1
|
Mandel E, Underwood K, Masterman C, Kozak RA, Dale CH, Hassall M, Capraru C, Shah H, Janssen HLA, Feld JJ, Biondi MJ. Province-to-province variability in hepatitis C testing, care, and treatment across Canada. CANADIAN LIVER JOURNAL 2023; 6:234-248. [PMID: 37503520 PMCID: PMC10370727 DOI: 10.3138/canlivj-2022-0029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Background Few countries have implemented the necessary policy changes to reduce the number of steps in the cascade of care to achieve hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination, including Canada. The aim of this study was to describe and compare legislation, scope of practice, and policy as it relates to the provision of HCV care in each province. Methods We reviewed grey literature and regulatory and legislative documents which affect various aspects of the HCV cascade of care. Findings were verified by content experts. Results HCV RNA reflex testing ensures those that are antibody positive get an HCV RNA test; however only 80% of provinces have reflex test. Point-of-care antibody testing can be offered in most community non-health care settings, yet many types of health care providers are unable to do this independently. Following a positive test, it may not be feasible to complete venipuncture; however only a single province processes HCV RNA dried blood spot cards. In many provinces, training and verification are required for novice prescribers, and in some provinces prescribing continues to be restricted to specialists. Only a single province has task-shifted treatment to a non-physician non-nurse practitioner model, where pharmacists can prescribe treatment. Finally, 80% of provinces require authorization forms, and 30% require proof of investigations for treatment. Conclusions No single province is optimizing the use of diagnostic tools and task shifting and decreasing paperwork to expedite treatment initiation. Collaboration between provinces is needed to streamline practice, update policy, and promote equity in HCV diagnosis, care, and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erin Mandel
- Viral Hepatitis Care Network (VIRCAN) Study Group, Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Chelsea Masterman
- Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Cheryl H Dale
- Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Melinda Hassall
- The Australasian Society for HIV Medicine, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Camelia Capraru
- Viral Hepatitis Care Network (VIRCAN) Study Group, Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hemant Shah
- Viral Hepatitis Care Network (VIRCAN) Study Group, Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Harry LA Janssen
- Viral Hepatitis Care Network (VIRCAN) Study Group, Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Erasmus Medical Centre, Erasmus University, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jordan J Feld
- Viral Hepatitis Care Network (VIRCAN) Study Group, Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mia J Biondi
- Viral Hepatitis Care Network (VIRCAN) Study Group, Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Nursing, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wong NS, Chan DPC, Chan CP, Poon CM, Wong GLH, Wong VWS, Lee SS. Point-of-care hepatitis C reflex testing and treatment referral in methadone clinic settings in Hong Kong—a pilot study. IJID REGIONS 2022; 5:8-12. [PMID: 36119439 PMCID: PMC9471432 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2022.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) prevalence is high among attendees of methadone clinics in Hong Kong. Finger-prick sampling and reflex HCV testing constitute an acceptable strategy. Linkage of RNA-positive methadone clinic attendees to direct-acting antiviral treatment referral is high. Methadone clinics could be enabled to contribute to HCV micro-elimination.
Objectives People who inject drugs (PWID) constitute a population group with a high hepatitis C virus (HCV) burden. With the objectives of assessing the HCV prevalence in PWID and determining the proportion requiring treatment who could be linked to care, this study piloted onsite reflex HCV testing at low threshold methadone clinics, with prompt referral of HCV RNA-positive participants for treatment. Methods This was a prospective study on methadone clinic attendees in Hong Kong. Questionnaires were completed, finger-prick anti-HCV rapid testing was performed, and positive blood samples were collected for laboratory HCV RNA testing. The proportions of participants along the cascade of HCV care were calculated. Results In 2021–2022, after 14 evening screening sessions at three methadone clinics, 86 of 354 regular attendees (24%) were recruited. The anti-HCV prevalence was 63% (54/86, 95% confidence interval 52–73%), with 78% (42/54) testing positive for HCV RNA and 79% (33/42) successfully referred. Almost all (31/33) referred participants received direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment, 94% (29/31) with full treatment compliance; 55% (16/29) of these compliant participants achieved a sustained virological response, while the remainder had not received post-treatment testing. Conclusions The use of a simplified testing algorithm in the setting of substitution treatment services, incorporating reflex HCV testing, could be an effective strategy for contributing towards the micro-elimination of HCV in PWID.
Collapse
|
3
|
Cunningham EB, Wheeler A, Hajarizadeh B, French CE, Roche R, Marshall AD, Fontaine G, Conway A, Valencia BM, Bajis S, Presseau J, Ward JW, Degenhardt L, Dore GJ, Hickman M, Vickerman P, Grebely J. Interventions to enhance testing, linkage to care, and treatment initiation for hepatitis C virus infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 7:426-445. [PMID: 35303490 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(21)00471-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the goal set by WHO to eliminate hepatitis C virus (HCV) as a public health threat, uptake of HCV testing and treatment remains low. To achieve this target, evidence-based interventions are needed to address the barriers to care for people with, or at risk of, HCV infection. We aimed to assess the efficacy of interventions to improve HCV antibody testing, HCV RNA testing, linkage to HCV care, and treatment initiation. METHODS In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, Web of Science, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and PsycINFO without language restrictions for reports published between database inception and July 21, 2020, assessing the following primary outcomes: HCV antibody testing; HCV RNA testing; linkage to HCV care; and direct-acting antiviral treatment initiation. We also searched key conference abstracts. We included randomised and non-randomised studies assessing non-pharmaceutical interventions that included a comparator or control group. Studies were excluded if they enrolled only paediatric populations (aged <18 years) or if they conducted the intervention in a different health-care setting to that of the control or comparator. Authors were contacted to clarify study details and to obtain additional population-level data. Data were extracted from the records identified into a pre-piloted and standardised data extraction form and a random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool the effects of the interventions on study outcomes. This study is registered in PROSPERO, CRD42020178035. FINDINGS Of 15 342 unique records identified, 142 were included, which reported on 148 unique studies (47 randomised controlled trials and 101 non-randomised studies). Medical chart reminders, provider education, and point-of-care antibody testing significantly improved at least three study outcomes compared with a comparator or control. Interventions that simplified HCV testing, including dried blood spot testing, point-of-care antibody testing, reflex RNA testing, and opt-out screening, significantly improved testing outcomes compared with a comparator or control. Enhanced patient and provider support through patient education, provider care coordination, and provider education also significantly improved testing outcomes compared with a comparator or control. Integrated care and patient navigation or care coordination significantly improved linkage to care and the uptake of direct-acting antiviral treatment compared with a comparator or control. INTERPRETATION Several interventions to improve HCV care that address several key barriers to HCV care were identified. New models of HCV care must be designed and implemented to address the barriers faced by the population of interest. Further high-quality research, including rigorously designed randomised studies, is still needed in key populations. FUNDING None.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alice Wheeler
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Clare E French
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Rachel Roche
- Blood Safety, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Infections and HIV Division, National Infection Service, Public Health England Colindale, London, UK; National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections at UCL, National Institute for Health Research, London, UK
| | - Alison D Marshall
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Guillaume Fontaine
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Anna Conway
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Sahar Bajis
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Justin Presseau
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - John W Ward
- Coalition for Global Hepatitis Elimination, The Task Force for Global Health, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Louisa Degenhardt
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Gregory J Dore
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Matthew Hickman
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Huang JF, Hsieh MY, Wei YJ, Hung JY, Huang HT, Huang CI, Yeh ML, Huang CF, Jang TY, Hsu PY, Liang PC, Dai CY, Lin ZY, Yu ML, Chuang WL. Towards a safe hospital: hepatitis C in-hospital micro-elimination program (HCV-HELP study). Hepatol Int 2021; 16:59-67. [PMID: 34850326 PMCID: PMC8631565 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-021-10275-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Question Is hepatitis C virus (HCV) micro-elimination achievable at the hospital level with the structured strategies? Findings The multidirectional program included the HCV reflex test for hospital personnel, outpatient surveillance, a call-back system, and surveillance of cancer patients prior to chemotherapy. Through the plans of the study, 97.8% of the HCV-viremic patients successfully received linkage-to-treat. The results of each strategy sufficiently met the 2030 elimination goal by the World Health Organization (WHO). Meaning HCV micro-elimination is achievable at the hospital level based on patient safety, staff occupational safety and infection control. Background and aims Scarce data are available on in-hospital hepatitis C virus (HCV) micro-elimination strategies. This pilot study was prospectively conducted to assess the outcomes of HCV in-hospital micro-elimination program (HCV-HELP) in a single center in Taiwan. Methods The study included the HCV reflex test for plans A (hospital personnel), B (outpatient surveillance), C (a call-back system for anti-HCV+ patients), and D (surveillance of cancer patients prior to chemotherapy). The primary outcome measurement was that > 80% of eligible patients were enrolled in linkage-to-treat; the secondary outcome measurement was the surveillance efficacy. Results We recruited 930, 6072, 2376 and 233 participants into plans A, B, C, and D, respectively, from Oct 2020 to May 2021. The anti-HCV-seropositivity prevalences were 0.22% for plan A, 4.3% for B, and 3.9% for D. Two staff members were identified as HCV-viremic in plan A; these staff members successfully achieved a sustained virological response (SVR). We identified 39, 95 and 2 HCV-viremic patients in plans B, C, and D, respectively. Of these 138 HCV-viremic patients, 135 (97.8%) received direct-acting antiviral therapy, and 134 achieved SVR. Two 4-month phases were stratified to compare efficacies in the liver clinic. In the late phase, the adjusted number of HCV-viremic patients was 4.36/10,000 outpatient visits (90/200,689), which was 3.18-fold higher than that of the early phase (1.37/10,000 outpatient visits [30/212,658], odds ratio 3.18; 95% confidence interval 2.10–4.81, p < 0.0001). Conclusion HCV micro-elimination is achievable at the hospital level as per the structured HCV-HELP study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jee-Fu Huang
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100 Tzyou Road, Kaohsiung, 807 Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Faculty of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Municipal Ta-Tung Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Yen Hsieh
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100 Tzyou Road, Kaohsiung, 807 Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Municipal Ta-Tung Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ju Wei
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100 Tzyou Road, Kaohsiung, 807 Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Municipal Ta-Tung Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Jen-Yu Hung
- Faculty of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Municipal Ta-Tung Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hsuan-Ti Huang
- Department of Orthopedics, Kaohsiung Municipal Ta-Tung Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Orthopedics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ching-I Huang
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100 Tzyou Road, Kaohsiung, 807 Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Faculty of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Lun Yeh
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100 Tzyou Road, Kaohsiung, 807 Taiwan
- Faculty of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Feng Huang
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100 Tzyou Road, Kaohsiung, 807 Taiwan
- Faculty of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Tyng-Yuan Jang
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100 Tzyou Road, Kaohsiung, 807 Taiwan
| | - Po-Yao Hsu
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100 Tzyou Road, Kaohsiung, 807 Taiwan
| | - Po-Cheng Liang
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100 Tzyou Road, Kaohsiung, 807 Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Yen Dai
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100 Tzyou Road, Kaohsiung, 807 Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Faculty of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Zu-Yau Lin
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100 Tzyou Road, Kaohsiung, 807 Taiwan
- Faculty of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Lung Yu
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100 Tzyou Road, Kaohsiung, 807 Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Faculty of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Long Chuang
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100 Tzyou Road, Kaohsiung, 807 Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Faculty of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Huang CF, Wu PF, Yeh ML, Huang CI, Liang PC, Hsu CT, Hsu PY, Liu HY, Huang YC, Lin ZY, Chen SC, Huang JF, Dai CY, Chuang WL, Yu ML. Scaling up the in-hospital hepatitis C virus care cascade in Taiwan. Clin Mol Hepatol 2020; 27:136-143. [PMID: 33317253 PMCID: PMC7820217 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2020.0150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Obstacles exist in facilitating hepatitis C virus (HCV) care cascade. To increase timely and accurate diagnosis, disease awareness and accessibility, in-hospital HCV reflex testing followed by automatic appointments and a late call-back strategy (R.N.A. model) was applied. We aimed to compare the HCV treatment rate of patients treated with this strategy compared to those without. METHODS One hundred and twenty-five anti-HCV seropositive patients who adopted the R.N.A. model in 2020 and another 1,396 controls treated in 2019 were enrolled to compare the gaps in accurate HCV RNA diagnosis to final treatment allocation. RESULTS The HCV RNA testing rate was significantly higher in patients who received reflex testing than in those without reflex testing (100% vs. 84.8%, P<0.001). When patients were stratified according to the referring outpatient department, a significant improvement in the HCV RNA testing rate was particularly noted in patients from non-hepatology departments (100% vs. 23.3%, P<0.001). The treatment rate in HCV RNA seropositive patients was 83% (83/100) after the adoption of the R.N.A. model, among whom 96.1% and 73.9% of patients were from the hepatology and non-hepatology departments, respectively. Compared to subjects without R.N.A. model application, a significant improvement in the treatment rate was observed for patients from non-hepatology departments (73.9% vs. 27.8%, P=0.001). The application of the R.N.A. model significantly increased the in-hospital HCV treatment uptake from 6.4% to 73.9% for patients from non-hepatology departments (P<0.001). CONCLUSION The care cascade increased the treatment uptake and set up a model for enhancing in-hospital HCV elimination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chung-Feng Huang
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Faculty of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Occupational Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Pey-Fang Wu
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Nursing, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Lun Yeh
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Faculty of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ching-I Huang
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Faculty of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Po-Cheng Liang
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Ting Hsu
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Po-Yao Hsu
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Yin Liu
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Chou Huang
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Zu-Yau Lin
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Faculty of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Shinn-Cherng Chen
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Faculty of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Jee-Fu Huang
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Faculty of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Yen Dai
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Faculty of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Occupational Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Long Chuang
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Faculty of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Lung Yu
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Faculty of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,College of Biological Science and Technology, National Chiao Tung University, Hsin-Chu, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Morjaria S, Chapin KC. Who to Test, When, and for What: Why Diagnostic Stewardship in Infectious Diseases Matters. J Mol Diagn 2020; 22:1109-1113. [PMID: 32623114 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmoldx.2020.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
New rapid molecular diagnostic technologies for infectious diseases provide faster diagnostic test results and, if used correctly, will enable more rapid delivery of care to patients. This perspective piece outlines how this new technology can be used more effectively-with a focus on collaborative team approaches and tools clinicians and laboratorians can use to optimally affect patient care. This article also showcases a patient case, outlining problems with the diagnostic process as it currently stands, and poses potential strategies on how this process may be improved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sejal Morjaria
- Infectious Disease Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Kimberle C Chapin
- Department of Medicine, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Cheah JT, Faragon JJ, Marks KM. Management of hepatitis B and C infections in rheumatologic disease. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2019; 32:848-868. [PMID: 31427059 DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2019.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis B and C viruses present dual considerations in rheumatic disease as both etiologic factors and important comorbidities that must be assessed and addressed. This review summarizes the link between hepatitis B and arthritis and polyarteritis nodosa as well as hepatitis C and arthritis, Sicca syndrome and cryoglobulinemic vasculitis. Recent data pertaining to the antiviral management in these conditions, especially regarding the use of the direct-acting antivirals in hepatitis C, are also presented. Additionally, guidance on testing and treatment of hepatitis B and C as comorbidities in the context of systemic inflammatory rheumatic conditions and the use of disease-modifying antirheumatic therapy are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Tl Cheah
- Department of Medicine, Hospital for Special Surgery, 535 E 70th St., New York, NY, 10021, USA.
| | - John J Faragon
- Department of Pharmacy and Medicine, Albany Medical Center, 43 New Scotland Avenue, Albany, NY, 12208, USA.
| | - Kristen M Marks
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Weill Cornell Medicine, 525 East 70th St., New York, NY, 10065, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Abstract
Introduction: The improvement of number of people diagnosed with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is crucial to reach the WHO objectives for eliminating viral hepatitis by 2030. Alternatives to classical HCV virological tests using serum or plasma taken from venous puncture including point-of-care (POC) tests and dried blood spot (DBS) are being considered for HCV screening, diagnosis, and monitoring. Reflex nucleic acid testing and HCV core antigen test have the potential to simplify diagnostic algorithm, increase diagnosis and facilitate linkage to care. Areas covered: This review examines strategies for the improvement of HCV testing and diagnosis including alternatives to classical HCV virological tests and approaches for simplified diagnostic algorithms. Expert opinion: Serological and molecular POC tests are now available for HCV antibody and HCV RNA detections in less than 20 and 60, respectively. DBS offers the main advantage to store desiccated blood that can be easily transported to reference centers where state-of-the-art molecular and serological diagnostic tests are used. Simplifications of diagnostic algorithms are urgently needed to enhance HCV testing, linkage to care and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stéphane Chevaliez
- a National Reference Center for Viral Hepatitis B, C and delta, Department of Virology, Hôpital Henri Mondor , Université Paris-Est , Créteil , France.,b INSERM U955 , Créteil , France
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Lakhan P, Askew D, Hayman N, Pokino LA, Sendall C, Clark PJ. Optimising Hepatitis C care in an urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander primary health care clinic. Aust N Z J Public Health 2019; 43:228-235. [PMID: 30908846 DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.12888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Describe the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of patients with Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) attending an urban Indigenous primary health clinic (IPHC) in Brisbane, Australia. METHODS A retrospective chart review of sociodemographic characteristics, presence of liver disease and treatments, lifestyle behaviours and comorbidities in patients with a HCV infection was conducted between October 2015 and March 2016. RESULTS One hundred and thirteen patients with confirmed HCV infection were aged between seven and 63 years; 66% were male, and 84% were Indigenous. Sixty-nine per cent had been incarcerated; 41% had experienced conflict or domestic violence; 47% were injecting drugs; 72% had depression; and 61% had anxiety. Cirrhosis was present in 7/95 patients with adequate data and associated with age (p=0.02). Eleven patients had commenced direct acting antiviral (DAA) therapy in the 18 months that it had been available. CONCLUSIONS The study highlights the opportunities for enhancing treatment of patients with HCV infection. Opportunities to improve treatment rates in an Indigenous primary healthcare include optimising diagnostic pathways, improving patient engagement, and general practitioner and peer worker participation. Implications for public health: HCV poses a serious threat to public health in Australia and IPHCs are key sites to addressing this for Indigenous people. Optimising care of patients with HCV attending IPHC requires recognition of the complex health needs and social context, to reduce the incidence and consequences of HCV infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prabha Lakhan
- Southern Queensland Centre of Excellence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care, Queensland
| | - Deborah Askew
- Southern Queensland Centre of Excellence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care, Queensland.,The University of Queensland, Primary Care Clinical Unit, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Queensland
| | - Noel Hayman
- Southern Queensland Centre of Excellence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care, Queensland
| | - Leigh-Anne Pokino
- Southern Queensland Centre of Excellence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care, Queensland
| | - Cheryl Sendall
- Southern Queensland Centre of Excellence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care, Queensland
| | - Paul J Clark
- Southern Queensland Centre of Excellence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care, Queensland.,Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland.,Department of Gastroenterology, The Princess Alexandra and Mater Hospitals, Queensland
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Feld JJ. Hepatitis C Virus Diagnostics: The Road to Simplification. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2018; 12:125-129. [PMID: 30988927 PMCID: PMC6385922 DOI: 10.1002/cld.760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/08/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jordan J. Feld
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Sandra Rotman Centre for Global HealthUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Hepatitis C Management Simplification From Test to Cure: A Framework for Primary Care Providers. Clin Ther 2018; 40:1234-1245. [PMID: 29983266 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2018.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
This article proposes a strategy for primary care providers to begin treating patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV). We are motivated by the need to expand HCV treatment and by developments that have simplified treatment for most patients. This article presents 5 steps to achieving quality HCV treatment in the primary care setting: (1) accurate diagnosis via reflex testing; (2) risk stratification and identifying comorbidities via pretreatment evaluation; (3) simple, once-daily, pan-genotypic HCV treatment regimens; (4) minimized on-treatment monitoring: and (5) posttreatment monitoring and high-quality care for comorbidities such as cirrhosis and injection drug use. We provide indications for referral to specialists: notably children, patients with genotype 3 and cirrhosis, advanced liver or kidney disease, previous treatment failures, drug interactions with recommended regimens, and hepatitis B co-infection. Finally, potential barriers for providers are discussed, as well as further research findings and policy interventions that can promote HCV treatment in the primary care setting. We believe that a substantial portion of patients with HCV can be treated safely and effectively by nonspecialists and that the engagement of primary care providers is critical to efforts to end the HCV epidemic.
Collapse
|
12
|
Chapko MK, Dufour DR, Hatia RI, Drobeniuc J, Ward JW, Teo CG. Cost-effectiveness of strategies for testing current hepatitis C virus infection. Hepatology 2015; 62:1396-404. [PMID: 26126725 DOI: 10.1002/hep.27966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2015] [Accepted: 06/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Six strategies for identifying hepatitis C virus (HCV) viremia, involving testing for HCV antibody (HCVAb) followed by a nucleic acid test (NAT) for HCV RNA when the antibody test is positive, are compared. Decision analysis was used to determine mean relative cost per person tested and outcomes of HCV viremia detection. Parameters included proportions of test population with HCVAb and viremia plus specificity, sensitivity, and cost of individual tests. For testing a population with an HCVAb seroprevalence of 3.25%, all strategies when adopting quantitative NAT vary little in cost (range, $29.50-$30.70) and are highly viremia specific (≥0.9997). Four of the strategies using venipuncture blood for HCVAb testing (whether laboratory conducted or employing a rapid, point-of-care assay) and for NAT (whether done by reflex or using separately drawn blood) achieve the highest viremia sensitivities (range, 0.9950-0.9954). Point-of-care HCVAb testing in fingerstick blood followed by NAT in venipuncture blood yields relatively lower viremia sensitivity (0.9301). The strategy that requires returning for NAT is even less viremia sensitive (<0.9000) because of follow-up loss. Strategies adopting qualitative rather than quantitative NAT are slightly cheaper (range, $28.90-$29.99), similarly viremia specific (≥0.9997), but less viremia sensitive (≤0.9456). Viremia sensitivity and specificity remain the same regardless of the proportion of HCVAb-seropositive persons in the cohort being tested. CONCLUSIONS Strategies involving HCVAb testing in venipuncture blood, whether laboratory conducted or using a point-of-care assay, when followed by quantitative NAT done reflexively or in separately drawn blood, are comparably economical and suitably viremia sensitive. Less cost-effective is point-of-care HCVAb testing in fingerstick blood followed by NAT in venipuncture blood. Least cost-effective is the strategy requiring the tested person to return for NAT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael K Chapko
- Veterans Affairs Paget Sound Health Care System and University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | | | - Rikita I Hatia
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Jan Drobeniuc
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - John W Ward
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Chong-Gee Teo
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Getchell JP, Wroblewski KE. Testing for HCV infection: an update of guidance for clinicians and laboratorians. MMWR. MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY WEEKLY REPORT 2013; 62:362-5. [PMID: 23657112 PMCID: PMC4605020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
In the United States, an estimated 4.1 million persons have been infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV), of whom an estimated 3.2 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.7-3.9) million are living with the infection. New infections continue to be reported particularly among persons who inject drugs and persons exposed to HCV-contaminated blood in health-care settings with inadequate infection control.
Collapse
|