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Jiang H, Yu H, Huang Y, Li M, Yang B, Xi X, Lei Y, Wu B, Yang Y. Natural History and Prognosis of Chronic Hepatitis B Patients in the Indeterminate Phase. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024. [PMID: 39690940 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.16849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2024] [Revised: 11/19/2024] [Accepted: 12/02/2024] [Indexed: 12/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS In chronic hepatitis B (CHB), an indeterminate phase exists outside the typical predefined phases. Our study investigates this indeterminate phase's natural history and prognosis, focusing on antiviral treatment outcomes. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study to compare the risk of transitioning to immune active phase between inactive and indeterminate CHB and the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cirrhosis between untreated patients with indeterminate CHB (at baseline and throughout follow-up) and those who received treatment, following standard AASLD 2018 guidance. RESULTS The risk of transitioning to the immune active phase over 3, 5, and 10 years was 6.3%, 8.9%, and 14.2%, respectively, for inactive phase patients (n = 104). For HBeAg-negative indeterminate phase patients (n = 194), the risk was significantly higher at 23.0%, 31.9%, and 38.2%, and for HBeAg-positive indeterminate phase patients (n = 140), it was 40.4%, 52.0%, and 55.0% (p < 0.001). Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) was utilized to balance the groups of treated and untreated indeterminate patients. Following IPTW adjustment, the Kaplan-Meier curve analysis indicates that the risk of HCC and cirrhosis among untreated patients (n = 294) is higher than that among treated patients (n = 76), (p = 0.015 and 0.007, respectively). In the multivariable analysis, antiviral therapy remained an independent predictor of a reduced risk of HCC (aHR 0.128, 95% CI 0.031-0.522, p = 0.005) and cirrhosis (aHR 0.148, 95% CI 0.044-0.496, p = 0.002). CONCLUSION The indeterminate phase patients had a high-risk transition to active phase, and antiviral therapy can reduce the incidence of developing HCC and cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongsheng Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yinan Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingkai Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Bilan Yang
- Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Center, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoli Xi
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiming Lei
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yidong Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
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2
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Mak L, Yee LJ, Wong RJ, Ramers CB, Frenette C, Hsu Y. Hepatocellular carcinoma among patients with chronic hepatitis B in the indeterminate phase. J Viral Hepat 2024; 31 Suppl 2:27-35. [PMID: 38717914 PMCID: PMC11619554 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2024]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a dynamic disease where patients progress through several stages defined by HBV e-antigen (HBeAg) status, HBV-DNA levels and transaminase elevations, with antiviral therapy indicated only in specific stages. However, some patients cannot be classified into one of the stages and are said to fall into an 'indeterminate phase' or 'grey zone'. Exact definitions of the indeterminate phase vary from guideline to guideline as a result of different cut-off values for biomarker measurements. Data suggest that as many as 50% of HBV patients may be in an indeterminate phase and may not rapidly transition out of this phase. Clinical data that suggest these patients are at increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are complemented by molecular evidence of integrations of HBV-DNA into the host genome, chromosomal translocations and immune activation despite liver enzymes that may suggest lack of inflammation. Antiviral therapy reduces these hepatocarcinogenic mechanisms and is reflected in a reduction of fibrosis and HCC risk. We review key data on patients in the indeterminate phase, with emphasis on HCC as an outcome. We take a holistic approach and link new biological data with clinical observations as well as examine the potential role of antiviral therapy in reducing HCC risk among patients in the indeterminate phase. With the availability of safe and effective oral antivirals, consideration must be given as to how much residual risk of HCC should be tolerated among patients in the indeterminate phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lung‐Yi Mak
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary HospitalThe University of Hong KongHong KongSpecial Administrative RegionChina
| | | | - Robert J. Wong
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyStanford University School of MedicinePalo AltoCaliforniaUSA
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyVeterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care SystemPalo AltoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Christian B. Ramers
- Laura Rodriguez Research InstituteFamily Health Centers of San DiegoSan DiegoCaliforniaUSA
- University of CaliforniaSan Diego School of MedicineLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
| | | | - Yao‐Chun Hsu
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyE‐Da HospitalKaohsiungTaiwan
- School of Medicine, College of MedicineI‐Shou UniversityKaohsiungTaiwan
- Institute of Biomedical InformaticsNational Yang Ming Chiao Tung UniversityTaipeiTaiwan
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyFu‐Jen Catholic University HospitalNew TaipeiTaiwan
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Zhou J, Wang FD, Li LQ, Li YJ, Wang SY, Chen EQ. Nucleos(t)ide analogs to treat patients with positive hepatitis B virus deoxyribonucleic acid and normal alanine transaminase: protocol for an open-label single-center randomized parallel controlled trial. Trials 2024; 25:652. [PMID: 39363218 PMCID: PMC11448396 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-024-08433-x] [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: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 10/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Direct high-quality evidence remains absent on the benefits of HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B patients (CHB) with normal alanine transaminase (ALT) and positive HBV DNA after nucleos(t)ide analogs (NAs) treatment. METHODS This is a single-center, open-label, randomized parallel controlled trial with a follow-up duration of 96 weeks. An estimated 300 patients will be recruited at West China Hospital of Sichuan University, China. After stratified by serum HBV DNA (< 2000 vs. ≥ 2000 IU/ml), eligible patients will be randomized (allocation ratio 1:1) to receive either antiviral therapy (the treatment group) or regular examination alone (the control group). The primary outcomes are rates of virological response and changes in the levels of serum HBV pregenomic RNA (pgRNA) and scores of health-related qualities of life. DISCUSSION This randomized controlled trial focuses on HBeAg-negative patients with normal ALT, including those of the inactive carrier phase and the grey zone, whose antiviral treatment remains controversial. Additionally, a health-related quality of life scale is introduced to comprehensively estimate the benefit of antiviral treatment apart from virological response and adverse liver events. Meaningfully, the study findings will provide high-quality and direct evidence for optimal clinical management in such populations. TRIAL REGISTRATION This trial was registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2300069391) on 15 March 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhou
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37 Guo Xue Xiang, Wuhou District, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Fa-Da Wang
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37 Guo Xue Xiang, Wuhou District, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Lan-Qing Li
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37 Guo Xue Xiang, Wuhou District, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yu-Jin Li
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37 Guo Xue Xiang, Wuhou District, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Shi-Yan Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37 Guo Xue Xiang, Wuhou District, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - En-Qiang Chen
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37 Guo Xue Xiang, Wuhou District, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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Huang DL, Cai QX, Zhou GD, Yu H, Zhu ZB, Peng JH, Chen J. Liver histological changes in untreated chronic hepatitis B patients in indeterminate phase. World J Hepatol 2024; 16:920-931. [PMID: 38948441 PMCID: PMC11212651 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v16.i6.920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies with large size samples on the liver histological changes of indeterminate phase chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients were not previously conducted. AIM To assess the liver histological changes in the indeterminate phase CHB patients using liver biopsy. METHODS The clinical and laboratory data of 1532 untreated CHB patients were collected, and all patients had least once liver biopsy from January 2015 to December 2021. The significant differences among different phases of CHB infection were compared with t-test, and the risk factors of significant liver histological changes were analyzed by the multivariate logistic regression analysis. RESULTS Among 1532 untreated CHB patients, 814 (53.13%) patients were in the indeterminate phase. Significant liver histological changes (defined as biopsy score ≥ G2 and/or ≥ S2) were found in 488/814 (59.95%) CHB patients in the indeterminate phase. Significant liver histological changes were significant differences among different age, platelets (PLTs), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) subgroup in indeterminate patient. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that age ≥ 40 years old [adjust odd risk (aOR), 1.44; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.06-1.97; P = 0.02], PLTs ≤ 150 × 109/L (aOR, 2.99; 95%CI: 1.85-4.83; P < 0.0001), and ALT ≥ upper limits of normal (aOR, 1.48; 95%CI: 1.08, 2.05, P = 0.0163) were independent risk factors for significant liver histological changes in CHB patients in the indeterminate phase. CONCLUSION Our results suggested that significant liver histological changes were not rare among the untreated CHB patients in indeterminate phase, and additional strategies are urgently required for the management of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- De-Liang Huang
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen 510000, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Qin-Xian Cai
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen 510000, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Guang-De Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100000, China
| | - Hong Yu
- Department of Pathology, National Clinical Research Centre for Infectious Disease, The Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen and the Second Hospital Affiliated with the Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518112, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhi-Bin Zhu
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen 510000, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jing-Han Peng
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen 510000, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jun Chen
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen 510000, Guangdong Province, China.
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Liu J, Yu Y, Zhao H, Guo L, Yang W, Yan Y, Lv J. Latest insights into the epidemiology, characteristics, and therapeutic strategies of chronic hepatitis B patients in indeterminate phase. Eur J Med Res 2024; 29:343. [PMID: 38902822 PMCID: PMC11191257 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-024-01942-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
As a hepatotropic virus, hepatitis B virus (HBV) can establish a persistent chronic infection in the liver, termed, chronic hepatitis B (CHB), which causes a series of liver-related complications, including fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HCC with HBV infection has a significantly increased morbidity and mortality, whereas it could be preventable. The current goal of antiviral therapy for HBV infection is to decrease CHB-related morbidity and mortality, and achieve sustained suppression of virus replication, which is known as a functional or immunological cure. The natural history of chronic HBV infection includes four immune phases: the immune-tolerant phase, immune-active phase, inactive phase, and reactivation phase. However, many CHB patients do not fit into any of these defined phases and are regarded as indeterminate. A large proportion of indeterminate patients are only treated with dynamic monitoring rather than recommended antiviral therapy, mainly due to the lack of definite guidelines. However, many of these patients may gradually have significant liver histopathological changes during disease progression. Recent studies have focused on the prevalence, progression, and carcinogenicity of indeterminate CHB, and more attention has been given to the prevention, detection, and treatment for these patients. Herein, we discuss the latest understanding of the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and therapeutic strategies of indeterminate CHB, to provide avenues for the management of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junye Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi Dong Road, Xi'an, 710054, China
| | - Yan Yu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi Dong Road, Xi'an, 710054, China
| | - Heping Zhao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi Dong Road, Xi'an, 710054, China
| | - Lei Guo
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi Dong Road, Xi'an, 710054, China
| | - Wenjuan Yang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi Dong Road, Xi'an, 710054, China
| | - Yuzhu Yan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi Dong Road, Xi'an, 710054, China
| | - Jing Lv
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi Dong Road, Xi'an, 710054, China.
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Jagarlamudi N, Reyes M, Fung S, Wong F. The Use of Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate in the Management of eAg-Negative Chronic Hepatitis B Infection. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1864. [PMID: 38610629 PMCID: PMC11012673 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13071864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Currently, there are insufficient data to recommend the treatment of patients with hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-negative chronic infection who have normal ALT and low HBV DNA, since the prognosis is generally regarded as favorable. The aim of this pilot study was to determine whether the use of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) 300 mg/day for 3 years was able to achieve functional cure (HBsAg loss) and HBsAg seroconversion in HBeAb-positive individuals. Methods: Fifty patients not on antiviral therapy (40% men, mean age 48.9 ± 10.9 years, 84% Asians) with minimal fibrosis were enrolled. Results: TDF reduced HBV DNA significantly to undetectable levels after 6 months. Overall, 48.3% of inactive carriers (baseline HBV DNA < 2000 IU/mL) remained HBV DNA negative 6 months after treatment withdrawal, which was significantly higher than the 5.6% in those who were not inactive carriers (baseline HBV DNA ≥ 2000 IU/mL) (p = 0.003). The HBsAg levels did not drop throughout the study period with no difference between inactive carriers versus those who were not. Five inactive carriers achieved functional cure, but none of these were amongst those who were not inactive carriers. No renal dysfunction or ALT flare on treatment withdrawal was observed. Conclusions: TDF could potentially be used to induce functional cure in patients who are inactive carriers with normal ALT, low HBV DNA and without advanced fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Florence Wong
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G2C4, Canada (M.R.); (S.F.)
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Peña-Asensio J, Calvo-Sánchez H, Miquel-Plaza J, Sanz-de-Villalobos E, González-Praetorius A, Delgado-Fernandez A, Torralba M, Larrubia JR. HBsAg level defines different clinical phenotypes of HBeAg(-) chronic HBV infection related to HBV polymerase-specific CD8 + cell response quality. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1352929. [PMID: 38545116 PMCID: PMC10966405 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1352929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Background HBe-antigen(Ag)-negative chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is characterized by little liver fibrosis progression and vigorous HBV-multispecific CD8+ T-cell response. Aims To assess whether HBsAg level could discriminate different HBeAg-negative chronic HBV infection subtypes with dissimilar quality of HBV-specific CD8+ T-cell response. Methods We recruited 63 HBeAg-negative chronic HBV infection patients in which indirect markers of liver inflammation/fibrosis, portal pressure, viral load (VL), and HBV-specific CD8+ cell effector function were correlated with HBsAg level. Results A positive linear trend between HBsAg level and APRI, liver stiffness (LS), liver transaminases, and HBV VL, and a negative correlation with platelet count were observed. Frequency of cases with HBV-specific CD8+ T-cell proliferation against at least two HBV epitopes was higher in HBsAg < 1,000 IU/ml group. CD8+ T-cell expansion after HBVpolymerase456-63-specific stimulation was impaired in HBsAg > 1,000 IU/ml group, while the response against HBVcore18-27 was preserved and response against envelope183-91 was nearly abolished, regardless of HBsAg level. Cases with preserved HBVpolymerase456-63 CD8+ cell response had lower LS/duration of infection and APRI/duration of infection rates. HBV-polymerase456-63-specific CD8+ T-cell proliferation intensity was negatively correlated with LS/years of infection ratio. Conclusion HBsAg > 1,000 IU/ml HBeAg-negative chronic HBV infection group shows indirect data of higher degree of inflammation, liver stiffness, and fibrosis progression speed, which are related to an impaired HBV-polymerase-specific CD8+ T-cell response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Peña-Asensio
- Department of Biology of Systems, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
- Translational Research Group in Cellular Immunology, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Castilla La-Mancha (IDISCAM), Toledo, Spain
| | - Henar Calvo-Sánchez
- Translational Research Group in Cellular Immunology, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Castilla La-Mancha (IDISCAM), Toledo, Spain
- Section of Gastroenterology, Guadalajara University Hospital, Guadalajara, Spain
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Joaquín Miquel-Plaza
- Translational Research Group in Cellular Immunology, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Castilla La-Mancha (IDISCAM), Toledo, Spain
- Section of Gastroenterology, Guadalajara University Hospital, Guadalajara, Spain
| | - Eduardo Sanz-de-Villalobos
- Translational Research Group in Cellular Immunology, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Castilla La-Mancha (IDISCAM), Toledo, Spain
- Section of Gastroenterology, Guadalajara University Hospital, Guadalajara, Spain
| | - Alejandro González-Praetorius
- Translational Research Group in Cellular Immunology, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Castilla La-Mancha (IDISCAM), Toledo, Spain
- Section of Microbiology, Guadalajara University Hospital, Guadalajara, Spain
| | - Alberto Delgado-Fernandez
- Translational Research Group in Cellular Immunology, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Castilla La-Mancha (IDISCAM), Toledo, Spain
| | - Miguel Torralba
- Translational Research Group in Cellular Immunology, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Castilla La-Mancha (IDISCAM), Toledo, Spain
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
- Service of Internal Medicine, Guadalajara University Hospital, Guadalajara, Spain
| | - Juan-Ramón Larrubia
- Translational Research Group in Cellular Immunology, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Castilla La-Mancha (IDISCAM), Toledo, Spain
- Section of Gastroenterology, Guadalajara University Hospital, Guadalajara, Spain
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
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Kang NL, Wu LY, Zheng Q, Yu XP, Hu AR, Guo Y, Li H, Ye XY, Ruan QF, Lu ZH, Wu L, Jin W, Liu YR, Pan C, Liu SS, Zhang JM, Jiang JJ, Zeng DW. Determining optimal ALT cut-off values for predicting significant hepatic histological changes in patients with normal ALT in the grey zone of chronic hepatitis B virus infection. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2024; 59:692-704. [PMID: 38178641 DOI: 10.1111/apt.17862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS We aimed to define gender-specific, optimal alanine aminotransferase (ALT) cut-off values for the prediction of significant liver histological changes (SLHC) in Chinese patients with grey zone (GZ) chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and normal ALT. METHODS In a retrospective study, we included 1101 consecutive patients with GZ CHB and normal ALT assigned to training or internal validation cohorts. We included an independent cohort of 842 patients for external validation. We performed receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, smoothed curve fitting, and threshold effect analyses to determine optimal ALT cut-off values. Area under the curve (AUC) values were calculated to assess their predictive performance. RESULTS A proportion of 79.3% of patients with GZ CHB and normal ALT (≤40 U/L) had SLHC. ROC curve analysis initially identified optimal ALT cut-off values of 29 U/L (male) and 22 U/L (female). After smoothed curve fitting and threshold effect analyses, new optimal cut-off values were 27 U/L for males and 24 U/L for females. AUCs for these values were 0.836 (male) and 0.833 (female) in the internal validation cohort, and 0.849 (male) and 0.844 (female) in the external validation cohort. The accuracy and discriminative ability of the newly defined ALT cut-off values were greater than those of the current recommendations. CONCLUSION This study established novel optimal ALT cut-off values for more precise prediction of SLHC among Chinese patients with GZ CHB and normal ALT levels. This may help identify individuals who will benefit from timely antiviral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na-Ling Kang
- Department of Hepatology, Hepatology Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Clinical Research Center for Hepatopathy and Intestinal Diseases of Fujian Province, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Hepatology, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Lu-Ying Wu
- Department of Hepatology, Hepatology Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Clinical Research Center for Hepatopathy and Intestinal Diseases of Fujian Province, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Qi Zheng
- Department of Hepatology, Hepatology Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Clinical Research Center for Hepatopathy and Intestinal Diseases of Fujian Province, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Hepatology, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xue-Ping Yu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Hospital of Quanzhou Affiliated to Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Ai-Rong Hu
- Ningbo Institute of Liver Diseases, Ningbo No. 2 Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Yue Guo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huan Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fujian Geriatric Hospital, Fujian Provincial Hospital North Branch, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Xiang-Yang Ye
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Affiliated Hospital of Putian College, Putian, Fujian, China
| | - Qing-Fa Ruan
- Hepatology Center, Xiamen Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Zhong-Hua Lu
- Department of Liver Disease, Wuxi No.5 People's Hospital Affiliated to Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Ling Wu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Anqing Municipal Hospital, Anqing, Anhui, China
| | - Wen Jin
- Department of Hepatology, Fujian Medical University Xiamen Humanity Hospital; Xiamen Quality Control Center of Infectious Diseases, Fujian, China
| | - Yu-Rui Liu
- Department of Hepatology, Hepatology Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Clinical Research Center for Hepatopathy and Intestinal Diseases of Fujian Province, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Hepatology, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Chen Pan
- Hepatology, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Shan-Shan Liu
- Department of Liver Disease, Wuxi No.5 People's Hospital Affiliated to Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Ji-Ming Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia-Ji Jiang
- Department of Hepatology, Hepatology Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Clinical Research Center for Hepatopathy and Intestinal Diseases of Fujian Province, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Hepatology, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Da-Wu Zeng
- Department of Hepatology, Hepatology Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Clinical Research Center for Hepatopathy and Intestinal Diseases of Fujian Province, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Hepatology, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
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Lee SY, Nah BKY, Leo J, Koh JH, Huang DQ. Optimizing care of HBV infection and HBV-related HCC. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2024; 23:e0169. [PMID: 38911998 PMCID: PMC11192014 DOI: 10.1097/cld.0000000000000169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shi Yan Lee
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Benjamin Kai Yi Nah
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jazleen Leo
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jia Hong Koh
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Daniel Q. Huang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- National University Centre for Organ Transplantation, National University Health System, Singapore
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10
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Nguyen LBL, Lemoine M, Ndow G, Ward ZJ, Hallet TB, D'Alessandro U, Thursz M, Nayagam S, Shimakawa Y. Treat All versus targeted strategies to select HBV-infected people for antiviral therapy in The Gambia, west Africa: a cost-effectiveness analysis. Lancet Glob Health 2024; 12:e66-e78. [PMID: 38097300 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(23)00467-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Global elimination of hepatitis B virus (HBV) requires expanded uptake of antiviral therapy, potentially by simplifying testing algorithms, especially in resource-limited countries. We evaluated the effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and budget impact of three strategies that determine eligibility for anti-HBV treatment, as compared with the WHO 2015 treatment eligibility criteria, in The Gambia. METHODS We developed a microsimulation model of natural history using data from the Prevention of Liver Fibrosis and Cancer in Africa programme (known as PROLIFICA) in The Gambia, for an HBV-infected cohort of individuals aged 20 years. The algorithms included in the model were a conventional strategy using the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) 2017 criteria, a simplified algorithm using hepatitis B e antigen and alanine aminotransferase (the Treatment Eligibility in Africa for the Hepatitis B Virus [TREAT-B] score), a Treat All approach for all HBV-infected individuals, and the WHO 2015 criteria. Outcomes to measure effectiveness were disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and years of life saved (YLS), which were used to calculate incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) with the WHO 2015 criteria as the base-case scenario. Costs were assessed from a modified social perspective. A budget impact analysis was also done. We tested the robustness of results with a range of sensitiviy analyses including probabilistic sensitivity analysis. FINDINGS Compared with the WHO criteria, TREAT-B resulted in 4877 DALYs averted and Treat All resulted in 9352 DALYs averted, whereas the EASL criteria led to an excess of 795 DALYs. TREAT-B was cost-saving, whereas the ICER for Treat All (US$2149 per DALY averted) was higher than the cost-effectiveness threshold for The Gambia (0·5 times the country's gross domestic product per capita: $352). These patterns did not change when YLS was the outcome. In a modelled cohort of 5000 adults (aged 20 years) with chronic HBV infection from The Gambia, the 5-year budget impact was $1·14 million for Treat All, $0·66 million for TREAT-B, $1·03 million for the WHO criteria, and $1·16 million for the EASL criteria. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis indicated that among the Treat All, EASL, and TREAT-B algorithms, Treat All would become the most preferred strategy only with a willingness-to-pay threshold exceeding approximately $72 000 per DALY averted or $110 000 per YLS. INTERPRETATION Although the Treat All strategy might be the most effective, it is unlikely to be cost-effective in The Gambia. A simplified strategy such as TREAT-B might be a cost-saving alternative. FUNDING UK Research and Innovation (Medical Research Council). TRANSLATION For the French translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liem B Luong Nguyen
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Unité d'Épidémiologie des Maladies Émergentes, Paris, France; CIC Cochin Pasteur, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Maud Lemoine
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Division of Digestive Disease, Liver Unit, St Mary's Hospital, Imperial College London, UK; Medical Research Council Unit, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Gibril Ndow
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Division of Digestive Disease, Liver Unit, St Mary's Hospital, Imperial College London, UK; Medical Research Council Unit, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Zachary J Ward
- Center for Health Decision Science, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Timothy B Hallet
- Medical Research Council Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Umberto D'Alessandro
- Medical Research Council Unit, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Mark Thursz
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Division of Digestive Disease, Liver Unit, St Mary's Hospital, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Shevanthi Nayagam
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Division of Digestive Disease, Liver Unit, St Mary's Hospital, Imperial College London, UK; Medical Research Council Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Yusuke Shimakawa
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Unité d'Épidémiologie des Maladies Émergentes, Paris, France.
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11
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Chen CH. Should we expand treatment initiation for chronic hepatitis B infection? Cons. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2024; 23:e0141. [PMID: 38567090 PMCID: PMC10986915 DOI: 10.1097/cld.0000000000000141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
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12
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Zhou J, Wang FD, Li LQ, Li YJ, Wang SY, Chen EQ. Antiviral Therapy Favors a Lower Risk of Liver Cirrhosis in HBeAg-negative Chronic Hepatitis B with Normal Alanine Transaminase and HBV DNA Positivity. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2023; 11:1465-1475. [PMID: 38161505 PMCID: PMC10752813 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2023.00272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Direct evidence on the outcomes of hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-negative chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients with normal alanine transaminase after long-term antiviral treatment is lacking. Methods HBeAg-negative patients with normal ALT and positive HBV DNA (≥20 IU/mL) were retrospectively enrolled. The endpoints included virological response (HBV DNA<100 IU/mL), changes in aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI) and fibrosis-4 index (FIB-4), and the incidence of liver nodules, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Results This cohort (n=194) was divided into three subgroups, untreated (n=67), treatment-continued (n=87), and treatment-discontinued patients (n=40), with a median follow-up of 54 months. The treatment-continued group achieved 100% (95% CI: 94.7-100) virological response, and significantly reduced APRI and FIB-4 scores (both p<0.001). The risk of liver nodules and cirrhosis in that group was reduced by 76% (HR: 0.24, 95% CI: 0.11-0.54, p<0.001) and 89% (HR: 0.11, 95% CI: 0.14-0.91, p=0.041) vs. the untreated group and by 77% (HR: 0.23, 95% CI: 0.10-0.49, p<0.001) and 95% (HR: 0.05, 95% CI: 0.01-0.44, p=0.006) vs. the treatment-discontinued group. For patients with HBV DNA≥2,000 IU/mL, adherence to treatment lowered the risks of liver cirrhosis by 92% (95% CI: 0.01-0.67) and 93% (95% CI: 0.01-0.53) vs. the untreated and treatment-discontinued patients, respectively. No patient adhering to treatment developed HCC, but one in each of the remaining groups did. Conclusions Continuous nucleos(t)ide analog (NA) treatment has a satisfactory effectiveness and helps to lower the risk of liver cirrhosis in HBeAg-negative CHB patients with normal alanine transaminase, especially in those with HBV DNA≥2,000 IU/mL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhou
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Fa-Da Wang
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Lan-Qing Li
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yu-Jin Li
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Shi-Yan Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - En-Qiang Chen
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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13
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Xu Q, Ding H, Bai T, Huang R, Wang J, Zhang J, Luan H, Wang J, Yang Y, Chen Y. Serum HBV RNA levels among untreated adults with chronic hepatitis B in distinct immune phases and liver histopathology statuses. J Mol Histol 2023; 54:739-749. [PMID: 37843699 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-023-10162-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
HBV RNA is a novel serum biomarker that reflects intrahepatic HBV covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) transcription activity. Serum HBV RNA levels among treatment-naïve adults during the natural history of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and distinct liver histopathology statuses remain elusive. In our study, we include a total of 411 treatment-naïve CHB patients, among which 43 patients were HBeAg-positive immune-tolerant [IT(e+)], 84 patients were HBeAg-positive immune active [IA(e+)], 65 patients in HBeAg-negative immune active phases [IA(e-)], 149 patients were HBeAg-negative inactive phases [IC(e-)], and 70 patients were in Gray Zone (GZ). HBV RNA was measured in this cohort and its potential correlation with traditional serological markers and liver histopathology were analyzed. Our data showed that HBV RNA was strongly correlated with HBV DNA, HBeAg, HBsAg and ALT. Further subgroup analysis revealed a close correlation between HBV RNA and HBV DNA in patients in the IA (e+) and IA (e-) phases, but neither in IT(e+) nor IC(e-) phase. HBV RNA levels were consistently increased with the advanced degrees of hepatic inflammation, but not hepatic fibrosis. Of note, HBV RNA from HBeAg-positive patients negatively correlated with liver fibrosis, whereas HBV RNA from HBeAg-negative patients was weakly associated with liver inflammation. To sum up, serum HBV RNA shows a distinct profile among CHB patients in different immune statuses and hepatic histopathology stages/grades. Simultaneous testing of HBV RNA and traditional indicators might provide a comprehensive clinical assessment of CHB patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Xu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Jurong Hospital Affiliated to Jiangsu University, Jurong, China
| | - Hai Ding
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tao Bai
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Wuhan Jinyintan Hospital, Hubei Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei, China
| | - Rui Huang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
- Institute of Viruses and Infectious Diseases, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Jurong Hospital Affiliated to Jiangsu University, Jurong, China
| | - Hewei Luan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Jurong Hospital Affiliated to Jiangsu University, Jurong, China
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Yue Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China.
| | - Yuxin Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
- Institute of Viruses and Infectious Diseases, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
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14
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Zhan J, Wang J, Zhang Z, Xue R, Jiang S, Liu J, Liu Y, Zhu L, Xia J, Yan X, Ding W, Zhu C, Qiu Y, Li J, Huang R, Wu C. Noninvasive diagnosis of significant liver inflammation in patients with chronic hepatitis B in the indeterminate phase. Virulence 2023; 14:2268497. [PMID: 37938933 PMCID: PMC10653690 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2023.2268497] [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: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The presence of significant liver inflammation is an important indication for antiviral treatment in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) in the indeterminate phase. We aimed to establish a non-invasive nomogram to predict significant liver inflammation in these patients. A total of 195 CHB patients in the indeterminate phase were randomly split into training and validation sets. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator and logistic regression were applied to identify risk factors and establish a predictive model. A calibration curve, decision curve analysis (DCA), and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were applied to assess the performance of the nomogram. The median age was 42.0 y and 59.5% of the patients were male. Alkaline phosphatase, γ-glutamyl transpeptidase, and prothrombin time were independent predictors for significant liver inflammation and selected to establish the AGP-nomogram. The calibration plot demonstrated that the predicted results matched the actual values. The DCA showed a high net benefit when the threshold probability was 25-83% in the training set and 31-100% in the validation set. The areas under ROC curves of AGP-nomogram in predicting significant inflammation were significantly higher than ALT in the training set (0.744 vs. 0.642, P = 0.049) and validation set (0.766 vs. 0.660, P = 0.047). The ability of AGP-nomogram in predicting advanced inflammation was also superior to ALT. The AGP-nomogram can accurately identify significant inflammation in CHB patients in the indeterminate phase, and its application may reduce the need for liver biopsy and help identify candidates for antiviral treatment.Abbreviations: AASLD: American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases; ALB: albumin; ALP: alkaline phosphatase; ALT: alanine aminotransferase; APRI: aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index; AST: aspartate aminotransferase; AUROC: area under the receiver operating characteristic curve; CHB: chronic hepatitis B; CI: confidence interval; DCA: decision curve analysis; FIB-4: fibrosis index based on the four factors; GLB: globulin; GGT: γ-glutamyl transpeptidase; HBcAb: hepatitis B core antibody; HBeAg: hepatitis B e antigen; HBsAg: hepatitis B surface antigen; HBV: hepatitis B virus; HCC: hepatocellular carcinoma; HIV: human immunodeficiency virus; INR: international-normalized ratio; IQR: interquartile range; LASSO: least absolute shrinkage and selection operator; LB: liver biopsy; LR: Likelihood ratio; NAFLD: non-alcoholic fatty liver disease; NPV: negative predictive value; PLT: platelets; PPV: positive predictive value; PT: prothrombin time; ROC: receiver operating characteristic; TB: total bilirubin; TE: transient elastography; ULN: upper limit of normal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Department of General Practice, Jiangpu Street Community Health Service Center, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Institute of Viruses and Infectious Diseases, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhiyi Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ruifei Xue
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Suling Jiang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiacheng Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yilin Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li Zhu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Infectious Diseases Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Juan Xia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaomin Yan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weimao Ding
- Department of Hepatology, Huai’an No. 4 People’s Hospital, Huai’an, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chuanwu Zhu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Infectious Diseases Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuanwang Qiu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth People’s Hospital of Wuxi, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Institute of Viruses and Infectious Diseases, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Rui Huang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Institute of Viruses and Infectious Diseases, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chao Wu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Institute of Viruses and Infectious Diseases, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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15
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Su F, Jacobson IM. Chronic Hepatitis B: Treat all Who Are Viremic? Clin Liver Dis 2023; 27:791-808. [PMID: 37778770 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2023.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
The main aim of antiviral therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is to prevent disease progression and reduce the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In general, treatment is recommended for select patient groups viewed as being at higher risk of developing adverse outcomes from CHB. However, patients who do not meet treatment criteria under current international guidelines may still benefit from antiviral therapy to reduce CHB-related complications. Moreover, well-tolerated antiviral drugs that are highly effective at suppressing viral replication are now widely available, and withholding therapy from patients with viremia is increasingly controversial. In this article, we review traditional treatment paradigms and argue the merits of expanding treatment eligibility to patients with CHB who do not meet current treatment criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Su
- Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 150 East 32nd Street, Suite 101, New York, NY 10016, USA; New York University Langone Transplant Institute, 317 East 34th Street, 8th Floor, New York, NY 10016, USA.
| | - Ira M Jacobson
- Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 150 East 32nd Street, Suite 101, New York, NY 10016, USA
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Ju Y, Han G, Zhang P, Xu J, Chen C, Jiang H, Yuan D, Ye X, Zhou G. Staging and clinical characteristics of pregnant women with chronic hepatitis B virus infection: A retrospective cohort study from Nanjing, China. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2023; 49:2427-2435. [PMID: 37515503 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
AIM To investigate the immune status of Chinese chronic hepatitis B (CHB) pregnant women and their clinical characteristics. METHODS About 1544 CHB pregnant women without antiviral therapy from 2013 to 2018 were selected from the hospital records. The definition of immune status is based on American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) 2018 Hepatitis B Guidance, and those who did not meet any criteria of the immune status were referred to in the gray zones (GZ). RESULTS There were 284 patients in the immune-tolerance phase, 72 patients in the HBeAg-positive immune active phase, 553 patients in the inactive phase, 61 patients in the HBeAg-negative immune active phase. Of note, 574 (37.18%) patients did not fit into any of the above phases were defined as the GZ. Patients with elevated ALT had a higher rate of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP). Mother to child HBV transmission was rare (only two cases) and occurred in mothers in the immune-tolerant phase. CONCLUSIONS Our data showed that more than one-third of CHB pregnant women were classified into the GZ. In standard stages, advanced age is associated with HBeAg-negative and a higher cesarean rate in the inactive phase. The incidence of ICP was higher in immune active phases, including GB and GD. The probability of mother-to-child transmission in gray zones is low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhao Ju
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Guorong Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Ping Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Chao Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongxiu Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Deping Yuan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiajun Ye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Guanlun Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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Yu HS, Jiang H, Li MK, Yang BL, Smayi A, Chen JN, Wu B, Yang YD. Lowering the threshold of alanine aminotransferase for enhanced identification of significant hepatic injury in chronic hepatitis B patients. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:5166-5177. [PMID: 37744292 PMCID: PMC10514758 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i35.5166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The clinical and histological features of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients who fall into the "grey zone (GZ)" and do not fit into conventional natural phases are unclear. AIM To explore the impact of varying the threshold of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels in identifying significant liver injury among GZ patients. METHODS This retrospective analysis involved a cohort of 1617 adult patients diagnosed with CHB who underwent liver biopsy. The clinical phases of CHB patients were determined based on the European Association for the Study of the Liver 2017 Clinical Practice Guidelines. GZ CHB patients were classified into four groups: GZ-A (HBeAg positive, normal ALT levels, and HBV DNA ≤ 107 IU/mL), GZ-B (HBeAg positive, elevated ALT levels, and HBV DNA < 104 or > 107 IU/mL), GZ-C (HBeAg negative, normal ALT levels, and HBV DNA ≥ 2000 IU/mL), and GZ-D (HBeAg negative, elevated ALT levels, and HBV DNA ≤ 2000 IU/mL). Significant hepatic injury (SHI) was defined as the presence of notable liver inflammation (≥ G2) and/or significant fibrosis (≥ S2). RESULTS The results showed that 50.22% of patients were classified as GZ, and 63.7% of GZ patients developed SHI. The study also found that lowering the ALT treatment thresholds to the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases 2018 treatment criteria (35 U/L for men and 25 U/L for women) can more accurately identify patients with significant liver damage in the GZ phases. In total, the proportion of patients with ALT ≤ 40 U/L who required antiviral therapy was 64.86% [(221 + 294)/794]. When we lowered the ALT treatment threshold to the new criteria (30 U/L for men and 19 U/L for women), the same outcome was revealed, and the proportion of patients with ALT ≤ 40 U/L who required antiviral therapy was 75.44% [(401 + 198)/794]. Additionally, the proportion of SHI was 49.1% in patients under 30 years old and increased to 55.3% in patients over 30 years old (P = 0.136). CONCLUSION These findings suggest the importance of redefining the natural phases of CHB and using new ALT treatment thresholds for better diagnosis and management of CHB patients in the GZ phases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Sheng Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510630, Guangdong Province, China
- Department of Liver Disease, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou 510630, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Hao Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510630, Guangdong Province, China
- Department of Liver Disease, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou 510630, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Ming-Kai Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510630, Guangdong Province, China
- Department of Liver Disease, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou 510630, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Bi-Lan Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510630, Guangdong Province, China
- Department of Liver Disease, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou 510630, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Abdukyamu Smayi
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510630, Guangdong Province, China
- Department of Liver Disease, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou 510630, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jian-Ning Chen
- Department of Pathology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510630, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Bin Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510630, Guangdong Province, China
- Department of Liver Disease, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou 510630, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yi-Dong Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510630, Guangdong Province, China
- Department of Liver Disease, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou 510630, Guangdong Province, China
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Liu M, Zhao T, Zhang Y, Zhang AM, Geng J, Xia X. The incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma and clearance of hepatitis B surface for CHB patients in the indeterminate phase: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1226755. [PMID: 37771696 PMCID: PMC10523783 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1226755] [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: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Nearly 30%-40% of patients with chronic hepatitis B do not fall into any of the traditional natural history classification and thus are classified as indeterminate. However, it is unclear whether patients in the indeterminate phase (IP) are at a higher risk for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) than those in the defined phases (DP) and would benefit from antiviral therapy. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of HCC incidence and HBsAg clearance among patients in the IP versus DP. Methods We defined the clinical phases as per the AASLD 2018 hepatitis B guidance. We searched PubMed, Embase, Medline, and Web of Science for relevant studies that reported HCC incidence or HBsAg clearance in IP versus DP patients published between January 2007 and March 2023. Annual HCC incidence and HBsAg clearance rates were pooled using a random/common-effects model. Results We analyzed data from 14 studies, comprising 7798 IP patients (222 patients developed HCC and 239 achieved HBsAg clearance) and 10,725 DP patients. The pooled annual HCC incidence was 2.54 cases per 1,000 person-years (95% CI, 1.14-4.39) and HBsAg clearance rate was 12.36 cases per 1,000 person-years (95% CI, 10.70-14.13) for the IP patients. IP patients were associated with significantly higher HCC incidence risk (RR = 1.64, 95% CI, 1.34-2.00) and slightly lower annual HBsAg clearance rate (RR = 0.83, 95% CI, 0.70-0.99) than the DP patients. In addition, HBeAg-negative IP patients (2.31%; 95% CI, 0.87-4.45) showed a significantly higher HCC incidence than those who were HBeAg positive (0.00%; 95% CI, 0.00-0.99) (p< 0.001). The Asia-Pacific region IP patients (4.30%; 95% CI, 2.07-7.27) were also associated with a higher HCC incidence versus Europe (0.05%; 95% CI, 0.00-1.39) (p< 0.001). However, there were no significant differences between different strategies (treated vs. untreated: 2.56%; 95% CI, 1.01-4.63 vs. 1.61%; 95% CI, 0.00-5.81, p = 0.09), and heterogeneity was substantial across the studies (I2 = 89%). Conclusion The systematic review and meta-analysis showed a high HCC incidence and low HBsAg clearance among patients in the IP, especially for HBeAg-negative patients and the Asian population. We emphasize that future multicenter prospective cohort studies or randomized trials are needed to verify if expanding antiviral therapy for patients in the IP is associated with reduced HCC risk or good treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Liu
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Department of Infectious Disease and Hepatic Disease, The First People’s Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China
| | - Taixue Zhao
- Medical School of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Yuting Zhang
- Department of Infectious Disease and Hepatic Disease, The First People’s Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China
| | - A-Mei Zhang
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jiawei Geng
- Department of Infectious Disease and Hepatic Disease, The First People’s Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China
| | - Xueshan Xia
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
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19
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Broquetas T, Carrión JA. Past, present, and future of long-term treatment for hepatitis B virus. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:3964-3983. [PMID: 37476586 PMCID: PMC10354584 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i25.3964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The estimated world prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is 316 million. HBV infection was identified in 1963 and nowadays is a major cause of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) despite universal vaccination programs, and effective antiviral therapy. Long-term administration of nucleos(t)ide analogues (NA) has been the treatment of choice for chronic hepatitis B during the last decades. The NA has shown a good safety profile and high efficacy in controlling viral replication, improving histology, and decreasing the HCC incidence, decompensation, and mortality. However, the low probability of HBV surface antigen seroclearance made necessary an indefinite treatment. The knowledge, in recent years, about the different phases of the viral cycle, and the new insights into the role of the immune system have yielded an increase in new therapeutic approaches. Consequently, several clinical trials evaluating combinations of new drugs with different mechanisms of action are ongoing with promising results. This integrative literature review aims to assess the knowledge and major advances from the past of hepatitis B, the present of NA treatment and withdrawal, and the future perspectives with combined molecules to achieve a functional cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Broquetas
- Liver Section, Gastroenterology Department, Hospital del Mar, Barcelona 08003, Spain
- Institut Hospital del Mar D’Investigacions Mèdiques, PSMAR, Barcelona 08003, Spain
| | - José A Carrión
- Liver Section, Gastroenterology Department, Hospital del Mar, Barcelona 08003, Spain
- Institut Hospital del Mar D’Investigacions Mèdiques, PSMAR, Barcelona 08003, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Facultat de Ciències de la Salut i de la Vida, Barcelona 08003, Spain
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20
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Xu X, Wang H, Shan S, Sun Y, Xu X, You H, Jia J, Zhuang H, Kong Y. The Impact of the Definitions of Clinical Phases on the Profiles of Grey-Zone Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection. Viruses 2023; 15:1212. [PMID: 37243297 PMCID: PMC10222301 DOI: 10.3390/v15051212] [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: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
We aim to investigate the impact of different clinical phases' definitions of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection on the profiles of grey zone, based on HBV guidelines set by the Chinese Society of Hepatology and Chinese Society of Infectious Diseases (CSH/CSID, 2022 version) and guidelines set by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD, 2018 version). We retrospectively examined untreated CHB patients enrolled in the China Registry of Hepatitis B database. Patients' clinical phases were determined as per CSH/CSID and AASLD. Liver fibrosis was estimated by FIB-4 and/or APRI. Among 3462 CHB patients, 56.9% and 41.7% fell into the grey zone based on AASLD and CSH/CSID. Compared with grey zone patients as per AASLD, those under CSH/CSID guidelines showed lower levels of median ALT (26.0 vs. 37.0 U/L, p < 0.001), AST (25.0 vs. 29.4 U/L, p < 0.001) and APRI (0.3 vs. 0.4, p < 0.001), and lower rates of advanced fibrosis estimated by APRI (7.9% vs. 11.4% p = 0.001), but comparable rates by FIB-4 (13.0% vs. 14.1%, p = 0.389). With the stepwise lowering of ALT upper limits of normal (ULN) values from 50/40 U/L for males/females to 40/40 U/L, 35/25 U/L and 30/19 U/L, the proportions of grey zone patients as per CSH/CSID declined from 46.7% to 41.7%, 34.3% and 28.8%, respectively, whereas they remained stable (55.7%, 56.2%, 56.9% and 57.0%) as per AASLD. Compared with the AASLD guidelines, CSH/CSID guidelines leave fewer and less severe patients in the grey zone. Lowering ALT ULN values reduces the number of grey zone patients as per CSH/CSID, but not under AASLD guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqian Xu
- Clinical Epidemiology and EBM Unit, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Clinical Research Institute, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Clinical Epidemiology and EBM Unit, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Clinical Research Institute, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Shan Shan
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Yameng Sun
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Xu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Hong You
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Jidong Jia
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Hui Zhuang
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yuanyuan Kong
- Clinical Epidemiology and EBM Unit, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Clinical Research Institute, Beijing 100050, China
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21
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Liu YC, Jeng WJ. Editorial: considerations for expanding treatment in grey zone chronic hepatitis B patients. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2023; 57:577-578. [PMID: 36786455 DOI: 10.1111/apt.17340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yen-Chun Liu
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou medical center, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Juei Jeng
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou medical center, Taoyuan, Taiwan
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22
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Wang J, Yan X, Zhu L, Liu J, Qiu Y, Li Y, Liu Y, Xue R, Zhan J, Jiang S, Geng Y, Wan Y, Li M, Mao M, Gao D, Yin S, Tong X, Xia J, Ding W, Chen Y, Li J, Zhu C, Huang R, Wu C. Significant histological disease of patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection in the grey zone. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2023; 57:464-474. [PMID: 36324235 DOI: 10.1111/apt.17272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) do not meet the definitions of the traditional natural phases and are classified as being in the grey zone (GZ). AIMS To investigate liver histology, and to establish a management strategy for patients with CHB in the GZ. METHODS This study included 1043 patients with CHB who underwent liver biopsy. Phases of natural history were determined according to the AASLD 2018 hepatitis B guidance. CHB patients in the GZ were divided into HBeAg-positive, normal ALT and HBV DNA ≤106 IU/ml (GZ-A); HBeAg-positive, elevated ALT and HBV DNA ≤2 × 104 IU/ml (GZ-B); HBeAg-negative, normal ALT and HBV DNA ≥2 × 103 IU/ml (GZ-C) and HBeAg-negative, elevated ALT and HBV DNA ≤2 × 103 IU/ml (GZ-D). Significant histological disease was defined as liver inflammation ≥G2 and/or liver fibrosis ≥S2. RESULTS Two hundred and forty two (23.2%) patients were in the GZ. Approximately 72.7% had significant histological disease. HBeAg-positive GZ CHB patients had a higher proportion of significant histological disease than HBeAg-negative GZ patients (91.1% vs. 68.5%, p = 0.002). GZ-D (42.6%) was the dominant category, followed by GZ-C (38.8%), GZ-A (10.3%) and GZ-B (8.3%). The highest proportion of significant histological disease was observed patients in GZ-B (100.0%), followed by GZ-A (84.0%), GZ-D (69.9%) and GZ-C (67.0%). Prothrombin time (PT) was an independent risk factor of significant histological disease in the HBeAg-negative GZ. CONCLUSIONS Over 70% of GZ CHB patients had significant histological disease. We recommend antiviral treatment for HBeAg-positive and HBeAg-negative GZ CHB patients with high PT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,Institute of Viruses and Infectious Diseases, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaomin Yan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li Zhu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Infectious Diseases Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiacheng Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuanwang Qiu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth People's Hospital of Wuxi, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yiguang Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth People's Hospital of Wuxi, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yilin Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ruifei Xue
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Zhan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Suling Jiang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yu Geng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yawen Wan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Minxin Mao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dongmei Gao
- Department of Hepatology, Huai'an No. 4 People's Hospital, Huai'an, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shengxia Yin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,Institute of Viruses and Infectious Diseases, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xin Tong
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,Institute of Viruses and Infectious Diseases, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Juan Xia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weimao Ding
- Department of Hepatology, Huai'an No. 4 People's Hospital, Huai'an, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuxin Chen
- Institute of Viruses and Infectious Diseases, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,Institute of Viruses and Infectious Diseases, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chuanwu Zhu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Infectious Diseases Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Rui Huang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,Institute of Viruses and Infectious Diseases, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chao Wu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,Institute of Viruses and Infectious Diseases, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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23
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Zhou J, Wang F, Li L, Chen E. Expanding antiviral therapy indications for HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B patients with normal ALT and positive HBV DNA. PRECISION CLINICAL MEDICINE 2022; 5:pbac030. [PMID: 36519139 PMCID: PMC9745772 DOI: 10.1093/pcmedi/pbac030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
With the improved efficacy and accessibility of antiviral agents as well as the concerns about disease progression, there is a hot discussion on whether HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients with normal alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and positive HBV DNA should be treated. According to the international guidelines on the stages of the natural history of HBV infection, HBeAg-negative CHB patients with normal ALT and positive HBV DNA can be divided into two groups: one is the well-known "inactive carrier phase", which is defined as serum HBV DNA < 2000 IU/ml and no significant liver inflammation; and the other is the "indeterminate phase", which is defined as serum HBV DNA ≥ 2000 IU/mL regardless of the pathological changes in liver tissue, or HBV DNA < 2000 IU/mL but accompanied by significant pathological changes in the liver. In this minireview, we will expound the disease characteristics, disease progression, and clinical management status of these two groups. Based on the analysis, we propose that HBeAg-negative patients with normal ALT but detectable serum HBV DNA should be treated, regardless of their age, family history of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) or the severity of liver necroinflammation. Expanding the indications of antiviral therapy will help improve the survival and quality of life of patients by preventing disease progression, and consequently reduce the risk of HCC development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhou
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Fada Wang
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lanqing Li
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Enqiang Chen
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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24
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Liaw YF. Perspectives on current controversial issues in the management of chronic HBV infection. J Gastroenterol 2022; 57:828-837. [PMID: 36053366 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-022-01918-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Clinical and basic research in the past decades has achieved consensus in the understanding of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and the management of chronic hepatitis B and HBV-cirrhosis. However, debatable challenges to the existing consensus in the concept and/or definitions have emerged. These include (1). alanine aminotransferase upper limit of normal: traditional laboratory-defined vs fixed; (2). nomenclature for phases of chronic HBV infection: classical vs EASL proposal; (3). indication of antiviral therapy: to treat patients vs to treat HBV; (4). finite vs indefinite long-term antiviral therapy: A. finite therapy in HBV-cirrhosis; B. retreatment decision: biochemical markers vs HBsAg/ALT kinetics. The pros and cons of these controversial issues were reviewed, assessed, and discussed in depth based on relevant lines of scientific evidence, intended to clarify or solve these controversial issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Fan Liaw
- Liver Research Unit, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, 199, Tung Hwa North Road, Taipei, 105, Taiwan.
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25
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Sheng Q, Wang N, Zhang C, Fan Y, Li Y, Han C, Wang Z, Wei S, Dou X, Ding Y. HBeAg-negative Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection and Normal Alanine Aminotransferase: Wait or Treat? J Clin Transl Hepatol 2022; 10:972-978. [PMID: 36304490 PMCID: PMC9547271 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2021.00443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is a common clinical indicator of liver inflammation. The current Chinese guidelines for the management of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) recommend antiviral treatment for patients with detectable hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA and persistent ALT levels (ALTs) exceeding the upper limit of normal. However, it has been recently reported that patients with chronic HBV infection, especially HBeAg-negative patients with persistently normal ALTs, may have liver biopsy findings of significant inflammation and fibrosis. For HBeAg-negative patients with chronic HBV infection and normal ALTs, many controversial questions have been asked. To treat or not? When to initiate the treatment? Which drug is appropriate? In this review, we summarize the available data on the management of HBeAg-negative patients with chronic HBV infection and normal ALTs with the aim of improving the current clinical management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Xiaoguang Dou
- Correspondence to: Xiaoguang Dou and Yang Ding, Department of Infectious Diseases, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 HuaXiang Road, TieXi District,Shenyang, Liaoning 110022, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1856-7331 (XGD), https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7066-2865 (YD). Tel: +86-18940251121 (XGD), +86-13332434847 (YD), Fax: +86-24-25998744, E-mail: (XGD), (YD)
| | - Yang Ding
- Correspondence to: Xiaoguang Dou and Yang Ding, Department of Infectious Diseases, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 HuaXiang Road, TieXi District,Shenyang, Liaoning 110022, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1856-7331 (XGD), https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7066-2865 (YD). Tel: +86-18940251121 (XGD), +86-13332434847 (YD), Fax: +86-24-25998744, E-mail: (XGD), (YD)
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26
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Brown A, Bartell N. Shedding light on the "gray zone": Hepatic fibrosis in chronic hepatitis B patients with fluctuating HBV DNA levels. Saudi J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:397-398. [PMID: 36073571 PMCID: PMC9752540 DOI: 10.4103/sjg.sjg_336_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Brown
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA,Address for correspondence: Dr. Andrew Brown, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA. E-mail:
| | - Nicholas Bartell
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
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27
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Natural History and Hepatocellular Carcinoma Risk in Untreated Chronic Hepatitis B Patients With Indeterminate Phase. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 20:1803-1812.e5. [PMID: 33465482 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2021.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Many patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) may not conform to any of the defined phases and hence are classified as indeterminate. We aimed to characterize the baseline prevalence of indeterminate patients and their natural history, phase transition, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study of 3366 adult untreated noncirrhotic CHB patients seen at 5 US clinics and 7 Taiwanese townships who had at least 1 year of serial laboratory data before enrollment with a mean follow-up period of 12.5 years. Patients' clinical phases were determined at baseline and through serial data during follow-up evaluation, based on the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases 2018 guidance. RESULTS At baseline, 1303 (38.7%) patients were in the indeterminate phase. By up to year 10 of follow-up evaluation, 686 patients (52.7%) remained indeterminate, while 283 patients (21.7%) became immune active. Compared with patients who remained inactive, patients who remained indeterminate had a higher 10-year cumulative HCC incidence (4.6% vs 0.5%; P < .0001) and adjusted hazard ratio for HCC of 14.1 (P = .03). Among patients who remained indeterminate, age 45 years and older (adjusted hazard ratio, 18.4; P = .005) was associated independently with HCC development. CONCLUSIONS Nearly 40% of patients had indeterminate CHB phase. Of these, half remained indeterminate and one-fifth transitioned to the immune active phase. HCC risk in persistently indeterminate CHB was 14 times higher than inactive CHB. Among persistently indeterminate CHB patients, age 45 years and older was associated with an 18 times higher risk for HCC development. Further studies are needed to evaluate the potential benefit of antiviral therapy for indeterminate patients, especially in the older subgroup.
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28
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Chen Y, Gao WK, Shu YY, Ye J. Clinical treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus infection in indeterminate phase: Current status and future prospects. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2022; 30:436-443. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v30.i10.436] [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: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The natural history of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is usually divided into four stages: Immune tolerant phase (IT), hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) positive chronic hepatitis B (CHB) (i.e., immune clearance phase), immune control (IC) phase, and HBeAg negative CHB (i.e., reactivation phase). Patients whose HBeAg, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), HBV DNA, and hepatic histopathology fall into an indeterminate phase are divided into the following four groups: (1) Indeterminate phase related to IT: HBV DNA < 106 IU/mL or significant inflammation and fibrosis, while other indicators are in line with IT; (2) Indeterminate phase related to HBeAg positive CHB: HBV DNA < 2 × 104 IU/mL or ALT 1-2 times the upper limit of normal (ULN), while the rest indicators are consistent with HBeAg positive CHB; (3) Indeterminate phase related to IC: HBV DNA > 2 × 103 IU/mL or significant inflammation and fibrosis, while other indicators meet IC; and (4) Indeterminate phase related to HBeAg negative CHB: HBV DNA < 2 × 103 IU/mL or ALT 1-2 ULN, while the remaining indicators are in accordance with HBeAg negative CHB. In China, it is estimated that about 70 million people have chronic HBV infection, of which about 20-30 million are CHB patients. The percentage of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma caused by HBV infection is 77% and 84%, respectively. Chronic HBV infection brings severe burden to people's life and health as well as the national health care system. Although existing guidelines recommend dynamic monitoring of serum ALT and HBV DNA levels and assessment of liver histology of indeterminate zone, whether to initiate antiviral therapy in these patients remains controversial. This review mainly introduces the clinical treatment status of CHB patients in IC and indeterminate phase related to IC, and the future prospects of antiviral treatment for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
| | - Wen-Kang Gao
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yan-Yun Shu
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
| | - Jin Ye
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
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Hepatitis B Core-Related Antigen Stratifies the Risk of Liver Cancer in HBeAg-Negative Patients With Indeterminate Phase. Am J Gastroenterol 2022; 117:748-757. [PMID: 35191399 DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000001691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Many patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) are classified as indeterminate patients because they fall outside the defined CHB phases. We aimed to explore hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk in hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-negative patients with indeterminate phase and investigated whether the risk could be stratified by serum levels of hepatitis B core-related antigen (HBcrAg). METHODS Two retrospective cohorts enrolling HBeAg-negative, treatment-naïve CHB patients without cirrhosis were constructed (N = 2,150 in Taiwanese discovery cohort and N = 1,312 in Japanese validation cohort with a mean follow-up period of 15.88 and 12.07 years, respectively). The primary end point was HCC development. RESULTS According to the American Association for the Study of Liver Disease guidelines, 990 (46%) HBeAg-negative patients had indeterminate CHB phase at baseline in the Taiwanese cohort. Compared with the patients with inactive CHB and those with immune-active CHB, the indeterminate patients exhibited intermediate but diverse risk of HCC. When HCC risk was stratified by a HBcrAg level of 10,000 U/mL, 10-year HCC cumulative incidence was 0.51% and 5.33% for low HBcrAg and high HBcrAg groups, respectively, with a hazard ratio of 4.47 (95% confidence interval: 2.62-7.63). This cutoff was validated to stratify HCC risk not only in different subgroup analyses but also in an independent Japanese cohort. Finally, the overall HBeAg-negative CHB patients could be simply reclassified into high-risk and low-risk groups by combining ALT, hepatitis B virus DNA, and HBcrAg levels in both cohorts. DISCUSSION Serum HBcrAg level of 10,000 U/mL stratifies HCC risk in HBeAg-negative patients with indeterminate phase, which is useful for optimizing their clinical management.
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30
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Sanai FM, Alhouthali AH, Alghamdi HS, Badriq F, Sanai EA, Mujalled MK, Khayyat W, Attar MS, Bagadeem BS, Meer AM, Alshumrani W, Albeladi K, AlTraif I, Alqahtani S. Lower prevalence of hepatic fibrosis in low viremic hepatitis B patients with fluctuating HBV DNA levels. Saudi J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:341-347. [PMID: 35488588 PMCID: PMC9752532 DOI: 10.4103/sjg.sjg_48_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) patients, fluctuations in HBV DNA serve as a "gray area" and impede the accurate identification of inactive carriers. We aimed to assess if such fluctuations impact the presence of significant hepatic fibrosis (Metavir F2-4) in chronic HBV patients. METHODS Consecutive, untreated HBeAg-negative carriers (n = 234) with fluctuating HBV DNA (n = 73) above or below a level of 2000 IU/mL were included and compared to those without fluctuations (n = 161). Patients without fluctuating HBV DNA were further analyzed based on those with persistently low (<2,000 IU/mL, n = 137) and higher HBV DNA (2,000-20,000 IU/mL, n = 24). Hepatic fibrosis (assessed by transient elastography) was correlated with virologic and biochemical profiles. RESULTS The mean age of the overall cohort was 47.8 ± 11.1 years, of whom 107 (45.7%) were male. During a median of 60 months (interquartile range [IQR] 34-82) of follow-up, 73 (31.2%) patients had a mean of 1.6 ± 0.9 fluctuations in HBV DNA. The median time to the first fluctuation was at 14.5 (IQR 5.0-33.7) months. Patients with fluctuating viremia had higher log10 qHBsAg (3.1 ± 0.8 vs. 2.7 ± 1.0, P = 0.022) and HBV DNA (3.4 ± 0.5 vs. 2.7 ± 0.8, P < 0.001) compared to those without fluctuations. Patients with fluctuant viremia were less likely to have F2-4 fibrosis (8.2%) compared to those without fluctuant viremia (18.2%, odds ratio [OR]: 0.407, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.161-1.030; P = 0.052). Males tended to have less fluctuation constituting 37.0% of patients with fluctuating HBV DNA (P = 0.071). Fluctuations occurred more frequently in those with predominantly higher HBV DNA levels (26.0%) compared to those without fluctuations (14.9%; P = 0.030). CONCLUSIONS Fluctuating HBV DNA levels occur frequently but are not associated with significant fibrosis. Minor fluctuations in HBV DNA levels are unlikely to be of clinical relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faisal M. Sanai
- Department of Medicine, Gastroenterology Unit, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia,Address for correspondence: Dr. Faisal M. Sanai, Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz Medical City, PO Box 22490, Jeddah - 21423, Saudi Arabia. E-mail:
| | - Ahmad H. Alhouthali
- Department of Medicine, Gastroenterology Unit, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hamdan S. Alghamdi
- College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia,Department of Hepatobiliary Sciences and Organ Transplant Center, Division of Hepatology, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Feras Badriq
- College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eisa A. Sanai
- Department of Medicine, Gastroenterology Unit, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed K. Mujalled
- Department of Medicine, Gastroenterology Unit, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed Khayyat
- College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Motaz S. Attar
- College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Basil S. Bagadeem
- College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alaa M. Meer
- Department of Medicine, Gastroenterology Unit, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed Alshumrani
- Department of Medicine, Gastroenterology Unit, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia,College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid Albeladi
- Department of Medicine, Gastroenterology Unit, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ibrahim AlTraif
- College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia,Department of Hepatobiliary Sciences and Organ Transplant Center, Division of Hepatology, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh Alqahtani
- Liver Transplant Centre, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
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KASL clinical practice guidelines for management of chronic hepatitis B. Clin Mol Hepatol 2022; 28:276-331. [PMID: 35430783 PMCID: PMC9013624 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2022.0084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
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32
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Lee HA, Lee HW, Park Y, Kim HS, Seo YS. Hepatitis B Core-Related Antigen Is Useful for Predicting Phase and Prognosis of Hepatitis B e Antigen-Positive Patients. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11061729. [PMID: 35330053 PMCID: PMC8956075 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11061729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of hepatitis B core-related antigen (HBcrAg) level in defining clinical phase and predicting prognosis of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) has not been fully studied. CHB patients who had undergone liver biopsy in Korea University Medical Center were included. Patients with liver cirrhosis were excluded. The associations of HBcrAg level with CHB phase, and nucleos(t)ide analogue (NA)-induced hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) seroconversion were analyzed. In total, 387 patients (median follow-up of 82.4 months) were included. The CHB phases of patients were defined histologically as immune-tolerant (IT, n = 32, 8.3%), HBeAg-positive and immune-active (PIA, n = 211, 54.5%), HBeAg-negative and immune-active (n = 125, 32.3%), and inactive (n = 19, 4.9%), respectively. In HBeAg-positive patients, the mean HBV DNA levels were comparable between the two groups (p = 0.990). However, the mean HBsAg (7.4 log IU/mL and 6.9 log IU/mL, p = 0.002) and HBcrAg levels (8.2 log U/mL vs. 7.6 log U/mL, p < 0.001) of IT patients were significantly higher than that of PIA patients. In multivariate analysis, younger age (odds ratio [OR] 0.949, p = 0.025), lower alanine aminotransferase (OR 0.988, p = 0.002) and higher HBcrAg level (OR = 2.745 p = 0.022) were independent predictors of the IT phase. Of the patients in the PIA phase, 194 received NA after liver biopsy, and 61 (31.4%) had achieved HBeAg seroconversion after antiviral therapy. In Cox regression analysis, the higher HBcrAg level was the only independent predictor of the NA-induced HBeAg seroconversion (hazard ratio 1.285, p = 0.028). The HBcrAg level is useful for predicting clinical phase of CHB and NA-induced HBeAg seroconversion in HBeAg-positive patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Ah Lee
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul 07985, Korea;
| | - Hyun Woong Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03772, Korea
- Correspondence: (H.W.L.); (Y.S.S.)
| | - Younhee Park
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03772, Korea; (Y.P.); (H.-S.K.)
| | - Hyon-Suk Kim
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03772, Korea; (Y.P.); (H.-S.K.)
| | - Yeon Seok Seo
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Korea
- Correspondence: (H.W.L.); (Y.S.S.)
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A Prospective Five-Year Follow-up After peg-Interferon Plus Nucleotide Analogue Treatment or no Treatment in HBeAg Negative Chronic Hepatitis B Patients. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2022; 12:735-744. [PMID: 35677522 PMCID: PMC9168707 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2021.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Currently available treatment options for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) are not recommended for HBeAg-negative patients with a low viral load. These patients may however benefit from treatment by achieving a functional cure, defined by HBsAg-loss and undetectable HBV DNA. This study evaluated the long-term effect of combination treatment with peg-interferon-alpha-2a (peg-IFN) and adefovir or tenofovir compared to no treatment in these patients. METHODS HBeAg-negative CHB patients with HBV-DNA levels < 20,000 IU/mL (n = 151) were previously randomised 1:1:1 for peg-IFN 180 μg/week plus either adefovir 10 mg/day or tenofovir 245 mg/day, or no treatment and treated for 48 weeks in an open-label study. In this prospective long-term follow-up study, patients were monitored yearly up to five years after end of treatment (week 308). The primary outcome was sustained HBsAg-loss and secondary outcome the dynamics of HBsAg and HBV-DNA levels over time. RESULTS Of the 131 followed patients, the HBsAg-status was known for 118 patients after five-year follow-up. HBsAg-loss occurred similarly (P = 0.703) in all arms: 8/43 (18.6%) peg-IFN + adefovir, 4/34 (11.7%) peg-IFN + tenofovir, and 6/41 (14.6%) among the untreated patients. The time to HBsAg-loss did not differ between groups (P = 0.641). Low baseline HBsAg levels and genotype A were independently associated with HBsAg-loss irrespective of allocation. HBsAg and HBV-DNA levels declined similarly during follow-up in all patient groups. CONCLUSIONS This prospective randomised controlled study showed that HBsAg-loss overtime was not influenced by treatment with a combination of nucleotide analogue and Peg-IFN. Low baseline HBsAg levels can predict HBsAg-loss irrespective of treatment allocation.
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Key Words
- ADV, Adefovir dipivoxil
- ALT, Alanine aminotransferase
- CHB, Chronic hepatitis B
- EOT, End of treatment
- GZ, Grey zone
- HBeAg, Hepatitis B e antigen
- HBsAg, Hepatitis B surface antigen
- HCC, Hepatocellular Carcinoma
- HNCH, HBeAg-negative chronic infection
- NA, Nucleot(s)ide analogue
- ROC, Receiver operating characteristic
- TAF, Tenofovir alafenamide fumarateor
- TDF, Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate
- ULN, Upper limit of normal
- UMC, University Medical Centers
- combination therapy
- functional cure
- hepatitis B virus
- inactive carrier
- low viral load
- peg-IFN, Pegylated-interferon
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34
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Svicher V, Salpini R, Piermatteo L, Carioti L, Battisti A, Colagrossi L, Scutari R, Surdo M, Cacciafesta V, Nuccitelli A, Hansi N, Ceccherini Silberstein F, Perno CF, Gill US, Kennedy PTF. Whole exome HBV DNA integration is independent of the intrahepatic HBV reservoir in HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B. Gut 2021; 70:2337-2348. [PMID: 33402415 PMCID: PMC8588301 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2020-323300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The involvement of HBV DNA integration in promoting hepatocarcinogenesis and the extent to which the intrahepatic HBV reservoir modulates liver disease progression remains poorly understood. We examined the intrahepatic HBV reservoir, the occurrence of HBV DNA integration and its impact on the hepatocyte transcriptome in hepatitis B 'e' antigen (HBeAg)-negative chronic hepatitis B (CHB). DESIGN Liver tissue from 84 HBeAg-negative patients with CHB with low (n=12), moderate (n=25) and high (n=47) serum HBV DNA was analysed. Covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA), pregenomic RNA (pgRNA) were evaluated by quantitative PCR, whole exome and transcriptome sequencing was performed by Illumina, and the burden of HBV DNA integrations was evaluated by digital droplet PCR. RESULTS Patients with low and moderate serum HBV DNA displayed comparable intrahepatic cccDNA and pgRNA, significantly lower than in patients with high HBV DNA, while hepatitis B core-related antigen correlated strongly with the intrahepatic HBV reservoir, reflecting cccDNA quantity. Whole exome integration was detected in a significant number of patients (55.6%, 14.3% and 25% in high, moderate and low viraemic patients, respectively), at a frequency ranging from 0.5 to 157 integrations/1000 hepatocytes. Hepatitis B surface antigen >5000 IU/mL predicted integration within the exome and these integrations localised in genes involved in hepatocarcinogenesis, regulation of lipid/drug metabolism and antiviral/inflammatory responses. Transcript levels of specific genes, including the proto-oncogene hRAS, were higher in patients with HBV DNA integration, supporting an underlying oncogenic risk in patients with low-level to moderate-level viraemia. CONCLUSIONS HBV DNA integration occurs across all HBeAg-negative patients with CHB, including those with a limited HBV reservoir; localising in genes involved in carcinogenesis and altering the hepatocyte transcriptome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Svicher
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Roma, Lazio, Italy
| | - Romina Salpini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Roma, Lazio, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Piermatteo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Roma, Lazio, Italy
| | - Luca Carioti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Roma, Lazio, Italy
| | - Arianna Battisti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Roma, Lazio, Italy,Barts Liver Cente, Immunobiology, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Luna Colagrossi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Roma, Lazio, Italy,Department of Microbiology and Virology, University of Milan, Milano, Lombardia, Italy
| | - Rossana Scutari
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Roma, Lazio, Italy
| | - Matteo Surdo
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Eurofins GENOMA, Roma, Lazio, Italy
| | | | | | - Navjyot Hansi
- Barts Liver Cente, Immunobiology, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | | | - Carlo Federico Perno
- Department of Oncology and Haematooncology, University of Milan, Milano, Lombardia, Italy
| | - Upkar S Gill
- Barts Liver Cente, Immunobiology, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Patrick T F Kennedy
- Barts Liver Cente, Immunobiology, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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35
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Controversies in Treating Chronic Hepatitis B virus: The Role of Hepatitis B Virus DNA and Surface Antigen Titer. Clin Liver Dis 2021; 25:763-784. [PMID: 34593152 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2021.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Controversial areas in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) are those where there is uncertainty, or differences of opinion in management, or where evidence may be insufficient. Areas of controversy include whether patients with high viral load but normal liver function tests should be treated to prevent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) or liver disease progression to cirrhosis. Another area is whether quantitative hepatitis B surface antigen (qHBsAg) can be used to better characterize phases of CHB and prognosticate. Finally, the utility of qHBsAg in the management of patients on antiviral therapy such as interferon and nucleoside analogues could improve management practices.
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36
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Jeng WJ, Lok AS. Should Treatment Indications for Chronic Hepatitis B Be Expanded? Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 19:2006-2014. [PMID: 32434068 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2020.04.091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIM Antiviral therapy has greatly improved the outcomes of patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and active liver disease or advanced fibrosis/cirrhosis. However, current treatment does not eradicate HBV and long-term treatment is needed in most patients to maintain clinical benefit. Thus, professional society guidelines do not recommend treatment of all patients with chronic HBV infection. This review article will examine evidence for and against expansion of treatment to patients in whom treatment is not recommended based on current guidelines. RESULTS Available data support expanding treatment to immune tolerant patients and patients in the grey zones who have evidence of active/advanced liver disease based on liver biopsy or non-invasive tests and those who remain in the immune tolerant phase after age 40. Evidence supporting treatment expansion to confirmed inactive carriers and other immune tolerant patients is lacking. CONCLUSIONS HBV treatment indications can be more liberal when new therapies that can achieve HBsAg loss safely in a high percentage of patients after a finite course of treatment are available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Juei Jeng
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou branch, Taiwan; Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taiwan
| | - Anna S Lok
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
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37
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Yao K, Liu J, Wang J, Yan X, Xia J, Yang Y, Wu W, Liu Y, Chen Y, Zhang Z, Li J, Huang R, Wu C. Distribution and clinical characteristics of patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection in the grey zone. J Viral Hepat 2021; 28:1025-1033. [PMID: 33797145 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
A substantial proportion of patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) who do not fit into any of the usual immune states are considered to be in the 'grey zone (GZ)'. We aimed to investigate the distribution and characteristics of GZ in a large cohort of CHB patients. Four thousand seven hundred and fifty-nine consecutive treatment-naïve CHB patients were enrolled. The immune states were defined based on AASLD 2018 Hepatitis B Guidance. GZ CHB patients were classified into four groups: HBeAg positive, normal ALT levels and serum HBV DNA ≤106 IU/ml (GZ-A); HBeAg positive, elevated ALT levels and serum HBV DNA ≤2 × 104 IU/ml (GZ-B); HBeAg negative, normal ALT levels and serum HBV DNA ≥2 × 103 IU/ml (GZ-C); HBeAg negative, elevated ALT levels and serum HBV DNA ≤2 × 103 IU/ml (GZ-D). The distributions of different immune states were: 233 (4.90%) patients in immune-tolerant phase, 941 (19.77%) patients in HBeAg-positive immune active phase, 1,717 (36.08%) patients in inactive phase and 546 (11.47%) patients in HBeAg-negative immune active phase. Of note, 1,322 (27.78%) patients did not fit into any of above phases and were defined as the GZ. A high proportion of patients in GZ-B had advanced fibrosis (33.3%) or cirrhosis (25.8%). Older age, HBeAg-positive status and higher ALT levels were independently risk factors of advanced disease in GZ CHB patients. Therefore, our results revealed that more than a quarter of CHB patients were classified into the GZ and a high proportion of patients in GZ-B had advanced fibrosis or even cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kefang Yao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiacheng Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaomin Yan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Juan Xia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Yue Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Weihua Wu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Yong Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuxin Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhaoping Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Infectious Disease, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Rui Huang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Chao Wu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
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38
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Tseng TC. Another oral antiviral treatment, but still far away from hepatitis B virus cure. Clin Mol Hepatol 2021; 27:281-282. [PMID: 33687857 PMCID: PMC8046632 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2021.0072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tai-Chung Tseng
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Hepatitis Research Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Research, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Liang LY, Lee HW, Wong VWS, Yip TCF, Tse YK, Hui VWK, Lui GCY, Chan HLY, Wong GLH. Serum fibrosis index-based risk score predicts hepatocellular carcinoma in untreated patients with chronic hepatitis B. Clin Mol Hepatol 2021; 27:499-509. [PMID: 33631920 PMCID: PMC8273639 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2020.0333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Serum fibrosis scores comprised of common laboratory tests have high utility to assess severity of liver fibrosis. We aimed to derive and validate a hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk score based on serum fibrosis scores to predict HCC in treatment-naïve chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. METHODS Fifteen thousand one hundred eighty-seven treatment-naïve adult CHB patients were identified to form the training cohort in this retrospective study. Individual fibrosis score was included to construct a new HCC prediction score. The score was externally validated in an independent treatment-naïve Korean CHB cohort. RESULTS 180/15,187 patients (1.2%) in training cohort and 47/4,286 patients (1.1%) in validation cohort developed HCC during a mean follow-up of 52 and 50 months, respectively. The newly developed HCC risk score, Liang score, is composed of gender, age, hepatitis B virus DNA, fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index, and ranges from 0 to 22. Area under the time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curve of Liang score was 0.79 (95% confidence interval, 0.70-0.89). A cutoff value of nine provided an extremely high negative predictive value of 99.9% and high sensitivity of 90.0% at 5 years in the validation cohort. Patients with Liang score ≤9 had HCC incidence <0.2% per year in both training and validation cohorts, in whom HCC surveillance might be exempted. CONCLUSION A novel HCC risk score, Liang score, based on FIB-4 index, is applicable and accurate to identify treatment-naïve CHB patients with very low risk of HCC to be exempted from HCC surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilian Yan Liang
- Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Medical Data Analytic Centre (MDAC), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Hye Won Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Vincent Wai-Sun Wong
- Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Medical Data Analytic Centre (MDAC), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Terry Cheuk-Fung Yip
- Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Medical Data Analytic Centre (MDAC), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Yee-Kit Tse
- Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Medical Data Analytic Centre (MDAC), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Vicki Wing-Ki Hui
- Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Medical Data Analytic Centre (MDAC), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Grace Chung-Yan Lui
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Medical Data Analytic Centre (MDAC), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Henry Lik-Yuen Chan
- Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Medical Data Analytic Centre (MDAC), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Grace Lai-Hung Wong
- Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.,Medical Data Analytic Centre (MDAC), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
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Wu JW, Kao JH, Tseng TC. Three Heads are Better than Two: HBcrAg as a New Predictor of HBV-related HCC. Clin Mol Hepatol 2021; 27:524-534. [PMID: 33618507 PMCID: PMC8524074 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2021.0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection are at risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and serum markers reflecting viral replication are potential predictors for HCC development. Besides the levels of serum HBV DNA and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), hepatitis B core-related antigen (HBcrAg) quantification is an emerging serological marker for viral replication. Unlike HBV DNA and HBsAg, HBcrAg is a covalently closed circular DNA-derived protein marker, consisting of hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg), p22cr, and hepatitis B core antigen. In treatment-naïve HBV patients, higher HBcrAg levels are shown to be associated with an increased risk of HCC in several studies. More importantly, HBcrAg may complement HBV DNA level to predict HCC development. For example, an Asian treatment-naïve cohort study’s data showed that HBcrAg level of 4 log U/mL was effective to stratify HCC risk in HBeAg-negative patients with intermediate viral loads, who may not need antiviral therapy because of the low to moderate risk of HCC. In patients receiving prolonged nucleos(t)ide analogue with profound viral suppression, most data indicated that HBV DNA and HBsAg levels no longer serve as HCC predictors. However, several studies suggested on-treatment HBcrAg levels may remain as an HCC predictor. In summary, HBcrAg level can be a useful biomarker for treatment-naïve patients, but its value in on-treatment patients needs validation. The next challenge is how to combine HBcrAg with the other viral markers to construct a better HCC prediction model, optimizing the management of HBV patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jer-Wei Wu
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Horng Kao
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Hepatitis Research Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Research, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tai-Chung Tseng
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Hepatitis Research Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Research, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Rodríguez M, Buti M, Esteban R, Lens S, Prieto M, Suárez E, García-Samaniego J. Consensus document of the Spanish Association for Study of the Liver on the treatment of hepatitis B virus infection (2020). GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2020; 43:559-587. [PMID: 32778356 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastrohep.2020.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a global public health problem. HBV vaccination is the most effective tool to reduce the incidence of HBV disease. Despite there has not been new clinical developments for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B in the last few years, changing epidemiology and current insights on natural history, diagnostic tools and therapy indications make necessary an update of the former version of the consensus document of the Spanish Association for Study of the Liver on the treatment of hepatitis B infection published in 2012. The current document updates the management of chronic hepatitis B. The treatment of choice is the long-term administration of a nucleos(t)ide analogue with high barrier to resistance (entecavir, tenofovir or tenofovir alafenamide). Pegylated interferon may be an option in patients with non-advanced liver disease, but its applicability is limited due to the low efficacy and poor tolerability. All patients must be monitored for the risk of progression to advanced liver disease and development of hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Rodríguez
- Sección de Hepatología, Servicio de Digestivo, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Oviedo, España.
| | - María Buti
- Servicio de Hepatología-Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario Valle Hebrón, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CiBERehd), Barcelona, España
| | - Rafael Esteban
- Servicio de Hepatología-Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario Valle Hebrón, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CiBERehd), Barcelona, España
| | - Sabela Lens
- Servicio de Hepatología, Hospital Clínic, IDIBAPS, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CiBERehd), Universidad de Barcelona, Barcelona, España
| | - Martín Prieto
- Sección de Hepatología, Servicio de Medicina Digestiva, Hospital Universitari ì Politècnic La Fe, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CiBERehd), Valencia, España
| | - Emilio Suárez
- Unidad de Enfermedades Digestivas, Hospital Universitario Virgen de Valme, Sevilla, España
| | - Javier García-Samaniego
- Unidad de Hepatología, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CiBERehd), Instituto de Investigación Hospital Universitario La Paz (IdiPAZ), Madrid, España.
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42
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Hsu YC, Huang YT. Editorial: risk assessment for chronic hepatitis B patients in the immune tolerant phase-both definition and selection matter. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2020; 52:213-214. [PMID: 32529769 DOI: 10.1111/apt.15798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yao-Chun Hsu
- Center for Liver Diseases and School of Medicine, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Division of Gastroenterology, Fu-Jen Catholic University Hospital, New Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Tsung Huang
- Institute of Statistical Science, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
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43
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Predictors for the progression of hepatic cirrhosis to hepatocellular carcinoma under long-term antiviral therapy. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 32:447-453. [PMID: 32012142 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000001631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patients diagnosed with hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related hepatic cirrhosis have the potential for progression to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) even while undergoing long-term nucleos(t)ide analog (NA) therapy. This study investigated the predictors for the progression of hepatic cirrhosis to HCC under long-term NA therapy. METHODS This retrospective study enrolled 898 patients diagnosed with HBV-related hepatic cirrhosis. They received NA therapy between January 2012 and January 2015. The values for the liver stiffness measurement (LSM), laboratory tests, and disease history were collected. The diagnostic specificity of the serum, was assessed with a receiver operating characteristic curve. RESULTS The overall 2- and 3-year cumulative incidence of HCC was 6.8% and 15.15%, respectively. The LSM values were higher in the patients who had progressed to HCC. The serum PIVKA-II levels were more efficient than the serum AFP levels for the diagnosis of early HCC as the larger area under curve (0.866 vs. 0.687). The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that HCC occurrence was significantly associated with the baseline LSM value (odds ratio = 1.035). At the end of the study, the death rate for the patients with larger LSM values was higher than that for those with lower LSM values (67.88% vs. 39.90%). CONCLUSION Patients with HBV-related cirrhosis have the potential for progression to HCC even under long-term NA therapy. The LSM value and the serum PIVKA-II level are significant predictors of HCC occurrence.
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High mutation prevalence of precore and basal core promoter in pregnant women who underwent spontaneous HBeAg seroconversion within one year postpartum. Dig Liver Dis 2020; 52:199-204. [PMID: 31320303 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2019.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Seroconversion of hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) is a critical event in the natural course of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. AIM We herein characterize the virological factors associated with postpartum spontaneous HBeAg seroconversion. METHODS A total of 214 pregnant women positive for both hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and HBeAg were followed up at 7-12 months postpartum. RESULTS Of the subjects, 26 (12.1%) achieved spontaneous HBeAg seroconversion. Receiver operating curve analysis indicated that HBV DNA level <1.0 × 107 IU/mL, HBsAg <1.0 × 104 IU/mL and HBeAg <7.36 × 102 S/CO each independently predicted HBeAg seroconversion within 12 months postpartum. At delivery, 73.1% (19/26) women with postpartum HBeAg seroconversion had precore (PC) and/or basal core promoter (BCP) mutations, higher than that (5/36, 13.9%) in the women without postpartum seroconversion. Binary logistic regression analysis indicated that the presence of mutations in PC, BCP, and both PC and BCP at delivery was associated with an increased likelihood (OR = 13.286, 16. 238, and 22.143 respectively, all P < 0.05) to undergo postpartum spontaneous HBeAg seroconversion. CONCLUSION These results suggest that quantitative determination of virological markers and sequencing PC and BCP can predict spontaneous HBeAg seroconversion, which could be valuable in deciding antiviral therapy against HBV.
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Lee HW, Kim BK. Reply. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 18:264-265. [PMID: 31252194 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2019.06.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hye Won Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Yonsei Liver Center, Severance Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Beom Kyung Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Yonsei Liver Center, Severance Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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46
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The HBeAg-Negative "Gray Zone" Phase: A Frequent Condition With Different Outcomes in Western and Asian Patients? Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 18:263-264. [PMID: 31858983 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2019.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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47
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Gil-García AI, Madejón A, Francisco-Recuero I, López-López A, Villafranca E, Romero M, García A, Olveira A, Mena R, Larrubia JR, García-Samaniego J. Prevalence of hepatocarcinoma-related hepatitis B virus mutants in patients in grey zone of treatment. World J Gastroenterol 2019; 25:5883-5896. [PMID: 31636479 PMCID: PMC6801187 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v25.i38.5883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2019] [Revised: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antiviral treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) in the grey zone of treatment comands risk management in order to optimize the health outcome. In this sense, the identification of HBV mutants related with an increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) could be useful to identify subpopulations with potential indication of antiviral treatment.
AIM To analyze the prevalence/persistence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) preS and basal core promoter (BCP)/precore/core variants associated to HCC development in CHB patients in the grey zone.
METHODS Work was designed as a longitudinal retrospective study, including 106 plasma samples from 31 patients with CHB in the grey zone of treatment: Hepatitis B e antigen negative, HBV-DNA levels between 12-20000 IU/mL, normal or discordant transaminase levels during follow up and mild/moderate necro-inflammatory activity in liver biopsy or Fibroscan (up to 9.5 kPa). Serum HBV-DNA was tested using the Abbott Real Time HBV Assay and the BCP/precore/core and the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) coding regions were analyzed in positive samples by PCR/bulk-sequencing to identify the HCC-related HBV mutants.
RESULTS High-risk HCC related mutants were detected in 24 (77%) patients: 19 (61%) in the BCP/precore/core, and 7 (23%) in the HBsAg coding region (2 preS1 and 5 preS2 deletions). The prevalence of preS deletions was genotype-dependent: 3/5 (60%) patients with preS2 deletions and 1/2 with preS1 deletions were infected with the HBV-E genotype. Since HBV-E was the most prevalent in sub-Saharan patients, a correlation between preS deletions and ethnicity was also found: 6/8 (75%) sub-Saharan vs 1/19 (5%) Caucasian patients had preS deletions (P = 0.00016). Remarkably, this correlation was maintained in those patients infected with HBV-A, a minor genotype in sub-Saharan patients: 2/2 patients infected with HBV-A from West Africa vs 0/6 of Caucasian origin had preS deletions. The HCC related variants were the major strains and persisted over time (up to 48 mo). Patients with preS deletions had a significant higher prevalence of F2 fibrosis stage than the negatives (57% vs 10%, P = 0.0078).
CONCLUSION HBV genetic analysis of selected populations, like sub-Saharans infected with HBV-E/A genotypes, will allow identification of subpopulations with risk of HCC development due to accumulation of high-risk HBV variants, thus commanding their increased clinical surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Isabel Gil-García
- Hepatology Unit, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid 28046, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Antonio Madejón
- Hepatology Unit, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid 28046, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Irene Francisco-Recuero
- Hepatology Unit, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid 28046, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación del Hospital Universitario la Paz, Madrid 28046, Spain
| | - Ana López-López
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | | | - Miriam Romero
- Hepatology Unit, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid 28046, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Araceli García
- Hepatology Unit, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid 28046, Spain
| | - Antonio Olveira
- Hepatology Unit, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid 28046, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Rocío Mena
- Instituto de Genética Médica y Molecular, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid 28046, Spain
| | - Juan Ramón Larrubia
- Translational Hepatology Unit, Hospital General Universitario de Guadalajara, Guadalajara 19002, Castilla-La Mancha, Spain
| | - Javier García-Samaniego
- Hepatology Unit, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid 28046, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación del Hospital Universitario la Paz, Madrid 28046, Spain
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Clinical utility of HBV surface antigen quantification in HBV e antigen-negative chronic HBV infection. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 16:631-641. [PMID: 31477873 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-019-0197-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a serious problem owing to its worldwide distribution and potential adverse sequelae that include cirrhosis and/or hepatocellular carcinoma. Current antiviral therapies have much improved outcomes, but few patients achieve the ultimate goal of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) loss (functional cure). As hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-negative chronic HBV infection is the final phase prior to HBsAg loss, the management of patients in this phase together with quantification of HBsAg has attracted increasing clinical and research interest. This Review integrates the findings from research in HBsAg kinetics and discusses how they might inform our understanding and management of HBeAg-negative chronic HBV infection. Studies have shown that HBsAg levels are highly predictive of the presence of inactive HBV infection and that serial changes in HBsAg levels might predict HBsAg loss within 1-3 years. Data also suggest that quantitative HBsAg monitoring is important during hepatitis flare and antiviral therapy, especially in the timing of the decision to stop therapy and to start off-therapy retreatment. These findings have shed new light on the natural course of HBV infection and might lead to optimization of the management of HBeAg-negative chronic HBV infection and contribute to the paradigm shift from indefinite to finite therapy for patients with HBV infection.
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Ridruejo E. Editorial: grey zone, a new area of interest in chronic hepatitis B. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2018; 47:1547-1548. [PMID: 29878434 DOI: 10.1111/apt.14644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E Ridruejo
- Hepatology Section, Department of Medicine, Centro de Educación Médica e Investigaciones Clínicas Norberto Quirno "CEMIC", Ciudad Autónoma de, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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