Immunology, Transplantology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Grzegorz Piecha
- Department of Nephrology, Transplantation and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | | | | | - Olga Tronina
- Department of Transplant Medicine, Nephrology and Internal Diseases, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marta Wawrzynowicz-Syczewska
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Andrzej Więcek
- Department of Nephrology, Transplantation and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Zieniewicz
- Department of General, Transplant and Liver Surgery, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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10
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Boeken T, Lucidarme O, Mbarki E, Scatton O, Savier E, Wagner M. Association of shear-wave elastography with clinical outcomes post-liver transplantation. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2021; 45:101554. [PMID: 33172788 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2020.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Two-dimensional shear-wave elastography (2D-SWE) assessment of liver stiffness has the advantage of being obtained during conventional ultrasound. Liver-stiffness values on 2D-SWE for grafted livers are unknown, as are their potential link to post-transplantation morbidity. This study was undertaken to determine liver-stiffness values on 2D-SWE for grafted livers without complications, and examine relationships between liver-stiffness values on 2D-SWE and early post-operative arterial or biliary complications. METHODS In our facility, all liver-transplant recipients are entered in a comprehensive surgical database, where donor, procedure and recipient characteristics are described. All patients underwent systematic 2D-SWE assessment. Potential relationships were analyzed between liver-stiffness findings and donor, procedure and recipient characteristics, and follow-up events, including death, arterial or biliary complications, graft removal and allograft-dysfunction scores. RESULTS Liver-stiffness values on 2D-SWE of 337 ultrasound examinations from 165 liver-transplant recipients were collected retrospectively. Median time from transplantation to 2D-SWE examination was 149 days, with median follow-up at 36 months. The mean±SD stiffness value for grafts without complications was 7.3±2.3kPa; it was significantly higher during the first 90 days (8.2±2.5kPa) post-transplant than after 1year (7.0±2.4kPa) (P=0.01). Patients with biliary complications during the first-year post-transplantation had significantly higher mean liver-stiffness values on 2D-SWE than those without, respectively: 9.8±7.0 vs 7.5±1.8kPa (P=0.01). CONCLUSIONS Post-transplantation patients without complications had stiffer livers than the general population, with higher values during the first 90 days after surgery. Liver-stiffness values on 2D-SWE were significantly higher for patients with biliary, but not arterial, complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Boeken
- Université Paris Descartes - Sorbonne - Paris Cité, France; Radiologie Polyvalente et Oncologique, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, 47, bd de l'Hôpital, 75651 Paris Cedex 13, France.
| | - Olivier Lucidarme
- Radiologie Polyvalente et Oncologique, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, 47, bd de l'Hôpital, 75651 Paris Cedex 13, France; Sorbonne Université, CNRS, INSERM, Laboratoire d'Imagerie Biomédicale (LIB), Service de Radiologie, APHP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Elsa Mbarki
- Université Paris Descartes - Sorbonne - Paris Cité, France; Radiologie Polyvalente et Oncologique, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, 47, bd de l'Hôpital, 75651 Paris Cedex 13, France
| | - Olivier Scatton
- Chirurgie Digestive et Hépato-BIlio-Pancréatique, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, 47 blvd de l'Hôpital, 75013, Paris, France; Service de chirurgie digestive hépato-bilio-pancréatique transplantation hépatique, Sorbonne Université, Inserm, Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition, ICAN, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, CRSA, AP-HP, CHU Pitie-Salpetriere, Paris, France
| | - Eric Savier
- Chirurgie Digestive et Hépato-BIlio-Pancréatique, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, 47 blvd de l'Hôpital, 75013, Paris, France; Service de chirurgie digestive hépato-bilio-pancréatique transplantation hépatique, Sorbonne Université, Inserm, Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition, ICAN, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, CRSA, AP-HP, CHU Pitie-Salpetriere, Paris, France
| | - Mathilde Wagner
- Radiologie Polyvalente et Oncologique, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, 47, bd de l'Hôpital, 75651 Paris Cedex 13, France; Sorbonne Université, CNRS, INSERM, Laboratoire d'Imagerie Biomédicale (LIB), Service de Radiologie, APHP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
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11
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Siddiqui MS, Idowu MO, Stromberg K, Sima A, Lee E, Patel S, Ghaus S, Driscoll C, Sterling RK, John B, Bhati CS. Diagnostic Performance of Vibration-Controlled Transient Elastography in Liver Transplant Recipients. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 19:367-374. [PMID: 32272251 PMCID: PMC7541402 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2020.03.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE) is a non-invasive tool for detecting hepatic steatosis and fibrosis in patients who have not received liver transplants. We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of VCTE in detection of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis in patients who have undergone liver transplantation. METHODS We performed a prospective study of 99 liver transplant recipients assessed by VCTE using a standard protocol. Controlled attenuation parameter cutoff values for pairwise steatosis grade and liver stiffness measurements (LSM) and cutoff values for pairwise fibrosis stage were determined using cross-validated area under the receiver operating characteristics (AUROC) curve analyses. We calculated sensitivity (fixed at 90%) and specificity (fixed at 90%) values. RESULTS A controlled attenuation parameter cutoff value of 270 dB/m detected any hepatic steatosis with an AUROC of 0.88 (95% CI, 0.78-0.93). VCTE detected steatosis grades 2-3 vs 0-1 with an AUROC of 0.94 (95% CI, 0.89-0.99) and steatosis grade 3 vs 0-2 was similar and AUROC of 0.89 (95% CI, 0.83-0.96). When we used an LSM cutoff value of 10.5 kPa, VCTE identified patients with advanced fibrosis (fibrosis stages ≥ 3) with an AUROC of 0.94 (95% CI, 0.88-0.99). At fixed sensitivity, the cutoff LSM value of 10.5k Pa excluded advanced fibrosis with a negative predictive value of 0.99. At fixed specificity, the cutoff LSM value of 16.9 kPa detected advanced fibrosis with a sensitivity of 0.86, a positive predictive value (PPV) of 0.40, and a negative predictive value of 0.99. CONCLUSIONS VCTE accurately detects hepatic steatosis and fibrosis in recipients of liver transplants. This non-invasive method might be used to identify patients in need of confirmatory liver biopsy analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Shadab Siddiqui
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Michael O Idowu
- Department of Pathology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Katharine Stromberg
- Department of Biostatistics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Adam Sima
- Department of Biostatistics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Emily Lee
- School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Samarth Patel
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Sophia Ghaus
- School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Carolyn Driscoll
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Richard K Sterling
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Binu John
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Chandra S Bhati
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia.
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12
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Diagnosis of Acute Rejection of Liver Grafts in Young Children Using Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse Imaging. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2020; 215:1229-1237. [PMID: 32877250 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.19.22057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE. Frequency of acute rejection (AR) after pediatric liver transplant remains high despite progress in immunosuppression. Liver biopsy (LB) is the reference standard for the diagnosis of AR despite its potential for morbidity. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the ability of acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) imaging to distinguish AR from other causes of short- and medium-term liver dysfunction and to identify liver transplant cases with normal liver function. MATERIALS AND METHODS. ARFI imaging was used to evaluate shear wave velocity (SWV) after liver transplant in young children. All pediatric liver grafts that had LB and ARFI examination between January 2014 and December 2017 were included in this retrospective study. Results of LB were compared with those of SWV. Collected data included age at biopsy and transplant, sex, weight, height, body mass index, interval between liver transplant and shear wave elastography and LB, kind of graft, type of donor, and diagnosis at transplant. ROC curve analysis was performed to assess the diagnostic performance of SWV. Optimal cutoff of SWV using ARFI imaging in predicting AR was identified using the Youden index. RESULTS. Statistical analysis was performed on 54 children; six of the original 60 were excluded because of confounding alterations or changes in outcome. Median SWV was higher in patients with AR (2.03 m/s; interquartile range [IQR], 1.80-2.45 m/s) compared with those with idiopathic hepatitis (1.33 m/s; IQR, 1.12-1.53 m/s), portal hypertension (1.42 m/s; IQR, 1.32-1.72 m/s), cholangitis (1.56 m/s; IQR, 1.07-1.62 m/s) or normal liver function (1.23 m/s; IQR 1.12-1.29 m/s) at protocol biopsies (all comparisons, p < 0.01). SWV higher than 1.73 m/s was predictive for AR (AUC, 0.966). SWV also showed good diagnostic accuracy in normal liver function (AUC, 0.791). ARFI imaging was not predictive for hepatitis (AUC, 0.402), portal hypertension (AUC, 0.556), or cholangitis (AUC, 0.420). CONCLUSION. ARFI imaging could be routinely used in place of LB in pediatric patients with liver dysfunction after liver transplant, restricting indication and risks of biopsy to selected cases.
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AIUM Practice Parameter for the Performance of an Ultrasound Examination of Solid-Organ Transplants. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2020; 39:E30-E38. [PMID: 32163638 DOI: 10.1002/jum.15261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
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14
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Bayramov N, Yilmaz S, Salahova S, Bashkiran A, Zeynalov N, Isazade E, Bayramova T. Liver Graft and Spleen Elastography After Living Liver Transplantation: Our First Results. Transplant Proc 2019; 51:2446-2450. [PMID: 31405739 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2019.01.184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
AIM OF THE STUDY Liver transplantation is widely applied as a standard and effective management of end-stage liver diseases, hepatocellular carcinoma, and acute liver failure. Investigation of morphologic and functional changes in the transplanted graft, gastrointestinal system, and spleen after transplantation is an important ground for assessment of post-transplantation results, early changes related to complications, and evaluation of response to treatment modalities. The aim of this study was to investigate the dynamics of changes in elastography of the liver graft and spleen after living-related liver transplantation. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study included 14 cirrhotic patients after living-related liver graft transplantation. Stiffness of the spleen and liver was evaluated before transplantation and at 1, 3, and 6 months after transplantation with a Supersonic Aixplorer Multi Wave device. Each procedure consisted of measuring the density in 10 points (spots) of the organ. The final result was calculated as the mean value of successful measurements (must have been > 60% of all measurements) and expressed in kilopascals. RESULTS The mean value of the liver and spleen stiffness before transplantation was 27 kPa (14-31 kPa) and 51 kPa (38-92 kPa), respectively. The stiffness of the spleen gradually reduced after transplantation to 40.3, 35.4, and 24.1 kPa (P = .001) at 1, 3, and 6 months. The stiffness of the liver graft in patients without complications was stable at 4-5 kPa, whereas the same value in patients with complications was increased (≥ 7.5 kPa). In 5 patients, endoscopic investigation confirmed the significant reduction of varicose veins after surgery. CONCLUSION Elastography of the liver graft and spleen after liver transplantation can be recommended as a useful-for-patient 1-off method of investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuru Bayramov
- Surgical Diseases Department, Azerbaijan Medical University, Baku, Azerbaijan
| | - Sezai Yilmaz
- Turgut Ozal Medical Center, Inonu University School of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Sevinj Salahova
- Surgical Diseases Department, Azerbaijan Medical University, Baku, Azerbaijan.
| | - Adil Bashkiran
- Turgut Ozal Medical Center, Inonu University School of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Nadir Zeynalov
- Surgical Diseases Department, Azerbaijan Medical University, Baku, Azerbaijan
| | - Elvin Isazade
- Surgical Diseases Department, Azerbaijan Medical University, Baku, Azerbaijan
| | - Terane Bayramova
- Obstetric-Gynecology Department, The Central Customs Hospital, Baku, Azerbaijan
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15
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Mauro E, Crespo G, Montironi C, Londoño MC, Hernández-Gea V, Ruiz P, Sastre L, Lombardo J, Mariño Z, Díaz A, Colmenero J, Rimola A, Garcia-Pagán JC, Brunet M, Forns X, Navasa M. Portal pressure and liver stiffness measurements in the prediction of fibrosis regression after sustained virological response in recurrent hepatitis C. Hepatology 2018; 67:1683-1694. [PMID: 28960366 DOI: 10.1002/hep.29557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2017] [Revised: 08/21/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Sustained virological response (SVR) improves survival in post-liver transplant (LT) recurrent hepatitis C. However, the impact of SVR on fibrosis regression is not well defined. In addition, the performance of noninvasive methods to evaluate the presence of fibrosis and portal hypertension (PH) post-SVR has been scarcely evaluated. We aimed to investigate the degree of fibrosis regression (decrease ≥1 METAVIR stage) after-SVR and its associated factors in recurrent hepatitis C, as well as the diagnostic capacity of noninvasive methods in the assessment of liver fibrosis and PH after viral clearance. We evaluated 112 hepatitis C virus-infected LT recipients who achieved SVR between 2001 and 2015. A liver biopsy was performed before treatment and 12 months post-SVR. Hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG), liver stiffness measurement (LSM), and Enhanced Liver Fibrosis (ELF) score were also determined at the same time points. Sixty-seven percent of the cohort presented fibrosis regression: 43% in recipients with cirrhosis and 72%-85% in the remaining stages (P = 0.002). HVPG, LSM, and ELF significantly decreased post-SVR. Liver function significantly improved, and survival was significantly better in patients achieving fibrosis regression. Baseline HVPG and LSM as well as decompensations before therapy were independent predictors of fibrosis regression. One year post-SVR, LSM had a high diagnostic accuracy to discard the presence of advanced fibrosis (AF) and clinically significant PH (AUROC, 0.902 and 0.888). CONCLUSION In conclusion, SVR post-LT induces fibrosis regression in most patients, leading to significant clinical benefits. Pretreatment HVPG and LSM are significant determinants of the likelihood of fibrosis regression. Finally, LSM accurately predicts the presence of AF and PH 1 year after SVR and thus can be used to determine monitoring strategies. (Hepatology 2018;67:1683-1694).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ezequiel Mauro
- Liver Transplant Unit, Liver Unit, IDIBAPS, CIBERehd, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain.,Liver Unit, Hospital Italiano, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gonzalo Crespo
- Liver Transplant Unit, Liver Unit, IDIBAPS, CIBERehd, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Virginia Hernández-Gea
- Barcelona Hemodynamics Laboratory, Liver Unit, IDIBAPS, CIBERehd, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pablo Ruiz
- Liver Transplant Unit, Liver Unit, IDIBAPS, CIBERehd, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lydia Sastre
- Liver Transplant Unit, Liver Unit, IDIBAPS, CIBERehd, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Julissa Lombardo
- Liver Transplant Unit, Liver Unit, IDIBAPS, CIBERehd, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Zoe Mariño
- Liver Unit, IDIBAPS, CIBERehd, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alba Díaz
- Pathology Department, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Colmenero
- Liver Transplant Unit, Liver Unit, IDIBAPS, CIBERehd, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Antoni Rimola
- Liver Transplant Unit, Liver Unit, IDIBAPS, CIBERehd, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan Carlos Garcia-Pagán
- Barcelona Hemodynamics Laboratory, Liver Unit, IDIBAPS, CIBERehd, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mercé Brunet
- Pharmacology and Toxicology, IDIBAPS, CIBERehd, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Forns
- Liver Unit, IDIBAPS, CIBERehd, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miquel Navasa
- Liver Transplant Unit, Liver Unit, IDIBAPS, CIBERehd, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
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16
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Bodro M, Sanclemente G, Crespo G, Linares L, Marcos MA, Marco F, Miquel R, Forns X, Navasa M, Moreno A. Severe Hepatitis C Recurrence as a Risk Factor for Opportunistic Infections in Liver Transplant Recipients. Transplant Proc 2018; 50:1437-1443. [PMID: 29880367 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2018.02.081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Revised: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 02/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to determine the clinical characteristics, frequency of opportunistic infections (OI), and the outcomes for liver transplant recipients with severe hepatitis C virus (HCV) recurrence. In addition, the objective was to evaluate HCV recurrence as a risk factor for developing an OI. METHODS We conducted a retrospective observational study recording all liver transplant recipients from July 1, 2003, to December 31, 2012. Patients with liver disease due to HCV were selected. Active surveillance of infections was conducted periodically, and patients were classified according to presence of severe HCV recurrence. RESULTS Three hundred seventy patients underwent liver transplantation because of chronic HCV. One hundred forty-seven patients presented severe recurrence (SR) (49%) and 50 (17%) of them had post-liver transplant cholestatic hepatitis C. Patients with SR presented OI, especially cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections and invasive fungal infections, more frequently than patients without SR (33% vs 13%; P < .001). From the diagnosis of SR to the presentation of OI, the median number of days was 169 (6-2083). Acute allograft rejection (OR 1.8 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1-3.3) donor age ≥60 years (OR 2.9 95% CI 1.3-6.8), and SR (OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.6-5.1) were independently associated with the development of OI in liver transplant recipients. CONCLUSION A high index of suspicion of opportunistic infections must be maintained when faced with severe HCV recurrence in liver transplant recipients. Moreover, active surveillance against CMV infection and other prophylactic strategies against opportunistic infections should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Bodro
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS-CIBERHED, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - G Sanclemente
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS-CIBERHED, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - G Crespo
- Liver Transplant Unit, Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS-CIBERHED, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - L Linares
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS-CIBERHED, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M A Marcos
- Microbiology Department, Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS-CIBERHED, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - F Marco
- Microbiology Department, Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS-CIBERHED, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - R Miquel
- Pathology Unit, Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS-CIBERHED, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - X Forns
- Liver Transplant Unit, Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS-CIBERHED, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Navasa
- Liver Transplant Unit, Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS-CIBERHED, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Moreno
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS-CIBERHED, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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17
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Performance of transient elastography and serum fibrosis biomarkers for non-invasive evaluation of recurrent fibrosis after liver transplantation: A meta-analysis. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0185192. [PMID: 28953939 PMCID: PMC5617176 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0185192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Recurrent fibrosis after liver transplantation (LT) impacts on long-term graft and patient survival. We performed a meta-analysis to compare the accuracy of non-invasive methods to diagnose significant recurrent fibrosis (stage F2-F4) following LT. Studies comparing serum fibrosis biomarkers, namely AST-to-platelet ratio index (APRI), fibrosis score 4 (FIB-4), or transient elastography (TE) with liver biopsy in LT recipients were systematically identified through electronic databases. In the meta-analysis, we calculated the weighted pooled odds ratio and used a fixed effect model, as there was no significant heterogeneity between studies. Eight studies were included for APRI, four for FIB-4, and twelve for TE. The mean prevalence of significant liver fibrosis was 37.4%. The summary odds ratio was significantly higher for TE (21.17, 95% CI confidence interval 14.10–31.77, p = 1X10-30) as compared to APRI (9.02, 95% CI 5.79–14.07; p = 1X10-30) and FIB-4 (7.08, 95% CI 4.00–12.55; p = 1.93X10-11). In conclusion, TE performs best to diagnose recurrent fibrosis in LT recipients. APRI and FIB-4 can be used as an estimate of significant fibrosis at centres where TE is not available. Longitudinal assessment of fibrosis by means of these non-invasive tests may reduce the need for liver biopsy.
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18
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Russo FP, Zanetto A, Burra P. Timing for treatment of HCV recurrence after liver transplantation: the earlier the better. Transpl Int 2017; 29:694-7. [PMID: 26713429 DOI: 10.1111/tri.12739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 12/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alberto Zanetto
- Multivisceral Transplant Unit, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - Patrizia Burra
- Multivisceral Transplant Unit, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
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19
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Long-term Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Liver Transplantation for Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis-Related Cirrhosis. Transplantation 2017; 101:1867-1874. [PMID: 28296807 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000001709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a clinically aggressive variant of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is becoming an increasingly common indication for liver transplantation (LT); however, relatively little is known regarding its clinical course post-LT. The aim of the current study is to describe disease recurrence and clinical course after LT. METHODS All surviving patients transplanted for NASH at the authors' institution had transient elastography (TE) to evaluate hepatic steatosis and fibrosis. The charts of deceased patients were reviewed for liver biopsy to evaluate for disease recurrence. Finally, causes of mortality in these patients were evaluated. RESULTS Of the 103 patients who met criteria, 56 had TE, whereas 34 had a liver biopsy. Steatosis was detected in 49 (87.5%) of the patients who had a TE and were defined to have recurrent NAFLD. Most patients had liver stiffness measurements consistent with no fibrosis (42.9%) or F1-F2 fibrosis (30.4%). Advanced fibrosis was noted in 26.8%, whereas 5.4% had cirrhosis but were clinically compensated. In patients with liver biopsy, 88.2% had recurrent NAFLD, whereas 41.2% had recurrent NASH. Bridging fibrosis was noted in 20.6% of patients but no patients had cirrhosis. Within the cohort, 32 patients died with the leading cause of mortality cancer (25%), infectious complications (25%), and cardiovascular disease (21.9%). Only 9% of deaths were attributable to graft cirrhosis. CONCLUSIONS Recurrent NAFLD is common post-LT occurring in nearly 88% of all patients, whereas nearly a quarter of patients were noted to have advanced fibrosis.
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Gambato M, Crespo G, Torres F, LLovet L, Carrión J, Londoño M, Lens S, Mariño Z, Bartres C, Miquel R, Navasa M, Forns X. Simple prediction of long-term clinical outcomes in patients with mild hepatitis C recurrence after liver transplantation. Transpl Int 2017; 29:698-706. [PMID: 26661662 DOI: 10.1111/tri.12730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2015] [Revised: 08/20/2015] [Accepted: 12/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about the long-term outcomes of mild hepatitis C recurrence after liver transplantation (LT). In an era where most patients request treatment with direct acting antivirals (DAAs), data on the natural history in these patients are relevant. We have prospectively assessed the clinical outcomes of 173 patients with mild hepatitis C recurrence 1 year after LT. The endpoints were cirrhosis development (F = 4, HVPG ≥10 mmHg, liver stiffness measurement ≥14 kPa) and HCV-related graft loss. After a median follow-up of 80 months, the cumulative probability (CP) of HCV-related graft loss 5 and 10 years after LT were only 3% and 10%, respectively. Graft cirrhosis developed in 26 (15%) patients over time, with a CP of 13% and 30% at 5 and 10 years after LT, respectively. The CP of cirrhosis 5 years after LT was only 8% in patients with a donor <50 years and AST <60 IU/l 1 year after LT (n = 67), compared with 46% in those 24 individuals with both risk factors. Our data support an excellent long-term outcome of patients with mild hepatitis C recurrence 1 year after LT. There are, however, some patients progressing to cirrhosis who can be easily identified and who should receive prompt antiviral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Gambato
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, CIBEREHD and IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gonzalo Crespo
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, CIBEREHD and IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ferran Torres
- Medical Statistics Core Facility, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain.,Biostatistics Unit, School of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura LLovet
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, CIBEREHD and IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - José Carrión
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, CIBEREHD and IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Londoño
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, CIBEREHD and IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sabela Lens
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, CIBEREHD and IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Zoe Mariño
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, CIBEREHD and IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Concepció Bartres
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, CIBEREHD and IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rosa Miquel
- Pathology Department, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miquel Navasa
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, CIBEREHD and IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Forns
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, CIBEREHD and IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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21
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Mikołajczyk-Korniak N, Tronina O, Ślubowska K, Perkowska-Ptasińska A, Pacholczyk M, Bączkowska T, Durlik M. Dynamic Elastography in Diagnostics of Liver Fibrosis in Patients After Liver Transplantation Due to Cirrhosis in the Course of Hepatitis C. Transplant Proc 2017; 48:1725-9. [PMID: 27496480 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2016.01.081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2015] [Accepted: 01/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Assessment of the dynamics and degree of liver fibrosis in patients after liver transplantation is a basic element in the process of determining transplant survival prognosis. It allows planning and early initiation of prophylaxis or treatment, which translates into increased chances of preventing cirrhosis and of long-term optimal function of the graft. The aim of this study was to compare the results of biopsy and dynamic elastography in diagnostics of transplanted liver fibrosis, as well as determination of the stiffness cut-off point for assessment of significant fibrosis. PATIENTS AND METHODS The study included 36 patients who had undergone liver transplantation due to cirrhosis in the course of hepatitis C virus (HVC) infection. Fibrosis was assessed in bioptates according to the METAVIR score (F0-F4). Elastography was performed using FibroScan; receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to identify the cut-off point for significant fibrosis (≥F2). RESULTS The median stiffness in kPa for the whole group F0-F4 was 6.3 (range 3.4-29.9); for ≥F2 it was 6.9 (3.4-29.9), whereas for F0-F1 it was 4.4 (3.5-8.0). It was demonstrated that the value of 4.7 kPa in elastography is a statistically significant cut-off point for differentiation between the groups F0-F1 and F2-F4 (sensitivity: 93%, specificity: 57%, positive predictive value: 90%, negative predictive value: 66%), area under the receiver operating characteristic curve: 0.746 (95% confidence interval: 0.53-0.95, P < .05). CONCLUSIONS Elastography is a promising tool for noninvasive assessment of significant liver fibrosis in patients after transplantation due to cirrhosis in the course of hepatitis C; it allows reduction in the number of biopsies performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Mikołajczyk-Korniak
- Department of Transplantation Medicine, Nephrology and Internal Diseases, Transplantation Institute, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - O Tronina
- Department of Transplantation Medicine, Nephrology and Internal Diseases, Transplantation Institute, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - K Ślubowska
- Department of Transplantation Medicine, Nephrology and Internal Diseases, Transplantation Institute, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - A Perkowska-Ptasińska
- Department of Transplantation Medicine, Nephrology and Internal Diseases, Transplantation Institute, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - M Pacholczyk
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantology, Transplantation Institute, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - T Bączkowska
- Department of Transplantation Medicine, Nephrology and Internal Diseases, Transplantation Institute, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - M Durlik
- Department of Transplantation Medicine, Nephrology and Internal Diseases, Transplantation Institute, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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22
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Incidence and Predictors of Advanced Liver Fibrosis by a Validated Serum Biomarker in Liver Transplant Recipients. Can J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2017; 2017:4381864. [PMID: 28409147 PMCID: PMC5376470 DOI: 10.1155/2017/4381864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2015] [Accepted: 06/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims. Serum fibrosis biomarkers have shown good accuracy in the liver transplant (LT) population. We employed a simple serum biomarker to elucidate incidence and predictors of advanced fibrosis after LT over a long follow-up period. Methods. We included 440 consecutive patients who underwent LT between 1991 and 2013. Advanced liver fibrosis was defined as FIB-4 > 3.25 beyond 12 months after LT. Results. Over 2030.5 person-years (PY) of follow-up, 189 (43%) developed FIB-4 > 3.25, accounting for an incidence of 9.3/100 PY (95% confidence interval [CI], 8.1-10.7). Advanced fibrosis was predicted by chronic HCV infection (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 3.96, 95% CI 2.92-5.36, p < 0.001), hypoalbuminemia (aHR = 2.31, 95% CI 1.72-3.09; p < 0.001), and hyponatremia (aHR = 1.48, 95% CI 1.09-2.01; p = 0.01). LT recipients with more than 1 predictor had a higher incidence of advanced fibrosis, the highest being when all 3 predictors coexisted (log-rank: p < 0.001). Conclusions. Chronic HCV infection, hypoalbuminemia, and hyponatremia predict progression to advanced liver fibrosis following LT. Patients with these risk factors should be serially monitored using noninvasive fibrosis biomarkers and prioritized for interventions.
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23
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Rinaldi L, Valente G, Piai G. Serial Liver Stiffness Measurements and Monitoring of Liver-Transplanted Patients in a Real-Life Clinical Practice. HEPATITIS MONTHLY 2016; 16:e41162. [PMID: 28123442 PMCID: PMC5237578 DOI: 10.5812/hepatmon.41162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2016] [Revised: 10/15/2016] [Accepted: 10/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver transplanted patients need close surveillance for early signs of graft disease. OBJECTIVES Transient elastography can safely be repeated over time, offering serial liver stiffness measurement values. Serial stiffness measurements were compared to single baseline stiffness measurements in predicting the appearance of liver-related clinical events and guiding subsequent clinical decisions. METHODS One hundred and sixty liver transplanted patients were observed for three years in our real-life practice. RESULTS Liver stiffness measurements were stable in 75% of patients, decreased in 4% of patients, and increased in 21% of patients. The pattern of increased stiffness measurements was associated with both HCV-RNA positive status and the presence of an active biliary complication of liver transplantation and was more predictive of a clinically significant event resulting from any disease of the transplanted liver when compared to a stable pattern or to a single liver stiffness measurement. The procedures that were consequently performed were often diagnostic for unexpected situations, both in HCV-RNA positive and HCV-RNA negative patients. CONCLUSIONS The pattern of longitudinally increased liver stiffness measurements efficiently supported clinical decisions for individualized management strategies. Repeated transient elastography in real-life clinical practice appears to have a practical role in monitoring liver transplanted patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Rinaldi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Oncology, Liver Unit, AORN S. Anna and S. Sebastiano, Caserta, Italy
| | - Giovanna Valente
- Department of Medical and Surgical Oncology, Liver Unit, AORN S. Anna and S. Sebastiano, Caserta, Italy
| | - Guido Piai
- Department of Medical and Surgical Oncology, Liver Unit, AORN S. Anna and S. Sebastiano, Caserta, Italy
- Corresponding Author: Guido Piai, MD, Liver Unit (SATTE), Department of Medical and Surgical Oncology, AORN Sant’Anna e San Sebastiano, via Palasciano, 81100 Caserta, Italy. Tel: +39-0823232366, Fax: +39-08231761357, E-mail:
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24
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Kelly D, Verkade HJ, Rajanayagam J, McKiernan P, Mazariegos G, Hübscher S. Late graft hepatitis and fibrosis in pediatric liver allograft recipients: Current concepts and future developments. Liver Transpl 2016; 22:1593-1602. [PMID: 27543906 DOI: 10.1002/lt.24616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2016] [Accepted: 08/06/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Liver transplantation (LT) in children now has a 20-year survival of >80%, but the longterm outcome of these grafts remains uncertain. Serial protocol liver biopsies after transplantation from several pediatric centres have demonstrated the gradual development of unexplained graft inflammation ("idiopathic" posttransplant hepatitis; IPTH) and graft fibrosis in biopsies obtained >12 months post-LT in children with good graft function and (near) normal liver biochemistry. Although the clinical significance of these findings is uncertain, there is evidence to suggest that IPTH may be a form of rejection or chronic antibody-mediated rejection as it is associated with the presence of auto/alloantibodies; de novo Class II donor-specific HLA antibodies (DSA); previous episodes of rejection, and may improve or be prevented with increased immunosuppression. Currently, the only method of diagnosing either hepatitis or fibrosis has been by serial protocol biopsies as neither serum markers of fibrosis nor noninvasive methods to detect fibrosis such as transient elastography (TE) are sufficiently validated in children. This review will focus on the diagnosis and management of idiopathic posttransplant hepatitis and graft fibrosis, discuss current methods for detecting graft injury, and potential mechanisms for their development. Liver Transplantation 22 1593-1602 2016 AASLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deirdre Kelly
- Liver Unit, Birmingham Children's Hospital and University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
| | - Henkjan J Verkade
- Department of Pediatrics, Beatrix Children's Hospital/University Medical Center, Groningen University, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Patrick McKiernan
- Liver Unit, Birmingham Children's Hospital and University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - George Mazariegos
- Hillman Center for Pediatric Transplantation, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Stefan Hübscher
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom.,Department of Cellular Pathology, University Hospitals Birmingham, National Health Service Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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25
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Pérez-Latorre L, Rivero-Juárez A, Hontañón V, Díez C, Cuenca F, Martín-Carbonero ML, Montes ML, Bellón JM, Aldámiz-Echevarría T, Carrero A, Rivero A, González-García J, Berenguer J. Prognostic Value of Transient Elastography in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C. Open Forum Infect Dis 2016; 3:ofw212. [PMID: 27833930 PMCID: PMC5102143 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofw212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 10/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our objective was to study the prognostic value of liver stiffness (LS) in HIV-infected patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC). METHODS We analyzed HIV-infected patients with compensated CHC and at least 1 determination of LS. The primary outcome was the occurrence of liver-related events (LRE), namely, decompensation or hepatocellular carcinoma, whichever occurred first. We selected patients without sustained viral response (SVR) or end-of-treatment response (ETR) during follow-up and allocated them to an estimation cohort (EC) and a validation cohort (VC). RESULTS The study population comprised 1292 patients. After a median follow-up of 5.8 years, 90 patients experienced LRE and 73 died. In the subgroup of 957 patients without SVR or ETR, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUROCs) (95% confidence interval [CI]) of LS for prediction of LRE in the EC (n = 634) and the VC (n = 323) were 0.87 and 0.88, respectively. The best cutoff value of LS to rule out LRE in the EC was 12 kPa, with a negative predictive value of 98.3% in the EC and 98.2% in the VC. Per each 1 kPa and 5 kPa increase above 12 kPa, the hazard ratio of LRE (taking into account death as a competing risk) was 1.07 (95% CI, 1.05-1.08) and 1.38 (95% CI, 1.31-1.46), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Liver stiffness is very accurate for predicting LRE in coinfected patients. Patients with an LS <12 kPa had a 98% probability of not developing LRE after a median follow-up of almost 6 years. Above the 12-kPa cutoff, the hazard of LRE increases proportionally with LS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leire Pérez-Latorre
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas/VIH, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Rivero-Juárez
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba, Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, Universidad de Córdoba, Spain
| | - Víctor Hontañón
- Unidad de VIH, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Paz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Díez
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas/VIH, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisca Cuenca
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba, Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, Universidad de Córdoba, Spain
| | - Maria Luz Martín-Carbonero
- Unidad de VIH, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Paz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain
| | - María L. Montes
- Unidad de VIH, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Paz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain
| | - José M. Bellón
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas/VIH, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Teresa Aldámiz-Echevarría
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas/VIH, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Carrero
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas/VIH, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Rivero
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba, Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, Universidad de Córdoba, Spain
| | - Juan González-García
- Unidad de VIH, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Paz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Berenguer
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas/VIH, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
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26
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Abstract
Over the past decade, several advances have been made in the non-invasive assessment of liver fibrosis. Both serum markers and imaging-based tissue elastography predict the presence of advanced fibrosis compared with liver biopsy. Serum markers may be indirect or direct markers of liver structure and function. Imaging-based techniques measure liver stiffness as a surrogate for fibrosis and include ultrasound and MRI-based methods. Most non-invasive techniques work well at identifying subjects at the extremes of fibrosis but may not accurately discern intermediate stages. In addition to being a diagnostic tool, elastography may have an evolving role in prognosis. Increasing stiffness is associated with higher rates of liver decompensation, need for transplantation, hepatocellular carcinoma, and death. There are special populations of patients where elastography may serve as a non-invasive method to impart useful clinical information, such as patients after liver transplantation, those with congenital heart disease and those being treated for chronic viral hepatitis. The role of non-invasive markers in accurately predicting the presence of fibrosis in obese patients needs to be further refined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Hagan
- a 1 Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | | | - Jayant Talwalkar
- b 2 Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
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27
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Crespo G, Gambato M, Millán O, Casals G, Ruiz P, Londoño MC, Mira A, Forns X, Brunet M, Jiménez W, Navasa M. Early non-invasive selection of patients at high risk of severe hepatitis C recurrence after liver transplantation. Transpl Infect Dis 2016; 18:471-9. [PMID: 26992003 DOI: 10.1111/tid.12526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2015] [Revised: 12/04/2015] [Accepted: 01/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The early identification of patients at high risk of severe post liver transplant hepatitis C recurrence is relevant, as these patients may be treated using interferon (IFN)-free regimens. METHODS In a retrospective study with prospectively collected data, we investigated whether the use of several non-invasive methods (fibrosis 4 index [FIB-4], AST-to-platelets ratio index [APRI], enhanced liver fibrosis test [ELF], IFN-γ-inducible protein 10 [IP-10], and transient elastography by Fibroscan) and their combinations 6 months after transplantation could identify those recipients at higher risk of severe recurrence, defined by the presence of significant fibrosis (F ≥2) and/or portal hypertension (hepatic venous pressure gradient ≥6 mmHg) 12 months after transplant. Seventy-two hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected liver transplant patients and 10 recipients in whom HCV was eradicated before transplantation were included in the study. RESULTS The levels of all biomarkers were significantly higher in HCV-infected recipients than in controls. Among HCV recipients, levels of biomarkers were significantly higher in patients with severe recurrence. Although there were no statistically significant differences between biomarkers, APRI, ELF, and FIB-4 obtained the highest area under the ROC curve values. The combination of serum biomarkers with Fibroscan increased the negative and positive predictive values, although diagnostic accuracy of individual tests was not significantly improved. CONCLUSIONS Patients at higher risk of severe HCV recurrence can be identified early, 6 months after transplantation, using readily available non-invasive methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Crespo
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Gambato
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - O Millán
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - G Casals
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - P Ruiz
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M C Londoño
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Mira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - X Forns
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Brunet
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - W Jiménez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Navasa
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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28
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Crespo G, Castro-Narro G, García-Juárez I, Benítez C, Ruiz P, Sastre L, Colmenero J, Miquel R, Sánchez-Fueyo A, Forns X, Navasa M. Usefulness of liver stiffness measurement during acute cellular rejection in liver transplantation. Liver Transpl 2016; 22:298-304. [PMID: 26609794 DOI: 10.1002/lt.24376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2015] [Revised: 10/19/2015] [Accepted: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Liver stiffness measurement (LSM) is a useful method to estimate liver fibrosis and portal hypertension. The inflammatory process that takes place in post-liver transplant acute cellular rejection (ACR) may also increase liver stiffness. We aimed to explore the association between liver stiffness and the severity of ACR, as well as to assess the relationship between liver stiffness and response to rejection treatment in a prospective study that included 27 liver recipients with biopsy-proven ACR, 30 stable recipients with normal liver tests, and 30 hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected LT recipients with histologically diagnosed HCV recurrence. Patients with rejection were stratified into 2 groups (mild and moderate/severe) according to the severity of rejection evaluated with the Banff score. Routine biomarkers and LSM with FibroScan were performed at the time of liver biopsy (baseline) and at 7, 30, and 90 days in patients with rejection and at baseline in control patients. Median baseline liver stiffness was 5.9 kPa in the mild rejection group, 11 kPa in the moderate/severe group (P = 0.001), 4.2 kPa in stable recipients (P = 0.02 versus mild rejection), and 13.6 kPa in patients with recurrent HCV (P = 0.17 versus moderate/severe rejection). The area under the receiver operator characteristic curve of LSM to discriminate mild versus moderate/severe ACR was 0.924, and a LSM value of 8.5 kPa yielded a positive predictive value of 100% to diagnose moderate/severe rejection. Liver stiffness improved in 7%, 21%, and 64% of patients with moderate/severe rejection at 7, 30, and 90 days. In conclusion, according to the results of this exploratory study, LSM is associated with the severity of ACR in liver transplantation and thus may be of help in its assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Graciela Castro-Narro
- Department of Gastroenterology, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico DF, Mexico
| | - Ignacio García-Juárez
- Department of Gastroenterology, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico DF, Mexico
| | - Carlos Benítez
- Liver Transplant Unit, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Pablo Ruiz
- Liver Unit, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lydia Sastre
- Liver Unit, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Rosa Miquel
- Pathology Department, Hospital Clínic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Xavier Forns
- Liver Unit, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miquel Navasa
- Liver Unit, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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29
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30
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Abstract
Noninvasive methods are increasingly used for the assessment of liver fibrosis. Two categories of markers include serum-based markers (biologic properties) or ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging-based techniques that use the principles of elastography (physical properties) to indirectly assess liver fibrosis. Serum markers can be either direct or indirect markers of the fibrosis process. Common elastography-based studies include vibration-controlled transient elastography, point shear wave elastography, and 2-dimensional shear wave elastography and magnetic resonance elastography. A common theme among all techniques is the inability to accurately differentiate between minimal or moderate stages of fibrosis but superior performance in identifying subjects with cirrhosis or normal liver parenchyma. Noninvasive markers may also serve as prognostic tools to course the natural history of chronic liver disease as well as identify cirrhotic patients at highest risk of future decompensation. Further research is needed to identify the role of noninvasive markers in following asymptomatic individuals, especially in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
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31
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Bhat M, Ghali P, Rollet-Kurhajec KC, Bhat A, Wong P, Deschenes M, Sebastiani G. Serum fibrosis biomarkers predict death and graft loss in liver transplantation recipients. Liver Transpl 2015; 21:1383-94. [PMID: 26194602 DOI: 10.1002/lt.24217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2015] [Revised: 06/25/2015] [Accepted: 07/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Noninvasive serum fibrosis biomarkers predict clinical outcomes in pretransplant patients with chronic liver disease. We investigated the role of serum fibrosis biomarkers and of changes in biomarkers in predicting death and graft loss after liver transplantation (LT). We included 547 patients who underwent LT between 1991 and 2012 and who met the following criteria: patient and graft survival > 12 months; serum fibrosis biomarkers aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI), fibrosis score 4 (FIB-4), and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) fibrosis score available at 1 year after LT; and a minimum follow-up of 1 year. Delta of fibrosis biomarkers was defined as (end of follow-up score--baseline score)/follow-up duration. Baseline and delta fibrosis biomarkers were associated with death: APRI > 1.5 (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 2.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.4-3.3; P < 0.001) and delta APRI > 0.5 (aHR, 5.3; 95% CI, 3.4-8.2; P < 0.001); FIB-4 > 3.3 (aHR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.3-2.8; P = 0.002) and delta FIB-4 > 1.4 (aHR, 2.4; 95% CI, 1.4-4.1; P = 0.001); and NAFLD fibrosis score > 0.7 (aHR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.3-2.9; P = 0.002) and delta NAFLD fibrosis score (aHR, 3.7; 95% CI, 2.6-5.4; P < 0.001). Baseline and delta fibrosis biomarkers were associated also with graft loss. In conclusion, serum fibrosis biomarkers 1 year after LT and changes in serum fibrosis biomarkers predict death and graft loss in LT recipients. They may help in risk stratification of LT recipients and identify patients requiring closer monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamatha Bhat
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
| | - Peter Ghali
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
| | - Kathleen C Rollet-Kurhajec
- Chronic Viral Illness Service, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
| | - Aparna Bhat
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
| | - Philip Wong
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
| | - Marc Deschenes
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
| | - Giada Sebastiani
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada.,Chronic Viral Illness Service, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
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Lutz HH, Schroeter B, Kroy DC, Neumann U, Trautwein C, Tischendorf JJW. Doppler Ultrasound and Transient Elastography in Liver Transplant Patients for Noninvasive Evaluation of Liver Fibrosis in Comparison with Histology: A Prospective Observational Study. Dig Dis Sci 2015; 60:2825-31. [PMID: 25972148 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-015-3682-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2014] [Accepted: 04/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Accurate quantification of progressive liver disease is essential for therapeutic decisions and follow-up for patients who underwent liver transplantation. To evaluate the quality of noninvasive assessment of liver fibrosis in these patients, we compared Doppler ultrasound of the hepatic blood vessels as well as transient elastography (TE, FibroScan(®)) with liver biopsy following transplantation. METHODS We performed Doppler ultrasound of the hepatic veins, hepatic artery, and portal vein as well as a TE in 48 patients who underwent liver transplantation 12 months ago. Hepatic venous flow was evaluated by determination of the resistance index (HVRI) of the right hepatic vein. Doppler and TE results were compared with histopathologic workup of a 12-month protocol liver biopsy after transplantation. RESULTS HVRI showed a high reliability in predicting liver fibrosis stage FII or higher (AUROC of 0.99 ± 0.001 for FII or higher, the HVRI < 1.05 with a sensitivity and specificity of 100 and 91.43 %) compared to histopathologic workup (Desmet's score) and was comparable to TE analysis. Both HVRI and TE differed significantly in no or minimal fibrosis versus FII or higher (p < 0.001). In contrast, portal vein and hepatic artery did not show significant changes in blood flow in our study population. CONCLUSIONS Hepatic vein flow resistance index is a valuable tool in noninvasive evaluation of liver fibrosis in liver transplantation follow-up predicting FII or higher and might help reducing the number of protocol biopsies needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- H H Lutz
- Medical Department III (Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Metabolic Diseases), University Hospital Aachen (RWTH), Pauwelstr. 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
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EASL-ALEH Clinical Practice Guidelines: Non-invasive tests for evaluation of liver disease severity and prognosis. J Hepatol 2015; 63:237-64. [PMID: 25911335 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2015.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1215] [Impact Index Per Article: 135.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2015] [Accepted: 04/09/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Radiology in Transplant. CURRENT TRANSPLANTATION REPORTS 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s40472-014-0034-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Gambato M, Lens S, Navasa M, Forns X. Treatment options in patients with decompensated cirrhosis, pre- and post-transplantation. J Hepatol 2014; 61:S120-31. [PMID: 25443340 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2014.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2014] [Revised: 07/03/2014] [Accepted: 07/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Interferon-based treatments have a poor safety profile and limited efficacy in patients with advanced liver disease and in patients with hepatitis C (HCV) recurrence after liver transplantation (LT). Despite the recent approval of the first interferon-free regimen, which will be followed by several other interferon-free combinations in 2014 and 2015, data in patients with advanced cirrhosis and hepatitis C after LT are still limited. One study has already proven the concept that graft HCV infection can be prevented in a significant proportion of patients by treating them with sofosbuvir and ribavirin while awaiting LT. Two interferon-free regimens have also demonstrated a high efficacy in patients with hepatitis C recurrence after transplantation. Before these treatment strategies can be implemented in clinical practice, a few issues need to be addressed: (1) safety and efficacy of new antivirals in patients with decompensated cirrhosis, (2) the impact of viral clearance on liver function, (3) the potential consequences of virological failure (and the selection of multi-drug resistant HCV strains) in patients with decompensated cirrhosis or with severe hepatitis C recurrence after LT, and (4) drug-drug interactions (DDI) profiles. Finally, in the transplant setting it is also relevant to learn which strategy is most cost-effective in minimizing the negative impact of hepatitis C: preventing graft infection by treating patients before transplantation or treating hepatitis C recurrence after LT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Gambato
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBEREHD, University of Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sabela Lens
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBEREHD, University of Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miquel Navasa
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBEREHD, University of Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Forns
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS and CIBEREHD, University of Barcelona, Spain.
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Verna EC. Hepatitis viruses and liver transplantation: evolving trends in antiviral management. Clin Liver Dis 2014; 18:575-601. [PMID: 25017077 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2014.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Viral hepatitis is both a leading indication for liver transplant (LT) and an important cause of posttransplant graft loss and mortality. Treatment and prevention of hepatitis B virus in LT recipients, with the observed corresponding improvement in post-LT outcomes, is among the great success stories in transplantation. By comparison, treatment of hepatitis C virus with safe and effective regimens is only just becoming a reality. Chronic hepatitis E virus infection in LT recipients represents a newly described phenomenon that can also lead to graft loss; early diagnosis and treatment may be key in the management of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth C Verna
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, 622 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA.
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Bunchorntavakul C, Reddy KR. Management of Hepatitis C Before and After Liver Transplantation in the Era of Rapidly Evolving Therapeutic Advances. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2014; 2:124-33. [PMID: 26357623 PMCID: PMC4521260 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2014.00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2014] [Revised: 02/13/2014] [Accepted: 02/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Management of hepatitis C (HCV) in liver transplantation (LT) population presents unique challenges. Suboptimal graft survival in HCV+ LT recipients is attributable to universal HCV recurrence following LT. Although eradication of HCV prior to LT is ideal for the prevention of HCV recurrence it is often limited by adverse events, particularly in patients with advanced cirrhosis. Antiviral therapy in LT candidates needs careful monitoring, and prophylaxis with HCV antibodies is ineffective. Early antiviral therapy after LT has been investigated, but no clear benefit has been demonstrated. Protocol liver biopsy is generally recommended in HCV+ LT recipients, and antiviral therapy can be considered in those with severe/progressive HCV recurrence. Sustained virological response (SVR) can be achieved in approximately 30% of LT recipients with pegylated interferon/ribavirin (PEG-IFN/RBV) with survival benefit, but adverse effects are common. Favorable patient characteristics for response to therapy include non-1 genotype, previously untreated, low baseline HCV-RNA, and donor IL28B genotype CC. Direct acting antiviral (DAA)-based triple therapy is associated with higher rates of SVR, but with similar or slightly higher rates of side effects, and immunosuppressive regimens need to be closely monitored and adjusted during the treatment period. Notably, the safety and efficacy of HCV treatment are very likely to improve with newer generation DAA. The benefit of immunosuppressive strategy on the natural history HCV recurrence has not been well elucidated. Based upon available evidence, cyclosporine A (CSA), mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), and sirolimus appear to have a neutral or small beneficial impact on HCV recurrence. Donor interleukin 28 B (IL28B) polymorphisms appear to impact the course and treatment outcomes in recurrent HCV. Retransplantation should be considered for patients with reasonable survival probability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chalermrat Bunchorntavakul
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Rajavithi Hospital, College of Medicine, Rangsit University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - K. Rajender Reddy
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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