1
|
Silva E, Marques S, Leal B, Canhão B, Madaleno J, Simão A, Carvalho A. Occult hepatitis C infection identified in injection drug users with direct antiviral agents therapy and spontaneous resolution of hepatitis C virus infection. Virus Res 2023; 329:199104. [PMID: 37003528 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2023.199104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Occult hepatitis C infection (OCI) is characterized by the detection of hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA in hepatocytes and in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) without detection in serum. We aimed to evaluate OCI in drug and no drug users who achieved sustained virological response (SVR) after therapy with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) and with HCV spontaneous resolution. METHODS Twenty-four patients in the AVP group (who achieved a SVR after DAAs therapy), 13 in the NAVP group (with HCV spontaneous resolution) and 7 HCV-RNA positive patients (CPP, control positive group) were included in the study. HCV/OCI-RNA was screened in serum and PBMCs samples of the patients by ddPCR for OCI patients' identification. Plasma and red blood cells (RBCs) samples of the patients were also evaluated for HCV/OCI-RNA detection by ddPCR. RESULTS OCI was presented in injection drug users (IDUs) in the AVP (20.8%) and NAVP (23.1%) groups by ddPCR with a higher statistically significant percentage detected in RBCs samples of the patients in the AVP group comparatively to NAVP (p<0.01) and CPP (p < 0.05) groups. CONCLUSION OCI was identified in IDUs patients of the AVP and NAVP groups by ddPCR. These results suggest that OCI patients in the AVP group might not be entirely cured, and that OCI patients in the NAVP group were not identified at clinical evaluation time when just serum samples were analysed. A higher percentage of HCV/OCI-RNA was detected in RBCs samples. Overall results recommends that HCV/OCI identification in patients with DAAs therapy and spontaneous resolution of HCV infection should be studied more accurately in future and in larger patient groups if possible. Additionally, suggest also PBMCs and RBCs samples as predictors for HCV/OCI diagnosis and management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eliane Silva
- Research Center in Biodiversity and Genetic Resources (CIBIO/InBIO), University of Porto, Vairão, Portugal; School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences of the University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Porto, Portugal.
| | - Sara Marques
- Research Center in Biodiversity and Genetic Resources (CIBIO/InBIO), University of Porto, Vairão, Portugal
| | - Bárbara Leal
- Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB) at 2School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences of the University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Porto, Portugal; Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), Porto, Portugal
| | - Bernardo Canhão
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Coimbra Hospital and University Center (CHUC), Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Madaleno
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Coimbra Hospital and University Center (CHUC), Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Adélia Simão
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Coimbra Hospital and University Center (CHUC), Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Armando Carvalho
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Coimbra Hospital and University Center (CHUC), Coimbra, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kapadia SN, Katzman C, Fong C, Eckhardt BJ, Guarino H, Mateu-Gelabert P. Hepatitis C testing and treatment uptake among young people who use opioids in New York City: A cross-sectional study. J Viral Hepat 2021; 28:326-333. [PMID: 33141503 PMCID: PMC8207521 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Young people who use drugs have a rising hepatitis C (HCV) incidence in the United States, but they may face barriers to testing and treatment adoption due to stigma. We conducted a cross-sectional study of New York City residents aged 18-29 years who reported non-medical prescription opioid and/or heroin use in the past 30 days. Participants were recruited from the community between 2014-2016 via respondent-driven sampling. Participants completed an in-person structured survey that included questions about HCV testing and treatment and received HCV antibody testing. There were 539 respondents: 353 people who inject drugs (PWID) and 186 non-PWID. For PWID, median age was 25 years, 65% were male and 73% non-Hispanic White. For non-PWID, median age was 23 years, 73% were male and 39% non-Hispanic White. 20% of PWID and 54% of non-PWID had never been tested for HCV (P < .001). Years since first injection (aOR 1.16, CI: 1.02-1.32, P = .02) and history of substance use treatment (aOR 3.17, CI: 1.53-6.61, P = .02) were associated with prior testing among PWID. The seroprevalence of HCV among PWID was 25%, adjusted for sampling weights. Of the 75 who were aware of their HCV-positive status, 53% had received HCV-related medical care, and 28% had initiated treatment. HCV prevalence among young PWID is high, and many have never been tested. Injection experience and treatment engagement is associated with testing. Interventions to increase testing earlier in injection careers, and to improve linkage to HCV treatment, will be critical for young PWID.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shashi N Kapadia
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Caroline Katzman
- Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Chunki Fong
- Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy, New York, NY, USA
| | - Benjamin J Eckhardt
- Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Honoria Guarino
- Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy, New York, NY, USA
| | - Pedro Mateu-Gelabert
- Department of Community Health and Social Sciences, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Yan J, Fu XB, Zhou PP, He X, Liu J, Huang XH, Yu GL, Yan XG, Li JR, Li Y, Lin P. Complicated HCV subtype expansion among drug users in Guangdong province, China. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2019; 73:139-145. [PMID: 31048077 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2019.04.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Guangdong Province is one of the most developed and populous provinces in southern China. The subtype situation of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in Guangdong remains unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate and estimate the HCV subtypes in drug users (DU) using a city-based sampling strategy to better understand the characteristics of HCV transmission in Guangdong. Archived plasma samples (n = 1074) from DU who were anti-HCV positive in 2014 were selected randomly from 20 cities in Guangdong Province. Subtypes were determined based on core and/or E1 sequences using phylogenetic analysis. The distributions of HCV subtypes in DU and different regions were analyzed. A total of 8 genotypes were identified. The three main HCV subtypes in DU in Guangdong were 6a (63.0%), 3a (15.2%), and 3b (11.8%). Significant differences were discovered among different registered residency and regions but not among genders, marital status, education level, or drug use patterns. HCV subtype 3b was significantly higher in Guangdong residents than in non-Guangdong residents. In contrast, HCV subtype 6a was significantly lower in Guangdong residents than in non-Guangdong residents. Subtype 1b in eastern Guangdong (eastern) was significantly lower, while 6a was significantly higher when compared with other regions. Subtype 3a in the Pearl River Delta (PRD) region was significantly higher, while 3b was significantly lower when compared with other regions. In western Guangdong, HCV subtype 3a was significantly lower when compared with other regions. Additionally, in northern Guangdong subtypes 1b and 3b were significantly higher, while 6a was significantly lower when compared with other regions. Our study revealed the diversity and distribution of HCV subtypes in DU in nearly all the cities in Guangdong. The results provide essential information that will allow the establishment of specific intervention strategies that may help prevent HCV transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin Yan
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 160 Qunxian Road, Panyu District, Guangzhou 511430, Guangdong, China.
| | - Xiao-Bing Fu
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 160 Qunxian Road, Panyu District, Guangzhou 511430, Guangdong, China
| | - Ping-Ping Zhou
- Guangdong Provincial Institute of Public Health, Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 160 Qunxian Road, Panyu District, Guangzhou 511430, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiang He
- Guangdong Provincial Institute of Public Health, Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 160 Qunxian Road, Panyu District, Guangzhou 511430, Guangdong, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 160 Qunxian Road, Panyu District, Guangzhou 511430, Guangdong, China
| | - Xu-He Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Institute of Public Health, Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 160 Qunxian Road, Panyu District, Guangzhou 511430, Guangdong, China
| | - Guo-Long Yu
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 160 Qunxian Road, Panyu District, Guangzhou 511430, Guangdong, China
| | - Xin-Ge Yan
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 160 Qunxian Road, Panyu District, Guangzhou 511430, Guangdong, China
| | - Jian-Rong Li
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 160 Qunxian Road, Panyu District, Guangzhou 511430, Guangdong, China
| | - Yan Li
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 160 Qunxian Road, Panyu District, Guangzhou 511430, Guangdong, China
| | - Peng Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 160 Qunxian Road, Panyu District, Guangzhou 511430, Guangdong, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Lazarus JV, Sperle I, Spina A, Rockstroh JK. Are the testing needs of key European populations affected by hepatitis B and hepatitis C being addressed? A scoping review of testing studies in Europe. Croat Med J 2017; 57:442-456. [PMID: 27815935 PMCID: PMC5141462 DOI: 10.3325/cmj.2016.57.442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim To investigate whether or not key populations affected by hepatitis B and hepatitis C are being tested sufficiently for these diseases throughout the European region. Methods We searched MEDLINE and EMBASE for studies on HBV and HCV testing in the 53 Member States of the World Health Organization European Region following PRISMA criteria. Results 136 English-language studies from 24 countries published between January 2007 and June 2013 were found. Most studies took place in 6 countries: France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. 37 studies (27%) addressed HBV, 46 (34%) HCV, and 53 (39%) both diseases. The largest categories of study populations were people who use drugs (18%) and health care patient populations (17%). Far fewer studies focused on migrants, prison inmates, or men who have sex with men. Conclusions The overall evidence base on HBV and HCV testing has considerable gaps in terms of the countries and populations represented and validity of testing uptake data. More research is needed throughout Europe to guide efforts to provide testing to certain key populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey V Lazarus
- Jeffrey V Lazarus, CHIP, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Oster Allé 56, 5th floor, DK-2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark,
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Merat SJ, Molenkamp R, Wagner K, Koekkoek SM, van de Berg D, Yasuda E, Böhne M, Claassen YB, Grady BP, Prins M, Bakker AQ, de Jong MD, Spits H, Schinkel J, Beaumont T. Hepatitis C virus Broadly Neutralizing Monoclonal Antibodies Isolated 25 Years after Spontaneous Clearance. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0165047. [PMID: 27776169 PMCID: PMC5077102 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0165047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Accepted: 09/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is world-wide a major cause of liver related morbidity and mortality. No vaccine is available to prevent HCV infection. To design an effective vaccine, understanding immunity against HCV is necessary. The memory B cell repertoire was characterized from an intravenous drug user who spontaneously cleared HCV infection 25 years ago. CD27+IgG+ memory B cells were immortalized using BCL6 and Bcl-xL. These immortalized B cells were used to study antibody-mediated immunity against the HCV E1E2 glycoproteins. Five E1E2 broadly reactive antibodies were isolated: 3 antibodies showed potent neutralization of genotype 1 to 4 using HCV pseudotyped particles, whereas the other 2 antibodies neutralized genotype 1, 2 and 3 or 1 and 2 only. All antibodies recognized non-linear epitopes on E2. Finally, except for antibody AT12-011, which recognized an epitope consisting of antigenic domain C /AR2 and AR5, all other four antibodies recognized epitope II and domain B. These data show that a subject, who spontaneously cleared HCV infection 25 years ago, still has circulating memory B cells that are able to secrete broadly neutralizing antibodies. Presence of such memory B cells strengthens the argument for undertaking the development of an HCV vaccine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Richard Molenkamp
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Section of Clinical Virology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Koen Wagner
- AIMM Therapeutics, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sylvie M. Koekkoek
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Section of Clinical Virology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | - Bart P. Grady
- Department of Infectious Diseases Research and Prevention, Cluster of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious Diseases Research and Prevention, Cluster of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of infectious diseases, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Menno D. de Jong
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Section of Clinical Virology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Janke Schinkel
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Section of Clinical Virology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Tim Beaumont
- AIMM Therapeutics, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Tao J, Liang J, Zhang H, Pei L, Qian HZ, Chambers MC, Jiang Y, Xiao Y. The Molecular Epidemiological Study of HCV Subtypes among Intravenous Drug Users and Non-Injection Drug Users in China. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0140263. [PMID: 26466103 PMCID: PMC4605846 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0140263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2015] [Accepted: 09/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background More than half of intravenous drug users (IDUs) in China suffer from the Hepatitis C virus (HCV). The virus is also more prevalent in non-injection drug users (NIDUs) than in the general population. However, not much is known about HCV subtype distribution in these populations. Methods Our research team conducted a cross-sectional study in four provinces in China. We sampled 825 IDUs and 244 NIDUs (1162 total), genotyped each DU’s virus, and performed a phylogenetic analysis to differentiate HCV subtypes. Results Nucleic acid testing (NAT) determined that 82% percent (952/1162) of samples were HCV positive; we subtyped 90% (859/952) of these. We found multiple HCV subtypes: 3b (249, 29.0%), 3a (225, 26.2%), 6a (156, 18.2%), 1b (137, 15.9%), 6n (50, 5.9%), 1a (27, 3.1%), and 2a (15, 1.7%). An analysis of subtype distributions adjusted for province found statistically significant differences between HCV subtypes in IDUs and NIDUs. Discussion HCV subtypes 3b, 3a, 6a, and 1b were the most common in our study, together accounting for 89% of infections. The subtype distribution differences we found between IDUs and NIDUs suggested that sharing syringes was not the most likely pathway for HCV transmission in NIDUs. However, further studies are needed to elucidate how NIDUs were infected.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Tao
- Vanderbilt Institution for Global Health, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Jun Liang
- National AIDS Reference Laboratory (NARL), National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention (NCAIDS), Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC), Beijing, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- National AIDS Reference Laboratory (NARL), National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention (NCAIDS), Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC), Beijing, China
| | - Lijian Pei
- National AIDS Reference Laboratory (NARL), National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention (NCAIDS), Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC), Beijing, China
| | - Han-Zhu Qian
- Vanderbilt Institution for Global Health, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America; Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Matthew C Chambers
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Yan Jiang
- National AIDS Reference Laboratory (NARL), National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention (NCAIDS), Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC), Beijing, China
| | - Yao Xiao
- National AIDS Reference Laboratory (NARL), National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention (NCAIDS), Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC), Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Rosa RS, Martinelli ADLC, Passos ADDC. Risk factors for hepatitis C virus transmission in the municipality of Catanduva, State of São Paulo: a case-control study. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2014; 47:295-301. [PMID: 25075479 DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0054-2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2014] [Accepted: 06/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is primarily transmitted via contact with the blood of infected patients, although the form of contact has not been identified for a significant percentage of carriers. The present study evaluated possible risk factors for HCV transmission in a medium-sized town located in the northwest region of the State of São Paulo. METHODS This was a case-control study, with the case group consisting of 190 chronic HCV carriers older than 18 years residing in the municipality of Catanduva. The control group also consisted of 190 individuals with HCV-negative serology. The groups were paired (1:1) for gender, age range (± five years), and place of residence. The same structured questionnaire was applied to all subjects, who gave written informed consent to participate in the study. The data were statistically analyzed using crude and adjusted logistic regression, and the results were expressed as odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval. RESULTS The demographic profiles of the groups indicated a predominance of males (68.9%) and mean ages of 47.1 years (case group) and 47.3 years (control group). After adjusting for conditional regression, the following factors were found to represent risks for HCV: history of sexually transmitted disease (STD) and blood transfusion; accidents with syringes and/or needles; tattoos; and the use of non-injectable drugs and injectable medications. CONCLUSIONS The transmission of HCV via the blood route has been well characterized. Other forms of contact with human blood and/or secretions are likely to transmit the virus, although with a lower frequency of occurrence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ana de Lourdes Candolo Martinelli
- Departamento de Clínica Médica - Gastroenterologia, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Afonso Dinis da Costa Passos
- Departamento de Medicina Social, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Oliveira-Filho AB, Sawada L, Pinto LC, Locks D, Bahia SL, Castro JAA, Hermes RB, Brasil-Costa I, Amaral CEM, Lemos JAR. Epidemiological aspects of HCV infection in non-injecting drug users in the Brazilian state of Pará, eastern Amazon. Virol J 2014; 11:38. [PMID: 24564954 PMCID: PMC4077103 DOI: 10.1186/1743-422x-11-38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2014] [Accepted: 02/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Currently, sharing of drug paraphernalia is the main form of HCV transmission worldwide. In South America, consistent findings indicate that shared sniffing equipment is an important factor in the spread of HCV among non-injecting drug users. Epidemiological data on the status of HCV infection in illicit drug users in the Amazon region are scarce, although reports of clinical cases of hepatitis or pathologies associated with HCV infection in other population groups are numerous. Thereby, this study investigated the prevalence, genotype frequency, and epidemiological factors associated with HCV infection in non-injecting drug users in the state of Pará, eastern Amazon. RESULTS During 2008-2011, 300 non-injecting drug users attending drug-treatment centers participated in this study. Most non-injecting drug users were male (63.7%). The mean age was 32.5 years. The non-injecting drugs most consumed were: cannabis (15.6%), cocaine paste (21.3%), and oxi cocaine (25.7%). Tobacco (60.9%) and alcohol (79.4%) were also commonly consumed. One hundred six (35.1%; CI 95%: 29.8 - 41.1) non-injecting drug users presented anti-HCV antibodies by EIA. The HCV-RNA prevalence was 28.0% (95% CI: 20.6 - 35.8). Genotypes 1 (76.9%) and 3 (23.1%) of HCV have been identified. A multivariate analysis demonstrated that HCV infection was independently associated with the following factors: "age (≥ 35 years)", "tattoos", "use of a needle or syringe sterilized at home", "shared use of drug paraphernalia", "uses drugs for more than 5 years", and "use of drugs everyday". CONCLUSIONS This study revealed a high prevalence of HCV infection in non-injecting drug users, and most infections are occasioned by genotype 1. Likely, HCV transmission is associated with the tattoos, the use of needle or syringe sterilized at home by people over the age of 35 years, and sharing, time and frequency of use of non-injecting drugs. These findings should serve as an incentive for the establishment of a program of Hepatitis C prevention and control by the local public-health authorities in order to develop effective policies and strategies for contain the spread of HCV infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aldemir B Oliveira-Filho
- Instituto de Estudos Costeiros, Campus de Bragança, Universidade Federal do Pará, Alameda Leandro Ribeiro, s/n. Aldeia, 68600-000 Bragança, Pará, Brazil
- Centro de Hematologia e Hemoterapia do Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Leila Sawada
- Chiba Institute of Technology, Tsudanuma, Narashino-shi, Chiba, Japan
| | - Laine C Pinto
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Daiane Locks
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Santana L Bahia
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Jairo A A Castro
- Centro de Hematologia e Hemoterapia do Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
- Instituto Evandro Chagas, Ananindeua, Pará, Brazil
| | - Renata B Hermes
- Centro de Hematologia e Hemoterapia do Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Igor Brasil-Costa
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
- Instituto Evandro Chagas, Ananindeua, Pará, Brazil
| | - Carlos E M Amaral
- Centro de Hematologia e Hemoterapia do Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - José Alexandre R Lemos
- Centro de Hematologia e Hemoterapia do Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abstract
Identification and vaccination of adults at risk for hepatitis B virus acquisition through sexual contact is a key strategy to reduce new hepatitis B virus infections among at-risk adults. Hepatitis C has emerged as a sexually transmitted infection among men with male sex partners (MSM). Several biological and behavioral factors have been linked to hepatitis C virus transmission among MSM, including human immunodeficiency virus coinfection; participation in sexual practices that result in mucosal damage or result in exposure to blood; presence of sexually transmitted diseases (STIs), particularly ulcerative STIs; multiple/casual sex partners; and unprotected anal intercourse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda Gorgos
- Special Immunology Associates, El Rio Health Center, 1701 West St Mary's Road, Suite 160, Tucson, AZ 85745, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
van den Berg CHSB, Nanlohy NM, van de Laar TJW, Prins M, van Baarle D. Ongoing risk behavior and the presence of HCV-RNA affect the hepatitis C virus (HCV)-Specific CD4(+) T cell response. Viral Immunol 2013; 26:216-9. [PMID: 23697813 DOI: 10.1089/vim.2012.0079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The largest population of people at risk for HCV-infection is injecting drug users (DU). We hypothesize that recurrent exposure to HCV, by continuing risk behavior, influences the development of an HCV-specific T-cell response. Therefore, we studied the association between repeated exposure to and the height and focus of the HCV-specific T-cell response in HCV antibody-positive injecting DU (n=18) with ongoing risk behavior ('high-risk'), 9 with and 9 without detectable HCV-RNA), and 9 never-injecting DU ('low-risk', HCV-RNA+). Both total HCV-specific T-cell response, as well as the T-cell response against HCV nonstructural proteins, were significantly higher in injecting compared to never-injecting DU. Interestingly, the high-risk HCV-RNA¯ had no measurable CD4(+) T-cell response to Core protein, compared to detectable responses to Core in the HCV-RNA+ group. Thus, both ongoing risk behavior and presence of HCV-RNA affect the HCV-specific T-cell response in both magnitude and specificity, which may have implications for vaccine development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte H S B van den Berg
- Department of Experimental Virology, Academic Medical Center AMC, Center for Infection and Immunity CINIMA, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Oliveira-Filho AB, Sawada L, Pinto LC, Locks D, Bahia SL, Brasil-Costa I, Lemos JAR. HCV infection among cocaine users in the state of Pará, Brazilian Amazon. Arch Virol 2013; 158:1555-60. [PMID: 23408127 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-013-1627-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2012] [Accepted: 12/18/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In this study, the prevalence, genotype frequency, and risk factors for HCV infection in 384 cocaine users were determined. One hundred twenty-four (32.3 %) cocaine users had anti-HCV antibodies and 120 (31.3 %) had HCV-RNA. Genotyping results indicated the predominance of genotypes 1 (73.3 %) and 3 (26.7 %). Multivariate analysis showed an association of HCV infection with tattoos, shared use of paraphernalia, daily cocaine use, and a long history of cocaine use. The epidemiological aspects of HCV infection among cocaine users presented here should serve as an incentive for the establishment of a program of hepatitis C prevention and control by the local public-health authorities in the Amazon.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aldemir B Oliveira-Filho
- Faculdade de Ciências Naturais, Campus do Marajó, Breves, Universidade Federal do Pará, Av. Anajás, s/n. Aeroporto, Breves, PA, Brazil.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Young AM, Crosby RA, Oser CB, Leukefeld CG, Stephens DB, Havens JR. Hepatitis C viremia and genotype distribution among a sample of nonmedical prescription drug users exposed to HCV in rural Appalachia. J Med Virol 2012; 84:1376-87. [PMID: 22825816 PMCID: PMC3571688 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.23252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Research has demonstrated that hepatitis C (HCV) genotype distribution varies geographically and demographically. This exploratory study examines HCV viremia, viral concentration, and genotype distribution among anti-HCV positive, rural Appalachian nonmedical prescription drug users. The study population was randomly selected from a pool of 200 anti-HCV positive participants in a longitudinal study. Those randomly chosen were representative of the overall pool in terms of demographics, drug use, and other risk behaviors. Participants were tested serologically for HCV RNA, viral concentration, and genotype, and interview-administered questionnaires examined behavioral and demographic characteristics. Of the 81 participants, 69% tested RNA positive, 59% of which had viral loads exceeding 800,000 IU/ml. Approximately 66% of the RNA positive sample had genotype 1a; types 2b (16%) and 3a (13%) were less common. RNA positive participants were not significantly different than RNA negative participants demographically or behaviorally. Likewise, with the exception of education, genotype 1 participants were not significantly different than those with genotype 2 or 3. The prevalence of active HCV infection highlights a need for prevention and treatment in this population. However, the predominance of genotype 1 may present challenges due to its association with decreased responsiveness to drug treatment, although the novel class of direct-acting antivirals such as telaprevir and boceprevir offer new hope in this regard. The prevalence of genotype 1 may also foreshadow heightened burden of hepatocellular carcinoma and elevated healthcare expenditures. More research is needed to characterize HCV infection and genotype in this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- April M Young
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Campollo O, Roman S, Panduro A, Hernandez G, Diaz-Barriga L, Balanzario MC, Cunningham JK. Non-injection drug use and hepatitis C among drug treatment clients in west central Mexico. Drug Alcohol Depend 2012; 123:269-72. [PMID: 22138538 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2011.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2011] [Revised: 11/02/2011] [Accepted: 11/10/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research on hepatitis C virus (HCV) prevalence among non-injecting drug treatment clients in the United States, Europe and Asia indicate substantial differences by place. To date, little or no research on HCV and non-injection drug use (NIDU) has been conducted in Mexico. METHODS We examined the prevalence of HCV, hepatitis B virus (HBV), and HIV among non-injecting drug users (NIDUs) in community-based drug treatment (N=122) and NIDUs in a prison-based drug treatment program (N=30), both located in west central Mexico. RESULTS Among the community clients, prevalence was 4.1% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.8-9.2) for HCV, 5.7% for HBV (95% CI: 2.8-11.4), and 1.6% for HIV (95% CI: 0.4-5.8). Among the in-prison clients, prevalence was 40.0% (95% CI: 24.6-57.7) for HCV, 20.0% for HBV (95% CI: 9.5-37.3), and 6.7% for HIV (95% CI: 1.9-21.3). None of the clients were aware of being infected. CONCLUSION The HCV prevalence found for the NIDU community treatment clients ranks among the lower HCV estimates published for NIDUs in treatment to date. The prevalence found for the in-prison clients ranks among the higher, raising a concern of possible elevated HCV infection among NIDUs in the west central Mexico prison--one compounded by the finding that none of this study's clients knew they were HCV positive.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Octavio Campollo
- Center of Studies on Alcohol and Addictions, CUCS, Universidad de Guadalajara, Hospital Civil de Guadalajara, Hospital 278, Guadalajara, Jal. 44280, Mexico. renaceboy@hotmail
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
de Vos AS, van der Helm JJ, Prins M, Kretzschmar ME. Determinants of persistent spread of HIV in HCV-infected populations of injecting drug users. Epidemics 2012; 4:57-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.epidem.2012.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2011] [Revised: 12/24/2011] [Accepted: 01/03/2012] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
|
15
|
Bravo MJ, Vallejo F, Barrio G, Brugal MT, Molist G, Pulido J, Sordo L, de la Fuente L. HCV seroconversion among never-injecting heroin users at baseline: no predictors identified other than starting injection. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2012; 23:415-9. [PMID: 22421554 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2012.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2011] [Revised: 02/03/2012] [Accepted: 02/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heroin users who do not inject constitute a large pool of drug users with a potentially important impact on public health. We aimed to estimate the incidence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) among heroin users who had never injected (NIDUS) at baseline, and the effect of starting injecting during follow-up, other percutaneous exposures, sharing snorting paraphernalia, cocaine/crack use, and risky sexual behaviour on HCV-seroconversion. METHODS Prospective cohort of 305 HCV-negative NIDUs at baseline, aged 18-30 and street-recruited in three Spanish cities in 2001-2003. Computer-assisted personal interviews were conducted and dried blood-spot samples were collected. Bivariate and multivariable Poisson models were used. RESULTS Among the 305 never-injectors who were HCV-negative at baseline, 197 (64.6%) were followed-up and 21 seroconverted [HCV-incidence rate=5.8/100 person-years at risk (pyar) (95% CI: 3.6-8.9)]. HCV incidence in new-injectors was 28.4/100 pyar [(95% CI, 14.7-49.7) vs. 2.8/100 pyar (95% CI, 1.3-5.4)] among NIDUs. Of the risk exposures considered, starting injecting was the only predictor of HCV-seroconversion [adjusted relative risk=10.1, 95% CI: 3.8-26.7]. CONCLUSION The HCV-seroconversion rate was 10 times higher among new-injectors than never-injectors. No predictors other than starting injecting were found for HCV-seroconversion. Harm reduction interventions to prevent HCV infection should include prevention of drug injection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María J Bravo
- Centro Nacional De Epidemiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
De Gottardi A, Hilleret MN, Gelez P, La Mura V, Guillaud O, Majno P, Hadengue A, Morel P, Zarski JP, Fontana M, Moradpour D, Mentha G, Boillot O, Leroy V, Giostra E, Dumortier J. Injection drug use before and after liver transplantation: a retrospective multicenter analysis on incidence and outcome. Clin Transplant 2010; 24:564-71. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-0012.2009.01121.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
17
|
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus infection is a global health problem that has important epidemiological and clinical consequences. It has been well established that exposure to infected blood is the main risk factor for HCV transmission. However, in 20% of cases the agent transmission occurs by unknown route or in the presence of an unidentified source of infection. Understanding of the epidemiology of HCV is needed to help us define future control and preventive strategies. Herein, we discuss about diagnosis of HCV infection and hepatitis C surveillance in the context of its transmission.
Collapse
|