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Brzdęk M, Zarębska-Michaluk D, Kukla M, Janocha-Litwin J, Dybowska D, Janczewska E, Lorenc B, Berak H, Mazur W, Tudrujek-Zdunek M, Klapaczyński J, Piekarska A, Sitko M, Laurans Ł, Parfieniuk-Kowerda A, Flisiak R. Real-world experience with direct-acting antiviral therapy in HCV-infected patients with cirrhosis and esophageal varices. Pharmacol Rep 2024; 76:1114-1129. [PMID: 39162985 PMCID: PMC11387439 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-024-00639-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2024] [Revised: 08/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects 50 million people worldwide with around 242,000 deaths annually, mainly due to complications such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Portal hypertension (PH) caused by cirrhosis leads to severe consequences, including esophageal varices (EV). This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment in patients with and without EV. METHODS This retrospective analysis involved consecutive HCV-infected adults undergoing DAA therapy at 22 Polish hepatology centers from July 1, 2015, to December 31, 2022. Patients with cirrhosis were categorized based on the presence of EV diagnosed by gastroscopy. Treatment effectiveness was measured by sustained virologic response (SVR), with safety outcomes monitored for 12 weeks post-treatment. RESULTS A population of 3393 HCV-infected patients with cirrhosis was divided into groups with (A, n = 976) and without (B, n = 2417) EV. Group A showed a significantly higher prevalence of comorbidities and concomitant medications. Genotype (GT)1b infections predominated in both groups, and GT3 infections were more common in the EV group. Group A exhibited more severe liver disease, and higher rates of decompensation, HCC, and HBV co-infection. SVR was significantly higher in group B (91.5% vs. 96.3%, p < 0.0001). Male gender, GT3, EV presence, and Child-Pugh grade B were identified as independent negative SVR predictors. Group A had a worse safety profile, with notably higher adverse event incidence and mortality. CONCLUSIONS DAA therapies are highly effective and well tolerated in patients with cirrhosis, but EV presence predicts poorer virologic responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Brzdęk
- Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University, aleja IX Wieków Kielc 19A, Kielce, 25-317, Poland.
| | - Dorota Zarębska-Michaluk
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Allergology, Jan Kochanowski University, Kielce, 25- 317, Poland
| | - Michał Kukla
- Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, 31-688, Poland
- Department of Endoscopy, University Hospital, Kraków, 30-688, Poland
| | - Justyna Janocha-Litwin
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Wrocław Medical University, Wrocław, 50- 367, Poland
| | - Dorota Dybowska
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Toruń, 87-100, Poland
- Voivodeship Infectious Observation Hospital in Bydgoszcz, Bydgoszcz, 85-030, Poland
| | - Ewa Janczewska
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Public Health in Bytom, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, 40-055, Poland
| | - Beata Lorenc
- Pomeranian Center of Infectious Diseases, Medical University, Gdańsk, 80-214, Poland
| | - Hanna Berak
- Outpatient Clinic, Hospital for Infectious Diseases in Warsaw, Warsaw, 01-201, Poland
| | - Włodzimierz Mazur
- Clinical Department of Infectious Diseases in Chorzów, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, 40-055, Poland
| | | | - Jakub Klapaczyński
- Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, The National Institute of Medicine of the Ministry of Interior and Administration, Warszawa, 02-507, Poland
| | - Anna Piekarska
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Medical University of Łódź, Łódź, 90- 419, Poland
| | - Marek Sitko
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, 31- 088, Poland
| | - Łukasz Laurans
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, 70-204, Poland
- Multidisciplinary Regional Hospital in Gorzów Wielkopolski, Gorzów Wielkopolski, 66-400, Poland
| | - Anna Parfieniuk-Kowerda
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Medical University of Białystok, Białystok, 15-089, Poland
| | - Robert Flisiak
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Medical University of Białystok, Białystok, 15-089, Poland
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Miroshnichenko S, Pykhtina M, Kotliarova A, Chepurnov A, Beklemishev A. Engineering a New IFN-ApoA-I Fusion Protein with Low Toxicity and Prolonged Action. Molecules 2023; 28:8014. [PMID: 38138504 PMCID: PMC10745500 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28248014] [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: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Recombinant human interferon alpha-2b (rIFN) is widely used in antiviral and anticancer immunotherapy. However, the high efficiency of interferon therapy is accompanied by a number of side effects; this problem requires the design of a new class of interferon molecules with reduced cytotoxicity. In this work, IFN was modified via genetic engineering methods by merging it with the blood plasma protein apolipoprotein A-I in order to reduce acute toxicity and improve the pharmacokinetics of IFN. The chimeric protein was obtained via biosynthesis in the yeast P. pastoris. The yield of ryIFN-ApoA-I protein when cultivated on a shaker in flasks was 30 mg/L; protein purification was carried out using reverse-phase chromatography to a purity of 95-97%. The chimeric protein demonstrated complete preservation of the biological activity of IFN in the model of vesicular stomatitis virus and SARS-CoV-2. In addition, the chimeric form had reduced cytotoxicity towards Vero cells and increased cell viability under viral load conditions compared with commercial IFN-a2b preparations. Analysis of the pharmacokinetic profile of ryIFN-ApoA-I after a single subcutaneous injection in mice showed a 1.8-fold increased half-life of the chimeric protein compared with ryIFN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svetlana Miroshnichenko
- Federal Research Center of Fundamental and Translational Medicine (FRC FTM), Timakova str., 2, 630117 Novosibirsk, Russia; (S.M.); (A.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Mariya Pykhtina
- Federal Research Center of Fundamental and Translational Medicine (FRC FTM), Timakova str., 2, 630117 Novosibirsk, Russia; (S.M.); (A.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Anastasiia Kotliarova
- N.N. Vorozhtsov Novosibirsk Institute of Organic Chemistry SB RAS, Lavrentiev Ave., 9, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia;
| | - Alexander Chepurnov
- Federal Research Center of Fundamental and Translational Medicine (FRC FTM), Timakova str., 2, 630117 Novosibirsk, Russia; (S.M.); (A.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Anatoly Beklemishev
- Federal Research Center of Fundamental and Translational Medicine (FRC FTM), Timakova str., 2, 630117 Novosibirsk, Russia; (S.M.); (A.C.); (A.B.)
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Saputro AH, Artarini AA, Tjahjono DH, Damayanti S. The long and stumble way to find potential active compounds from plants for defeating hepatitis B and C: review. PHARMACIA 2022. [DOI: 10.3897/pharmacia.69.e85160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis is a liver illness caused by virus such as hepatitis A virus, hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus. Hepatitis B and C are considerably more usual and induce more cirrhosis and dead worldwide than hepatitis A. Although drugs that are currently often used in the medication of hepatitis B and C, the finding of recent drug from various resources including herbal has been intensively developed. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to consider the possibility of plant’s compounds as anti-HBV and anti-HCV. From the results of a review of several articles, several plant’s compound have shown effectiveness againts HBV and HCV by in silico, in vitro and in vivo studies. In conclusion, several plant’s active compounds are possibility to be developed as anti-hepatitis B and C.
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Hsu W, Peng C, Su W, Lai H, Lin C, Chuang P, Chen S, Chen H, Wang H, Huang G. Treatment with direct‐acting antiviral agents is associated with increased platelet count in patients with chronic hepatitis C. ADVANCES IN DIGESTIVE MEDICINE 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/aid2.13124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wei‐Fan Hsu
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal MedicineChina Medical University Hospital Taichung Taiwan
| | - Cheng‐Yuan Peng
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal MedicineChina Medical University Hospital Taichung Taiwan
- School of MedicineChina Medical University Taichung Taiwan
| | - Wen‐Pang Su
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal MedicineChina Medical University Hospital Taichung Taiwan
| | - Hsueh‐Chou Lai
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal MedicineChina Medical University Hospital Taichung Taiwan
- School of Chinese MedicineChina Medical University Taichung Taiwan
| | - Chia‐Hsin Lin
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal MedicineChina Medical University Hospital Taichung Taiwan
| | - Po‐Heng Chuang
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal MedicineChina Medical University Hospital Taichung Taiwan
| | - Sheng‐Hung Chen
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal MedicineChina Medical University Hospital Taichung Taiwan
- School of MedicineChina Medical University Taichung Taiwan
| | - Hung‐Yao Chen
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal MedicineChina Medical University Hospital Taichung Taiwan
| | - Hung‐Wei Wang
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal MedicineChina Medical University Hospital Taichung Taiwan
| | - Guan‐Tarn Huang
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal MedicineChina Medical University Hospital Taichung Taiwan
- School of MedicineChina Medical University Taichung Taiwan
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5
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Reynolds JA, Briggs TA, Rice GI, Darmalinggam S, Bondet V, Bruce E, Khan M, Haque S, Chinoy H, Herrick AL, McCarthy EM, Zeef L, Hayes A, Duffy D, Parker B, Bruce IN. Type I interferon in patients with systemic autoimmune rheumatic disease is associated with haematological abnormalities and specific autoantibody profiles. Arthritis Res Ther 2019; 21:147. [PMID: 31200750 PMCID: PMC6567906 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-019-1929-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To investigate the relationships between interferon alpha (IFNα) and the clinical and serological phenotype of patients with systemic autoimmune rheumatic disease (SARDs) in order to determine whether a distinct subpopulation of patients can be identified. Methods We recruited patients with at least 1 SARD clinical feature and at least 1 SARD-related autoantibody from two NHS Trusts in Greater Manchester. A 6-gene interferon-stimulated gene (ISG) score was calculated in all patients, and in a subgroup, a 30-gene ISG score was produced using NanoString. A digital Single Molecule Array (Simoa) was used to measure plasma IFNα protein. In an exploratory analysis, whole blood RNA sequencing was conducted in 12 patients followed by RT-qPCR confirmation of expression of 6 nucleic acid receptors (NARs) in the whole cohort. Results Sixty three of 164 (38%) patients had a positive ISG score. The 3 measures of IFNα all correlated strongly with each other (p < 0.0001). There were no differences in mucocutaneous or internal organ involvement between the ISG subgroups. The ISG-positive group had increased frequency of specific autoantibodies and haematological abnormalities which remained significant after adjusting for the SARD subtype. Expression of DDX58, MB21D1 and TLR7 was correlated with the ISG score whilst TLR3, TLR9 and MB21D1 were associated with neutrophil count. Conclusion In SARD patients, IFNα-positivity was associated with specific autoantibodies and haematological parameters but not with other clinical features. The variable NAR expression suggests that different pathways may drive IFNα production in individual patients. The identification of an IFNα-positive subgroup within a mixed SARD cohort supports a pathology-based approach to treatment. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13075-019-1929-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- John A Reynolds
- Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Division of Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Tracy A Briggs
- Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK.,Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Gillian I Rice
- Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Sathya Darmalinggam
- Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Vincent Bondet
- Immunobiology of Dendritic Cells, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.,INSERM, UMRS-1223, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Ellen Bruce
- NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Mumtaz Khan
- NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Sahena Haque
- Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Hector Chinoy
- NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Rheumatology Department, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Salford, UK
| | - Ariane L Herrick
- NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Rheumatology Department, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Salford, UK
| | - Eoghan M McCarthy
- NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Leo Zeef
- Bioinformatics Core Facility, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK
| | - Andrew Hayes
- Bioinformatics Core Facility, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK
| | - Darragh Duffy
- Immunobiology of Dendritic Cells, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.,INSERM, UMRS-1223, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Ben Parker
- Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Division of Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Ian N Bruce
- Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Division of Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK. .,NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
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6
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Hsu WF, Lai HC, Su WP, Lin CH, Chuang PH, Chen SH, Chen HY, Wang HW, Huang GT, Peng CY. Rapid decline of noninvasive fibrosis index values in patients with hepatitis C receiving treatment with direct-acting antiviral agents. BMC Gastroenterol 2019; 19:63. [PMID: 31029101 PMCID: PMC6486982 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-019-0973-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 03/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Studies on temporal changes in noninvasive fibrosis indices and liver stiffness measurement (LSM) in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) treated with direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) are limited. Methods We retrospectively enrolled consecutive patients with CHC who had received DAAs. Results In total, we recruited 395 consecutive patients, of which 388 (98.2%) achieved a sustained virologic response (SVR) at 12 weeks after therapy. In patients who received DAA therapy and achieved SVR 12 weeks after therapy (n = 388), the median aspartate aminotransferase/platelet ratio index (APRI) value decreased from 1.19 (0.62–2.44) at baseline to 0.50 (0.32–0.95), 0.51 (0.31–0.92), 0.48 (0.31–0.88), and 0.52 (0.33–0.92) at week 2, week 4, end of therapy, and PW12, respectively (all P < 0.001). The median FIB-4 value decreased from 2.88 (1.56–5.60) at baseline to 2.10 (1.30–3.65), 2.15 (1.30–3.65), 2.11 (1.37–3.76), and 2.22 (1.45–3.82) at week 2, week 4, end of therapy, and PW12, respectively (all P < 0.001). The median alanine aminotransferase level significantly decreased from week 2 until PW12 (all P < 0.001). The platelet count significantly increased from 2 weeks after DAA therapy initiation until PW12 (all P < 0.001); however, the magnitude of changes in the platelet count was low. In patients with paired LSMs obtained using acoustic radiation force impulse elastography at baseline and PW12 (n = 199), the median LSM decreased from 1.78 (1.25–2.30) m/s at baseline to 1.38 (1.14–1.88) m/s at PW12 (P < 0.001). Conclusions Noninvasive fibrosis indices, namely APRI and FIB-4, exhibited a rapid and sustained decline from week 2 until PW12 in patients with CHC who achieved SVR to DAA therapy. The rapid decline in APRI and FIB-4 values might mainly result from improvement in necroinflammation. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12876-019-0973-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Fan Hsu
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yuh-Der Road, 40447, Taichung, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Biomedical Science, China Medical University, 40442, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hsueh-Chou Lai
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yuh-Der Road, 40447, Taichung, Taiwan.,School of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, 40442, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Pang Su
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yuh-Der Road, 40447, Taichung, Taiwan.
| | - Chia-Hsin Lin
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yuh-Der Road, 40447, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Po-Heng Chuang
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yuh-Der Road, 40447, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Hung Chen
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yuh-Der Road, 40447, Taichung, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Biomedical Science, China Medical University, 40442, Taichung, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, China Medical University, 40442, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Yao Chen
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yuh-Der Road, 40447, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Wei Wang
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yuh-Der Road, 40447, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Guan-Tarn Huang
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yuh-Der Road, 40447, Taichung, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, China Medical University, 40442, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Yuan Peng
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yuh-Der Road, 40447, Taichung, Taiwan. .,School of Medicine, China Medical University, 40442, Taichung, Taiwan.
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7
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Gill H, Wong RSM, Kwong YL. From chronic immune thrombocytopenia to severe aplastic anemia: recent insights into the evolution of eltrombopag. Ther Adv Hematol 2017; 8:159-174. [PMID: 28473904 DOI: 10.1177/2040620717693573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Thrombopoietin (TPO) is the most potent cytokine stimulating thrombopoiesis. Therapy with exogenous TPO is limited by the formation of antibodies cross-reacting with endogenous TPO. Mimetics of TPO are compounds with no antigenic similarity to TPO. Eltrombopag is an orally-active nonpeptide small molecule that binds to the transmembrane portion of the TPO receptor MPL. Initial trials of eltrombopag have centered on immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), which is due to both increased destruction and decreased production of platelets. Eltrombopag at 25-75 mg/day has been shown to be highly effective in raising the platelet count in ITP with suboptimal response to immunosuppression and splenectomy. These successful results led to the exploration of eltrombopag in other thrombocytopenic disorders. In hepatitis C viral infection, eltrombopag raises the platelet count sufficiently enough to allow treatment with ribavirin and pegylated interferon. Because MPL is expressed on hematopoietic cells, eltrombopag use in myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) might enhance leukemic proliferation. Clinical trials of eltrombopag in MDS and AML, however, have shown amelioration of thrombocytopenia without promoting disease progression. In severe aplastic anemia (SAA) not responding to immunosuppression with anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG) and cyclosporine, eltrombopag as a single agent at 150-300 mg/day results in an overall response rate of 40-70%. At high doses, adverse effects including pigmentation, gastrointestinal upset and hepatic derangement have become evident. Current studies have examined the first-line use of eltrombopag in combination with ATG in SAA. In a recent study, eltrombopag used at 150 mg/day with horse ATG resulted in an overall response rate of 90% in newly diagnosed SAA patients, with a complete response rate of about 50%. Clonal karyotypic aberrations are, however, found in 10-20% of SAA patients treated with eltrombopag. The safety and efficacy of eltrombopag in SAA require further evaluation, particularly when it is used with less intensive immunosuppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harinder Gill
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Raymond S M Wong
- Sir Y.K. Pao Centre for Cancer and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Prince of Wales Hospital, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yok-Lam Kwong
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
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8
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Insights from Mendelian Interferonopathies: Comparison of CANDLE, SAVI with AGS, Monogenic Lupus. J Mol Med (Berl) 2016; 94:1111-1127. [PMID: 27678529 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-016-1465-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Revised: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 08/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Autoinflammatory disorders are sterile inflammatory conditions characterized by episodes of early-onset fever and disease-specific patterns of organ inflammation. Recently, the discoveries of monogenic disorders with strong type I interferon (IFN) signatures caused by mutations in proteasome degradation and cytoplasmic RNA and DNA sensing pathways suggest a pathogenic role of IFNs in causing autoinflammatory phenotypes. The IFN response gene signature (IGS) has been associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and other autoimmune diseases. In this review, we compare the clinical presentations and pathogenesis of two IFN-mediated autoinflammatory diseases, CANDLE and SAVI, with Aicardi Goutières syndrome (AGS) and monogenic forms of SLE (monoSLE) caused by loss-of-function mutations in complement 1 (C1q) or the DNA nucleases, DNASE1 and DNASE1L3. We outline differences in intracellular signaling pathways that fuel a pathologic type I IFN amplification cycle. While IFN amplification is caused by predominantly innate immune cell dysfunction in SAVI, CANDLE, and AGS, autoantibodies to modified RNA and DNA antigens interact with tissues and immune cells including neutrophils and contribute to IFN upregulation in some SLE patients including monoSLE, thus justifying a grouping of "autoinflammatory" and "autoimmune" interferonopathies. Understanding of the differences in the cellular sources and signaling pathways will guide new drug development and the use of emerging targeted therapies.
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9
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Maan R, de Knegt RJ, Veldt BJ. Management of Thrombocytopenia in Chronic Liver Disease: Focus on Pharmacotherapeutic Strategies. Drugs 2016; 75:1981-92. [PMID: 26501978 PMCID: PMC4642582 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-015-0480-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Thrombocytopenia (platelet count <150 × 109/L) often complicates chronic liver disease, impeding optimal management of these patients. The prevalence of this manifestation ranges from 6 % among non-cirrhotic patients with chronic liver disease to 70 % among patients with liver cirrhosis. It has also been shown that the severity of liver disease is associated with both prevalence and level of thrombocytopenia. Its development is often multifactorial, although thrombopoietin is thought to be a major factor. The discovery of and ability to clone thrombopoietin led to new treatment opportunities for this clinical manifestation. This review discusses data on the three most important thrombopoietin receptor agonists: eltrombopag, avatrombopag, and romiplostim. Currently, only eltrombopag is approved for usage among patients with thrombocytopenia and chronic hepatitis C virus infection in order to initiate and maintain interferon-based antiviral treatment. Nevertheless, the optimal management of hematologic abnormalities among patients with chronic liver disease, and its risk for bleeding complications, is still a matter of discussion. Thrombocytopenia definitely contributes to hemostatic defects but is often counterbalanced by the enhanced presence of procoagulant factors. Therefore, a thorough assessment of the patient’s risk for thrombotic events is essential when the use of thrombopoietin receptor agonists is considered among patients with chronic liver disease and thrombocytopenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raoel Maan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, 's Gravendijkwal 230, Room Ha 206, 3015 CE, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Robert J de Knegt
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, 's Gravendijkwal 230, Room Ha 206, 3015 CE, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Bart J Veldt
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, 's Gravendijkwal 230, Room Ha 206, 3015 CE, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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10
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Grotzinger KM, Younossi ZM, Giannini EG, Chen PJ, Rendas-Baum R, Theodore D. Health-related quality of life in thrombocytopenic patients with chronic hepatitis C with or without cirrhosis in the ENABLE-1 and ENABLE-2 studies. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2016; 14:49. [PMID: 27004952 PMCID: PMC4802726 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-016-0447-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2015] [Accepted: 03/09/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Despite changes in the treatment paradigm towards non-interferon-based therapies, interferon-based treatments are still used in some geographical regions for treating patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Use of eltrombopag with interferon-based treatment for patients with thrombocytopenia and HCV was assessed in two similarly designed phase 3 trials (Eltrombopag to Initiate and Maintain Interferon Antiviral Treatment to Benefit Subjects With Hepatitis C-Related Liver Disease [ENABLE-1 and ENABLE-2]). These trials also aimed to determine whether response to antiviral therapy (e.g., sustained virologic response [SVR]) is associated with changes in health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This pooled, post-hoc analysis aimed to (1) determine whether or not specific aspects of clinical response to treatment (i.e., achieving SVR) are associated with a significant change in HRQoL, and (2) to determine the magnitude and direction of the association between important changes in HRQoL, clinical response to interferon-based therapy (e.g., SVR) and treatment (eltrombopag or placebo), and patient and disease attributes. Methods The Short-Form 36 Health Survey version 2 and Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire–Hepatitis C Virus version were administered at various time points during the studies. Results from both trials were pooled for the analyses. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the influence of 5 clinical factors (SVR, early virologic response [EVR], genotype [2/3 vs. non-2/3], treatment [eltrombopag or placebo], and cumulative interferon dose), plus other factors including ethnicity, model of end-stage liver disease score, and platelets as predictors of meaningful changes in HRQoL. Results Between antiviral therapy baseline and the end of the 24-week post-treatment follow-up, declines in HRQoL were smaller in eltrombopag-treated patients than in placebo-treated patients, but the differences were not statistically significant. Mean changes among patients achieving SVR and EVR were small in comparison to thresholds of minimally important changes. Logistic models did not confirm the strength of the 5 clinical factors as predictors of meaningful changes in HRQoL during antiviral therapy, with the exception of the interaction between SVR and EVR (P = 0.0009). Asian ethnicity had a consistent effect on HRQoL, with East Asian patients being more likely to experience deterioration in HRQoL compared with white and/or other non-East Asian patients. Conclusions While on active antiviral therapy, declines in HRQoL were not statistically different for eltrombopag-treated patients versus placebo-treated patients, suggesting that eltrombopag neither worsened HRQoL nor mitigated the effects of antiviral therapy on HRQoL. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12955-016-0447-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly M Grotzinger
- GlaxoSmithKline, 1250 S. Collegeville Road, Collegeville, PA, 19426, USA.
| | - Zobair M Younossi
- Inova Fairfax Hospital, 3300 Gallows Road, Falls Church, VA, 22042, USA
| | | | - Pei-Jer Chen
- National Taiwan University Hospital, No.1, Changde Street, Zhongzheng District, Taipei, 10048, Taiwan
| | | | - Dickens Theodore
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, 1 Health Plaza, East Hanover, NJ, 07936, USA
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11
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Giannini EG, Afdhal NH, Sigal SH, Muir AJ, Reddy KR, Vijayaraghavan S, Elkashab M, Romero-Gómez M, Dusheiko GM, Iyengar M, Vasey SY, Campbell FM, Theodore D. Non-cirrhotic thrombocytopenic patients with hepatitis C virus: Characteristics and outcome of antiviral therapy. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2015; 30:1301-8. [PMID: 25777337 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.12942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Thrombocytopenia is frequently observed in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and cirrhosis, although it can also be observed in patients without cirrhosis by a virus-mediated phenomenon. This study assessed the prevalence, characteristics, and outcomes of antiviral therapy in patients with chronic HCV infection and thrombocytopenia not associated with cirrhosis. METHODS The study included 1268 patients with HCV infection and thrombocytopenia enrolled in the phase 3 ENABLE studies that assessed the impact of eltrombopag on achieving a sustained virologic response to pegylated interferon and ribavirin. The study population was subdivided according to baseline FibroSURE test results into patients with non-cirrhosis (FibroSURE < 0.4) and cirrhosis-related (FibroSURE ≥ 0.75) thrombocytopenia. RESULTS Compared with patients with cirrhosis-related thrombocytopenia (n = 995; 78.5%), non-cirrhotic patients with thrombocytopenia (n = 59; 4.6%) were younger (mean age [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 43.9 [40.7-47.2] vs 52.7 [52.2-53.3] years; P < 0.0001), predominantly female (64% [51-76] vs 30% [27-33]; P < 0.0001), and less frequently had a Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score ≥ 10 (24% [14-37] vs 45% [42-49]; P = 0.0012), low albumin levels (≤ 35 g/L; 2% [0-9] vs 32% [29-35]; P < 0.0001), and prevalence of diabetes mellitus (3% [0-12] vs 21% [19-24]; P = 0.0005). The sustained virologic response rate was higher in non-cirrhotic patients with thrombocytopenia (46% [95% CI, 33-59] vs 16% [14-18]; P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Patients with thrombocytopenia associated with HCV who have lower FibroSURE test results may have better preserved liver function and higher sustained virologic response rates than patients with cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nezam H Afdhal
- Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Samuel H Sigal
- Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Andrew J Muir
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, Division of Gastroenterology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - K Rajender Reddy
- University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Magdy Elkashab
- Department of Hepatology, Toronto Liver Center, Toronto, Canada
| | - Manuel Romero-Gómez
- Unit for Medical and Surgical Management of Digestive Diseases and CIBERehd, Valme University Hospital, University of Seville, Sevilla, Spain
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12
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Galli L, Gerdes VE, Guasti L, Squizzato A. Thrombosis Associated with Viral Hepatitis. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2014; 2:234-9. [PMID: 26357629 PMCID: PMC4521234 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2014.00031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2014] [Revised: 11/19/2014] [Accepted: 11/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Viral hepatitis may promote the development of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and, more specifically, portal vein thrombosis (PVT). In this narrative review, we summarize the clinical data and discuss the possible pathogenetic roles of cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and hepatitis A, B, and C viruses (HAV, HBV, HCV) in the occurrence of VTE. CMV is the first qualified candidate to enter the list of VTE minor risk factors, and in the rare case of fulminant infection, both EBV and CMV, like any severe infection or inflammatory disease, increase risk for thrombosis. In chronic hepatitis B and C, it remains controversial whether antiphospholipid antibodies are important for thrombotic complications or merely an epiphenomenon. Retinal vein occlusion described in chronic hepatitis C is usually attributed to the treatment with interferon. Eltrombopag, used for HCV-related thrombocytopenia, has been associated with increased thrombotic risk. The imbalance between procoagulant and anticoagulant factors associated with chronic liver disease may have clinical implications. This may help to explain why these patients are not protected from clinical events such as VTE, PVT, and the progression of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Galli
- Research Center on Thromboembolic Disorders and Antithrombotic Therapies, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Department of Medicine, Slotervaart Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Victor E.A. Gerdes
- Department of Medicine, Slotervaart Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Luigina Guasti
- Research Center on Thromboembolic Disorders and Antithrombotic Therapies, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Alessandro Squizzato
- Research Center on Thromboembolic Disorders and Antithrombotic Therapies, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Correspondence to: Alessandro Squizzato, U.O. Medicina I, Ospedale di Circolo, Viale Borri 57, Varese 21100, Italy. Tel: +39-0332-278831, Fax: +39-0332-278118. E-mail: ;
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Amanzada A, Goralczyk AD, Reinhardt L, Moriconi F, Cameron S, Mihm S. Erythropoietin rs1617640 G allele associates with an attenuated rise of serum erythropoietin and a marked decline of hemoglobin in hepatitis C patients undergoing antiviral therapy. BMC Infect Dis 2014; 14:503. [PMID: 25227310 PMCID: PMC4175618 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2334-14-503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2014] [Accepted: 09/15/2014] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A decline in hemoglobin (Hb) concentration during antiviral therapy in chronic hepatitis C (CHC) is a serious side effect. It may compel to dose reduction or even termination of antiviral treatment. The activation of erythropoietin (EPO) synthesis as a physiological response to anemia and its relation to a genetic variation within the EPO gene has not been evaluated yet. METHODS Data of 348 CHC patients were reviewed retrospectively. Samples were genotyped for EPO rs1617640 and inosine triphosphatase (ITPA) rs1127354. Serum EPO concentrations were determined before and during therapy. Primary endpoints were set as Hb decline >3 g/dl at weeks 4 and 12. RESULTS EPO rs1617640 G homozygotes showed a significantly lower rise of serum EPO level over time than T allele carriers (p < 0.001). The cumulative frequency of a significant Hb reduction added up to 40%. Multivariate analysis revealed that besides age, ribavirin starting dose and baseline Hb also EPO rs1617640 G homozygosity associates with Hb reduction at week 4 (p = 0.025) and 12 (p = 0.029), while ITPA C homozygotes are at risk for Hb decline particularly early during treatment. Furthermore, EPO rs1617640 G homozygotes were more frequently in need for blood transfusion, epoetin-α supplementation, or ribavirin dose reduction (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that EPO rs1617640 genotype, the rise of serum EPO concentration as well as ITPA rs1127354 genotype are promising parameters to evaluate the Hb decline during antiviral therapy. A rational adjustment of therapy with epoetin-α supplementation might prevent serious adverse events or the need to terminate treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Amanzada
- Department of Gastroenterology and Endocrinology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Robert-Koch-Strasse 40, 37075 Goettingen, Germany.
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Iacobellis A, Cozzolongo R, Minerva N, Valvano MR, Niro GA, Fontana R, Palmieri O, Ippolito A, Andriulli A. Feasibility of pegylated interferon and ribavirin in hepatitis C-related cirrhosis with neutropenia or thrombocytopenia. Dig Liver Dis 2014; 46:621-4. [PMID: 24675038 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2014.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2013] [Revised: 01/19/2014] [Accepted: 02/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AIM To investigate the feasibility of pegylated interferon plus ribavirin treatment in cirrhotic patients who presented with, or developed while on-treatment, platelet counts ≤ 80,000/μL and/or neutrophil counts ≤ 1,500/μL. METHODS A retrospective analysis of prospectively gathered data on 123 cirrhotic patients treated with pegylated interferon and ribavirin. Adverse effects and haematological changes were monitored: bleeding and infectious events were registered and related to platelet and absolute neutrophil counts. RESULTS Among the 58 patients (47.2%) with nadir platelets ≤ 50,000/μL during therapy, 6 (10.3%) experienced a bleeding episode; of the remaining 65 patients with platelets constantly >50,000/μL, 3 (4.6%) bled. Of the 11 bleedings, 3 manifested during an infection, while patients had platelets >50,000/μL. Nadir neutrophils ≤ 750/μL occurred in 45 patients (38.2%) during treatment, and 14 of them (29.8%) had an infectious event. Infections were also documented in 18 of the 76 patients (23.7%) with neutrophils constantly >750/μL. CONCLUSIONS The study reveals the feasibility of treating cirrhotic patients with cytopenia with pegylated interferon and ribavirin, as bleeding or infectious events under therapy were unrelated to platelet and neutrophil counts. Withdrawal of therapy or variations in the pre-assigned dosages of either pegylated interferon or ribavirin owing to abnormally low haematological parameters seems to no longer be tenable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Iacobellis
- Division of Gastroenterology, Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza Hospital, IRCCS, San Giovanni Rotondo 71013, Italy.
| | - Raffaele Cozzolongo
- Division of Gastroenterology, De Bellis Hospital, IRCCS, Castellana Grotte 70013, Italy
| | - Nicola Minerva
- Division of Internal Medicine, General Hospital, Canosa 76012, Italy
| | - Maria Rosa Valvano
- Division of Gastroenterology, Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza Hospital, IRCCS, San Giovanni Rotondo 71013, Italy
| | - Grazia Anna Niro
- Division of Gastroenterology, Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza Hospital, IRCCS, San Giovanni Rotondo 71013, Italy
| | - Rosanna Fontana
- Division of Gastroenterology, Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza Hospital, IRCCS, San Giovanni Rotondo 71013, Italy
| | - Orazio Palmieri
- Division of Gastroenterology, Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza Hospital, IRCCS, San Giovanni Rotondo 71013, Italy
| | - Antonio Ippolito
- Division of Gastroenterology, Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza Hospital, IRCCS, San Giovanni Rotondo 71013, Italy
| | - Angelo Andriulli
- Division of Gastroenterology, Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza Hospital, IRCCS, San Giovanni Rotondo 71013, Italy
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KASL clinical practice guidelines: management of hepatitis C. Clin Mol Hepatol 2014; 20:89-136. [PMID: 25032178 PMCID: PMC4099340 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2014.20.2.89] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2014] [Accepted: 05/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
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16
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Melo LODR, Monteiro DLM, Rodrigues NCP. Factors associated with treatment interruption for Hepatitis C. Rev Assoc Med Bras (1992) 2014; 60:29-34. [PMID: 24918849 DOI: 10.1590/1806-9282.60.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2012] [Accepted: 01/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate risk factors related to Hepatitis C treatment interruption. METHODS Retrospective cohort of patients seen at the Hepatology outpatient service at Hospital dos Servidores do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, from 2001 to 2009. The factors investigated were: age, gender, genotype, degree of liver fibrosis, type of treatment, treatment time in weeks, diabetes mellitus, and systemic hypertension. Survival curves and bivariate and multivariate Cox regression models were used in the analyses. RESULTS The risk of treatment interruption is six times greater in patients with more advanced degrees of liver fibrosis (F4) compared to those with less advanced degree (F2) in the period from 0 to 24 weeks of treatment. Genotype was found to be an important factor to explain therapy cessation after 24 weeks of treatment - the risk of stopping treatment was 2.5 times higher in patients with genotype 3 than in those with genotype 1. CONCLUSION Degree of liver fibrosis and genotype proved to be the main risk factors associated to treatment interruption.
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17
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Saxena V, Manos MM, Yee HS, Catalli L, Wayne E, Murphy RC, Shvachko VA, Pauly MP, Chua J, Monto A, Terrault NA. Telaprevir or boceprevir triple therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C and varying severity of cirrhosis. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2014; 39:1213-24. [PMID: 24654657 PMCID: PMC4385588 DOI: 10.1111/apt.12718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2014] [Revised: 02/16/2014] [Accepted: 03/01/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Risks and benefits of protease inhibitor (PI) (telaprevir or boceprevir) triple therapy in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients with mildly decompensated cirrhosis, including those wait-listed for liver transplantation (LT), are incompletely known. AIM To assess virological responses and safety of PI triple therapy in patients with mildly decompensated Child-Pugh (CP) CP ≥6 vs. compensated (CP = 5) cirrhosis. METHODS Multicentre cohort of 160 adults with cirrhosis treated with peginterferon/ribavirin (peg-IFN/RBV) plus telaprevir (69%) or boceprevir (31%), comparing outcomes between those with CP = 5 and CP ≥6. RESULTS Patients, 47% with CP ≥6 cirrhosis (CP range 6-10), received PI triple therapy for a targeted duration of 48 weeks. The cohort was median age 59 years, 32% female, 59% genotype 1a, 35% previous null/partial responders. Sustained virological response at 12 weeks (SVR12) was achieved by 35% of patients with CP ≥6 vs. 54% of those with CP = 5 (P = 0.02). CP = 5, achievement of rapid virological response and genotype 1b/other, independently predicted SVR12. Compared to those with CP = 5, patients with CP ≥6 had more peg-IFN dose reductions, eltrombopag use, transfusions and hospitalisations to manage adverse events (all P < 0.05). Overall, 67 (42%) discontinued treatment early. Nine wait-listed patients were treated for a median of 97 days (IQR 60-160) prior to liver transplantation and five achieved post-LT SVR. CONCLUSIONS In the presence of mild decompensation (Child-Pugh ≥6), SVR12 rates with protease inhibitor triple therapy are significantly reduced and adverse events increased. Thus, treatment with protease inhibitor triple therapy, if judged as necessary, should be undertaken with close monitoring and awareness of the significant risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- V. Saxena
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - M. M. Manos
- Viral Hepatitis Registry, Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - H. S. Yee
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA,Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - L. Catalli
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - E. Wayne
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - R. C. Murphy
- Viral Hepatitis Registry, Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - V. A. Shvachko
- Viral Hepatitis Registry, Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - M. P. Pauly
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - J. Chua
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - A. Monto
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA,Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - N. A. Terrault
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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18
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Afdhal NH, Dusheiko GM, Giannini EG, Chen PJ, Han KH, Mohsin A, Rodriguez-Torres M, Rugina S, Bakulin I, Lawitz E, Shiffman ML, Tayyab GUN, Poordad F, Kamel YM, Brainsky A, Geib J, Vasey SY, Patwardhan R, Campbell FM, Theodore D. Eltrombopag increases platelet numbers in thrombocytopenic patients with HCV infection and cirrhosis, allowing for effective antiviral therapy. Gastroenterology 2014; 146:442-52.e1. [PMID: 24126097 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2013.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2013] [Revised: 10/02/2013] [Accepted: 10/05/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Thrombocytopenia is common among patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis, limiting initiation and dose of peginterferon-alfa (PEG) and ribavirin (RBV) therapy. The phase 3 randomized, controlled studies, Eltrombopag to Initiate and Maintain Interferon Antiviral Treatment to Benefit Subjects with Hepatitis C-Related Liver Disease (ENABLE)-1 and ENABLE-2, investigated the ability of eltrombopag to increase the number of platelets in patients, thereby allowing them to receive initiation or maintenance therapy with PEG and RBV. METHODS Patients with HCV infection and thrombocytopenia (platelet count <75,000/μL) who participated in ENABLE-1 (n = 715) or ENABLE-2 (n = 805), from approximately 150 centers in 23 countries, received open-label eltrombopag (25-100 mg/day) for 9 weeks or fewer. Patients whose platelet counts reached the predefined minimal threshold for the initiation of PEG and RBV therapy (95% from ENABLE-1 and 94% from ENABLE-2) entered the antiviral treatment phase, and were assigned randomly (2:1) to groups that received eltrombopag or placebo along with antiviral therapy (24 or 48 weeks, depending on HCV genotype). The primary end point was sustained virologic response (SVR) 24 weeks after completion of antiviral therapy. RESULTS More patients who received eltrombopag than placebo achieved SVRs (ENABLE-1: eltrombopag, 23%; placebo, 14%; P = .0064; ENABLE-2: eltrombopag, 19%; placebo, 13%; P = .0202). PEG was administered at higher doses, with fewer dose reductions, in the eltrombopag groups of each study compared with the placebo groups. More patients who received eltrombopag than placebo maintained platelet counts of 50,000/μL or higher throughout antiviral treatment (ENABLE-1, 69% vs 15%; ENABLE-2, 81% vs 23%). Adverse events were similar between groups, with the exception of hepatic decompensation (both studies: eltrombopag, 10%; placebo, 5%) and thromboembolic events, which were more common in the eltrombopag group of ENABLE-2. CONCLUSIONS Eltrombopag increases platelet numbers in thrombocytopenic patients with HCV and advanced fibrosis and cirrhosis, allowing otherwise ineligible or marginal patients to begin and maintain antiviral therapy, leading to significantly increased rates of SVR. Clinical trial no: NCT00516321, NCT00529568.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nezam H Afdhal
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | | | | | - Pei-Jer Chen
- National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - Aftab Mohsin
- Services Institute of Medical Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | - Sorin Rugina
- Spitalul Clinic de BoliInfectioase, Constanta, Romania
| | - Igor Bakulin
- Central Scientific Research Institution of Gastroenterology of the Moscow Health Department, Moscow, Russia
| | - Eric Lawitz
- The Texas Liver Institute/University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas
| | | | | | - Fred Poordad
- The Texas Liver Institute/University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas
| | | | | | - James Geib
- GlaxoSmithKline, Collegeville, Pennsylvania
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EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines: management of hepatitis C virus infection. J Hepatol 2014; 60:392-420. [PMID: 24331294 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2013.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 646] [Impact Index Per Article: 64.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2013] [Accepted: 11/05/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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20
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Giannini EG. Eltrombopag in patients with chronic hepatitis C and thrombocytopenia. Future Virol 2014. [DOI: 10.2217/fvl.13.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT: Eltrombopag is a thrombopoietic drug that acts by interacting with the TPO receptor and stimulates megakaryocytopoiesis and platelet production. Thrombocytopenia is a fairly frequent hematological abnormality in patients with chronic liver disease, and may represent an obstacle to interferon-based antiviral therapy in patients with chronic HCV infection who are otherwise good candidates for treatment. In large, multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled studies, eltrombopag consistently enabled thrombocytopenic chronic hepatitis C patients to be treated with interferon-based therapy and, as an adjunct to antiviral therapy, has shown to be able to increase the sustained virologic response rate to treatment. The safety profile of the drug, with particular attention to the risk of thromboembolic events and the potential for hepatic decompensation, should be taken into account when planning treatment. The aim of this article is to review the information currently available regarding the pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy and side-effect profile of eltrombopag, and to assess the role of this drug into the current and future hepatitis C treatment paradigm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edoardo G Giannini
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, no.6, 16132, Genoa, Italy
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21
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Kee KM, Wang JH, Hung CH, Chen CH, Lee CM, Lu SN. Improvement of thrombocytopenia in hepatitis C-related advanced fibrosis patients after sustained virological response. Dig Dis Sci 2013; 58:556-61. [PMID: 23001404 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-012-2380-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2012] [Accepted: 08/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The long-term trend of platelet count in chronic hepatitis C virus patients with sustained virological response (SVR) has rarely been investigated. AIMS To elucidate changes of thrombocytopenia after SVR, trajectory patterns of platelet count over time and their associated factors. METHODS From May 1999 to July 2005, a total of 135 patients (mean age 50.2 ± 11.1 years) that received interferon-α based regimen plus ribavirin were enrolled. Platelet counts were followed every 6 months prospectively. The patterns of platelet counts over time were identified by trajectory analysis. RESULTS Mean follow-up duration was 4.4 ± 1.7 years (median 4.5; range 1.0-8.5 years). Baseline platelet count in all and thrombocytopenic patients increase significantly at the end of follow-up, from 172 ± 56 × 10(9)/l and 115 ± 21 × 10(9)/l to 196 ± 57 × 10(9)/l and 148 ± 37 × 10(9)/l, respectively (all p < 0.001). In patients with advanced fibrosis (n = 50), pretreatment platelet count also increased significantly (146 ± 45 × 10(9)/l vs. 173 ± 51 × 10(9)/l, p < 0.001). Twenty-six of 37 (69.2 %) patients with pretreatment mild thrombocytopenia (100-150 × 10(9)/l) had normalization of platelet count, while seven of 13 (53.8 %) patients with pretreatment moderate to severe thrombocytopenia (<100 × 10(9)/l) had elevation of platelet count up to 100-150 × 10(9)/l. Three trajectory groups were identified, i.e., elevation (n = 43, 31.9 %), stationary (n = 79, 58.5 %), and decrease (n = 13, 9.6 %) groups. Multiple logistic regression showed pretreatment thrombocytopenia was the factor in elevation of platelet count (OR = 2.28, 95 % confidence interval = 1.01-5.11, p = 0.046). CONCLUSIONS Platelet count increased significantly in patients with SVR after long-term follow-up. Patients with low baseline platelet count benefit more from SVR with respect to increased platelet count, compared to those with higher platelet count at baseline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwong-Ming Kee
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, 123 Ta Pei Road, Niao Sung District, Kaohsiung City, 833, Taiwan
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22
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Kobayashi T, Hige S, Terashita K, Nakai M, Horimoto H, Sho T, Nakanishi M, Ogawa K, Chuma M, Sakamoto N, Asaka M. Anemia and thrombocytosis induced by ribavirin monotherapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C. J Gastroenterol 2012; 47:1228-37. [PMID: 22460221 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-012-0579-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2011] [Accepted: 02/28/2012] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An inosine triphosphatase (ITPA) single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) is associated with anemia induced by pegylated interferon and ribavirin (RBV) combination therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC). However, there are very few reports on the hematological effects of RBV monotherapy. Here, hematological changes were monitored in patients with CHC who received RBV monotherapy, and the mechanism of these changes was investigated. METHODS Patients with CHC (n = 30) received RBV monotherapy for 4 weeks. The RBV dose was determined on the basis of body weight. Complete blood count, and serum erythropoietin (EPO) and thrombopoietin (TPO) levels were assessed. The associations between these parameters and the ITPA SNP (rs1127354) were analyzed. RESULTS Over the 4 weeks, the median hemoglobin level of all patients decreased significantly, from 13.6 (10.5-16.6) to 11.7 (9.4-14.9) g/dl (P < 0.001), and the platelet counts increased, from 14.0 × 10(4) (8.9-37.4 × 10(4)) to 15.8 × 10(4) (10.2-40.6 × 10(4)) /mm(3) (P = 0.003). At week 4, hemoglobin levels differed between patients with the ITPA CC genotype and those with the AA or AC genotypes [11.1 (9.4-13.5) vs. 12.9 (12.5-14.9) g/dl, P = 0.001]. The platelet change ratio (i.e., platelet count at week 4/platelet count at baseline) in the patients with developing anemia was correlated with the increase in the serum EPO level over 4 weeks (r = 0.88, P = 0.002), but not with the increase in the serum TPO level over 4 weeks. CONCLUSIONS RBV monotherapy induced anemia and affected thrombocytosis in patients with CHC. Elevated endogenous EPO may stimulate platelet production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoe Kobayashi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hokkaido University Hospital, North 17 Jo, West 5 Cho-me, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan.
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23
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Alghamdi AS, Sanai FM, Ismail M, Alghamdi H, Alswat K, Alqutub A, Altraif I, Shah H, Alfaleh FZ. SASLT practice guidelines: management of hepatitis C virus infection. Saudi J Gastroenterol 2012; 18 Suppl:S1-32. [PMID: 23006491 PMCID: PMC3713589 DOI: 10.4103/1319-3767.101155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah S. Alghamdi
- Department of Medicine, Gastroenterology Unit, King Fahad General Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia,Address for correspondence: Dr. Abdullah Saeed Alghamdi, Department of Medicine, King Fahad General Hospital, PO BOX 50505 (450), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. E-mail:
| | - Faisal M. Sanai
- Hepatobiliary Sciences and Liver Transplantation, King Abdulaziz Medical City, and King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, National Guard Health Affairs,Liver Disease Research Center, National Plan for Science and Technology, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mona Ismail
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, King Fahad Hospital of the University, College of Medicine, University of Dammam, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hamdan Alghamdi
- Hepatobiliary Sciences and Liver Transplantation, King Abdulaziz Medical City, and King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, National Guard Health Affairs
| | - Khalid Alswat
- Liver Disease Research Center, National Plan for Science and Technology, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,Department of Medicine, Gastroenterology unit, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Adel Alqutub
- Department of Medicine, Gastroenterology Unit, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ibrahim Altraif
- Hepatobiliary Sciences and Liver Transplantation, King Abdulaziz Medical City, and King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, National Guard Health Affairs
| | - Hemant Shah
- Division of Gastroenterology, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Faleh Z. Alfaleh
- Liver Disease Research Center, National Plan for Science and Technology, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,Department of Medicine, Gastroenterology unit, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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24
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Bourlière M. Peripheral blood cytopenia before treatment in HCV patients: is it a limitation for HCV treatment in the era of DAA? Liver Int 2012; 32:1033-6. [PMID: 22747511 DOI: 10.1111/j.1478-3231.2012.02835.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Marc Bourlière
- Department of Hepato-Gastroenterology; Saint-Joseph Hospital; Marseille; France
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25
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Giannini EG, Marenco S, Fazio V, Pieri G, Savarino V, Picciotto A. Peripheral blood cytopaenia limiting initiation of treatment in chronic hepatitis C patients otherwise eligible for antiviral therapy. Liver Int 2012; 32:1113-9. [PMID: 22471814 DOI: 10.1111/j.1478-3231.2012.02798.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2011] [Accepted: 03/05/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, the presence of peripheral blood cytopaenia may represent an obstacle to pegylated interferon and ribavirin treatment. AIMS To evaluate the prevalence of anaemia, neutropaenia and thrombocytopaenia potentially limiting initiation of pegylated interferon and ribavirin treatment in patients with chronic HCV infection who were otherwise eligible for antiviral therapy. METHODS We studied 3059 consecutive anti-HCV and HCV-RNA positive patients referred to our centre to be evaluated for antiviral therapy from June 2002 to May 2011. The European Association for the Study of Liver HCV guidelines were applied to assess eligibility for antiviral therapy. RESULTS In the study cohort, 1,521 patients (49.7%) were not eligible for treatment because of reasons different from haematological abnormalities. In the remaining 1,538 patients the overall prevalence of any peripheral blood cytopaenia potentially preventing patients from being treated with antiviral therapy was 15.1%. In particular, anaemia (haemoglobin level < 12 g/dL for women, <13 g/dL for men) was a relative contraindication to treatment in 8.9% (137/1,538) of the patients, while thrombocytopaenia (platelet count cut-off, 90 × 10(9) /L) and neutropaenia (absolute neutrophil count < 1.5 × 10(9) /L) limited treatment in 6.5% (100/1358) and 3.2% (48/1358) of patients respectively. These haematological abnormalities were more prevalent in patients with older age (P < 0.004) and cirrhosis (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The presence of peripheral blood cytopaenia may potentially limit initiation of antiviral therapy in one in every seven patients with chronic HCV infection who are otherwise eligible for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edoardo G Giannini
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology Unit, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
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26
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Stickel F, Helbling B, Heim M, Geier A, Hirschi C, Terziroli B, Wehr K, De Gottardi A, Negro F, Gerlach T. Critical review of the use of erythropoietin in the treatment of anaemia during therapy for chronic hepatitis C. J Viral Hepat 2012; 19:77-87. [PMID: 22239497 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2893.2011.01527.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Combined pegylated interferon (PegIFN) and ribavirin represents the standard therapy for patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC), which allows for sustained viral response (SVR) in up to 90% of patients depending on certain viral and host factors. Clinical studies have demonstrated the importance of adherence to therapy, that is, the ability of patients to tolerate and sustain a fully dosed therapy regimen. Adherence is markedly impaired by treatment-related adverse effects. In particular, haemolytic anaemia often requires dose reduction or termination of ribavirin treatment, which compromises treatment efficacy. Recent evidence points to a beneficial role of recombinant erythropoietin (EPO) in alleviating ribavirin-induced anaemia thereby improving quality of life, enabling higher ribavirin dosage and consequently improving SVR. However, no general consensus exists regarding the use of EPO for specific indications: its optimal dosing, treatment benefits and potential risks or cost efficiency. The Swiss Association for the Study of the Liver (SASL) has therefore organized an expert meeting to critically review and discuss the current evidence and to phrase recommendations for clinical practice. A consensus was reached recommending the use of EPO for patients infected with viral genotype 1 developing significant anaemia below 100 g/L haemoglobin and a haematocrit of <30% during standard therapy to improve quality of life and sustain optimal ribavirin dose. However, the evidence supporting its use in patients with pre-existing anaemia, non-1 viral genotypes, a former relapse or nonresponse, liver transplant recipients and cardiovascular or pulmonary disease is considered insufficient.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Stickel
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
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27
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Hunyady B, Kovács B, Battyáni Z. Side-effects of pegylated interferon plus ribavirin therapy with or without protease inhibitor direct acting antiviral agents during treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus infection. Orv Hetil 2011; 152:1997-2009. [DOI: 10.1556/oh.2011.29266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/30/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects 2–3% of the population, approximately 170 million people worldwide, causing chronic HCV-related hepatitis with subsequent liver cirrhosis, hepatic failure, hepatocellular cancer, and liver-related mortality in a large number of patients. The gold standard therapy, pegylated interferon alpha in combination with ribavirin can eradicate hepatitis C virus infection in approx. 40% of treatment-naïve patients infected with HCV genotype G1, and only 15–20% of patients with previous treatment. Success rate is substantially improved with the development and registration of two direct acting anti-hepatitis C virus protease inhibitors (boceprevir and telaprevir) in the second decade of 21st century: combined with the standard therapy, almost three quarter of previously untreated, and more than half of previously unsuccessfully treated patients can achieve sustained viral response with protease inhibitor based triple therapies. A major barrier to successful treatment is the association of peginterferon/ribavirin therapy with frequent and sometimes serious adverse effects. In clinical trials, approximately 10–15% of treated patients discontinue peginterferon and ribavirin due to adverse events; however, in routine clinical practice, the rate of treatment discontinuation has been reported to be substantially higher. The side effects of peginterferon/ribavirin therapy affect virtually all organ systems, and addition of protease inhibitor can amplify these side effects (particularly anemia), and/or may lead to new ones (i.e., dysgeusia with boceprevir or skin rush with telaprevir). There is considerable regional and global variability in the nature and prevalence of these adverse effects as well as in the best strategies to ameliorate their impact on hepatitis C virus treatment. This article summarizes the side effects of dual and triple therapies and their management based on the labels of the drugs, on a comprehensive literature review, as well as on the recently published opinion of an international panel of experts – with the provision of providing help for the physicians treating hepatitis C virus infection to achieve the best possible success with the highest possible safety for the patients. Orv. Hetil., 2011, 152, 1997–2009.
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Affiliation(s)
- Béla Hunyady
- Kaposi Mór Oktató Kórház Belgyógyászati Osztály Kaposvár
- Pécsi Tudományegyetem, Klinikai Központ I. Belgyógyászati Klinika Pécs Ifjúság u. 13. 7624
| | - Balázs Kovács
- Kaposi Mór Oktató Kórház Szemészeti Osztály Kaposvár
| | - Zita Battyáni
- Kaposi Mór Oktató Kórház Bőrgyógyászati Osztály Kaposvár
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The study of relationship between neutropenia and infection during treatment with peginterferon α and ribavirin for chronic hepatitis C. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2011; 23:1192-9. [PMID: 21971375 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0b013e32834c5b32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Neutropenia is frequent during treatment of chronic hepatitis C (CHC) with peginterferon and ribavirin. It remains unclear whether neutropenia is associated with infection in CHC. The aim was to study the relationship between neutropenia and infection during treatment with peginterferon and ribavirin for CHC. METHODS A retrospective cohort on 399 patients treated with peginterferon α and ribavirin derived from our hospital database was conducted. The occurrence of infections and their relationship to neutropenia were investigated. Potential risk factors for infection were identified by multivariate analysis. RESULTS During treatment, neutropenia [absolute neutrophil counts (ANC) <1.5 × 10⁹/l] occurred in 251 patients, mild neutropenia [ANC (0.75-1.5) × 10⁹/l] occurred in 132 patients, moderate neutropenia [ANC (0.50-0.75) × 10⁹/l] occurred in 103 patients, and severe neutropenia (ANC<0.50 × 10⁹/l) occurred in 16 patients. Eighty infections (20.1%) occurred, 14 infections (17.5%) were defined as severe. There was no significant difference in infection rate between patients with and without moderate and severe neutropenia (21.0%, 25/119 vs. 19.6%, 55/280; χ²=0.097, P=0.755). There was no significant difference in infection rate between patients with and without peginterferon dose modifications (21.5%, 31/144 vs. 19.2%, 49/255; χ²=0.307, P=0.580). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, the independent factors associated with infection were age (P=0.021), diabetes (P=0.004), and cirrhosis (P=0.012). CONCLUSION Infections during treatment with peginterferon α and ribavirin for CHC are not associated with neutropenia. The independent factors associated with infection are age, diabetes, and cirrhosis.
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29
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EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines: management of hepatitis C virus infection. J Hepatol 2011; 55:245-64. [PMID: 21371579 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2011.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 968] [Impact Index Per Article: 74.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2011] [Accepted: 02/24/2011] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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30
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Reiberger T, Rutter K, Ferlitsch A, Payer BA, Hofer H, Beinhardt S, Kundi M, Ferenci P, Gangl A, Trauner M, Peck-Radosavljevic M. Portal pressure predicts outcome and safety of antiviral therapy in cirrhotic patients with hepatitis C virus infection. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2011; 9:602-8.e1. [PMID: 21397726 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2011.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2010] [Revised: 02/19/2011] [Accepted: 03/02/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS There are limited data on the efficacy and safety of antiviral therapy in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related cirrhosis, particularly on the impact of portal hypertension. METHODS We assessed hepatovenous pressure gradient (HVPG), liver stiffness (transient elastography), and interleukin (IL)-28B polymorphisms (rs12979860) in 90 cirrhotic patients with HCV infection (82% genotype 1 or 4) before antiviral therapy with pegylated interferon and ribavirin. Efficacy and safety were evaluated. RESULTS Rates of sustained virologic response were significantly lower among patients with clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH; HVPG ≥ 10 mm Hg; n = 50) than among patients without CSPH (HVPG <10 mm Hg; n = 40): 14% vs 51% (P = .0007). Seventy-nine percent and 83% of patients with CSPH and without CSPH, respectively, received more than 80% of planned dose (P = .647). The predictive value of HVPG (area under the curve [AUC], 0.743) was greater than that of liver stiffness (AUC, 0.647) or of baseline HCV RNA levels (AUC, 0.620). The IL-28B polymorphism was not associated significantly with a sustained virologic response. Multivariate analysis revealed that HVPG (odds ratio [OR], 14.3; P = .009), baseline HCV RNA levels (OR, 5.3; P = .019), and HCV genotype (OR, 6.5; P = .046) were independent risk factors for treatment failure. A trend toward higher incidence of anemia and neutropenia was observed for patients with CSPH. The incidence and grade of thrombocytopenia were significantly higher among patients with than without CSPH (94% vs 75%; P = .006). CONCLUSIONS HVPG is an independent predictor of response to antiviral therapy, with better predictive value than liver stiffness, baseline HCV RNA levels, HCV genotype, or IL-28B polymorphism. The incidence and grade of thrombocytopenia during antiviral therapy are higher among patients with CSPH. In evaluating cirrhotic HCV patients for antiviral treatment, measurement of HVPG should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Reiberger
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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31
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Sulkowski MS, Cooper C, Hunyady B, Jia J, Ogurtsov P, Peck-Radosavljevic M, Shiffman ML, Yurdaydin C, Dalgard O. Management of adverse effects of Peg-IFN and ribavirin therapy for hepatitis C. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2011; 8:212-23. [PMID: 21386812 DOI: 10.1038/nrgastro.2011.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
HCV infects approximately 2-3% of the global population and is a leading cause of end-stage liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma. Treatment of HCV infection with Peg-IFN in combination with ribavirin can eradicate HCV infection in 40-90% of patients; however, a major barrier to treatment uptake and delivery is the association of this therapy with frequent and, at times, serious adverse effects. Recognition and effective management of these adverse effects are critical components of the successful treatment of chronic HCV infection. In clinical trials, approximately 10-15% of patients discontinue Peg-IFN and ribavirin therapy due to adverse effects; however, in clinical practice, the rate of treatment discontinuation has been reported to be substantially higher. The off-target effect of Peg-IFN and ribavirin impacts most, if not all, organ systems; the most common adverse effects are hematologic, dermatologic, neurologic, immunologic, gastrointestinal, pulmonary, cardiovascular, and ocular. Regional and global variability exists in the nature of these adverse effects and the strategies employed to ameliorate their impact. This article provides a comprehensive literature review that systematically describes the adverse effects of Peg-IFN-α and ribavirin on various organ systems and, more importantly, recommends consensus approaches to managing those effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark S Sulkowski
- Viral Hepatitis Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Ferenci P. Safety and efficacy of treatment for chronic hepatitis C with a focus on pegylated interferons: the backbone of therapy today and in the future. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2011; 10:529-44. [PMID: 21345149 DOI: 10.1517/14740338.2011.555079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Approximately 170 million people are infected with HCV. The efficacy of treatment for chronic hepatitis C has increased markedly over the last 2 decades. Optimal patient management requires thorough knowledge of the adverse effect profiles of drugs used for this condition and strategies to mitigate these effects. AREAS COVERED The efficacy, safety and tolerability data associated with IFN-based therapy, with particular attention given to the two licensed pegylated IFNs (peg-IFNs), are identified by focused searches of Medline. Recommendations for the management of adverse events are also given. Focused searches of PubMed are done using the terms peginterferon and chronic hepatitis C. The results of large randomized clinical trials are emphasized. EXPERT OPINION Patients receiving treatment with peg-IFN plus ribavirin for chronic hepatitis C must be monitored closely for adverse events. These events can be effectively managed to maximize patients' adherence and thus the chance of treatment success. Direct-acting antiviral agents are expected to be approved in the near future and will be used in select patients with a peg-IFN plus ribavirin 'backbone'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Ferenci
- Medical University of Vienna, Univ. Klinik für Innere Medizin III, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, A 1090 Vienna , Austria.
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Krishnan SM, Dixit NM. Ribavirin-induced anemia in hepatitis C virus patients undergoing combination therapy. PLoS Comput Biol 2011; 7:e1001072. [PMID: 21304937 PMCID: PMC3033369 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1001072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2010] [Accepted: 12/29/2010] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The current standard of care for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection – combination therapy with pegylated interferon and ribavirin – elicits sustained responses in only ∼50% of the patients treated. No alternatives exist for patients who do not respond to combination therapy. Addition of ribavirin substantially improves response rates to interferon and lowers relapse rates following the cessation of therapy, suggesting that increasing ribavirin exposure may further improve treatment response. A key limitation, however, is the toxic side-effect of ribavirin, hemolytic anemia, which often necessitates a reduction of ribavirin dosage and compromises treatment response. Maximizing treatment response thus requires striking a balance between the antiviral and hemolytic activities of ribavirin. Current models of viral kinetics describe the enhancement of treatment response due to ribavirin. Ribavirin-induced anemia, however, remains poorly understood and precludes rational optimization of combination therapy. Here, we develop a new mathematical model of the population dynamics of erythrocytes that quantitatively describes ribavirin-induced anemia in HCV patients. Based on the assumption that ribavirin accumulation decreases erythrocyte lifespan in a dose-dependent manner, model predictions capture several independent experimental observations of the accumulation of ribavirin in erythrocytes and the resulting decline of hemoglobin in HCV patients undergoing combination therapy, estimate the reduced erythrocyte lifespan during therapy, and describe inter-patient variations in the severity of ribavirin-induced anemia. Further, model predictions estimate the threshold ribavirin exposure beyond which anemia becomes intolerable and suggest guidelines for the usage of growth hormones, such as erythropoietin, that stimulate erythrocyte production and avert the reduction of ribavirin dosage, thereby improving treatment response. Our model thus facilitates, in conjunction with models of viral kinetics, the rational identification of treatment protocols that maximize treatment response while curtailing side effects. The treatment of HCV infection poses a major global health-care challenge today. The current standard of care, combination therapy with interferon and ribavirin, works in only about half of the patients treated. Because no alternatives are available yet for patients in whom combination therapy fails, identifying ways to improve response to combination therapy is critical. Increasing exposure to ribavirin does improve response but is associated with the severe side-effect, anemia. One way to maximize treatment response therefore is to increase ribavirin exposure to levels just below where anemia becomes intolerable. A second way is to supplement combination therapy with growth hormones, such as erythropoietin, that increase the production of red blood cells (erythrocytes) and compensate for ribavirin-induced anemia. Rational optimization of combination therapy thus relies on a quantitative description of ribavirin-induced anemia, which is currently lacking. Here, we develop a model of the population dynamics of erythrocytes in individuals exposed to ribavirin that quantitatively describes ribavirin-induced anemia. Model predictions capture several independent observations of ribavirin-induced anemia in HCV patients undergoing combination therapy, estimate the threshold ribavirin exposure beyond which anemia becomes intolerable, suggest guidelines for the usage of growth hormones, and facilitate rational optimization of therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheeja M. Krishnan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Narendra M. Dixit
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
- Bioinformatics Centre, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
- * E-mail:
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Giannini EG, Savarino V. Epidemiology of thrombocytopenia in patients with chronic hepatitis C: more than meets the eye. J Viral Hepat 2011; 18:8-10. [PMID: 20796207 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2893.2010.01368.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Thrombocytopenia is likely the most common haematological abnormality that can be diagnosed inpatients affected by chronic liver disease. In these patients,the presence of thrombocytopenia may have significant clinical implications. In fact, it can be a limiting factor when considering invasive procedures and may hamper the out come of antiviral therapy with interferon. The prevalence of decreased platelet count in patients with chronic hepatitis Chas been assessed in various studies that evaluated heterogenous patient populations and used various platelet count threshold to identify thrombocytopenia. This review shows that the prevalence of thrombocytopenia in these patients is variable and mainly depends upon the severity of the underlying liver disease and the criterion used to identify this haematological abnormality. Furthermore, the results of this epidemiological review provide an indirect evidence that confirms the multiplicity of aetiological factors underlying the pathophysiology of thrombocytopenia in chronic hepatitis C patients. Lastly, this study shows that up to 25% of patients treated with interferon may develop some degree of thrombocytopenia, and this may be associated with decreased sustained virological response rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- E G Giannini
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
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35
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Bertino G, Ardiri A, Boemi PM, Calvagno GS, Ruggeri IM, Speranza A, Santonocito MM, Ierna D, Bruno CM, Valenti M, Boemi R, Naimo S, Neri S. Epoetin alpha improves the response to antiviral treatment in HCV-related chronic hepatitis. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2010; 66:1055-63. [PMID: 20652232 DOI: 10.1007/s00228-010-0868-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2010] [Accepted: 07/06/2010] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The conventional antiviral treatment of chronic hepatitis related to hepatitis C virus (HCV) often leads to anemia. In this case, it is necessary to reduce ribavirin dose or stop treatment, thus reducing the rate of sustained virological response. AIM We investigated whether epoetin alpha administration improves treatment adherence and leads to higher percentage of response at the end of therapy and sustained virological response. METHODS Two hundred and fourteen individuals with genotype 1b HCV-related chronic hepatitis underwent treatment with pegylated (peg)-interferon alpha-2A 180 μg once weekly and ribavirin 1,000-1,200 mg/day; 174 were responders. Forty individuals completed treatment with no hemoglobin reduction; 134 developed anemia during therapy. Anemic responders were distributed randomly into two groups: group 1 continued therapy with epoetin alpha addiction; group 2 continued antiviral therapy with ribavirin reduction only. RESULTS Patients in group 1 achieved better control of hemoglobin levels (13.8 ± 1.2 g/dl at the end of therapy) than those in group 2 (11.5 ± 0.8 g/dl). Sustained virological response was 59.7% in group 1 compared with 34.4% in group 2 (p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS In patients with 1b HCV-related chronic hepatitis who develop anemia during antiviral treatment, administration of epoetin alpha increases hemoglobin levels and the end-of-treatment rate and sustains virological response by improving treatment adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Bertino
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Systemic Diseases, University of Catania, S. Marta Hospital, Via Gesualdo Clementi, 36, 95124 Catania, Italy.
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Alvarez-Uria G, Day JN, Nasir AJ, Russell SK, Vilar FJ. Reduction in neutrophil count during hepatitis C treatment: drug toxicity or predictor of good response? Dig Dis Sci 2010; 55:2058-62. [PMID: 19757045 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-009-0969-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2009] [Accepted: 08/24/2009] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bone marrow suppression is a well-recognized toxicity of the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV). Reduction of the peginterferon dose because of neutropenia is common in clinical practice. However, reduction of peginterferon dose during the first weeks of HCV treatment is associated with failure to achieve sustained virological response. AIMS The objective of this study is to investigate whether the fall of neutrophil count during hepatitis C treatment is associated with achieving sustained virological response. METHODS We performed an observational study of patients who completed peginterferon and ribavirin treatment in an Infectious Diseases Department in Manchester, UK. RESULTS Of the 74 patients included in the analysis, 78% had genotype 2 or 3 hepatitis C and 15% had liver cirrhosis. Sustained virological response was achieved in 78% of patients. On univariate analysis, factors related to achieving sustained virological response were younger age, genotype 2 or 3, baseline neutrophil count, and fall of neutrophil count during treatment. Multivariate analysis showed baseline neutrophil count >3.5 x 10(3) cells/mm(3) [odds ratio (OR) 5.7; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.24-26.3] and a reduction of neutrophil count >60% (OR 4.5; 95% CI 1.03-19.9) to be independently associated with achieving sustained virological response. Neutropenia was not associated with an increased risk of infections. CONCLUSIONS In this observational study, higher baseline neutrophil count and fall of neutrophil count during the treatment of hepatitis C was associated with achieving sustained virological response. These findings could have important implications for the monitoring and management of HCV treatment with peginterferon if they are confirmed in other studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerardo Alvarez-Uria
- Department of Infectious Diseases, North Manchester General Hospital, Manchester, UK.
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Yang JF, Hsieh MY, Hou NJ, Dai CY, Huang JF, Lin ZY, Chen SC, Hsieh MY, Wang LY, Chuang WL, Yu ML. Bacterial infection and neutropenia during peginterferon plus ribavirin combination therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C with and without baseline neutropenia in clinical practice. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2009; 29:1000-10. [PMID: 19210290 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2036.2009.03957.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Peginterferon-alpha-based therapy frequently leads to neutropenia. It remains unclear whether neutropenia is associated with bacterial infection in chronic hepatitis C (CHC). AIM To evaluate the risk of bacterial infection and neutropenia in patients with CHC treated with peginterferon-alpha/ribavirin. METHODS In all, 207 patients with CHC with (group A, n = 30) and without (group B, n = 177) baseline neutropenia were treated with peginterferon-alpha/ribavirin. RESULTS Group A had significantly higher rates of moderate (<750 cells/microL) and severe (<500 cells/microL) neutropenia than group B (70.0% and 26.7% vs. 20.3% and 8.5% respectively, both P < 0.0001). The sustained virological response rate was similar between patients with and without neutropenia, at baseline or during treatment. Bacterial infection occurred in 4.3% of patients. Group A and patients with lower baseline neutrophil counts had substantially higher rates of bacterial infection. Patients with cirrhosis had significantly higher rates of infection during combination therapy than those without cirrhosis (15%, 3 of 20 vs. 3.2%, 6 of 187, P = 0.045). Nadir neutrophil counts were not correlated to infection episodes. CONCLUSIONS Bacterial infection during peginterferon-based therapy for CHC was associated with comorbidity of cirrhosis, but not with neutropenia, whether at baseline or during treatment. Neutropenic CHC patients might be treated safely with close monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- J-F Yang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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Drapeau CMJ, Remotti D, Noto P, Capone A, Boumis E, Petrosillo N. Bone marrow toxicity in HCV genotype 5a-infected patient after peg-IFN alpha-2a and ribavirin therapy. J Chemother 2009; 20:648-51. [PMID: 19028630 DOI: 10.1179/joc.2008.20.5.648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
The optimal therapy for HCV-related chronic hepatitis is the combination of pegylated interferon alpha (peg-IFN alpha) plus ribavirin (RBV). Unfortunately, both peg-IFN alpha and RBV are responsible for a wide range of adverse events and potentially severe toxicities, particularly hematological alterations. Indeed, RBV is generally responsible for anemia through hemolysis, while peg-IFN alpha induces more commonly leukopoenia and thrombocytopenia, presumably through bone marrow toxicity. Actually, data regarding histopathological bone marrow alterations in HCV-infected patients following IFN-alpha therapy is scanty. We report a case of a HCV-infected cirrhotic patient, who developed bone marrow alterations following one-year peg-IFN alpha plus RBV treatment, and we describe the associated histopathological features. Our case report provides new significant insight on the histopathological changes occurring in bone marrow of HCV-infected cirrhotic patients during peg-IFN alpha-2a plus RBV treatment, providing also additional information on potential bone marrow toxicity in the course of IFN-based treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M J Drapeau
- 2nd Infectious Diseases Division, National Institute for Infectious Diseases L. Spallanzani, Rome, Italy
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Laguno M, Cifuentes C, Murillas J, Veloso S, Larrousse M, Payeras A, Bonet L, Vidal F, Milinkovic A, Bassa A, Villalonga C, Pérez I, Tural C, Martínez-Rebollar M, Calvo M, Blanco JL, Martínez E, Sánchez-Tapias JM, Gatell JM, Mallolas J. Randomized trial comparing pegylated interferon alpha-2b versus pegylated interferon alpha-2a, both plus ribavirin, to treat chronic hepatitis C in human immunodeficiency virus patients. Hepatology 2009; 49:22-31. [PMID: 19085908 DOI: 10.1002/hep.22598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Although two pegylated interferons (Peg-IFN) are available to treat chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, no head-to-head comparative studies have been published. We aim to compare the efficacy and safety of PEG IFN alfa-2b (PEG 2b) versus PEG IFN alfa-2a (PEG 2a), plus ribavirin (RBV). A prospective, randomized, multi-center, open-label clinical trial including 182 human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients naïve for HCV therapy was performed. Patients were assigned to PEG 2b (80-150 mug/week; n = 96) or PEG 2a (180 mug/week; n = 86), plus RBV (800-1200 mg/day) for 48 weeks. The primary endpoint was sustained virological response (SVR: negative HCV-RNA 24 weeks after completion of treatment). At baseline, both groups were well balanced: 73% male; 63% HCV genotype 1 or [corrected] 4; 29% had fibrosis index of 3 or greater. The overall SVR was 44% (42% PEG 2b versus 46% PEG 2a, P = 0.65). Among genotypes 1 or [corrected] 4, SVRs were 28% versus 32% (P = 0.67) and 62% versus 71% (P = 0.6) in genotypes 2 or [corrected] 3 for PEG 2b and PEG 2a, respectively. Early virological response (EVR; >or=2 log reduction from baseline or negative HCV-RNA at week 12) was 70% in the PEG 2b group and 80% in the PEG 2a group (P = 0.13), reaching a positive predictive value of SVR of 64% and a negative predictive value of 100% in both arms. Side effects were present in 96% of patients but led to treatment discontinuation in 10% of patients (8% on PEG 2b and 13% on PEG 2a, P = 0.47). CONCLUSION In patients with HIV, HCV therapy with PEG 2b or PEG 2a plus RBV had no significant differences in efficacy and safety.
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Incidence of Neutropenia and Infections During Combination Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C with Pegylated Interferon Alfa-2a or Alfa-2b Plus Ribavirin. Infection 2008; 36:250-5. [DOI: 10.1007/s15010-007-7132-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2007] [Accepted: 10/24/2007] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Meng J, Yan Z, Wu Y, Gao M, Li W, Gao F, Wang H, Han W, Zhang Y. Preclinical safety evaluation of IFNα2a-NGR. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2008; 50:294-302. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2007.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2007] [Revised: 10/24/2007] [Accepted: 10/27/2007] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Pegylated Interferons: Clinical Applications in the Management of Hepatitis C Infection. HEPATITIS C VIRUS DISEASE 2008. [PMCID: PMC7122148 DOI: 10.1007/978-0-387-71376-2_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
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Mira JA, López-Cortés LF, Merino D, Arizcorreta-Yarza A, Rivero A, Collado A, Ríos-Villegas MJ, González-Serrano M, Torres-Tortosa M, Macías J, Valera-Bestard B, Fernández-Fuertes E, Girón-González JA, Lozano F, Pineda JA. Predictors of Severe Haematological Toxicity Secondary to Pegylated Interferon plus Ribavirin Treatment in HIV-HCV-Coinfected Patients. Antivir Ther 2007. [DOI: 10.1177/135965350701200805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Background Haematological adverse events related to pegylated interferon (PEG-IFN) and ribavirin (RBV) therapy could affect the patients’ quality of life; however, the risk factors for severe haematological toxicity associated with this therapy in patients coinfected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and HIV are unclear. The objective of this study was to identify predictors of severe haematological toxicity among HIV-HCV-coinfected patients treated with PEG-IFN plus RBV. Methods This retrospective multicentric study included 237 HIV-HCV-coinfected patients on PEG-IFN plus RBV. Predictors of severe anaemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia and overall haematological toxicity were analyzed. Results Eighty (34%) individuals showed an episode of severe haematological toxicity. Severe anaemia, neutropenia and thrombocytopenia occurred in 32 (13%), 42 (18%) and 26 (11%) patients, respectively. In the multivariate analysis, zidovudine use (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 3.3; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.6–10; P=0.001), baseline body weight <65 kg (AOR 2.5; 95% CI 1.1–5; P=0.024), cirrhosis (AOR 5; 95% CI 1.6–16.6; P=0.006), PEG-IFN-α2a (AOR 2.7; 95% CI 1.1–6.6; P=0.029) and pretreatment haemoglobin level <14 g/dl (AOR 2.7; 95% CI 1.3–5.5; P=0.005) were associated with any kind of severe haematological toxicity. Likewise, haemoglobin level <13 g/dl, neutrophil counts <2,500 cells/mm3 and platelet counts <175,000 cells/mm3 were independent predictors of severe anaemia, neutropenia and thrombocytopenia, respectively. Conclusions Zidovudine treatment, cirrhosis, baseline low body weight, use of PEG-IFN-α2a, and baseline haemoglobin level <14 g/dl are predictors of overall severe haematological toxicity secondary to PEG-IFN plus RBV in HIV-infected individuals. Low pretreatment levels of each haematological series predict a significant decrease of their values during therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- José A Mira
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario de Valme, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Luis F López-Cortés
- Servicio de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Dolores Merino
- Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Juan Ramón Jiménez, Huelva, Spain
| | - Ana Arizcorreta-Yarza
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario Puerta del Mar, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Antonio Rivero
- Sección de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Antonio Collado
- Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Torrecárdenas, Almería, Spain
| | - María J Ríos-Villegas
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Hospital Universitario Virgen Macarena, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Mercedes González-Serrano
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Málaga, Spain
| | | | - Juan Macías
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario de Valme, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Bárbara Valera-Bestard
- Servicio de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, Sevilla, Spain
| | | | - José A Girón-González
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario Puerta del Mar, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Fernando Lozano
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Hospital Universitario de Valme, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Juan A Pineda
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Hospital Universitario de Valme, Sevilla, Spain
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Sherman M, Cohen L, Cooper MA, Elkashab M, Feinman V, Fletcher D, Girgrah N, Heathcote J, Levstik M, McNaull WB, Wong D, Wong F, Yim C. Clinical recommendations for the use of recombinant human erythropoietin in patients with hepatitis C virus being treated with ribavirin. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY = JOURNAL CANADIEN DE GASTROENTEROLOGIE 2006; 20:479-85. [PMID: 16858501 PMCID: PMC2659916 DOI: 10.1155/2006/497059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Today, combination antiviral therapy with pegylated interferon-alpha and ribavirin (RBV) allows many patients infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) to achieve a sustained virological response, which is equivalent to cure. Data also support the clinical benefit of combination antiviral therapy in patients coinfected with HCV and HIV, and in patients who have received a liver transplant. Antiviral therapy with pegylated interferon-alpha and RBV is, however, associated with a high incidence and significant magnitude of anemia. This anemia may have several mechanisms, including bone marrow suppression and hemolysis. In addition, patients coinfected with HIV may have both pre-existing and RBV-associated anemia. Management of anemia in patients with HCV through RBV dose reduction or treatment discontinuation may compromise the effectiveness of treatment, because studies have demonstrated that treatment adherence or maintenance of antiviral therapy dose is an important predictor of sustained virological response. Anemia associated with combination antiviral therapy in patients with HCV is frequently associated with an inadequate or blunted endogenous erythropoietin response. Accumulating evidence now supports the use of recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEpo) to manage anemia in these patients, with the objective of maintaining the RBV dose, but clinical standards are lacking. The present article reviews the data relevant to the use of rHuEpo in this patient population and proposes a set of clinical practice standards to assist clinicians in selecting patients for rHuEpo and in implementing rHuEpo therapy effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morris Sherman
- Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
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45
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Panzer S, Seel E, Brunner M, Körmöczi GF, Schmid M, Ferenci P, Peck-Radosavljevic M. Platelet autoantibodies are common in hepatitis C infection, irrespective of the presence of thrombocytopenia. Eur J Haematol 2006; 77:513-7. [PMID: 17042765 DOI: 10.1111/j.0902-4441.2006.t01-1-ejh2888.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the generation of platelet antibodies in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected individuals and their relation to the development to thrombocytopenia with the aim of using their detection as a diagnostic aid of immune thrombocytopenia in these patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS We tested by the monoclonal antibody-specific immobilization of platelet antigen assay (MAIPA) for the presence of platelet antibodies against specific glycoprotein (GP) targets (GPIIb/IIIa, GPIb/IX, GPIa/IIa, GPIIIb, GPV, and FcRgammaIIa) in 48 HCV-infected individuals of various stages of disease and compared the results with those from 35 patients with alcoholic liver cirrhosis. RESULTS Thirty-two HCV-infected individuals (66%) had detectable platelet antibodies. The most common target was GPIIb/IIIa, but all other GP were also targets. Results were not different from patients with alcoholic liver cirrhosis. There was no correlation between antibodies and platelet counts, or the stage of disease, or the viral genotype, or a discernible influence of treatment with alpha-interferon. CONCLUSION While platelet autoantibodies are common in individuals with HCV infection, their detection does not assist in the diagnosis of immune thrombocytopenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Panzer
- Clinic for Blood Group Serology, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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Homoncik M, Sieghart W, Formann E, Schmid M, Ferenci P, Gangl A, Jilma B, Peck-Radosavljevic M. Erythropoietin treatment is associated with more severe thrombocytopenia in patients with chronic hepatitis C undergoing antiviral therapy. Am J Gastroenterol 2006; 101:2275-82. [PMID: 17032193 DOI: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2006.00774.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Erythropoietin (EPO) not only stimulates erythropoiesis but also thrombopoiesis. As pegylated-interferon-alpha(PEG-IFN-alpha)-induced thrombocytopenia may become a limiting factor for continuation of therapy, the present study investigated if EPO can alleviate PEG-IFN-alpha induced thrombocytopenia. Further, we hypothesize that EPO increases platelet reactivity and protease activated receptor 1 (PAR-1) expression during combination antiviral therapy. METHODS Forty patients with chronic hepatitis C received either 10,000 IU EPO 3 x/week or placebo in a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded fashion for 4 wk and combination antiviral therapy with PEG-IFN-2a and ribavirin. RESULTS EPO alleviated the decrease in hemoglobin during combination antiviral therapy with ribavirin (10%vs 20%, p < 0.0001). Platelet counts decreased stronger in EPO than in placebo group on day 28 (p= 0.007). EPO induced a 40% increase in PAR-1 (p < 0.0001), which was accompanied by 100% increase in platelet reactivity (p < 0.0001). PFA-100 platelet plug formation time and PEG-IFN-alpha-induced vWF-increase were not different between study groups. CONCLUSIONS Treatment with EPO alleviated the decrease in hemoglobin but worsened PEG-IFN-alpha induced thrombocytopenia after the first 4 wk of combination therapy. EPO caused PAR-1 receptor upregulation on platelets, which promoted an increase in platelet reactivity without affecting PFA-100 platelet plug formation time. EPO is not a useful option for short-term support of platelet production during antiviral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Homoncik
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Division of Gastroenterology, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Hofer H, Gurguta C, Bergholz U, Steindl-Munda P, Ferenci P. Standard interferon-alpha in combination with ribavirin for hepatitis C patients with advanced liver disease and thrombocytopenia. Wien Klin Wochenschr 2006; 118:595-600. [PMID: 17136334 DOI: 10.1007/s00508-006-0704-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2006] [Accepted: 06/28/2006] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Patients with advanced liver disease due to thrombocytopenia and chronic infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) are difficult to treat in view of concerns about the efficacy and safety of interferon-based therapy. Nevertheless, antiviral therapy might have a substantial benefit in these patients as it potentially minimizes disease progression and prevents recurrence after liver transplantation. We evaluated the safety, efficacy and tolerability of standard interferon-alpha in an accelerating dose regimen in combination with ribavirin in patients with HCV-induced liver cirrhosis and thrombocytopenia. PATIENTS Nine patients (M=8, age: 48.4 +/- 9.9, mean +/- SD) with HCV-related advanced liver disease and thrombocytopenia were prospectively investigated. The Child-Pugh stage was A in six patients and B in three, the MELD score was 11 [6-17] (median [range]). Four patients were interferon naive. HCV-genotype distribution was 1b (n=3), 3a (n=4) and 4 (n=2). The patients received 1-1.5 MU/d standard interferon-a2b with increasing dose regimen and weight-based ribavirin for 48 weeks (genotype 1), or 24 weeks (genotype 3), or until liver transplantation, respectively. RESULTS The baseline platelet count was 64.3 +/- 8.7 (G/l, mean +/- SD) and remained remarkably stable during treatment (58.0 +/- 12.4 G/l at week 4, 51.7 +/- 20.5 G/l at week 8, P=0.1). All patients had adverse events such as weight loss, fever and anorexia. Hospitalization because of decompensation or infection was necessary in three patients. Three patients underwent liver transplantation. A virological response on treatment was achieved in eight patients and sustained in three (33.3%) patients. CONCLUSION Treatment with standard interferon-alpha2b/ribavirin could be of benefit in patients with advanced liver cirrhosis and thrombocytopenia however, a vigilant monitoring of these high risk patients is mandatory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harald Hofer
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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48
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Billiau A. Anti-inflammatory properties of Type I interferons. Antiviral Res 2006; 71:108-16. [PMID: 16626815 PMCID: PMC7114336 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2006.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2006] [Revised: 03/13/2006] [Accepted: 03/14/2006] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The notion that Type I interferons (interferon-alpha and -beta) possess anti-inflammatory potential is supported by data from clinical application in multiple sclerosis, by studies on cultured immune-competent cells and by investigation of experimental diseases in whole animals. These observations deserve the attention of virologists for their potential role in the pathogenesis and clinical management of virus infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfons Billiau
- Rega Institute, University of Leuven, Minderbroedersstraat 10, BE-3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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Durante-Mangoni E, Iardino P, Utili R, Adinolfi LE, Ruggiero G. Defective Synthesis of Granulocyte-Colony Stimulating Factor in Pegylated Interferon-α Treated Chronic Hepatitis C Patients with Declining Leukocyte Counts. Antivir Ther 2006. [DOI: 10.1177/135965350601100514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background Pegylated-interferon-α (peg-IFN-α) is the mainstay of treatment for chronic hepatitis C (CHC). Treatment is often complicated by neutropaenia due to inhibition of haematopoiesis. However, there are no data on the kinetics of granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF), a major neutrophil growth factor, in this setting. We therefore evaluated G-CSF synthesis in CHC patients on peg-IFN-α treatment. Methods A total of 40 CHC patients were studied. None had pre-existing haematological disorders, or hepatitis B virus or HIV coinfection. For controls, 30 healthy subjects were used. Laboratory examinations, including liver function tests, were performed at baseline and monthly over treatment and follow-up. Serum G-CSF was measured in all patients and controls at baseline and in a subgroup of 20 CHC patients also at weeks 2, 4, 24, 48 and 72 after treatment start. Results CHC patients had a significantly lower pre-treatment neutrophil count (3,256 ±1,197 versus 3,804 ±859; P=0.03). Notwithstanding, they showed lower baseline G-CSF serum levels than healthy controls (16.1 ±6.2 versus 19.4 ±7.5; P=0.048). Consistently, baseline G-CSF levels were poorly correlated with the neutrophil count in CHC patients (r=-0.2; P=0.2). Moreover, serum G-CSF levels did not increase in any of the 20 CHC patients during peg-IFN-α treatment, despite declining neutrophil counts. Conclusions The lower neutrophil counts observed in CHC might be related to an absolute deficiency in G-CSF production. In the human model of neutropaenia induced by peg-IFN-α, we show that endogenous G-CSF levels are not physiologically up-regulated to overcome the decline in neutrophil counts. Our study provides a rationale for the evaluation of recombinant human G-CSF treatment in peg-IFN-α-induced neutropaenia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrizia Iardino
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Second University of Naples Medical School, Napoli, Italy
| | - Riccardo Utili
- Department of Internal Medicine, Second University of Naples Medical School, Napoli, Italy
| | - Luigi E Adinolfi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Second University of Naples Medical School, Napoli, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ruggiero
- Department of Internal Medicine, Second University of Naples Medical School, Napoli, Italy
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Abstract
In patients with liver disease, thrombocytopenia is a clinical feature that may represent an obstacle to invasive diagnostic or therapeutic procedures, chemotherapy, and anti-viral treatment. Stimulation of the bone marrow is the most promising therapeutic intervention for thrombocytopenia in patients with chronic liver disease. The description of thrombopoietin and its (de)regulation in patients with chronic liver disease have disclosed new treatment opportunities. Indeed, pharmacologic treatment options for thrombocytopenia can be divided into treatments targeted at the thrombopoietin receptor (synthetic thrombopoietins and thrombopoietin-mimetic agents), and use of cytokines with general thrombopoietic potential. Unfortunately, use of synthetic thrombopoietin was hampered by the development of neutralizing antibodies, and thrombopoietin mimetic agents have not yet entered clinical studies. Interleukin-11 proved to be useful in increasing platelet count in patients with chronic liver disease, although its use is limited by side-effects. Erythropoietin has shown promising results in improving thrombocytopenia in cirrhotic patients. In patients with chronic liver disease, safe and well-tolerated treatments aimed at improving thrombocytopenia are still lacking. Larger studies are needed to evaluate and better characterize the thrombopoietic potential of erythropoietin. Human studies with thrombopoietin-mimetic agents are eagerly awaited in order to assess both effectiveness and safety of these drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- E G Giannini
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology Unit, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
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