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Niederhauser C, Gowland P, Widmer N, Amar EL Dusouqui S, Mattle-Greminger M, Gottschalk J, Frey BM. Prevalence of Acute Hepatitis E Virus Infections in Swiss Blood Donors 2018-2020. Viruses 2024; 16:744. [PMID: 38793625 PMCID: PMC11125967 DOI: 10.3390/v16050744] [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: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotype 3 is the major cause of acute viral hepatitis in several European countries. It is acquired mainly by ingesting contaminated pork, but has also been reported to be transmitted through blood transfusion. Although most HEV infections, including those via blood products, are usually self-limiting, they may become chronic in immunocompromised persons. It is thus essential to identify HEV-infected blood donations to prevent transmission to vulnerable recipients. AIMS Prior to the decision whether to introduce HEV RNA screening for all Swiss blood donations, a 2-year nationwide prevalence study was conducted. METHODS All blood donations were screened in pools of 12-24 samples at five regional blood donation services, and HEV RNA-positive pools were subsequently resolved to the individual donation index donation (X). The viral load, HEV IgG and IgM serology, and HEV genotype were determined. Follow-up investigations were conducted on future control donations (X + 1) and previous archived donations of the donor (X - 1) where available. RESULTS Between October 2018 and September 2020, 541,349 blood donations were screened and 125 confirmed positive donations were identified (prevalence 1:4331 donations). At the time of blood donation, the HEV RNA-positive individuals were symptom-free. The median viral load was 554 IU/mL (range: 2.01-2,500,000 IU/mL). Men (88; 70%) were more frequently infected than women (37; 30%), as compared with the sex distribution in the Swiss donor population (57% male/43% female, p < 0.01). Of the 106 genotyped cases (85%), all belonged to genotype 3. Two HEV sub-genotypes predominated; 3h3 (formerly 3s) and 3c. The remaining sub-genotypes are all known to circulate in Europe. Five 3ra genotypes were identified, this being a variant associated with rabbits. In total, 85 (68%) X donations were negative for HEV IgM and IgG. The remaining 40 (32%) were positive for HEV IgG and/or IgM, and consistent with an active infection. We found no markers of previous HEV in 87 of the 89 available and analyzed archive samples (X - 1). Two donors were HEV IgG-positive in the X - 1 donation suggesting insufficient immunity to prevent HEV reinfection. Time of collection of the 90 (72%) analyzed X + 1 donations varied between 2.9 and 101.9 weeks (median of 35 weeks) after X donation. As expected, none of those tested were positive for HEV RNA. Most donors (89; 99%) were positive for anti-HEV lgG/lgM (i.e., seroconversion). HEV lgM-positivity (23; 26%) indicates an often-long persistence of lgM antibodies post-HEV infection. CONCLUSION The data collected during the first year of the study provided the basis for the decision to establish mandatory HEV RNA universal screening of all Swiss blood donations in minipools, a vital step in providing safer blood for all recipients, especially those who are immunosuppressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Niederhauser
- Interregional Blood Transfusion SRC, 3008 Berne, Switzerland; (P.G.)
- Institute of Infectious Disease, University of Berne, 3008 Berne, Switzerland
| | - Peter Gowland
- Interregional Blood Transfusion SRC, 3008 Berne, Switzerland; (P.G.)
| | - Nadja Widmer
- Interregional Blood Transfusion SRC, 3008 Berne, Switzerland; (P.G.)
| | | | - Maja Mattle-Greminger
- Regional Blood Transfusion SRC, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland; (M.M.-G.); (J.G.); (B.M.F.)
| | - Jochen Gottschalk
- Regional Blood Transfusion SRC, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland; (M.M.-G.); (J.G.); (B.M.F.)
| | - Beat M. Frey
- Regional Blood Transfusion SRC, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland; (M.M.-G.); (J.G.); (B.M.F.)
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Mättö J, Putkuri N, Rimhanen-Finne R, Laurila P, Clancy J, Ihalainen J, Ekblom-Kullberg S. Hepatitis E Virus in Finland: Epidemiology and Risk in Blood Donors and in the General Population. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12030484. [PMID: 36986406 PMCID: PMC10054892 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12030484] [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: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Autochthonous hepatitis E (HEV) cases have been increasingly recognized and reported in Europe, caused predominantly by the zoonotic HEV genotype 3. The clinical picture is highly variable, from asymptomatic to acute severe or prolonged hepatitis in immunocompromised patients. The main route of transmission to humans in Europe is the ingestion of undercooked pork meat. Transfusion-transmitted HEV infections have also been reported. The aim of the study was to determine the HEV epidemiology and risk in the Finnish blood donor population. A total of 23,137 samples from Finnish blood donors were screened for HEV RNA from individual samples and 1012 samples for HEV antibodies. Additionally, laboratory-confirmed hepatitis E cases in 2016-2022 were extracted from national surveillance data. The HEV RNA prevalence data was used to estimate the risk of transfusion transmission of HEV in the Finnish blood transfusion setting. Four HEV RNA-positive were found, resulting in 1:5784 (0.02%) RNA prevalence. All HEV RNA-positive samples were IgM-negative, and genotyped samples represented genotype HEV 3c. HEV IgG seroprevalence was 7.4%. From the HEV RNA rate found in this study and data on blood component usage in Finland in 2020, the risk estimate for a severe transfusion-transmitted HEV infection is 1:1,377,000 components or one in every 6-7 years. In conclusion, the results indicate that the risk of transfusion-transmitted HEV (HEV TTI) in Finland is low. However, continuous follow-up of the HEV epidemiology in relation to the transfusion risk landscape in Finland is necessary, as well as promoting awareness in the medical community of the small risk for HEV TTI, especially for immunocompromised patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaana Mättö
- Finnish Red Cross Blood Service, 01730 Vantaa, Finland
| | - Niina Putkuri
- Finnish Red Cross Blood Service, 01730 Vantaa, Finland
| | | | - Päivi Laurila
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, 00100 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jonna Clancy
- Finnish Red Cross Blood Service Biobank, 01730 Vantaa, Finland
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Higher Risk of HEV Transmission and Exposure among Blood Donors in Europe and Asia in Comparison to North America: A Meta-Analysis. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12030425. [PMID: 36986347 PMCID: PMC10059948 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12030425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and aims: The increasing number of diagnosed hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections in Europe has led to the implementation of the testing of blood products in various countries. Many nations have not yet implemented such screening. To assess the need for HEV screening in blood products worldwide, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis assessing HEV RNA positivity and anti-HEV seroprevalence in blood donors. Methods: Studies reporting anti-HEV IgG/IgM or HEV RNA positivity rates among blood donors worldwide were identified via predefined search terms in PubMed and Scopus. Estimates were calculated by pooling study data with multivariable linear mixed-effects metaregression analysis. Results: A total of 157 (14%) of 1144 studies were included in the final analysis. The estimated HEV PCR positivity rate ranged from 0.01 to 0.14% worldwide, with strikingly higher rates in Asia (0.14%) and Europe (0.10%) in comparison to North America (0.01%). In line with this, anti-HEV IgG seroprevalence in North America (13%) was lower than that in Europe (19%). Conclusions: Our data demonstrate large regional differences regarding the risk of HEV exposure and blood-borne HEV transmission. Considering the cost–benefit ratio, this supports blood product screening in high endemic areas, such as Europe and Asia, in contrast to low endemic regions, such as the U.S.
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Gorski I, Babić I, Bingulac-Popović J, Topić-Šestan P, Jagnjić S, Jemeršić L, Prpić J, Jukić I. Prevalence of HEV RNA in Croatian blood donors. Transfus Clin Biol 2023; 30:244-248. [PMID: 36708916 DOI: 10.1016/j.tracli.2023.01.005] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES HEV infection is asymptomatic for immunocompetent blood donors (BD). Transfused HEV-infected blood products may cause potentially hazardous HEV infection in immunocompromised patients. Evaluation of the need for routine BD HEV RNA screening primarily demands the establishment of HEV infection prevalence in Croatian BD. MATERIALS AND METHODS We tested BD samples in ID-NAT with the Procleix UltrioPlex E screening test for simultaneous detection of HBV DNA, HCV RNA, HIV-1,2 RNA, and HEV RNA (Grifols, Spain). HEV infection was confirmed with HEV RNA quantitative test (Altona Diagnostics, Germany) and HEV IgM and HEV IgG antibody test (DIA.PRO Diagnostic Bioprobes, Italy). We analysed the HEV RNA sequence and performed a phylogenetic analysis. We recorded BD's anamnestic data and dietary habits. BDs gave follow-up samples after two months and did not donate blood for six months. RESULTS Between December 2021 and March 2022, we tested 8,631 donations and found four HEV RNA-positive donations, which equals to one in 2,158 donations (0.046 %, 95 % confidence interval, 0.018 %-0.119 %). Confirmatory HEV RNA testing gave results from negative to 4.73E + 3 IU/ml HEV RNA. Three donations were in the serological window period. We have genotyped HEV RNA of two infected BD as genotype HEV-3c. Blood donors didn't report any health problems and their diet included pork. Testing on follow-up samples presented seroconversion and no HEV RNA could be detected. CONCLUSION The incidence of HEV RNA infection in BD in Croatia corresponds with other European data. The decision on implementation of HEV NAT screening in Croatia needs an expert team evaluation of the possible risk of TT-HEV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Gorski
- Jasika, Dolenica 55, 10250 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - I Babić
- Croatian Institute of Transfusion Medicine (CITM), Petrova 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - J Bingulac-Popović
- Croatian Institute of Transfusion Medicine (CITM), Petrova 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - P Topić-Šestan
- Croatian Institute of Transfusion Medicine (CITM), Petrova 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - S Jagnjić
- Croatian Institute of Transfusion Medicine (CITM), Petrova 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - L Jemeršić
- Croatian Veterinary Institute, Savska 143, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - J Prpić
- Croatian Veterinary Institute, Savska 143, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - I Jukić
- Croatian Institute of Transfusion Medicine (CITM), Petrova 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Trg Svetog Trojstva 3, 31000 Osijek, Croatia.
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Cheung CKM, Wong SH, Law AWH, Law MF. Transfusion-transmitted hepatitis E: What we know so far? World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:47-75. [PMID: 35125819 PMCID: PMC8793017 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i1.47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a major cause of viral hepatitis globally. There is growing concern about transfusion-transmitted HEV (TT-HEV) as an emerging global health problem. HEV can potentially result in chronic infection in immunocompromised patients, leading to a higher risk of liver cirrhosis and even death. Between 0.0013% and 0.281% of asymptomatic blood donors around the world have HEV viremia, and 0.27% to 60.5% have anti-HEV immunoglobulin G. HEV is infectious even at very low blood concentrations of the virus. Immunosuppressed patients who develop persistent hepatitis E infection should have their immunosuppressant regimen reduced; ribavirin may be considered as treatment. Pegylated interferon can be considered in those who are refractory or intolerant to ribavirin. Sofosbuvir, a nucleotide analog, showed modest antiviral activity in some clinical studies but sustained viral response was not achieved. Therefore, rescue treatment remains an unmet need. The need for HEV screening of all blood donations remains controversial. Universal screening has been adopted in some countries after consideration of risk and resource availability. Various pathogen reduction methods have also been proposed to reduce the risk of TT-HEV. Future studies are needed to define the incidence of transmission through transfusion, their clinical features, outcomes and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sunny Hei Wong
- Institute of Digestive Disease and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 852, China
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | | | - Man Fai Law
- Medicine and Therapeutics, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong 852, China
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Al Dossary RA, Alnafie AN, Aljaroodi SA, Rahman JU, Hunasemarada BC, Alkharsah KR. Prevalence of Hepatitis E Virus Infection Among Blood Donors in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. J Multidiscip Healthc 2021; 14:2381-2390. [PMID: 34475765 PMCID: PMC8407670 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s328029] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Hepatitis E virus (HEV) causes acute hepatitis in humans and constitutes a major problem for immunocompromised patients, patients with hematological diseases, and pregnant women. It is transmitted mainly through fecal oral route; however, transmission through blood and blood products is reported globally and becoming a health concern. We sought to determine the prevalence of HEV among blood donors in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia using molecular as well as serological assays to assess the safety of blood transfusion and the need for HEV screening among blood donors. PATIENTS AND METHODS A total of 806 whole blood samples were collected from blood donors between May and November 2020 and tested for anti-HEV IgG and IgM antibodies by ELISA and for HEV RNA by RT-PCR. RESULTS The overall seroprevalence of HEV IgG antibodies was 3.2% with no statistically significant difference between the non-Saudis (3.28%) and Saudis (3.17%) (p value 0.929) or between males (3.14%) and females (4.88%) (p value 0.527). None of the IgG positive individuals had IgM antibodies. HEV RNA was not detected in any of the blood donors. CONCLUSION HEV seroprevalence is low among blood donors in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia and may constitute minimal risk for transfusion associated infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem A Al Dossary
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU), Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Awatif N Alnafie
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, King Fahad Hospital of the University, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Salma Ali Aljaroodi
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU), Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jawad Ur Rahman
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU), Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Basavaraj C Hunasemarada
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU), Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khaled R Alkharsah
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU), Dammam, Saudi Arabia
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Hogema BM, Hakze-van der Honing RW, Molier M, Zaaijer HL, van der Poel WHM. Comparison of Hepatitis E Virus Sequences from Humans and Swine, the Netherlands, 1998-2015. Viruses 2021; 13:v13071265. [PMID: 34209729 PMCID: PMC8310231 DOI: 10.3390/v13071265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Pigs are suspected to be a major source of zoonotic hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection in industrialized countries, but the transmission route(s) from pigs to humans are ill-defined. Sequence comparison of HEV isolates from pigs with those from blood donors and patients in 372 samples collected in The Netherlands in 1998 and 1999 and between 2008 and 2015 showed that all sequences were genotype 3 except for six patients (with travel history). Subgenotype 3c (gt3c) was the most common subtype. While the proportion of gt3c increased significantly between 1998 and 2008, it remained constant between 2008 and 2015. Among the few circulating HEV subtypes, there was no difference observed between the human and the pig isolates. Hepatitis E viruses in humans are very likely to originate from pigs, but it is unclear why HEV gt3c has become the predominant subtype in The Netherlands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boris M. Hogema
- Sanquin Blood Supply Foundation, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (B.M.H.); (M.M.); (H.L.Z.)
| | | | - Michel Molier
- Sanquin Blood Supply Foundation, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (B.M.H.); (M.M.); (H.L.Z.)
| | - Hans L. Zaaijer
- Sanquin Blood Supply Foundation, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (B.M.H.); (M.M.); (H.L.Z.)
- Academic Medical Center, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Dähnert L, Schlosser J, Fast C, Fröhlich A, Gröner A, Lange E, Roth NJ, Schäfer W, Schröder C, Eiden M, Groschup MH. Hepatitis E virus: Efficacy of pasteurization of plasma-derived VWF/FVIII concentrate determined by pig bioassay. Transfusion 2021; 61:1266-1277. [PMID: 33605455 DOI: 10.1111/trf.16298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the leading cause of acute hepatitis throughout the world. Increasing blood component transfusion-associated HEV infections highlight the need for reliable virus inactivation procedures for plasma derivatives from pooled plasma donations. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS An animal infection study was conducted to evaluate the efficiency of HEV inactivation by pasteurization during the manufacturing process of the von Willebrand Factor/Factor VIII (VWF/FVIII) concentrate Haemate P/Humate-P (CSL Behring, Marburg, Germany). For this purpose, groups of pigs were inoculated with stabilized VWF/FVIII intermediate spiked with HEV-positive liver homogenate and exposed to increasing incubation times of 0, 3, 6, and 10 h at 60°C. Animals were evaluated for virus replication over 27 days and in a subsequent trial over 92 days. RESULTS Virus replication was detected in animals up to the 6-h pasteurization group. In contrast, pasteurization for 10 h did not reveal virus detection when the observation period was 27 days. In an additional experiment using the 10-h pasteurized material, two individuals started virus excretion and seroconverted when the observation period was extended to 92 days. Based on the total infection rate (2 of 12) of the animals inoculated with the sample pasteurized for 10 h, a virus reduction factor of at least 4.7 log10 is calculated. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that pasteurization at 60°C for 10 h of an HEV-positive plasma derivative leads to the effective reduction of infectivity, resulting in a VWF/FVIII product with an appropriate margin of safety for HEV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Dähnert
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Josephine Schlosser
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald, Germany.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Institute of Immunology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christine Fast
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Andreas Fröhlich
- Institute of Epidemiology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald, Germany
| | | | - Elke Lange
- Department of Experimental Animal Facilities and Biorisk Management, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Nathan J Roth
- Global Pathogen Safety, CSL Behring AG, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Charlotte Schröder
- Department of Experimental Animal Facilities and Biorisk Management, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Martin Eiden
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Martin H Groschup
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald, Germany
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Hepatitis E virus infection in liver transplant recipients: a descriptive literature review. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 32:916-922. [PMID: 32091436 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000001682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus infection has been recognized as a rising hepatotropic viral infection in the developing countries but overlooked in the developed countries, due to its lower prevalence. However, hepatitis E virus prevalence is on rise in the liver transplant recipients due to immunosuppression, which needs prompt recognition by healthcare practitioners. Hepatitis E virus infection is commonly believed to be transmitted via an animal host; but in the post-liver transplant patients, it can also be acquired via blood and blood products transfusion and autochthonous route. Previous studies have shown the significance of hepatitis E virus infection in post-liver transplant, as the patients at a high risk of progressing to chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis. Pediatric patients are at higher risk of hepatitis E virus infection post-liver transplant. Specific hepatitis E virus genotypes have the potential for greater severity. The clinical manifestation of hepatitis E virus can also present as extrahepatic features which need high level of suspicion for early recognition and treatment. Treatment options of hepatitis E virus range from immunosuppressive drug minimization, ribavirin therapy to novel direct-acting antiviral regimens. Herein, we aim to explore epidemiology, prevalence, risk factor, diagnosis, and management of hepatitis E virus infection giving special attention to liver transplant recipients.
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Harvala H, Hewitt PE, Reynolds C, Pearson C, Haywood B, Tettmar KI, Ushiro-Lumb I, Brailsford SR, Tedder R, Ijaz S. Hepatitis E virus in blood donors in England, 2016 to 2017: from selective to universal screening. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 24. [PMID: 30862338 PMCID: PMC6415500 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2019.24.10.1800386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Hepatitis E virus (HEV), the most common cause of acute hepatitis in many European countries, is transmitted through consumption of processed pork but also via blood transfusion and transplantation. HEV infection can become persistent in immunocompromised individuals. Aim We aimed to determine the incidence and epidemiology of HEV infection in English blood donors since the introduction of donation screening in 2016. Methods Between March 2016 and December 2017, 1,838,747 blood donations were screened for HEV RNA. Donations containing HEV RNA were further tested for serological markers, RNA quantification and viral phylogeny. Demographics, travel and diet history were analysed for all infected donors. Results We identified 480 HEV RNA-positive blood donations during the 22-month period, most (319/480; 66%) donors were seronegative. Viral loads ranged from 1 to 3,230,000 IU/ml. All sequences belonged to genotype 3, except one which likely represents a new genotype. Most viraemic donors were over 45 years of age (279/480; 58%), donors aged between 17 and 24 years had a seven-times higher incidence of HEV infection than other donors between March and June 2016 (1:544 donations vs 1:3,830). HEV-infected blood donors were evenly distributed throughout England. Screening prevented 480 HEV RNA-positive blood donations from reaching clinical supply. Conclusion HEV screening of blood donations is a vital step in order to provide safer blood for all recipients, but especially for the immunosuppressed. The unusually high rates of HEV infection in young blood donors may provide some insight into specific risks associated with HEV infection in England.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heli Harvala
- University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Microbiology Services, NHS Blood and Transplant, London, United Kingdom
| | - Patricia E Hewitt
- Microbiology Services, NHS Blood and Transplant, London, United Kingdom
| | - Claire Reynolds
- Joint NHSBT/PHE Epidemiology Unit, Microbiology Services, NHS Blood and Transplant and Blood Safety, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Infection and HIV Division, National Infections Service, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom
| | - Callum Pearson
- Joint NHSBT/PHE Epidemiology Unit, Microbiology Services, NHS Blood and Transplant and Blood Safety, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Infection and HIV Division, National Infections Service, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom
| | - Becky Haywood
- Blood Borne Virus Unit, Virus Reference Department, Microbiology Services and National Infection Services, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kate I Tettmar
- Microbiology Services, NHS Blood and Transplant, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ines Ushiro-Lumb
- Blood Borne Virus Unit, Virus Reference Department, Microbiology Services and National Infection Services, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom.,Microbiology Services, NHS Blood and Transplant, London, United Kingdom
| | - Susan R Brailsford
- Joint NHSBT/PHE Epidemiology Unit, Microbiology Services, NHS Blood and Transplant and Blood Safety, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Infection and HIV Division, National Infections Service, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom.,Microbiology Services, NHS Blood and Transplant, London, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Tedder
- Current affiliation: Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.,Blood Borne Virus Unit, Virus Reference Department, Microbiology Services and National Infection Services, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom.,University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Microbiology Services, NHS Blood and Transplant, London, United Kingdom
| | - Samreen Ijaz
- Blood Borne Virus Unit, Virus Reference Department, Microbiology Services and National Infection Services, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom
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Abstract
While the majority of worldwide hepatitis E viral (HEV) infections that occur in people are from contaminated water or food sources, there has also been a steadily rising number of reported cases of transfusion-transmitted HEV (TT-HEV) in blood donation recipients. For most, HEV infection is acute, self-limiting and asymptomatic. However, patients that are immunocompromised, especially transplant patients, are at much higher risk for developing chronic infections, which can progress to cirrhosis and liver failure, along with overall increased mortality. Because of the rising trend of HEV serological prevalence among the global population, and the fact that TT-HEV infection can cause serious clinical consequences among those patients most at need for blood donation, the need for screening for TT-HEV has been gaining in prominence as an important public health concern for both developing and developed countries. In the review, we summarise evidence for and notable cases of TT-HEV infections, the various aspects of HEV screening protocols and recent trends in the implementation of TT-HEV broad-based blood screening programmes.
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Goel A, Vijay HJ, Katiyar H, Aggarwal R. Prevalence of hepatitis E viraemia among blood donors: a systematic review. Vox Sang 2020; 115:120-132. [PMID: 32030767 DOI: 10.1111/vox.12887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is usually transmitted by faecal-oral route. Recent reports have documented HEV viraemia in donated blood units and HEV transmission through blood transfusion. This systematic review summarizes the available data on prevalence of HEV viraemia in blood donors. METHODS Electronic databases were searched on 17 December 2018 to identify full-text English papers reporting original data on prevalence of HEV RNA in donated blood units. Two authors independently extracted the relevant data, which were pooled using simple aggregation as well as a random-effects meta-analysis; heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 method. RESULTS In all, 59 data sets from 28 countries were identified. The available data showed marked heterogeneity. Of a total of 2 127 832 units studied, 561 (263·6 [95% confidence intervals = 242·7-286·4] per million units) tested positive for HEV RNA. On random-effects meta-analysis, the pooled prevalence was 60·9 [6·7-155·4] per million units. In the viraemic units, HEV RNA titre varied by nearly one million-fold, and most had genotype 3 HEV. The prevalence was higher in blood units with anti-HEV antibodies or elevated alanine aminotransferase. Only nearly one-fourth of viraemic units had anti-HEV antibodies. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of HEV viraemia among healthy blood donors is low, though the available data had limited geographical representation and marked heterogeneity. There is a need for further data on HEV viraemia in blood donors from areas with non-3 HEV genotype preponderance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Goel
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
| | | | - Harshita Katiyar
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
| | - Rakesh Aggarwal
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
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13
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Harritshøj LH, Hother CE, Sengeløv H, Daugaard G, Sørensen SS, Jacobsen S, Perch M, Holm DK, Sækmose SG, Aagaard B, Erikstrup C, Hogema BM, Lundgren JD, Ullum H. Epidemiology of hepatitis E virus infection in a cohort of 4023 immunocompromised patients. Int J Infect Dis 2019; 91:188-195. [PMID: 31756566 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2019.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The prevalence of active, chronic, and former hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections was investigated in a cohort of immunocompromised patients. The association with transfusion transmitted HEV was evaluated, and the HEV seroprevalence was compared with that in healthy blood donors. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS Serum samples from 4023 immunocompromised patients at Rigshospitalet, Denmark were retrospectively tested for HEV RNA and anti-HEV IgG. HEV RNA-positive patients were followed up by HEV testing, clinical symptoms, and transfusion history. Factors associated with anti-HEV were explored by multivariable logistic regression analysis. Samples from 1226 blood donors were retrospectively tested for anti-HEV IgG. RESULTS HEV RNA was detected in six patients (0.15%) with no indications of chronic HEV infection. HEV RNA prevalence rates among recipients of allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) and solid organ transplantation (SOT) were 0.58% and 0.21%, respectively. Transfusion transmitted infections were refuted, and transfusion history was not associated with anti-HEV positivity. The difference in HEV seroprevalence between patients (22.0%) and blood donors (10.9%) decreased when adjusting for age and sex (odds ratio 1.20, 95% confidence interval 0.97-1.48). CONCLUSIONS HEV viremia among allo-HSCT and SOT recipients suggests that clinicians should be aware of this diagnosis. The lack of association of blood transfusion with anti-HEV positivity supports food-borne transmission as the main transmission route of HEV common to both patients and blood donors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lene H Harritshøj
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Christoffer E Hother
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Henrik Sengeløv
- Department of Haematology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Gedske Daugaard
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Søren S Sørensen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Nephrology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Søren Jacobsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Copenhagen Lupus and Vasculitis Clinic, Centre for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael Perch
- Department of Cardiology, Section for Lung Transplantation, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dorte K Holm
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Susanne G Sækmose
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Næstved Hospital, Næstved, Denmark
| | - Bitten Aagaard
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Christian Erikstrup
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Boris M Hogema
- Sanquin Research and Diagnostic Services, Departments of Blood-borne Infections and Virology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jens D Lundgren
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Centre for Health, Immunity and Infectious Diseases (CHIP), Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Henrik Ullum
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
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14
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Tsoi WC, Zhu X, To APC, Holmberg J. Hepatitis E virus infection in Hong Kong blood donors. Vox Sang 2019; 115:11-17. [PMID: 31709559 DOI: 10.1111/vox.12846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES In Hong Kong, the dominant circulating hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotype is type 4, which can cause more severe clinical consequences than type 3. The aim of this study was to determine the HEV prevalence in Hong Kong blood donors. MATERIALS AND METHODS Unlinked donation samples (n = 10 000) collected in March to May 2015 were tested for HEV RNA using the Procleix HEV assay in an individual donation format (IDT). A subset of 2000 samples were tested for IgG and IgM anti-HEV using the Wantai enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Nucleic acid testing (NAT) initial reactive results were retested once, and repeatedly reactive donations were subjected to alternative molecular procedures as confirmation tests. RESULTS One in 5000 Hong Kong blood donors was positive for HEV RNA (0·02%). The two RNA positive samples were also IgG and IgM anti-HEV positive. One of the two RNA positive donors could be sequenced revealing genotype type 4. Anti-HEV seroprevalence was estimated as 15·5% among all donors. IgG anti-HEV positive rate for age group 16-20 was 3·1%, and it increased with age to 43·1% for age group 51-60. Sero-positivity was higher in males (male donors 18·1% vs. female donors 13·2%), but it was mostly due to the difference in a specific age group (41-50). CONCLUSION Hepatitis E virus RNA positive rate of 0·02% was within the reported range of HEV RNA frequency in developed countries. One donor was confirmed to be genotype 4, which is the dominant genotype in circulation in Hong Kong.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wai-Chiu Tsoi
- Hong Kong Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiaomei Zhu
- Grifols Diagnostic Solutions Inc, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Amanda Pui-Chi To
- Public Health Laboratory Services Branch, Centre for Health Protection, Department of Health, Hong Kong, China
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15
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Hepatitis E virus infections in Europe. J Clin Virol 2019; 120:20-26. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2019.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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16
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Denner J, Pischke S, Steinmann E, Blümel J, Glebe D. Why all blood donations should be tested for hepatitis E virus (HEV). BMC Infect Dis 2019; 19:541. [PMID: 31221098 PMCID: PMC6585104 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-019-4190-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis E is a liver disease caused by a small RNA virus known as hepatitis E virus (HEV). Four major genotypes infect humans, of which genotype 1 and 2 (HEV-1, HEV-2) are endemic mainly in Asia and responsible for waterborne epidemics. HEV-3 and HEV-4 are widely distributed in pigs and can be transmitted to humans mainly by undercooked meat, and contact with pigs. HEV-3 is the main genotype in industrialised countries with moderate climate conditions and object of this debate. Main text Whereas an HEV-3 infection in healthy humans is mostly asymptomatic, HEV-3 can induce chronic infection in immunocompromised individuals and acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) in patients with underlying liver diseases. The number of reported cases of HEV-infections in industrialised nations increased significantly in the last years. Since HEV-3 has been transmitted by blood transfusion to other humans, testing of blood donors has been introduced or introduction is being discussed in some industrialised countries. In this article we summarise the arguments in favour of testing all blood donations for HEV-3. Conclusion The number of HEV infection in the population and the possibility of HEV transmission by blood transfusion are increasing. Transmission by blood transfusion can be dangerous for the recipients considering their immunosuppressive status, underlying disease or other circumstances requiring blood transfusion. This argues in favour of testing all blood donations for HEV-3 to prevent transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Denner
- Robert Koch Institute, Nordufer 20, 13353, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Sven Pischke
- 1. Medizinische Klinik, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Eike Steinmann
- Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Universitätsstraße 150, 44801, Bochum, Germany
| | - Johannes Blümel
- Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Paul-Ehrlich-Straße 51-59, 63225, Langen, Germany
| | - Dieter Glebe
- Institute of Medical Virology, National Reference Centre for Hepatitis B and D Viruses, German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Schubertstr. 81, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany
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17
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Lhomme S, Legrand-Abravanel F, Kamar N, Izopet J. Screening, diagnosis and risks associated with Hepatitis E virus infection. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2019; 17:403-418. [DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2019.1613889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sébastien Lhomme
- Department of Virology, National reference center for Hepatitis E Virus, CHU Purpan, Toulouse, France
- Inserm UMR1043, Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan (CPTP), Toulouse, France
- Université de Toulouse, Toulouse III, Toulouse, France
| | - Florence Legrand-Abravanel
- Department of Virology, National reference center for Hepatitis E Virus, CHU Purpan, Toulouse, France
- Inserm UMR1043, Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan (CPTP), Toulouse, France
- Université de Toulouse, Toulouse III, Toulouse, France
| | - Nassim Kamar
- Inserm UMR1043, Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan (CPTP), Toulouse, France
- Université de Toulouse, Toulouse III, Toulouse, France
- Department of Nephrology and Organs Transplantation, CHU Rangueil, Toulouse, France
| | - Jacques Izopet
- Department of Virology, National reference center for Hepatitis E Virus, CHU Purpan, Toulouse, France
- Inserm UMR1043, Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan (CPTP), Toulouse, France
- Université de Toulouse, Toulouse III, Toulouse, France
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18
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Boland F, Martinez A, Pomeroy L, O'Flaherty N. Blood Donor Screening for Hepatitis E Virus in the European Union. Transfus Med Hemother 2019; 46:95-103. [PMID: 31191195 PMCID: PMC6514502 DOI: 10.1159/000499121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
This review article summarises hepatitis E virus (HEV) blood donation screening strategies in effect in the European Union (EU). Since 2012, eight EU countries have implemented HEV screening. Local rates of seroprevalence, RNA incidence, and molecular epidemiology are variable and not usually directly comparable. We report a range of HEV-RNA reactivity rates from 1 in 744 donations (France) to 1 in 8,636 donations (Wales) with an overall EU rate of 1 in 3,109 donations (3.2 million donations screened). HEV genotypes 3c, 3e, and 3f are the most frequently reported subtypes. In these 8 countries, both universal (n = 5) and selective (n = 3) screening policies have been introduced utilising either individual donation (ID; n = 1) or mini-pool (MP; n = 7; MP-6, -16, -24, and -96) testing. We also describe the Irish experience of HEV screening utilising an ID-NAT-based donor screening algorithm which intercepts donations even from those with low-level viraemia; 21 of 56 donors (37.5%) had a viral load (VL) < 100 IU/mL. We performed a MP-24 experiment which may prove useful to colleagues in relation to donor screening and associated blood component transmissibility. Irish results indicate that 59% of donors with a HEV-VL < 450 IU/mL may have screened negative in a MP-24.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Boland
- Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS), NAT Laboratory, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Louise Pomeroy
- Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS), NAT Laboratory, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Niamh O'Flaherty
- Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS), NAT Laboratory, Dublin, Ireland
- National Virus Reference Laboratory, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
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19
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McCullough J, Alter HJ, Ness PM. Interpretation of pathogen load in relationship to infectivity and pathogen reduction efficacy. Transfusion 2018; 59:1132-1146. [PMID: 30592305 DOI: 10.1111/trf.15103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Revised: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Harvey J Alter
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, NIH Clinical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Paul M Ness
- Departments of Pathology and Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
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20
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Vollmer T, Diekmann J, Knabbe C, Dreier J. Hepatitis E virus blood donor NAT screening: as much as possible or as much as needed? Transfusion 2018; 59:612-622. [PMID: 30548866 DOI: 10.1111/trf.15058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Revised: 09/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The cost-benefit question of general screening of blood products for the hepatitis E virus (HEV) is currently being discussed. One central question is the need for individual nucleic acid amplification techniques (NAT) screening (ID-NAT) versus minipool NAT screening (MP-NAT) approaches to identify all relevant viremias in blood donors. Here, the findings of ID-NAT versus MP-NAT in pools of 96 samples were compared. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS From November 2017 to January 2018, a total of 10,141 allogenic blood donations from 7650 individual German blood donors were screened for the presence of HEV RNA using MP-NAT (96 samples) (RealStar HEV RT-PCR Kit) compared to ID-NAT (cobas HEV assay) on the fully automated cobas 6800 platform. RESULTS Parallel screening of MP (n = 122, 96 samples/MP) using both methods detected seven reactive pools. After pool resolution, 8 HEV RNA-positive donations were identified by the in-house detection method, whereas 17 HEV RNA-positive donations were identified by ID-NAT with the cobas HEV assay. This resulted in an incidence of 1:1268 donations (0.079%) for MP-NAT screening and 1:597 donations (0.168%) for ID-NAT screening. CONCLUSIONS The detection frequency of HEV RNA was approximately 50% higher if ID-NAT was used compared to MP-NAT. However, viral loads of ID-NAT-only samples were below 25 IU/mL and will often not result in transfusion-transmitted HEV (TT-HEV) infection, taking into account the currently known infectious dose of 5.0E + 04 IU inevitably resulting in TT-HEV infection. The clinical relevance and need for identification of these low-level HEV-positive donors still require further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Vollmer
- Institut für Laboratoriums- und Transfusionsmedizin, Herz- und Diabeteszentrum Nordrhein- Westfalen, Universitätsklinik der Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | - J Diekmann
- Institut für Laboratoriums- und Transfusionsmedizin, Herz- und Diabeteszentrum Nordrhein- Westfalen, Universitätsklinik der Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | - C Knabbe
- Institut für Laboratoriums- und Transfusionsmedizin, Herz- und Diabeteszentrum Nordrhein- Westfalen, Universitätsklinik der Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | - J Dreier
- Institut für Laboratoriums- und Transfusionsmedizin, Herz- und Diabeteszentrum Nordrhein- Westfalen, Universitätsklinik der Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
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21
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Intharasongkroh D, Thongmee T, Sa-Nguanmoo P, Klinfueng S, Duang-In A, Wasitthankasem R, Theamboonlers A, Charoonruangrit U, Oota S, Payungporn S, Vongpunsawad S, Chirathaworn C, Poovorawan Y. Hepatitis E virus infection in Thai blood donors. Transfusion 2018; 59:1035-1043. [PMID: 30443992 DOI: 10.1111/trf.15041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Revised: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection in several industrialized and developing countries is associated with the consumption of pork and other meat products, an exposure risk among the majority of blood donors. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of HEV in plasma from healthy blood donors in Thailand. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS We screened blood samples collected between October and December 2015, from 30,115 individual blood donors in 5020 pools of six, for HEV RNA using in-house real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Thrice-reactive samples were subjected to a commercial real-time RT-PCR (cobas HEV test) and evaluated for anti-HEV immunoglobulin M and immunoglobulin G antibodies. Genotyping using nested RT-PCR, nucleotide sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis was performed. RESULTS Twenty-six donors were positive for HEV RNA by the in-house assay, nine of whom were also positive by cobas test. None of the latter were reactive for anti-HEV immunoglobulin M or immunoglobulin G antibodies. Six samples were successfully genotyped and found to be HEV genotype 3. Thus, the frequency of HEV infection among healthy Thai blood donors is 1 in 1158. CONCLUSION The presence of HEV RNA in the Thai blood supply was comparable to the rates reported in western European countries, but higher than in North America and Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duangnapa Intharasongkroh
- Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Thanunrat Thongmee
- Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pattaratida Sa-Nguanmoo
- Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sirapa Klinfueng
- Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ausanee Duang-In
- Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Rujipat Wasitthankasem
- Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Apiradee Theamboonlers
- Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | | | - Sunchai Payungporn
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sompong Vongpunsawad
- Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chintana Chirathaworn
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Yong Poovorawan
- Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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22
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Dalton HR, Izopet J. Transmission and Epidemiology of Hepatitis E Virus Genotype 3 and 4 Infections. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2018. [PMID: 29530946 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a032144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Following the introduction of robust serological and molecular tools, our understanding of the epidemiology of zoonotic hepatitis E virus (HEV) has improved considerably in recent years. Current thinking suggests that consumption of pork meat products is the key route of infection in humans, but it is certainly not the only one. Other routes of infection include environmental spread, contaminated water, and via the human blood supply. The epidemiology of HEV genotype (gt)3 and gt4 is complex, as there are several sources and routes of infection, and it is likely that these vary between and within countries and over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harry R Dalton
- Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro TR1 3LJ, United Kingdom.,European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter, Truro TR1 3LJ, United Kingdom
| | - Jacques Izopet
- Department of Virology, Hepatitis E Virus National Reference Centre, Toulouse University Hospital, 31059 Toulouse, France.,Toulouse-Purpan Centre for Pathophysiology, INSERM UMR1043/CNRS UMR 5282, CPTP, Toulouse University Paul Sabatier, 31024 Toulouse, France
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23
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Norder H, Galli C, Magnil E, Sikora P, Ekvärn E, Nyström K, Magnius LO. Hepatitis E Virus Genotype 3 Genomes from RNA-Positive but Serologically Negative Plasma Donors Have CUG as the Start Codon for ORF3. Intervirology 2018; 61:96-103. [PMID: 30278453 DOI: 10.1159/000491926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a pathogen that causes hepatitis worldwide. Molecular studies have identified HEV RNA in blood products although its significance is not understood. This study was undertaken to characterize HEV genomes in asymptomatic plasma donors from Sweden and Germany lacking anti-HEV. Complete open reading frames (ORFs) were obtained from HEV strains in 5 out of 18 plasma donors who tested positive for HEV RNA. All strains had CUG as the start codon of ORF3, while 147 GenBank strains all had AUG as the start codon (p < 0.0001). This substitution was found in both interrelated and unrelated strains belonging to different phylogenetic clades. The HEV strains from the seronegative plasma donors had no other substitution in common, which may be why the CUG substitution seems to explain the seronegativity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heléne Norder
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Cristina Galli
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Ellen Magnil
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Per Sikora
- Department of Pathology and Genetics, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Clinical Genomics Gothenburg, SciLife Labs, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Kristina Nyström
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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24
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Hepatitis E in High-Income Countries: What Do We Know? And What Are the Knowledge Gaps? Viruses 2018; 10:v10060285. [PMID: 29799485 PMCID: PMC6024799 DOI: 10.3390/v10060285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Revised: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a positive-strand RNA virus transmitted by the fecal–oral route. HEV genotypes 1 and 2 infect only humans and cause mainly waterborne outbreaks. HEV genotypes 3 and 4 are widely represented in the animal kingdom, and are mainly transmitted as a zoonosis. For the past 20 years, HEV infection has been considered an imported disease in developed countries, but now there is evidence that HEV is an underrecognized pathogen in high-income countries, and that the incidence of confirmed cases has been steadily increasing over the last decade. In this review, we describe current knowledge about the molecular biology of HEV, its clinical features, its main routes of transmission, and possible therapeutic strategies in developed countries.
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25
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O'Gorman J, Burke Á, O'Flaherty N. Hepatitis E virus - key points for the clinical haematologist. Br J Haematol 2018; 181:579-589. [PMID: 29468650 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.15133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 01/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In recent years there has been a paradigm shift in our understanding of the epidemiology and clinical features of hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection. Once classically described as an acute hepatitis associated with waterborne outbreaks in areas of poor sanitation, HEV is now recognised to be endemic in Europe and is probably zoonotic in origin. Evidence for transfusion-transmitted HEV has prompted the introduction of blood donor screening in a number of countries, but the risk to the haematology patient from food sources remains. The aim of this review therefore, is to equip the clinical haematologist with the knowledge required to diagnose HEV infection and to aid decision-making in patient management. The article also provides information on addressing patient concerns about their risk of acquiring hepatitis E and how this risk can be mitigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne O'Gorman
- Consultant Clinical Microbiologist, National Virus Reference Laboratory, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Áine Burke
- Consultant Haematologist, Sligo University Hospital, Sligo, Ireland
| | - Niamh O'Flaherty
- Consultant Clinical Microbiologist, National Virus Reference Laboratory, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.,Consultant Clinical Microbiologist, Irish Blood Transfusion Service, Dublin 8, Ireland
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Izopet J. [HEV and transfusion-recipient risk]. ANNALES PHARMACEUTIQUES FRANÇAISES 2018; 76:89-96. [PMID: 29395014 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharma.2017.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
HEV infections are mainly food- and water-borne but transfusion-transmission has occurred in both developing and developed countries. The infection is usually asymptomatic but it can lead to fulminant hepatitis in patients with underlying liver disease and pregnant women living in developing countries. It also causes chronic hepatitis E, with progressive fibrosis and cirrhosis, in approximately 60 % of immunocompromised patients infected with HEV genotype 3. Extra-hepatic manifestations such as neurological and renal manifestations have been reported. The risk of a transfusion-transmitted HEV infection is linked to the frequency of viremia in blood donors, the donor virus load and the volume of plasma in the final transfused blood component. Several developed countries have adopted measures to improve blood safety based on the epidemiology of HEV.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Izopet
- Laboratoire de virologie, centre national de référence virus des hépatites à transmission entérique (hépatites A et E), institut fédératif de biologie, CHU de Purpan, 330, avenue de Grande-Bretagne, TSA 40031, 31059 Toulouse, France; Inserm U1043/CNRS 5282, université Paul-Sabatier, centre de physiopathologie de Toulouse-Purpan, 31024 Toulouse cedex 03, France.
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27
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Dreier J, Knabbe C, Vollmer T. Transfusion-Transmitted Hepatitis E: NAT Screening of Blood Donations and Infectious Dose. Front Med (Lausanne) 2018; 5:5. [PMID: 29450199 PMCID: PMC5799287 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2018.00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The risk and importance of transfusion-transmitted hepatitis E virus (TT-HEV) infections by contaminated blood products is currently a controversial discussed topic in transfusion medicine. The infectious dose, in particular, remains an unknown quantity. In the present study, we illuminate and review this aspect seen from the viewpoint of a blood donation service with more than 2 years of experience in routine HEV blood donor screening. We systematically review the actual status of presently known cases of TT-HEV infections and available routine NAT-screening assays. The review of the literature revealed a significant variation regarding the infectious dose causing hepatitis E. We also present the outcome of six cases confronted with HEV-contaminated blood products, identified by routine HEV RNA screening of minipools using the highly sensitive RealStar HEV RT-PCR Kit (95% LOD: 4.7 IU/mL). Finally, the distribution of viral RNA in different blood components [plasma, red blood cell concentrate (RBC), platelet concentrates (PC)] was quantified using the first WHO international standard for HEV RNA for NAT-based assays. None of the six patients receiving an HEV-contaminated blood product from five different donors (donor 1: RBC, donor 2–5: APC) developed an acute hepatitis E infection, most likely due to low viral load in donor plasma (<100 IU/mL). Of note, the distribution of viral RNA in blood components depends on the plasma content of the component; nonetheless, HEV RNA could be detected in RBCs even when low viral plasma loads of 100–1,000 IU/mL are present. Comprehensive retrospective studies of TT-HEV infection offered further insights into the infectivity of HEV RNA-positive blood products. Minipool HEV NAT screening (96 samples) of blood donations should be adequate as a routine screening assay to identify high viremic donors and will cover at least a large part of viremic phases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Dreier
- Institut für Laboratoriums- und Transfusionsmedizin, Herz- und Diabeteszentrum Nordrhein- Westfalen, Universitätsklinik der Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | - Cornelius Knabbe
- Institut für Laboratoriums- und Transfusionsmedizin, Herz- und Diabeteszentrum Nordrhein- Westfalen, Universitätsklinik der Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | - Tanja Vollmer
- Institut für Laboratoriums- und Transfusionsmedizin, Herz- und Diabeteszentrum Nordrhein- Westfalen, Universitätsklinik der Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
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Abstract
At least 20 million hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections occur annually, with >3 million symptomatic cases and ∼60,000 fatalities. Hepatitis E is generally self-limiting, with a case fatality rate of 0.5-3% in young adults. However, it can cause up to 30% mortality in pregnant women in the third trimester and can become chronic in immunocompromised individuals, such as those receiving organ transplants or chemotherapy and individuals with HIV infection. HEV is transmitted primarily via the faecal-oral route and was previously thought to be a public health concern only in developing countries. It is now also being frequently reported in industrialized countries, where it is transmitted zoonotically or through organ transplantation or blood transfusions. Although a vaccine for HEV has been developed, it is only licensed in China. Additionally, no effective, non-teratogenic and specific treatments against HEV infections are currently available. Although progress has been made in characterizing HEV biology, the scarcity of adequate experimental platforms has hampered further research. In this Review, we focus on providing an update on the HEV life cycle. We will further discuss existing cell culture and animal models and highlight platforms that have proven to be useful and/or are emerging for studying other hepatotropic (viral) pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ila Nimgaonkar
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Lewis Thomas Laboratory, Washington Road, Princeton, New Jersey 08544, USA
| | - Qiang Ding
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Lewis Thomas Laboratory, Washington Road, Princeton, New Jersey 08544, USA
| | - Robert E Schwartz
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, New York 10021, USA
| | - Alexander Ploss
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Lewis Thomas Laboratory, Washington Road, Princeton, New Jersey 08544, USA
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29
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Hepatitis E virus subtype 3f strains isolated from Japanese hepatitis patients with no history of travel to endemic areas – The origin analyzed by molecular evolution. Virology 2018; 513:146-152. [PMID: 29078116 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2017.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Revised: 08/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection can lead to acute and chronic hepatitis as well as to extrahepatic manifestations such as neurological and renal disease; it is the most common cause of acute viral hepatitis worldwide. Four genotypes are responsible for most infection in humans, of which HEV genotypes 1 and 2 are obligate human pathogens and HEV genotypes 3 and 4 are mostly zoonotic. Until quite recently, HEV was considered to be mainly responsible for epidemics of acute hepatitis in developing regions owing to contamination of drinking water supplies with human faeces. However, HEV is increasingly being recognized as endemic in some developed regions. In this setting, infections occur through zoonotic transmission or contaminated blood products and can cause chronic hepatitis in immunocompromised individuals. HEV infections can be diagnosed by measuring anti-HEV antibodies, HEV RNA or viral capsid antigen in blood or stool. Although an effective HEV vaccine exists, it is only licensed for use in China. Acute hepatitis E is usually self-limiting and does not require specific treatment. Management of immunocompromised individuals involves lowering the dose of immunosuppressive drugs and/or treatment with the antiviral agent ribavirin.
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31
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Izopet J, Lhomme S, Chapuy-Regaud S, Mansuy JM, Kamar N, Abravanel F. HEV and transfusion-recipient risk. Transfus Clin Biol 2017; 24:176-181. [PMID: 28690036 DOI: 10.1016/j.tracli.2017.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2017] [Accepted: 06/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
HEV infections are mainly food- and water-borne but transfusion-transmission has occurred in both developing and developed countries. The infection is usually asymptomatic but it can lead to fulminant hepatitis in patients with underlying liver disease and pregnant women living in developing countries. It also causes chronic hepatitis E, with progressive fibrosis and cirrhosis, in approximately 60% of immunocompromised patients infected with HEV genotype 3. The risk of a transfusion-transmitted HEV infection is linked to the frequency of viremia in blood donors, the donor virus load and the volume of plasma in the final transfused blood component. Several developed countries have adopted measures to improve blood safety based on the epidemiology of HEV.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Izopet
- Department of virology, National reference center for hepatitis E virus, CHU Purpan, IFB, 330, avenue de Grande-Bretagne, TSA 40031, 31059 Toulouse, France; Inserm UMR 1043/CNRS UMR 5282, CPTP, center for pathophysiology of toulouse-Purpan, Toulouse university Paul-Sabatier, 31024 Toulouse, France.
| | - S Lhomme
- Department of virology, National reference center for hepatitis E virus, CHU Purpan, IFB, 330, avenue de Grande-Bretagne, TSA 40031, 31059 Toulouse, France; Inserm UMR 1043/CNRS UMR 5282, CPTP, center for pathophysiology of toulouse-Purpan, Toulouse university Paul-Sabatier, 31024 Toulouse, France
| | - S Chapuy-Regaud
- Department of virology, National reference center for hepatitis E virus, CHU Purpan, IFB, 330, avenue de Grande-Bretagne, TSA 40031, 31059 Toulouse, France; Inserm UMR 1043/CNRS UMR 5282, CPTP, center for pathophysiology of toulouse-Purpan, Toulouse university Paul-Sabatier, 31024 Toulouse, France
| | - J-M Mansuy
- Department of virology, National reference center for hepatitis E virus, CHU Purpan, IFB, 330, avenue de Grande-Bretagne, TSA 40031, 31059 Toulouse, France
| | - N Kamar
- Inserm UMR 1043/CNRS UMR 5282, CPTP, center for pathophysiology of toulouse-Purpan, Toulouse university Paul-Sabatier, 31024 Toulouse, France; Department of nephrology and organ transplantation, CHU Rangueil, 31059 Toulouse, France
| | - F Abravanel
- Department of virology, National reference center for hepatitis E virus, CHU Purpan, IFB, 330, avenue de Grande-Bretagne, TSA 40031, 31059 Toulouse, France; Inserm UMR 1043/CNRS UMR 5282, CPTP, center for pathophysiology of toulouse-Purpan, Toulouse university Paul-Sabatier, 31024 Toulouse, France
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Donnelly MC, Scobie L, Crossan CL, Dalton H, Hayes PC, Simpson KJ. Review article: hepatitis E-a concise review of virology, epidemiology, clinical presentation and therapy. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2017; 46:126-141. [PMID: 28449246 DOI: 10.1111/apt.14109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2016] [Revised: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a leading cause of acute icteric hepatitis and acute liver failure in the developing world. During the last decade, there has been increasing recognition of autochthonous (locally acquired) HEV infection in developed countries. Chronic HEV infection is now recognised, and in transplant recipients this may lead to cirrhosis and organ failure. AIM To detail current understanding of the molecular biology of HEV, diagnostic and therapeutic strategies and propose future directions for basic science and clinical research. METHODS PubMed was searched for English language articles using the key words "hepatitis E", "viral hepatitis", "autochthonous infection", "antiviral therapy", "liver transplantation", "acute", "chronic", "HEV", "genotype", "transmission" "food-borne", "transfusion". Additional relevant publications were identified from article reference lists. RESULTS There has been increasing recognition of autochthonous HEV infection in Western countries, mainly associated with genotype 3. Chronic HEV infection has been recognised since 2008, and in transplant recipients this may lead to cirrhosis and organ failure. Modes of transmission include food-borne transmission, transfusion of blood products and solid organ transplantation. Ribavirin therapy is used to treat patients with chronic HEV infection, but new therapies are required as there have been reports of treatment failure with ribavirin. CONCLUSIONS Autochthonous HEV infection is a clinical issue with increasing burden. Future work should focus on increasing awareness of HEV infection in the developed world, emphasising the need for clinicians to have a low threshold for HEV testing, particularly in immunosuppressed patients. Patients at potential risk of chronic HEV infection must also be educated and given advice regarding prevention of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C Donnelly
- Department of Hepatology and Scottish Liver Transplant Unit, University of Edinburgh, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - L Scobie
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - C L Crossan
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - H Dalton
- Royal Cornwall Hospital Trust and European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter, Truro, UK
| | - P C Hayes
- Department of Hepatology and Scottish Liver Transplant Unit, University of Edinburgh, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - K J Simpson
- Department of Hepatology and Scottish Liver Transplant Unit, University of Edinburgh, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Domanović D, Tedder R, Blümel J, Zaaijer H, Gallian P, Niederhauser C, Sauleda Oliveras S, O'Riordan J, Boland F, Harritshøj L, Nascimento MSJ, Ciccaglione AR, Politis C, Adlhoch C, Flan B, Oualikene-Gonin W, Rautmann G, Strengers P, Hewitt P. Hepatitis E and blood donation safety in selected European countries: a shift to screening? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 22:30514. [PMID: 28449730 PMCID: PMC5404480 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2017.22.16.30514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2016] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The public health implications of hepatitis E virus (HEV) in Europe have changed due to increasing numbers of hepatitis E cases and recent reports of chronic, persistent HEV infections associated with progression to cirrhosis in immunosuppressed patients. The main infectious risk for such immunosuppressed patients is exposure to undercooked infected pork products and blood transfusion. We summarised the epidemiology of HEV infections among blood donors and also outlined any strategies to prevent transfusion-transmitted HEV, in 11 European countries. In response to the threat posed by HEV and related public and political concerns, most of the observed countries determined seroprevalence of HEV in donors and presence of HEV RNA in blood donations. France, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom (UK) reported cases of transfusion-transmitted HEV. Ireland and the UK have already implemented HEV RNA screening of blood donations; the Netherlands will start in 2017. Germany and France perform screening for HEV RNA in several blood establishments or plasma donations intended for use in high-risk patients respectively and, with Switzerland, are considering implementing selective or universal screening nationwide. In Greece, Portugal, Italy and Spain, the blood authorities are evaluating the situation. Denmark decided not to implement the HEV screening of blood donations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dragoslav Domanović
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Richard Tedder
- Hepatitis E Study Group, Joint PHE/NHSBT Blood Borne Virus Unit, PHE, Colindale, London, United Kingdom
| | - Johannes Blümel
- Paul-Ehrlich-Institute, Federal Institute for Vaccines and Biomedicines, Virus Safety Section, Langen, Germany
| | - Hans Zaaijer
- Sanquin, Blood-borne Infections & AMC, Clinical Virology, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | - Fiona Boland
- Irish Blood Transfusion Service, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lene Harritshøj
- Rigshospitalet, Department of Clinical Immunology, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Anna Rita Ciccaglione
- National Health Institute, Viral Hepatitis Division, Department of Infectious Diseases, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Cornelia Adlhoch
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Benoit Flan
- LFB Biomedicaments, Biological Safety Surveillance, Courtaboeuf Cedex, France
| | - Wahiba Oualikene-Gonin
- Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé, Saint-Denis Cedex, France
| | - Guy Rautmann
- European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines and HealthCare, Strasbourg, France
| | - Paul Strengers
- International Plasma Fractionation Association, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Fearon MA, O'Brien SF, Delage G, Scalia V, Bernier F, Bigham M, Weger S, Prabhu S, Andonov A. Hepatitis E in Canadian blood donors. Transfusion 2017; 57:1420-1425. [PMID: 28394029 DOI: 10.1111/trf.14089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Revised: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a virus of emerging importance to transfusion medicine as studies on blood donors and other populations demonstrate that the prevalence of endemic cases is higher than previously recognized and the risk to vulnerable transfusion recipients is not insignificant. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS We carried out an HEV prevalence study on 13,993 Canadian blood donors with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing on all donors and antibody testing on a subset of 4102 donors. HEV antibody-positive and age- and sex-matched antibody-negative donors were invited to participate in a scripted telephone interview about risk factors. RESULTS There were no PCR-positive samples found (95% confidence interval [CI], 0%-0.026%). The seroprevalence of HEV in our tested population was 5.9% (95% CI, 5.16%-6.59%). HEV antibody positivity was associated with male sex and increasing age. In case-control analysis history of living outside Canada (odds ratio [OR], 2.9; 95% CI, 1.56-5.32) and contact with farm animals (OR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.01-2.28) were associated with HEV seropositivity. CONCLUSION This is the largest data set to date on HEV infection in Canada. Results suggest low lifetime exposure to HEV and that infectious donations are rare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret A Fearon
- Canadian Blood Services, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sheila F O'Brien
- Canadian Blood Services, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,University of Ottawa, School of Epidemiology, Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gilles Delage
- Microbiology, Héma-Québec, Saint-Laurent, Québec, Canada
| | - Vito Scalia
- Canadian Blood Services, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - France Bernier
- Microbiology, Héma-Québec, Saint-Laurent, Québec, Canada
| | - Mark Bigham
- Medical Department, Canadian Blood Services, BC and Yukon, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Steven Weger
- University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Sneha Prabhu
- Institute for Health Promotion Research, University of Texas Medical School at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Anton Andonov
- Molecular and Immunodiagnostics, Bloodborne Pathogens and Hepatitis, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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