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Wolffram I. [A comprehensive screening for hepatitis B and C as an effective means of cancer prevention and as a prerequisite for elimination of chronic viral hepatitis - Data and comments on a discussion]. Dtsch Med Wochenschr 2023; 148:175-182. [PMID: 36750129 DOI: 10.1055/a-1972-4118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Since October 2021 in Germany all people with a statutory health insurance aged 35 and older have the right to be tested once for hepatitis B and C in a general preventative examination, regardless of specific risk-factors. This is a milestone on the way of eliminating these infections and also a great contribution to cancer prevention.In the USA the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention in April 2020 recommended a one-time screening for all adults aged 18 and older in addition to testing people with known risk-factors, because a significant part of the affected population cannot be identified with risk-based screening. Corresponding CDC-Recommendations for HBV are currently elaborated. According to available Data this screening strategy combined with a vaccination for HBV is necessary in Germany too to reach the agreed elimination goals till the year of 2030. Furthermore, an offer of such a testing for all adults can be regarded as ethically imperative to prevent as many life-threatening consequences or deaths as possible by effective therapies.
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Simmons R, Plunkett J, Cieply L, Ijaz S, Desai M, Mandal S. Blood-borne virus testing in emergency departments - a systematic review of seroprevalence, feasibility, acceptability and linkage to care. HIV Med 2023; 24:6-26. [PMID: 35702813 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blood-borne viruses (BBVs) cause significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Emergency departments (EDs) offer a point of contact for groups at increased risk of BBVs who may be less likely to engage with primary care. We reviewed the literature to evaluate whether BBV testing in this setting might be a viable option to increase case finding and linkage to care. METHODS We searched PubMed database for English language articles published until June 2019 on BBV testing in EDs. Studies reporting seroprevalence surveys, feasibility, linkage to care, enablers and barriers to testing were included. Additional searches for grey literature were performed. RESULTS Eight-nine articles met inclusion criteria, of which 14 reported BBV seroprevalence surveys in EDs, 54 investigated feasibility and acceptability, and 36 investigated linkage to care. Most studies were HIV-focused and conducted in the USA. Seroprevalence rates were in the range 1.5-17% for HCV, 0.7-1.6% for HBV, and 0.8-13% for HIV. For studies that used an opt-in study design, testing uptake ranged from 2% to 98% and for opt-out it ranged from 16% to 91%. There was a wide range of yield: 13-100% of patients received their test result, 21-100% were linked to care, and 50-91% were retained in care. Compared with individuals diagnosed with HIV, linkage to and retention in care were lower for those diagnosed with hepatitis C. Predictors of linkage to care was associated with certain patient characteristics. CONCLUSIONS Universal opt-out BBV testing in EDs may be feasible and acceptable, but linkage to care needs to be improved by optimizing implementation. Further economic evaluations of hepatitis testing in EDs are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Simmons
- Blood Safety, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and HIV Division, UK Health Security Agency, London, UK.,The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections at University College, London, UK
| | - James Plunkett
- Blood Safety, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and HIV Division, UK Health Security Agency, London, UK
| | - Lukasz Cieply
- Blood Safety, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and HIV Division, UK Health Security Agency, London, UK
| | - Samreen Ijaz
- The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections at University College, London, UK.,Blood Borne Virus Unit, Virus Reference Department, UK Health Security Agency, London, UK
| | - Monica Desai
- Blood Safety, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and HIV Division, UK Health Security Agency, London, UK.,The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections at University College, London, UK
| | - Sema Mandal
- Blood Safety, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and HIV Division, UK Health Security Agency, London, UK.,The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections at University College, London, UK
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Tassachew Y, Abebe T, Belyhun Y, Teffera T, Shewaye AB, Desalegn H, Andualem H, Kinfu A, Mulu A, Mihret A, Howe R, Aseffa A. Prevalence of HIV and Its Co-Infection with Hepatitis B/C Virus Among Chronic Liver Disease Patients in Ethiopia. Hepat Med 2022; 14:67-77. [PMID: 35591850 PMCID: PMC9113656 DOI: 10.2147/hmer.s365443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The efficient use of antiretroviral drugs has significantly reduced AIDS-related morbidities and mortalities; however, mortality due to non-AIDS-related end-stage liver diseases is escalating in those living with HIV. Objective The study was designed to determine the prevalence of HIV and its co-infection with HBV and HCV among chronic liver disease (CLD) patients in Ethiopia. Methods Three hundred and forty-five CLD patients were included in this study in two groups: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) (n=128) and non-HCC (n=217) patients. The non-HCC group comprised patients with advanced liver disease (n=98) and chronic hepatitis (n=119). Enzyme immunoassays were used to determine HBV and HCV infection markers. In addition, a serial rapid HIV testing algorithm was employed to screen HIV infection. Results Regardless of the stage of liver disease, the overall frequency of HIV was 4.3% (15/345), with a 2% (7/345) and 0.3% (1/345) of HIV/HBV and HIV/HCV co-infection rate. Of all HIV-infected patients (n=15), 46.7% (7/15) and 6.7% (1/15) were co-infected with HBV (HBsAg+HBcAb+) and HCV (anti-HCV+ HCV-RNA+), respectively, and 86.7% (13/15) exhibited a marker of HBV exposure (total HBcAb+). Overall, the frequency of HIV and its co-infection with HBV was more noticeable among HCC than non-HCC patients [8.6% (11/128) vs 1.8 (4/217), p=0.005 and 3.9% (5/128) vs 0.9% (2/217), p=0.1]. The rate of HIV mono-infection was 3.9% (5/128) vs 0.9% (2/217) among HCC and non-HCC patients. Conclusion The frequency of HIV and its co-infections with HBV/HCV exhibited an increasing pattern with the severity of the liver disease. Thus, screening all HIV-positive patients for HBV and HCV infection and all CLD patients for HIV infection and taking necessary preventive measures would be an essential strategy to prevent the progression of CLD and death related to liver disease in people living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yayehyirad Tassachew
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.,Armauer Hansen Research Institute (AHRI), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.,School of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Tamrat Abebe
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Yeshambel Belyhun
- School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Tezazu Teffera
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Abate Bane Shewaye
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.,Adera Medical Center PLC, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Hailemichael Desalegn
- Department of Internal Medicine, St. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Henok Andualem
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
| | - Abiy Kinfu
- Ethiopian National Blood Bank Service, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Adane Mihret
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.,Armauer Hansen Research Institute (AHRI), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Rawleigh Howe
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute (AHRI), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Abraham Aseffa
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute (AHRI), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Martel-Laferriere V, Baril JG, Alarie I, Leblanc J, Côté J, Jourdenais E, Horth D, Lambert G, Tremblay C. Opt-out universal HCV and HIV screening in a Canadian emergency room: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e048748. [PMID: 35042704 PMCID: PMC8768931 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-048748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the prevalence of undiagnosed hepatitis C virus (HCV) and HIV cases in a population sample tested in the emergency room (ER) and to evaluate linkage-to-care. SETTING Canadian university hospital. PARTICIPANTS Adults born after 1945 who consulted at ER for any condition and on any shift were included. Patients unable to opt-out were excluded. INTERVENTIONS ER nurse confirmed patients' eligibility and provided them with the option to opt-out. A physician met patients with a new diagnosis. Linkage-to-care was assessed 3 months postdiagnosis. Patients newly diagnosed with HCV were considered linked if they had an HCV RNA test, genotype, liver fibrosis evaluation, and if indicated, treatment prescription. Patients newly diagnosed with HIV were considered linked to care if they had an HIV serology confirmation test, viral load, CD4 cell count and started antiretroviral therapy. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Primary objective: to determine the prevalence (overall and undiagnosed cases) of HIV and HCV among the patients who consult the ER. Secondary objectives: to determine the proportion of patients who opt-out, assess the adherence of emergency staff to the offer of testing, determine the proportion of patients linked to care at 3 months. RESULTS Among 6350 eligible patients informed of the screening programme, 62.1% of patients were tested for at least one virus (HIV: 3905; HCV: 3910). 25% patients opted-out, 12% were not tested for organisational reasons, 0.3% (18) patients were HCV-HIV coinfected. Overall prevalence of HCV and HIV cases were 1.9% and 1.2%, respectively. Prevalence of new cases was 0.23% (95% CI 0.12% 0.45%) for HCV and 0.05% (95% CI 0.01% to 0.20%) for HIV. Among the new cases, only two HCV-infected and one HIV-infected patients were linked-to-care 3 months postdiagnosis. CONCLUSIONS Identification of new cases of HCV and HIV through universal screening at the ER and linkage-to-care were both low. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03595527; Results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerie Martel-Laferriere
- CRCHUM, Montreal, Québec, Canada
- CHUM, Montreal, Québec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jean-Guy Baril
- CHUM, Montreal, Québec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Clinique médicale urbaine du Quartier-Latin, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - Isabelle Alarie
- Faculty of Medicine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Medicine, CHUS, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Judith Leblanc
- AP-HP Greater Paris University Hospital, AP-HP.Sorbonne Université, Clinical Research Platform of East of Paris, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d'Épidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP, SUMO, Paris, France
| | - José Côté
- CRCHUM, Montreal, Québec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Emmanuelle Jourdenais
- CHUM, Montreal, Québec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Damy Horth
- Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Gilles Lambert
- Institut national de santé publique du Québec, Quebec, Quebec, Canada
- Direction régionale de santé publique de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Cécile Tremblay
- CRCHUM, Montreal, Québec, Canada
- CHUM, Montreal, Québec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Gardona RGB, Barbosa DA, Ferraz MLG. Screening for hepatitis C in urgent and emergency units: a systematic review. Rev Esc Enferm USP 2020; 54:e03611. [PMID: 32901660 DOI: 10.1590/s1980-220x20180450-03611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Identifying studies that performed screening for hepatitis C and that also assessed the virus prevalence in urgency and emergency unit users. METHOD A systematic review performed on the LILACS, MEDLINE databases via PubMed, SciELO and Virtual Health Library. RESULTS After careful search and analysis, 19 publications were part of the results, in compliance with the pre-defined criteria. Publication dates were concentrated between 1992 and 2018. The main journal to publish such articles was the Annals of Emergency Medicine (26.31%). Regarding the origin of publications, the following stand out: United States (63.15%), Europe (31.57%), and Asia (5.28%). Regarding prevalence, in the United States, a variation between 1.4% to 18% was observed. In Europe, in turn, the prevalence ranged from 0 to 5%. In the Asian study, the prevalence was 1.8%. CONCLUSION The screening performed in urgent and emergency units proved to be efficient in identifying new cases, especially when associated with the age factor, which proves to be superior to the strategy based only on risk factors. Thus, for greater effectiveness, the association of three strategies is recommended: screening location, age group, and risk factors.
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Sperle I, Steffen G, Leendertz SA, Sarma N, Beermann S, Thamm R, Simeonova Y, Cornberg M, Wedemeyer H, Bremer V, Zimmermann R, Dudareva S. Prevalence of Hepatitis B, C, and D in Germany: Results From a Scoping Review. Front Public Health 2020; 8:424. [PMID: 33014960 PMCID: PMC7493659 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.00424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: One of the five strategic directions in the World Health Organization global health sector strategy on viral hepatitis 2016-2021 is to generate strong strategic information for focused action to understand the viral hepatitis epidemic and focus the response. Knowledge of national prevalence is a cornerstone of strategic information. Germany is considered to be a low prevalence country for viral hepatitis B, C, and D, however the prevalence is likely to be higher among at-risk groups. Methods: The aim of this work was to give a detailed overview of the prevalence of viral hepatitis B (HBsAg, anti-HBc), C (anti-HCV, HCV RNA), and D (anti-HDV, HDV RNA) in different population groups in Germany. Therefore, we analyzed the results of a comprehensive literature search on various aspects of the epidemiological situation of hepatitis B, C, and D in Germany. Eligible publications including information on hepatitis B, C, and D prevalence were extracted from the overall spreadsheet table and summarized and analyzed based on virus and different population groups. A quality appraisal was performed using a checklist developed by Hoy et al. to assess risk of bias in prevalence studies. Results: Overall, 51 publications were identified through the literature search. The overall prevalence of HBsAg in the general (and proxy) population ranged from 0.3 to 1.6%. Among at-risk groups, including clinical populations and health care workers, the HBsAg prevalence ranged from 0.2% (among rheumatic patients) to 4.5% among HIV positive patients. The overall prevalence of anti-HCV in the general (and proxy) population ranged from 0.2 to 1.9%. Among at-risk groups, including clinical populations and health care workers, the anti-HCV prevalence ranged from 0.04% (among health care workers) to 68.0% among people who inject drugs. Conclusions: The hepatitis B and C prevalence in the general population in Germany is low. Prevalence is high to very high among at-risk populations, however for some groups evidence was incomplete or missing completely. To reach the elimination goals in Germany and implement a targeted response, more research among at-risk groups is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ida Sperle
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
- Charité—Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gyde Steffen
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Translational Infrastructure Epidemiology of the German Centre for Infection Research, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Siv Aina Leendertz
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Translational Infrastructure Epidemiology of the German Centre for Infection Research, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Navina Sarma
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Monitoring, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sandra Beermann
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Translational Infrastructure Epidemiology of the German Centre for Infection Research, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
- Centre for International Health Protection, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Roma Thamm
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Translational Infrastructure Epidemiology of the German Centre for Infection Research, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Monitoring, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Yanita Simeonova
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Markus Cornberg
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Hanover, Germany
- Thematic Translational Unit Hepatitis of the German Centre for Infection Research, Hanover, Germany
| | - Heiner Wedemeyer
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Hanover, Germany
| | - Viviane Bremer
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ruth Zimmermann
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sandra Dudareva
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
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Houri I, Horowitz N, Katchman H, Weksler Y, Miller O, Deutsch L, Shibolet O. Emergency department targeted screening for hepatitis C does not improve linkage to care. World J Gastroenterol 2020; 26:4878-4888. [PMID: 32921964 PMCID: PMC7459203 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v26.i32.4878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a leading cause of chronic liver disease worldwide. New treatments for HCV revolutionized management and prompted the world health organization to set the goal of viral elimination by 2030. These developments strengthen the need for HCV screening in order to identify asymptomatic carriers prior to development of chronic liver disease and its complications. Different screening strategies have been attempted, most targeting high-risk populations. Previous studies focusing on patients arriving at emergency departments showed a higher prevalence of HCV compared to the general population.
AIM To identify previously undiagnosed HCV carriers among high risk emergency room attendees and link them to care for anti-viral treatment.
METHODS In this single center prospective study, persons visiting the emergency department in an urban hospital were screened by a risk factor-specific questionnaire. The risk factors screened for were exposure to blood products or organ transplantation before 1992; origins from countries with high prevalence of HCV; intravenous drug use; human immunodeficiency virus carriers; men who have sex with men; those born to HCV-infected mothers; prior prison time; and chronic kidney disease. Those with at least one risk factor were tested for HCV by serum for HCV antibodies, a novel oral test from saliva (OraQuick®) or both.
RESULTS Five hundred and forty-one participants had at least one risk factor and were tested for HCV. Eighty four percent of all study participants had only one risk factor. Eighty five percent of participants underwent OraQuick® testing, 34% were tested for serum anti-HCV antibodies, and 25% had both tests. 3.1% of patients (17/541) had a positive result, compared to local population incidence of 1.96%. Of these, 82% were people who inject drugs (current or former), and 64% served time in prison. One patient had a negative HCV-RNA, and two patients died from non-HCV related reasons. On review of past medical records, 12 patients were found to have been previously diagnosed with HCV but were unaware of their carrier state. At 1-year follow-up none of the remaining 14 patients had completed HCV-RNA testing, visited a hepatology clinic or received anti-viral treatment.
CONCLUSION Targeted high-risk screening in the emergency department identified undiagnosed and untreated HCV carriers, but did not improve treatment rates. Other strategies need to be developed to improve linkage to care in high risk populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inbal Houri
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tel-Aviv Medical Center, Tel-Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Noya Horowitz
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tel-Aviv Medical Center, Tel-Aviv 6423906, Israel
| | - Helena Katchman
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tel-Aviv Medical Center, Tel-Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Yael Weksler
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tel-Aviv Medical Center, Tel-Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Ofer Miller
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tel-Aviv Medical Center, Tel-Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Liat Deutsch
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tel-Aviv Medical Center, Tel-Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Oren Shibolet
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tel-Aviv Medical Center, Tel-Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
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Steffen G, Sperle I, Leendertz SA, Sarma N, Beermann S, Thamm R, Bremer V, Zimmermann R, Dudareva S. The epidemiology of Hepatitis B, C and D in Germany: A scoping review. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0229166. [PMID: 32150561 PMCID: PMC7062254 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0229166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Germany is considered to be a low prevalence country for viral Hepatitis B, C and D (HBV, HCV, HDV). However, the burden of disease can be high among subpopulations. To meet the world Health Organization (WHO) viral hepatitis (VH) elimination goals, a national strategy was developed by the German government in 2016. We performed a scoping review to understand the baseline epidemiological situation in Germany regarding burden of disease, sequelae and care of HBV, HCV and HDV as a reference to monitor the progress of the national VH elimination and to identify further knowledge gaps and research needs. METHODS The protocol of the systematic review was prepared following the PRISMA statement guidelines for scoping reviews. Relevant search terms were used to identify eligible studies according to the research questions. We searched six online databases for original work published between January 2005 and March 2017. Based on the identified references, a matrix was developed presenting the eligible literature by targeted population group and outcome category. RESULTS 104 publications were eligible for extraction covering 299 outcome results. The population groups targeted in the identified studies included the general population and proxy populations, a range of clinical populations, people who inject drugs, men who have sex with men, healthcare workers, people in prisons and different migrant/mobile populations. Other vulnerable populations (e.g. sex workers) were not targeted. Overall, good evidence was found for HBV and HCV prevalence and HBV vaccination coverage in the GP and proxy populations. Evidence for these outcomes was weaker in populations at risk for VH. For HBV and HCV incidence and mortality, we identified large evidence gaps in all population groups. Outcomes on VH sequelae and care were mainly covered by studies in clinical populations of people living with viral hepatitis. For HDV the overall evidence available was scarce. CONCLUSIONS We created a comprehensive evidence-based overview on the current epidemiological situation of viral hepatitis in Germany. We identified knowledge gaps for further research and established a baseline for future monitoring of viral hepatitis elimination goals in Germany.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gyde Steffen
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Translational Infrastructure Epidemiology of the German Centre for Infection Research, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ida Sperle
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Siv Aina Leendertz
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Translational Infrastructure Epidemiology of the German Centre for Infection Research, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Navina Sarma
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Monitoring, Robert Koch Institute Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sandra Beermann
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Translational Infrastructure Epidemiology of the German Centre for Infection Research, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
- Centre for International Health Protection, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Roma Thamm
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Translational Infrastructure Epidemiology of the German Centre for Infection Research, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Monitoring, Robert Koch Institute Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Viviane Bremer
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ruth Zimmermann
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sandra Dudareva
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
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9
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Pyziak-Kowalska KA, Horban A, Bielecki M, Kowalska J. Missed opportunities for diagnosing viral hepatitis C in Poland. Results from routine HCV testing at the Emergency Department in the Hospital for Infectious Diseases in Warsaw. Clin Exp Hepatol 2019; 5:294-300. [PMID: 31893241 PMCID: PMC6935844 DOI: 10.5114/ceh.2019.89148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM OF THE STUDY Current statistics indicate that approximately 150,000 (0.5%) people in Poland suffer from active hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, but only 20% among them are aware of their status. This project is based on the concept that screening based on the presence of HCV-related risks (a patient's individual history and behavioural risk factors) is more effective than obligatory testing of the whole population. This study investigates prevalence of serological markers for HCV among patients with a risk of exposure to HCV infection. MATERIAL AND METHODS The prospective study concerning patients of 18 years and older was conducted at the Emergency Department (ED) of the Hospital for Infectious Diseases in Warsaw (from 15 September 2016 until 23 July 2018). The inclusion criteria were: a blood transfusion before 1992, more than three hospitalizations in the lifetime, suspected liver disease, elevated aminotransferase activity, imprisonment, patient's own initiative, history of injecting drug use. The rapid HCV test was performed on all patients who fulfilled inclusion criteria. The statistical analyses included calculating serological positivity rate and comparing risk-group characteristics. RESULTS Among 1502 patients consulted at the emergency department with risk factors for HCV infection during the study period, the HCV test was performed in 1487 cases. New diagnoses were confirmed in 25 cases, HCV seroprevalence was 1.68%, all patients were linked to care, 21/25 (84.0%) were HCV RNA positive. CONCLUSIONS The study confirms that routine rapid testing in certain risk groups constitutes an essential tool for identifying new HCV infections and might have an important role for public health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrzej Horban
- Hospital for Infectious Diseases, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Adults’ Infectious Diseases, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maksymilian Bielecki
- Department of Psychology, SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Justyna Kowalska
- Hospital for Infectious Diseases, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Adults’ Infectious Diseases, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland
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Bundle N, Balasegaram S, Parry S, Ullah S, Harris RJ, Ahmad K, Foster GR, Tong CYW, Orkin C. Seroprevalence and demographic factors associated with hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV infection from a hospital emergency department testing programme, London, United Kingdom, 2015 to 2016. Euro Surveill 2019; 24:1800377. [PMID: 31290390 PMCID: PMC6628754 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2019.24.27.1800377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundProgress towards HIV, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination requires local prevalence estimates and linkage to care (LTC) of undiagnosed or disengaged cases.AimWe aimed to estimate seroprevalence, factors associated with positive blood-borne virus (BBV) serology and numbers needed to screen (NNS) to detect a new BBV diagnosis and achieve full LTC from emergency department (ED) BBV testing.MethodsDuring a 9-month programme in an ED in east London, England, testing was offered to adult attendees having a full blood count (FBC). We estimated factors associated with positive BBV serology using logistic regression and NNS as the inverse of seroprevalence. Estimates were weighted to the age, sex and ethnicity of the FBC population.ResultsOf 6,211 FBC patients tested, 217 (3.5%) were positive for at least one BBV. Weighted BBV seroprevalence was 4.2% (95% confidence interval (CI): 3.6-4.9). Adjusted odds ratios (aOR) of positive BBV serology were elevated among patients that were: male (aOR: 2.7; 95% CI: 1.9-3.9), 40-59 years old (aOR: 1.9; 95% CI: 1.4-2.7), of Black British/Black other ethnicity (aOR: 1.8; 95% CI: 1.2-2.8) or had no fixed address (aOR: 2.9; 95% CI: 1.5-5.5). NNS to detect a new BBV diagnosis was 154 (95% CI: 103-233) and 135 (95% CI: 93-200) to achieve LTC.ConclusionsThe low NNS suggests routine BBV screening in EDs may be worthwhile. Those considering similar programmes should use our findings to inform their assessments of anticipated public health benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick Bundle
- United Kingdom Field Epidemiology Training Programme, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom,Field Epidemiology Services, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sooria Balasegaram
- Field Epidemiology Services, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Parry
- Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sadna Ullah
- Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ross J Harris
- Statistics, Modelling and Economics Department, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom
| | - Karim Ahmad
- Barts Health NHS Trust, Emergency Department, Royal London Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Graham R Foster
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University, London, United Kingdom
| | - Cheuk YW Tong
- Barts Health NHS Trust, Virology department, Royal London Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Chloe Orkin
- Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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11
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Bielen R, Kremer C, Koc ÖM, Busschots D, Hendrickx DM, Vanelderen P, Hens N, Nevens F, Robaeys G. Screening for hepatitis C at the emergency department: Should babyboomers also be screened in Belgium? Liver Int 2019; 39:667-675. [PMID: 30525269 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Revised: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Patients are not screened adequately for hepatitis C virus infection in Belgium. In the USA, the Center for Disease Control recommends screening for patients born in the babyboom period (1945-1965). In Europe, the babyboom cohort was born between 1955 and 1974, but no screening policy has been targeted to this group. We aimed to study the prevalence of hepatitis C virus in an emergency department population in Belgium and the risk factors associated with hepatitis C virus infection. METHOD We performed a monocentric, cross-sectional seroprevalence study between January and November 2017 in a large Belgian non-university hospital. Patients aged 18-70 years presenting at the emergency department were eligible. Patients completed a risk assessment questionnaire and were screened for hepatitis C virus antibodies (Ab) with reflex hepatitis C virus ribonucleic acid testing. RESULTS Of 2970 patients, 2366 (79.7%) agreed to participate. hepatitis C virus Ab prevalence was 1.31%. Twenty-one (67.7%) hepatitis C virus Ab-positive patients were born between 1955 and 1974. With a previous treatment uptake of 54.5%, the prevalence of viremia was 0.9% in retrospect; 0.2% were newly diagnosed. The weighted multiple logistic regression model identified males born in the 1955-1974 cohort, intravenous drug use and high endemic birth country as significant risk factors for hepatitis C virus infection (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Although the prevalence of hepatitis C virus Ab at the emergency department was higher than previously estimated for the general population in Belgium, the number of newly diagnosed patients with viremia was low. To optimize screening strategies, screening should be offered to males born in the 1955-1974 cohort, but especially in drug users, the prison population and immigrants from high endemic countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rob Bielen
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium.,Department of Gastroenterology, Ziekenhuis-Oost Limburg, Genk, Belgium
| | - Cécile Kremer
- Faculty of Science, Center for statistics, Interuniversity Institute for Biostatistics and Statistical Bioinformatics, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Özgür M Koc
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium.,Department of Gastroenterology, Ziekenhuis-Oost Limburg, Genk, Belgium.,Medical Microbiology, School of NUTRIM, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Dana Busschots
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium.,Department of Gastroenterology, Ziekenhuis-Oost Limburg, Genk, Belgium
| | - Diana M Hendrickx
- Faculty of Science, Center for statistics, Interuniversity Institute for Biostatistics and Statistical Bioinformatics, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Pascal Vanelderen
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care Medicine, Emergency Care and Pain Therapy, Ziekenhuis-Oost Limburg, Genk, Belgium
| | - Niel Hens
- Faculty of Science, Center for statistics, Interuniversity Institute for Biostatistics and Statistical Bioinformatics, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.,Centre for Health Economic Research and Modelling of Infectious Diseases (CHERMID), Vaccine & Infectious Disease Institute(VAXINFECTIO), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Frederik Nevens
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospitals KULeuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Geert Robaeys
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium.,Department of Gastroenterology, Ziekenhuis-Oost Limburg, Genk, Belgium.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospitals KULeuven, Leuven, Belgium
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12
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Evans H, Balasegaram S, Douthwaite S, Hunter L, Kulasegaram R, Wong T, Querol-Rubiera A, Nebbia G. An innovative approach to increase viral hepatitis diagnoses and linkage to care using opt-out testing and an integrated care pathway in a London Emergency Department. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0198520. [PMID: 30044779 PMCID: PMC6059401 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0198520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Therapies that halt progression of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) and achieve a cure for chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) have encouraged development of innovative strategies to diagnose and link patients to care. We describe the prevalence and risk factors for HBV and HCV infections and use of an opt-out hepatitis testing and integrated linkage to care pathway in a London Emergency Department (ED). ED patients aged ≥16 years having routine blood tests from 15 February-28 March 2016 were tested for hepatitis, unless opted out. Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis C antibody tests (HCV-Ab, including a confirmatory hepatitis C antigen test (HCV-Ag)) were pre-selected on electronic blood test requests. Linkage to care (attending one clinic appointment) was offered to HBsAg and HCV-Ag patients (new or known-disengaged with care diagnoses). Weighted prevalence estimates and risk factors for seropositivity adjusted by demographics and survey weights were calculated using logistic regression. Hepatitis testing uptake was 56% (3,290/5,865). Overall, 26 HBsAg (10 new diagnoses) and 63 HCV-Ab patients were identified of which 32 were HCV-Ag positive (10 new diagnoses). Weighted seroprevalence of HBsAg was 0.50% (95% CI 0.3-0.8%); HCV-Ab 2.0% (95% CI 1.5-2.7%) and HCV-Ag 1.2% (95% CI 0.8-1.7%). Risk factors for infection were being male (HBsAg: aOR 4.1, 95% CI 1.5-11.3), of non-White British ethnicity (HBsAg: aOR>11) or being homeless (HCV-Ag: aOR 18.9, 95% CI 6.9-51.4). We achieved a high linkage to care uptake for HBsAg (93%) and HCV-Ag (78%) among patients who were contacted and required linkage. A pre-selected hepatitis testing ordering system facilitated a high testing uptake. New and disengaged with care diagnoses and a high HCV prevalence were identified demonstrating the potential to identify and link patients to care in this setting. Strategies connecting clinical care with community outreach services are key for improving patient linkage to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Evans
- United Kingdom Field Epidemiology Training Programme, Public Health England, United Kingdom
- Field Epidemiology Service, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sooria Balasegaram
- United Kingdom Field Epidemiology Training Programme, Public Health England, United Kingdom
- Field Epidemiology Service, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sam Douthwaite
- Department of Infection, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Hunter
- Emergency Department, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ranjababu Kulasegaram
- Department of HIV/GU Medicine, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Terry Wong
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Gaia Nebbia
- Department of Infection, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
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13
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Smirnov VV, Krasnykh LM, Shilovskii IP, Ryzhenkova AP, Khaitov MR, Drozdov VN. Approaches to Pharmaceutical Analysis of an Innovative Liposomal Preparation for Treating Hepatitis C. Pharm Chem J 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s11094-018-1802-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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14
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Gutwerk A, Wex T, Stein K, Langner C, Canbay A, Malfertheiner P, Link A. Helicobacter Pylori Serology in Relation to Hepatitis C Virus Infection and IL28B Single Nucleotide Polymorphism. J Clin Med 2018; 7:E44. [PMID: 29510558 PMCID: PMC5867570 DOI: 10.3390/jcm7030044] [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: 12/27/2017] [Revised: 03/01/2018] [Accepted: 03/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to evaluate the serological rate of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and determine any correlations with liver damage and IL28B single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP). One hundred eighty-nine patients with chronic HCV infection were included in the study, and H. pylori status was defined based on anti-H. pylori-IgG or anti-CagA-IgG antibodies using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Liver damage was assessed using histology or transient elastography. IL28B C/T polymorphism (rs12979860) was evaluated in circulating blood cells using a PCR-based restriction fragment length polymorphism assay. Overall H. pylori serology was positive in 38.1% of our HCV-infected subjects. Among those, the anti-CagA-IgG positivity rate was 43.1% and was within the range of previously described populations of the same region. Highest prevalence of H. pylori was found in patients between 31 and 40 years compared to other age subgroups. The seropositivity rate was higher in the non-cirrhotic group than the cirrhotic one (45.4% vs. 20.0%, p < 0.05). No difference was found in IL28B genotype between H. pylori-positive and -negative cohorts. However, we observed a trend for the lower anti-CagA-IgG expression level in relation to the IL28B T-allele. Our results do not support an association between HCV and H. pylori infection. Whether IL28B SNP has a functional role in modulation of serological response to H. pylori CagA needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Gutwerk
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Thomas Wex
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany.
- Medical Laboratories for Clinical Chemistry, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Molecular Genetics, 39124 Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Kerstin Stein
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Cosima Langner
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Ali Canbay
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Peter Malfertheiner
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Alexander Link
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany.
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15
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Real-world treatment for chronic hepatitis C infection in Germany: Analyses from drug prescription data, 2010-2015. J Hepatol 2017; 67:15-22. [PMID: 28189752 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2017.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2016] [Revised: 01/16/2017] [Accepted: 01/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) for hepatitis C virus (HCV) have strongly improved treatment options since 2014, but it is unclear if treatment numbers have increased. We aimed to estimate the number of treatment regimens per month from 2010-2015 and the number of patients treated and cured with DAAs since 2014, as well as the associated costs. METHODS Drug prescription data of hepatitis C virus (HCV) antivirals for patients with statutory health insurance in Germany (∼85% of population) from January 2010-December 2015 were evaluated. Standard 28-day prescriptions of pegylated interferon (PegIFN) and 1st/2nd generation DAAs were combined according to treatment guidelines and analysed. Drug costs were calculated from pharmacy sales prices. Mean treatment durations/regimen from real-world data were used to calculate drug costs/regimen and numbers of DAA-treated persons in 2014/15. RESULTS From January 2010-December 2015 PegIFN/ribavirin-treatments/month decreased from ∼6500 to ∼650. Monthly HCV-prescriptions rose with the approval of 1st generation DAAs (2011), and decreased at the end of 2013. With the approval of 2nd generation DAAs, prescriptions/month increased (peak: ∼6600; March 2015), and subsequently decreased (∼4000; December 2015). In 2014, ∼7000 patients were treated with DAAs, and ∼20,100 in 2015. Treatment costs/month were stable at 12 million EUR (2010-2011), increased to ∼38 million EUR (March 2012), and peaked to 150 million EUR (March 2015). DAA-drug costs/year added up to ∼664million EUR (2014) and ∼1.3billion EUR (2015). CONCLUSIONS Despite an increase in DAA prescriptions, in December 2015 less persons/month were under treatment compared to January 2010, even though access to DAAs is not limited. However, yearly treatment numbers increased from 2014-2015. Under observed conditions, ∼18,000 patients/year can be cured, making substantial reduction of the estimated 160,000 diagnosed patients realizable. Political commitment to achieve further reduce DAA-prices and increase treatment numbers is recommended. LAY SUMMARY New treatment options with all-oral second generation direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) have resulted in the potential to cure chronic hepatitis C infection, but at high costs. Analyses from HCV drug prescription data of patients with statutory health insurance in Germany from 2010-2015, showed that DAAs replaced treatments with pegylated interferon and ribavirin, but accompanied by a disproportionate rise in costs. Although the monthly number of patients under treatment did not increase over time, the total number of patients yearly treated with DAAs increased from ∼7000 patients in 2014 to ∼20,100 in 2015, with a trend to shorter treatment regimens. Under observed conditions ∼18,000 patients can be cured yearly, making a substantial reduction of the estimated 160,000 diagnosed patients in Germany achievable.
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16
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Lazarus JV, Sperle I, Spina A, Rockstroh JK. Are the testing needs of key European populations affected by hepatitis B and hepatitis C being addressed? A scoping review of testing studies in Europe. Croat Med J 2017; 57:442-456. [PMID: 27815935 PMCID: PMC5141462 DOI: 10.3325/cmj.2016.57.442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim To investigate whether or not key populations affected by hepatitis B and hepatitis C are being tested sufficiently for these diseases throughout the European region. Methods We searched MEDLINE and EMBASE for studies on HBV and HCV testing in the 53 Member States of the World Health Organization European Region following PRISMA criteria. Results 136 English-language studies from 24 countries published between January 2007 and June 2013 were found. Most studies took place in 6 countries: France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. 37 studies (27%) addressed HBV, 46 (34%) HCV, and 53 (39%) both diseases. The largest categories of study populations were people who use drugs (18%) and health care patient populations (17%). Far fewer studies focused on migrants, prison inmates, or men who have sex with men. Conclusions The overall evidence base on HBV and HCV testing has considerable gaps in terms of the countries and populations represented and validity of testing uptake data. More research is needed throughout Europe to guide efforts to provide testing to certain key populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey V Lazarus
- Jeffrey V Lazarus, CHIP, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Oster Allé 56, 5th floor, DK-2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark,
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17
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Tacke F, Günther R, Buggisch P, Klinker H, Schober A, John C, Lutz T, Pfeiffer-Vornkahl H, Niederau C, Cornberg M, Sarrazin C, Mauss S. Treatment of HCV genotype 2 with sofosbuvir and ribavirin results in lower sustained virological response rates in real life than expected from clinical trials. Liver Int 2017; 37:205-211. [PMID: 27428297 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections with genotype 2 (GT2) are generally considered as easy to treat. The current standard therapy is 12 weeks of sofosbuvir and ribavirin. However, sustained virological response (SVR) rates varied substantially in distinct subgroups. Therefore, re-assessing the efficacy of interferon-free therapy in cohorts with larger patient numbers is warranted. METHODS The German Hepatitis C registry is a national multicenter cohort. Patients are treated at the discretion of the physician. Data are collected by a web-based data system and confirmed by plausibility checks and on-site monitoring. RESULTS A total of 265 (4.3%) of 6034 patients enrolled in the registry were infected with GT2, and 236 had initiated treatment (60% males, 98% Caucasian, median age 54 years). Treatment with sofosbuvir and ribavirin for 12 weeks achieved SVR at week 12 post-treatment (SVR12) in 136/164 (83%) patients. SVR12 rates for this regimen were 80% (35/44) in treatment-experienced patients, 74% (20/27) in cirrhotics and 75% (21/28) in patients with HCV-RNA ≥6 million IU/mL. The overall SVR rate in patients treated with sofosbuvir/ribavirin 12 weeks per protocol (PP), excluding therapy discontinuation or lost to follow-up, was 135/151 (89%). PP SVR12 rates were 91% for treatment naïve, 83% for cirrhotic and 80% for treatment-experienced patients respectively. CONCLUSIONS In this large GT2 cohort, sofosbuvir and ribavirin for 12 weeks achieved lower SVR rates compared to treatment outcomes expected from phase 3 trials. These findings highlight the need for establishing alternative treatment strategies for GT2 patients, especially in patients with unfavourable outcome factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Tacke
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Rainer Günther
- Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), Kiel, Germany
| | - Peter Buggisch
- IFI-Institute for Interdisciplinary Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Claus Niederau
- St. Josef-Hospital, Katholisches Klinikum Oberhausen, Oberhausen, Germany
| | | | | | - Stefan Mauss
- Center for HIV and Hepatogastroenterology, Duesseldorf, Germany
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18
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High prevalence of chronic hepatitis B and C virus infection in a population of a German metropolitan area: a prospective survey including 10 215 patients of an interdisciplinary emergency unit. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 28:1246-52. [PMID: 27439034 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000000702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The prevalence of chronic hepatitis B virus- and hepatitis C virus-infections in the general German population has been estimated to be 0.6-0.7 and 0.3-0.4%, respectively. The population of Frankfurt/Main is multicultural and marked by different risks of chronic viral hepatitis. The aim of this prospective study was to define epidemiologic data for hepatitis B and C from consecutive patients of an interdisciplinary emergency unit in Frankfurt. PATIENTS AND METHODS Over a period of 12 months, 10 215 patients of an interdisciplinary emergency unit in Frankfurt/Main were screened for hepatitis B surface-antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis C virus-antibodies (HCV-Ab). In case of positive HBsAg or HCV-Ab, a quantitative PCR analysis of virus was carried out. RESULTS The prevalence of HBsAg and HCV-Ab in the study population was 1.32% (n=135; group 1) and 2.70% (n=276; group 2), respectively, with a sex ratio close to 1. Quantitative PCR tests of virus load were performed in 72.59% (group 1) and in 82.61% (group 2), with confirmed viremia in 54.08% (group 1) and 41.67% (group 2), and correlated to elevated liver enzymes in 49.05% (group 1) and in 75.78% (group 2) of the cases. The ethnic distribution was 87.09% White (n=8897; group A) versus 12.90% other ethnic groups (n=1318; group B), with a prevalence of HBsAg-positive and HCV-Ab-positive cases of 1.08 and 2.76% (group A) and 2.96 and 2.28% (group B). CONCLUSION The results show that in multicultural areas, the prevalence of chronic viral hepatitis is increased. Because of the potential of progressive liver damage in viral hepatitis, field screening in specific populations at high risk for hepatitis should be performed.
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19
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Tacke F, Kroy DC, Barreiros AP, Neumann UP. Liver transplantation in Germany. Liver Transpl 2016; 22:1136-42. [PMID: 27082951 DOI: 10.1002/lt.24461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Accepted: 03/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Liver transplantation (LT) is a well-accepted procedure for end-stage liver disease in Germany. In 2015, 1489 patients were admitted to the waiting list (including 1308 new admissions), with the leading etiologies being fibrosis and cirrhosis (n = 349), alcoholic liver disease (n = 302), and hepatobiliary malignancies (n = 220). Organ allocation in Germany is regulated within the Eurotransplant system based on urgency as expressed by the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score. In 2015, only 894 LTs (n = 48 from living donors) were performed at 23 German transplant centers, reflecting a shortage of organs. Several factors may contribute to the low number of organ donations. The German transplant legislation only accepts donation after brain death (not cardiac death), whereas advances in neurosurgery and a more frequently requested "palliative care" approach render fewer patients suitable as potential donors. The legislation further requires the active consent of the donor or first-degree relatives before donation. Ongoing debates within the German transplant field address the optimal management of patients with alcoholic liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and cholangiocarcinoma and measures to increase living donor transplantations. As a result of irregularities at mainly 4 German transplant centers that were exposed in 2012, guiding principles updated by the German authorities have since implemented strict rules (including internal and external auditing, the 8-eyes principle, mandatory repeated testing for alcohol consumption) to prohibit any manipulations in organ allocation. In conclusion, we will summarize important aspects on the management of LT in Germany, discuss legal and organizational aspects, and highlight challenges mainly related to the relative lack of organ donations, increasing numbers of extended criteria donors, and the peculiarities of the recipient patients. Liver Transplantation 22 1136-1142 2016 AASLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Tacke
- Department of Medicine III, RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Daniela C Kroy
- Department of Medicine III, RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | | | - Ulf P Neumann
- Department of Transplant Surgery, RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
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Stahmeyer JT, Rossol S, Bert F, Böker KHW, Bruch HR, Eisenbach C, Link R, John C, Mauss S, Heyne R, Schott E, Pfeiffer-Vornkahl H, Hüppe D, Krauth C. Outcomes and Costs of Treating Hepatitis C Patients in the Era of First Generation Protease Inhibitors - Results from the PAN Study. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0159976. [PMID: 27467772 PMCID: PMC4964984 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0159976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2016] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
1 OBJECTIVE Chronic hepatitis C virus infections (HCV) cause a significant public health burden. Introduction of telaprevir (TVR) and boceprevir (BOC) has increased sustained virologic response rates (SVR) in genotype 1 patients but were accompanied by higher treatment costs and more side effects. Aim of the study was to assess outcomes and costs of treating HCV with TVR or BOC in routine care. 2 MATERIAL AND METHODS Data was obtained from a non-interventional study. This analysis relates on a subset of 1,786 patients for whom resource utilisation was documented. Sociodemografic and clinical parameters as well as resource utilisation were collected using a web-based data recording system. Costs were calculated using official remuneration schemes. 3 RESULTS Mean age of patients was 49.2 years, 58.6% were male. In treatment-naive patients SVR-rates of 62.2% and 55.7% for TVR and BOC were observed (prior relapser: 68.5% for TVR and 63.5% for BOC; prior non-responder: 45.6% for TVR and 39.1% for BOC). Treatment costs are dominated by costs for pharmaceuticals and range between €39,081 and €53,491. We calculated average costs per SVR of €81,347 (TVR) and €70,163 (BOC) in treatment-naive patients (prior relapser: 78,089 €/SVR for TVR and 82,077 €/SVR for BOC; prior non-responder: 116,509 €/SVR for TVR and 110,156 €/SVR for BOC). Quality of life data showed a considerable decrease during treatment. 4 CONCLUSION Our study is one of few investigating both, outcomes and costs, of treating HCV in a real-life setting. Data can serve as a reference in the discussion of increasing costs in recently introduced agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jona T. Stahmeyer
- Institute for Epidemiology, Social Medicine and Health Systems Research, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Siegbert Rossol
- Department of Internal Medicine, Krankenhaus Nordwest, Frankfurt a.M., Germany
| | - Florian Bert
- Department of Internal Medicine, Krankenhaus Nordwest, Frankfurt a.M., Germany
| | | | | | - Christoph Eisenbach
- University Hospital Heidelberg, Dept. of Gastroenterology, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | | - Stefan Mauss
- Center for HIV and Hepatogastroenterology, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | | | - Eckart Schott
- Dept. of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | - Christian Krauth
- Institute for Epidemiology, Social Medicine and Health Systems Research, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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21
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Alberti A, Lacoin L, Morais E, Lefevre C, Abogunrin S, Iheanacho I. Literature review of the distribution of hepatitis C virus genotypes across Europe. J Med Virol 2016; 88:2157-2169. [DOI: 10.1002/jmv.24573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Alberti
- Department of Molecular Medicine; University of Padova; Padua Italy
| | | | - Edith Morais
- Bristol-Myers Squibb; Rueil-Malmaison; Paris France
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22
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Stahmeyer JT, Krauth C, Bert F, Pfeiffer-Vornkahl H, Alshuth U, Hüppe D, Mauss S, Rossol S. Costs and outcomes of treating chronic hepatitis C patients in routine care - results from a nationwide multicenter trial. J Viral Hepat 2016; 23:105-15. [PMID: 26411532 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2014] [Accepted: 08/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Viral hepatitis is a major public health problem affecting millions of people worldwide. Long-term consequences are the development of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The aim of the study was to assess outcomes and costs of treating patients with chronic hepatitis C in clinical practice in Germany. We carried out a prospective noninterventional study. Information on treatment outcomes, resource utilization and quality of life was provided by 281 physicians throughout Germany. Data of 3708 monoinfected HCV-patients treated between 2008 and 2011 were analysed. Therapy consisted of peginterferon/ribavirin. Mean age of patients was 43.7 years, 60.3% were male and estimated duration of infection was 13.6 years. Predominantly genotype 1 (61.3%) or 3 (28.5%) infections were observed. Sustained viral response (SVR)-rates in most frequently observed genotypes were 49.2% in GT-1 and 61.9% in GT-3 treatment-naive patients (Relapser: GT-1: 35.3% and GT-3: 57.3%; Nonresponder: GT-1: 25.0% and GT-3: 33.3%). Average treatment costs were lowest in treatment-naive patients (€18 965) and higher in patients who failed previous treatments (relapsers: €24 753; nonresponders: €19 511). Differences according to genotype were observed. Average costs per SVR in treatment-naive patients were €44 744 for GT-1 and €22 218 for GT-3. Treatment was associated with a decrease in quality of life; post-treatment quality of life was higher in patients achieving SVR. Our insight on real-life treatment outcomes and costs can serve as a reference for a comparison with other treatments. There is high need for short-term and long-term cost-effectiveness analysis in real-life settings as newly introduced treatment strategies with direct acting antivirals result in high SVR-rates but are more costly.
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Affiliation(s)
- J T Stahmeyer
- Institute for Epidemiology, Social Medicine and Health Systems Research, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - C Krauth
- Institute for Epidemiology, Social Medicine and Health Systems Research, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - F Bert
- Department of Internal Medicine, Krankenhaus Nordwest, Frankfurt/M, Germany
| | - H Pfeiffer-Vornkahl
- Factum - Company for Statistics, Scientific Information and Communication mbH, Offenbach, Germany
| | - U Alshuth
- Virology, Roche Pharma AG, Grenzach-Wyhlen, Germany
| | - D Hüppe
- Center of Gastroenterology, Herne, Germany
| | - S Mauss
- Center for HIV and Hepatogastroenterology, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - S Rossol
- Department of Internal Medicine, Krankenhaus Nordwest, Frankfurt/M, Germany
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23
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Shire NJ, Sherman KE. Epidemiology of Hepatitis C Virus: A Battle on New Frontiers. Gastroenterol Clin North Am 2015; 44:699-716. [PMID: 26600215 DOI: 10.1016/j.gtc.2015.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a leading cause of liver-related morbidity and mortality in the United States and other parts of the world. The epidemiology of the disease is highly variable between and within countries, and strategies to deal with HCV identification and treatment must be tailored to the geographic location and the political and economic environment of the region. Although great strides have been made in improving HCV transmission risk in blood supply products, new challenges related to changing patterns of disease incidence continue to require fresh evaluation and new approaches to disease prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norah J Shire
- Epidemiology, AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LLC, 1 MedImmune Way, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, USA.
| | - Kenneth E Sherman
- Division of Digestive Diseases, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 231 Albert B Sabin Way, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0595, USA
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24
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Wicker S, Rabenau H, Scheller B, Marzi I, Wutzler S. Prävalenz blutübertragbarer Virusinfektionen bei 275 Schockraumpatienten. Unfallchirurg 2015; 119:648-53. [DOI: 10.1007/s00113-015-0110-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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25
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Ruta S, Cernescu C. Injecting drug use: A vector for the introduction of new hepatitis C virus genotypes. World J Gastroenterol 2015; 21:10811-10823. [PMID: 26478672 PMCID: PMC4600582 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i38.10811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2015] [Revised: 06/19/2015] [Accepted: 09/15/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes’ monitoring allows real-time insight into the dynamic changes that occur in the global epidemiological picture of HCV infection. Intravenous drug use is currently the primary driver for HCV transmission in developed and developing countries. The distribution of HCV genotypes/subtypes differs significantly between people who inject drugs (PWID) and the general population. HCV genotypes that previously exhibited a limited geographical distribution (3a, 4) are becoming more prevalent in this high-risk group. Immigration from HCV-endemic countries and the evolving networks of HCV transmission in PWID influence HCV genotypes distribution in Europe. Social vulnerabilities (e.g., unemployment, homelessness, and limited access to social and healthcare insurances systems) are important triggers for illicit drug use, which increases the associated risks of HCV infection and the frequent emergence of less prevalent genotypes. Genotype/subtype determination bears important clinical consequences in the progression of liver disease, susceptibility to antiviral therapies and the emergence of resistance-associated variants. An estimated half of the chronically HCV-infected PWID are unaware of their infection, and only one in ten of those diagnosed enter treatment. Nevertheless, PWID exhibit high response rates to new antiviral regimens, and the level of HCV reinfection is unexpectedly low. The focus of the healthcare system must be on the early detection and treatment of infection, to avoid late presentations that are associated with high levels of viremia and liver fibrosis, which may diminish the therapeutic success rate.
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26
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Polilli E, Tontodonati M, Flacco ME, Ursini T, Striani P, Di Giammartino D, Paoloni M, Vallarola L, Pressanti GL, Fragassi G, Accorsi P, Manzoli L, Parruti G. High seroprevalence of HCV in the Abruzzo Region, Italy: results on a large sample from opt-out pre-surgical screening. Infection 2015; 44:85-91. [PMID: 26363567 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-015-0841-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2015] [Accepted: 08/31/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Available estimates of the prevalence of chronic HCV infection in Italy are quite conflicting, varying from 1.5 to 22.5%, with an apparent north to south gradient. As Direct Acting Antivirals are expensive, both National and local governmental Agencies are in urgent need of detailed and reliable estimates of HCV patients to be treated, nationwide and in each district. We investigated the prevalence of anti-HCV antibodies in a large unselected sample of surgical patients providing consent to in-hospital opt-out pre-surgical HCV screening, at two hospitals from the Abruzzo Region, Italy. METHODS Data were retrieved for 55,533 screened patients (4.1% of the total population in the Abruzzo Region), admitted in the Orthopedic and General Surgery wards of Pescara and Teramo Hospitals from 1999 to 2014. RESULTS The prevalence of anti-HCV antibodies was 4.4% in the total sample. HCV-positive patients had a mean age of 63.8 ± 19.9 years; 49.2% were males. From 1999 to 2014, the prevalence of HCV antibodies decreased from 5.4% to 4.1%; at both sites, however, two age-related-peaks were evidenced, the first among patients aged 30-49 years, the second among those older than 70 years. Statistical analyses confirmed a significant trend to decrease over time and a higher prevalence in Pescara and among males (all p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Data retrieved from opt-out pre-surgical screening programs may allow inexpensive and easy-to-perform estimates of HCV seroprevalence from large samples of unselected patients with a well-defined provenience, which may turn useful for future treatment resource allocation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ennio Polilli
- Head, Infectious Disease Unit, Pescara General Hospital, Via Fonte Romana 8, 65124, Pescara, Italy
| | - Monica Tontodonati
- Head, Infectious Disease Unit, Pescara General Hospital, Via Fonte Romana 8, 65124, Pescara, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Flacco
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
- Regional Healthcare Agency of Abruzzo, Pescara, Italy
| | - Tamara Ursini
- Head, Infectious Disease Unit, Pescara General Hospital, Via Fonte Romana 8, 65124, Pescara, Italy
| | - Palmira Striani
- Immunohematology and Transfusion, Apheresis Unit, Pescara General Hospital, Pescara, Italy
| | | | - Maurizio Paoloni
- Infectious Disease Unit, Avezzano General Hospital, Avezzano, Italy
| | - Luigi Vallarola
- Immunohematology and Transfusion Unit, Teramo General Hospital, Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Giorgia Fragassi
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - Patrizia Accorsi
- Immunohematology and Transfusion, Apheresis Unit, Pescara General Hospital, Pescara, Italy
| | - Lamberto Manzoli
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
- Regional Healthcare Agency of Abruzzo, Pescara, Italy
| | - Giustino Parruti
- Head, Infectious Disease Unit, Pescara General Hospital, Via Fonte Romana 8, 65124, Pescara, Italy.
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27
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Vilibic-Cavlek T, Kucinar J, Kaic B, Vilibic M, Pandak N, Barbic L, Stevanovic V, Vranes J. Epidemiology of hepatitis C in Croatia in the European context. World J Gastroenterol 2015; 21:9476-93. [PMID: 26327756 PMCID: PMC4548109 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i32.9476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Revised: 06/03/2015] [Accepted: 07/18/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
We analyzed prevalence, risk factors and hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype distribution in different population groups in Croatia in the context of HCV epidemiology in Europe, with the aim to gather all existing information on HCV infection in Croatia which will be used to advise upon preventive measures. It is estimated that 35000-45000 of the Croatian population is chronically infected with HCV. Like in other European countries, there have been changes in the HCV epidemiology in Croatia over the past few decades. In some risk groups (polytransfused and hemodialysis patients), a significant decrease in the HCV prevalence was observed after the introduction of routine HCV screening of blood/blood products in 1992. Injecting drug users (IDUs) still represent a group with the highest risk for HCV infection with prevalence ranging from 29% to 65%. Compared to the prevalence in the Croatian general population (0.9%), higher prevalence rates were found in prison populations (8.3%-44%), human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients (15%), persons with high-risk sexual behavior (4.6%) and alcohol abusers (2.4%). Low/very low prevalence was reported in children and adolescents (0.3%) as well as in blood donors (0%-0.009%). In addition, distribution of HCV genotypes has changed due to different routes of transmission. In the general population, genotypes 1 and 3 are most widely distributed (60.4%-79.8% and 12.9%-47.9%, respectively). The similar genotype distribution is found in groups with high-risk sexual behavior. Genotype 3 is predominant in Croatian IDUs (60.5%-83.9%) while in the prison population genotypes 3 and 1 are equally distributed (52.4% and 47.6%). Data on HCV prevalence and risk factors for transmission are useful for implementation of preventive measures and HCV screening.
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28
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Ditah I, Al Bawardy B, Gonzalez HC, Saberi B, Ditah C, Kamath PS, Charlton M. Lack of health insurance limits the benefits of hepatitis C virus screening: insights from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Hepatitis C follow-up study. Am J Gastroenterol 2015; 110:1126-33. [PMID: 25756239 DOI: 10.1038/ajg.2015.31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2014] [Accepted: 01/02/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Identifying barriers to access to hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment among screen detected subjects is critical for any public health strategy aimed at controlling HCV infection in the general population. METHODS Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey HCV Follow-up study from 2001 to 2010 were used. Participants who tested positive for HCV were sent a letter informing them of their test results and advised to pursue further evaluation. Information on HCV transmission and its potential complications was also provided to all positive participants. These subjects were recontacted 6 months after notification to determine what action they had taken regarding the positive result. RESULTS Of 38,025 participants, 502 tested positive for HCV infection, giving a prevalence of 1.3% (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.8%, 1.8%). A total of 205 subjects participated in the 6-month follow-up interview. Those who could not be reached were more likely to be less educated, injecting drugs, and not to have health insurance. Half (50.2%) of the positive individuals were not aware of their status before notification. A total of 166 (81%) had pursued further evaluation. Only 18 (26.9%) received therapy. The main reason for not receiving treatment was high cost (19.4%). In adjusted analysis, the only barrier to pursuing downstream HCV care was the lack of health insurance (2.76, 95% CI 1.54, 7.69; P=0.007). CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that the lack of health insurance may attenuate the theoretical benefits of a screening program that identifies asymptomatic HCV-infected individuals who are less likely to pursue downstream care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivo Ditah
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Badr Al Bawardy
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Humberto C Gonzalez
- Department of Transplant Surgery, Methodist University Hospital, University of Tennessee, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Behnam Saberi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Callistus Ditah
- University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Patrick S Kamath
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Michael Charlton
- Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Intermountain Medical Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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29
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Eradikation des Hepatitis-C-Virus und Verhinderung klinischer Endpunkte. GASTROENTEROLOGE 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s11377-015-0995-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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30
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High prevalence of hepatitis C (HCV) in the emergency department (ED) of a London hospital: should we be screening for HCV in ED attendees? Epidemiol Infect 2015; 143:2837-40. [PMID: 25672420 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268815000199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
An unlinked anonymous study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in emergency department (ED) attendees at a London Hospital. Nine hundred and ninety-seven samples collected over a 12-day period were tested for HCV antibody (Ab) and reactive samples were further tested for HCV RNA. The HCV seroprevalence was 2·6% (26/997) with 1·2% (12/997) HCV RNA positive. A peak HCV RNA-positive prevalence of 4·8% (3/63) was found in males aged 35-44 years, this was compared to 0% (0/136) in males aged <35 years (P = 0·0614) and 1·4% (4/278) in males aged ⩾45 years (P = 0·2415). Assuming the cost for HCV Ab is £6 and HCV RNA is £40 per test, screening ED attendees aged 25-54 years would cost £360 per viraemic infection and identify 82% of those who were HCV RNA positive, yielding the most favourable cost/benefit ratio. HCV screening of ED attendees aged 25-54 years in this population could be an effective way of identifying patients and limit onward transmission.
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31
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Ghasemzadeh I, Alavi-Nasr A, Khademi M, Kargar Kheirabad A, Gouklani H. Prevalence of Hepatitis C infection in Qeshm Island in 2013-2014, Iran. J Med Life 2015; 8:118-121. [PMID: 28316677 PMCID: PMC5348940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2015] [Accepted: 06/18/2015] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Hepatitis has involved many individuals and has left many complications. Hepatitis C is a type of hepatitis connected with several dilemmas. The purpose of the research is to study the Hepatitis epidemiology C into the Island of Qeshm in 2014. Method: this was an interventional study conducted on 1500 inhabitants of Qeshm Island. Participants were selected by using cluster sampling. Five cc of blood was drawn from each participant in order to test for HCV-Ab with ELIZA technique. Positive samples were referred for PCR to investigate the presence of anti Hepatitis C anti body. Data were entered in SPSS v.16 after sample collection and are examined utilizing detailed census (prevalence, mean, percent and standard deviation) and chi-square. Results: out of 1500 participants, 986 (65.7%) are women and 514 (34.3 %) are men. HCV anti body was seen in four patients (0.3 percent). The outcomes of the research explained that not of the studied factors (age, gender, marital status, place of residence, educational level, history of IV drug abuse, being in jail, quitting addiction, risky sexual behavior, etc.) is related to antibody pervasiveness. Conclusion: The disease pervasiveness was 0.3 percent in Qeshm Island, that is compatible with the another research outcomes. Also, factors investigated for HCV were not recognized as HCV risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Ghasemzadeh
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - A Alavi-Nasr
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - M Khademi
- Clinical Research Development Center, Shahid Mohammadi Hospital, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - A Kargar Kheirabad
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - H Gouklani
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
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32
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Niederau C. Chronic hepatitis B in 2014: great therapeutic progress, large diagnostic deficit. World J Gastroenterol 2014; 20:11595-617. [PMID: 25206267 PMCID: PMC4155353 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i33.11595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2013] [Revised: 01/03/2014] [Accepted: 04/27/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
This review analyzes progress and limitations of diagnosis, screening, and therapy of patients with chronic hepatitis B infection. A literature review was carried out by framing the study questions. Vaccination in early childhood has been introduced in most countries and reduces the infection rate. Treatment of chronic hepatitis B can control viral replication in most patients today. It reduces risks for progression and may reverse liver fibrosis. The treatment effect on development of hepatocellular carcinoma is less pronounced when cirrhosis is already present. Despite the success of vaccination and therapy chronic hepatitis B remains a problem since many infected patients do not know of their disease. Although all guidelines recommend screening in high risk groups such as migrants, these suggestions have not been implemented. In addition, the performance of hepatocellular cancer surveillance under real-life conditions is poor. The majority of people with chronic hepatitis B live in resource-constrained settings where effective drugs are not available. Despite the success of vaccination and therapy chronic hepatitis B infection remains a major problem since many patients do not know of their disease. The problems in diagnosis and screening may be overcome by raising awareness, promoting partnerships, and mobilizing resources.
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Bruggmann P, Berg T, Øvrehus ALH, Moreno C, Brandão Mello CE, Roudot-Thoraval F, Marinho RT, Sherman M, Ryder SD, Sperl J, Akarca U, Balık I, Bihl F, Bilodeau M, Blasco AJ, Buti M, Calinas F, Calleja JL, Cheinquer H, Christensen PB, Clausen M, Coelho HSM, Cornberg M, Cramp ME, Dore GJ, Doss W, Duberg AS, El-Sayed MH, Ergör G, Esmat G, Estes C, Falconer K, Félix J, Ferraz MLG, Ferreira PR, Frankova S, García-Samaniego J, Gerstoft J, Giria JA, Gonçales FL, Gower E, Gschwantler M, Guimarães Pessôa M, Hézode C, Hofer H, Husa P, Idilman R, Kåberg M, Kaita KDE, Kautz A, Kaymakoglu S, Krajden M, Krarup H, Laleman W, Lavanchy D, Lázaro P, Marotta P, Mauss S, Mendes Correa MC, Müllhaupt B, Myers RP, Negro F, Nemecek V, Örmeci N, Parkes J, Peltekian KM, Ramji A, Razavi H, Reis N, Roberts SK, Rosenberg WM, Sarmento-Castro R, Sarrazin C, Semela D, Shiha GE, Sievert W, Stärkel P, Stauber RE, Thompson AJ, Urbanek P, van Thiel I, Van Vlierberghe H, Vandijck D, Vogel W, Waked I, Wedemeyer H, Weis N, Wiegand J, Yosry A, Zekry A, Van Damme P, Aleman S, Hindman SJ. Historical epidemiology of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in selected countries. J Viral Hepat 2014; 21 Suppl 1:5-33. [PMID: 24713004 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 179] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Chronic infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a leading indicator for liver disease. New treatment options are becoming available, and there is a need to characterize the epidemiology and disease burden of HCV. Data for prevalence, viremia, genotype, diagnosis and treatment were obtained through literature searches and expert consensus for 16 countries. For some countries, data from centralized registries were used to estimate diagnosis and treatment rates. Data for the number of liver transplants and the proportion attributable to HCV were obtained from centralized databases. Viremic prevalence estimates varied widely between countries, ranging from 0.3% in Austria, England and Germany to 8.5% in Egypt. The largest viremic populations were in Egypt, with 6,358,000 cases in 2008 and Brazil with 2,106,000 cases in 2007. The age distribution of cases differed between countries. In most countries, prevalence rates were higher among males, reflecting higher rates of injection drug use. Diagnosis, treatment and transplant levels also differed considerably between countries. Reliable estimates characterizing HCV-infected populations are critical for addressing HCV-related morbidity and mortality. There is a need to quantify the burden of chronic HCV infection at the national level.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Bruggmann
- Arud Centres for Addiction Medicine, Zurich, Switzerland
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Razavi H, Waked I, Sarrazin C, Myers RP, Idilman R, Calinas F, Vogel W, Mendes Correa MC, Hézode C, Lázaro P, Akarca U, Aleman S, Balık I, Berg T, Bihl F, Bilodeau M, Blasco AJ, Brandão Mello CE, Bruggmann P, Buti M, Calleja JL, Cheinquer H, Christensen PB, Clausen M, Coelho HSM, Cramp ME, Dore GJ, Doss W, Duberg AS, El-Sayed MH, Ergör G, Esmat G, Falconer K, Félix J, Ferraz MLG, Ferreira PR, Frankova S, García-Samaniego J, Gerstoft J, Giria JA, Gonçales FL, Gower E, Gschwantler M, Guimarães Pessôa M, Hindman SJ, Hofer H, Husa P, Kåberg M, Kaita KDE, Kautz A, Kaymakoglu S, Krajden M, Krarup H, Laleman W, Lavanchy D, Marinho RT, Marotta P, Mauss S, Moreno C, Murphy K, Negro F, Nemecek V, Örmeci N, Øvrehus ALH, Parkes J, Pasini K, Peltekian KM, Ramji A, Reis N, Roberts SK, Rosenberg WM, Roudot-Thoraval F, Ryder SD, Sarmento-Castro R, Semela D, Sherman M, Shiha GE, Sievert W, Sperl J, Stärkel P, Stauber RE, Thompson AJ, Urbanek P, Van Damme P, van Thiel I, Van Vlierberghe H, Vandijck D, Wedemeyer H, Weis N, Wiegand J, Yosry A, Zekry A, Cornberg M, Müllhaupt B, Estes C. The present and future disease burden of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection with today's treatment paradigm. J Viral Hepat 2014; 21 Suppl 1:34-59. [PMID: 24713005 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 282] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The disease burden of hepatitis C virus (HCV) is expected to increase as the infected population ages. A modelling approach was used to estimate the total number of viremic infections, diagnosed, treated and new infections in 2013. In addition, the model was used to estimate the change in the total number of HCV infections, the disease progression and mortality in 2013-2030. Finally, expert panel consensus was used to capture current treatment practices in each country. Using today's treatment paradigm, the total number of HCV infections is projected to decline or remain flat in all countries studied. However, in the same time period, the number of individuals with late-stage liver disease is projected to increase. This study concluded that the current treatment rate and efficacy are not sufficient to manage the disease burden of HCV. Thus, alternative strategies are required to keep the number of HCV individuals with advanced liver disease and liver-related deaths from increasing.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Razavi
- Center for Disease Analysis, Louisville, Colorado, USA
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Lange CM, Jacobson IM, Rice CM, Zeuzem S. Emerging therapies for the treatment of hepatitis C. EMBO Mol Med 2014; 6:4-15. [PMID: 24106239 PMCID: PMC3936496 DOI: 10.1002/emmm.201303131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2013] [Revised: 08/12/2013] [Accepted: 08/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Opportunities to treat infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) are evolving rapidly. From the introduction of interferon‐α monotherapy in 1992 to the approval of telaprevir‐ and boceprevir‐based triple therapies with pegylated interferon‐α and ribavirin in 2011, the chances of curing patients infected with HCV genotype 1 have improved from <10% to approximately 70%. Significant further improvements are on the horizon, which may well cure virtually all hepatitis C patients with an all‐oral, interferon‐free regimen in the very near future. These exciting developments are reviewed in the present article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian M Lange
- Medizinische Klinik 1, Klinikum der J. W. Goethe-Universität Frankfurt a.M.Frankfurt a.M, Germany
| | | | - Charles M Rice
- Laboratory of Virology and Infectious Diseases, Center for the Study of Hepatitis C, The Rockefeller UniversityNew York, NY, USA
| | - Stefan Zeuzem
- Medizinische Klinik 1, Klinikum der J. W. Goethe-Universität Frankfurt a.M.Frankfurt a.M, Germany
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Himmelreich H, Rabenau HF, Rindermann M, Stephan C, Bickel M, Marzi I, Wicker S. The management of needlestick injuries. DEUTSCHES ARZTEBLATT INTERNATIONAL 2013; 110:61-7. [PMID: 23437024 DOI: 10.3238/arztebl.2013.0061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2012] [Accepted: 10/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An estimated 1 million needlestick injuries (NSIs) occur in Europe each year. The Council Directive 2010/32/EU on the prevention of NSIs describes minimum requirements for prevention and calls for the implementation of local, national and Europe-wide reporting systems. The Directive is to be implemented by all EU member states by 11 May 2013. The purpose of this study was to assess (and improve) the procedures for the reporting and treatment of needlestick injuries in a German tertiary-care hospital. METHODS We carried out a prospective observational study of the NSI reporting system in the hospital over a period of 18 months and determined the incidence of NSIs, the prevalence of blood-borne pathogens among index patients, the rate of initiation of post-exposure prophylaxis, and the rate of serological testing of the affected health care personnel. RESULTS 519 instances of NSI were reported to the accident insurance doctor over the period of the study, which consisted of 547 working days. 86.5% of the index patients underwent serological study for hepatitis B and C (HBV and HCV) and for the human immune deficiency virus (HIV); this resulted in two initial diagnoses (one each of active hepatitis B and hepatitis C) in the index patient. 92 of 449 index patients, or one in five, was infected with at least one blood-borne pathogen. HIV post-exposure prophylaxis was initiated in 41 health care workers. One case of hepatitis C virus transmission arose and was successfully treated. Other than that, no infection was transmitted. CONCLUSION Complete reporting of NSIs is a prerequisite for the identification of risky procedures and to ensure optimal treatment of the affected health care personnel. The accident insurance doctor must possess a high degree of interdisciplinary competence in order to treat NSI effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heiko Himmelreich
- Department of Trauma-, Hand- and Reconstructive Surgery, J.W. Goethe University Hospital, Frankfurt/Main
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Zaltron S, Spinetti A, Biasi L, Baiguera C, Castelli F. Chronic HCV infection: epidemiological and clinical relevance. BMC Infect Dis 2012; 12 Suppl 2:S2. [PMID: 23173556 PMCID: PMC3495628 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2334-12-s2-s2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV), first recognized as a cause of transfusion-associated acute and chronic hepatitis in 1989, plays a major role as a cause of chronic liver injury, with potential for neoplastic degeneration. It is mainly transmitted by the parenteral route. However, although with lower efficiency, it may be also transmitted by sexual intercourses and by the mother-to-child route. Epidemiological evidence shows that a wave of infection occurred in the 1945-65 period (baby boomers) in western countries. After acute infection, as many as 50-85% of the patients fail to clear the virus resulting in chronic liver infection and/or disease. It is estimated that, on a global scale, about 170 million people are chronically infected with HCV, leading to about 350.000 deaths yearly. Among western countries southern Europe, and particularly Italy, is among the most affected areas. The impact on the public health systems is noteworthy, with high number of hospitalizations due to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma. While waiting for a safe and effective vaccine to be made available, new promising direct-acting antiviral (DAA) drugs offer a better therapeutic scenario than in the past even for the poor responder genotypes 1 and 4, provided that effective screening and care is offered. However, the long and aspecific prodromic period before clinical symptoms develop is a major obstacle to early detection and treatment. Effective screening strategies may target at-risk groups or age specific groups, as recently recommended by the CDC.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Zaltron
- University Division of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University of Brescia and Spedali Civili General Hospital, 25123 Brescia, Italy
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