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De Martin E, Coilly A, Chazouillères O, Roux O, Peron JM, Houssel-Debry P, Artru F, Silvain C, Ollivier-Hourmand I, Duvoux C, Heurgue A, Barge S, Ganne-Carrié N, Pageaux GP, Besch C, Bourlière M, Fontaine H, de Ledinghen V, Dumortier J, Conti F, Radenne S, Debette-Gratien M, Goria O, Durand F, Potier P, Di Martino V, Reboux N, Ichai P, Sebagh M, Mathurin P, Agostini H, Samuel D, Duclos-Vallée JC. Early liver transplantation for corticosteroid non-responders with acute severe autoimmune hepatitis: The SURFASA score. J Hepatol 2021; 74:1325-1334. [PMID: 33503489 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2020.12.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS In acute severe autoimmune hepatitis (AS-AIH), the optimal timing for liver transplantation (LT) remains controversial. The objectives of this study were to determine early predictive factors for a non-response to corticosteroids and to propose a score to identify patients in whom LT is urgently indicated. METHODS This was a retrospective, multicenter study (2009-2016). A diagnosis of AS-AIH was based on: i) Definite or probable AIH based on the simplified IAIHG score; ii) international normalized ratio (INR) ≥1.5 and/or bilirubin >200 μmol/L; iii) No previous history of AIH; iv) Histologically proven AIH. A treatment response was defined as LT-free survival at 90 days. The evolution of variables from corticosteroid initiation (day-D0) to D3 was estimated from: Δ%3 = (D3-D0)/D0. RESULTS A total of 128 patients were included, with a median age of 52 (39-62) years; 72% were female. Overall survival reached 88%. One hundred and fifteen (90%) patients received corticosteroids, with a LT-free survival rate of 66% at 90 days. Under multivariate analysis, D0-INR (odds ratio [OR] 6.85; 95% CI 2.23-21.06; p <0.001), Δ%3-INR ≥0.1% (OR 6.97; 95% CI 1.59-30.46; p <0.01) and Δ%3-bilirubin ≥-8% (OR 5.14; 95% CI 1.09-24.28; p <0.04) were predictive of a non-response. The SURFASA score: -6.80+1.92∗(D0-INR)+1.94∗(Δ%3-INR)+1.64∗(Δ%3-bilirubin), created by combining these variables, was highly predictive of LT or death (AUC = 0.93) (88% specificity; 84% sensitivity) with a cut-off point of <-0.9. Below this cut-off, the chance of responding was 75%. With a score higher than 1.75, the risk of dying or being transplanted was between 85% and 100%. CONCLUSION In patients with AS-AIH, INR at the introduction of corticosteroids and the evolution of INR and bilirubin are predictive of LT or death. Within 3 days of initiating corticosteroids, the SURFASA score can identify non-responders who require a referral for LT. This score needs to be validated in a prospective cohort. LAY SUMMARY The management of patients with acute severe autoimmune hepatitis is highly challenging, particularly regarding their early referral for liver transplantation. We found that international normalized ratio at the initiation of corticosteroid therapy and the evolution of international normalized ratio and bilirubin values after 3 days of therapy were highly predictive of liver transplantation or death. We are thus proposing a score that combines these variables and identifies patients in whom liver transplantation is urgently required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora De Martin
- AP-HP Hôpital Paul-Brousse, Centre Hépato-Biliaire, Inserm Unité 1193, Université Paris-Saclay, FHU Hépatinov, Centre de Référence Maladies Inflammatoires des Voies Biliaires et Hépatites Auto-immunes, Villejuif, France.
| | - Audrey Coilly
- AP-HP Hôpital Paul-Brousse, Centre Hépato-Biliaire, Inserm Unité 1193, Université Paris-Saclay, FHU Hépatinov, Centre de Référence Maladies Inflammatoires des Voies Biliaires et Hépatites Auto-immunes, Villejuif, France
| | - Olivier Chazouillères
- AP-HP Hôpital St Antoine, Université Pierre et Marie Curie Paris 6, Centre de Référence Maladies Inflammatoires des Voies Biliaires et Hépatites Auto-immunes, Service d'Hépato-Gastroentérologie, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Roux
- AP-HP Hôpital Beaujon, Centre de Références des Maladies Vasculaires du Foie, Service d'Hépatologie, Clichy, France
| | - Jean-Marie Peron
- Service d'Hépatologie, Hôpital Rangueil CHU Toulouse, Université Paul Sabatier III, Toulouse, France
| | - Pauline Houssel-Debry
- CHU de Rennes, Hôpital Pontchaillou, Service d'Hépatologie et Transplantation Hépatique, Rennes, France
| | - Florent Artru
- CHRU Lille, Hôpital Claude Huriez, Service des Maladies de l'Appareil Digestif, Lille, France
| | | | | | - Christophe Duvoux
- AP-HP Hôpital Henri-Mondor, Service d'Hépato-Gastroentérologie, Créteil, France
| | - Alexandra Heurgue
- CHU Reims Service Hépato-Gastro-Entérologie et Cancérologie Digestive, Reims, France
| | - Sandrine Barge
- Hôpital Saint Camille, Service Hépato-Gastro-entérologie, Bry-sur-Marne, France
| | | | - Georges-Philippe Pageaux
- CHU Saint-Eloi, Département d'Hépato-Gastroentérologie et de Transplantation Hépatique, Montpellier, France
| | - Camille Besch
- Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Hôpital de Hautepierre, Service de Chirurgie Générale, Hépatique, Endocrinienne et Transplantation, Strasbourg, France
| | - Marc Bourlière
- Hôpital St Joseph, Service d'Hépato-Gastroentérologie, Marseille, France
| | - Hélène Fontaine
- AP-HP CHU Cochin, Service d'Hépatologie, Université Paris Descartes, INSERM U-818 et USM20, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | | | - Jérôme Dumortier
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital édouard Herriot, Fédération des Spécialités Digestives, et Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Filomena Conti
- AP-HP Hôpital de la Pitié Salpêtrière, Service de Transplantation Hépatique, Paris, France
| | - Sylvie Radenne
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital de la Croix-Rousse, Service d'Hépato-Gastroentérologie, Lyon, France
| | | | - Odile Goria
- CHU Rouen, Service d'Hépato-gastroentérologie, Rouen, France
| | - François Durand
- AP-HP Hôpital Beaujon, Centre de Références des Maladies Vasculaires du Foie, Service d'Hépatologie, Clichy, France
| | - Pascal Potier
- CHR d'Orléans, Service d'Hépato-Gastro-entérologie et Oncologie Digestive, Orléans, France
| | | | - Noemi Reboux
- Hôpital La Cavale Blanche, Service d'Hépato-Gastroentérologie, Brest, France
| | - Philippe Ichai
- AP-HP Hôpital Paul-Brousse, Centre Hépato-Biliaire, Inserm Unité 1193, Université Paris-Saclay, FHU Hépatinov, Centre de Référence Maladies Inflammatoires des Voies Biliaires et Hépatites Auto-immunes, Villejuif, France
| | - Mylène Sebagh
- AP-HP Hôpital du Kremlin-Bicêtre, Service Anatomie et Cytologie Pathologiques, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Philippe Mathurin
- CHRU Lille, Hôpital Claude Huriez, Service des Maladies de l'Appareil Digestif, Lille, France
| | - Hélène Agostini
- AP-HP Paris Saclay, Unité de Recherche Clinique des Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Sud, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Didier Samuel
- AP-HP Hôpital Paul-Brousse, Centre Hépato-Biliaire, Inserm Unité 1193, Université Paris-Saclay, FHU Hépatinov, Centre de Référence Maladies Inflammatoires des Voies Biliaires et Hépatites Auto-immunes, Villejuif, France
| | - Jean-Charles Duclos-Vallée
- AP-HP Hôpital Paul-Brousse, Centre Hépato-Biliaire, Inserm Unité 1193, Université Paris-Saclay, FHU Hépatinov, Centre de Référence Maladies Inflammatoires des Voies Biliaires et Hépatites Auto-immunes, Villejuif, France.
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Kapila N, Ma Q, King LY. It Ain't Over Till It's Over. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2020; 16:33-37. [PMID: 32922746 PMCID: PMC7474146 DOI: 10.1002/cld.961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nikhil Kapila
- Division of GastroenterologyDuke University Health SystemDurhamNC
| | - Qiuping Ma
- Department of PathologyDuke University Health SystemDurhamNC
| | - Lindsay Y. King
- Division of GastroenterologyDuke University Health SystemDurhamNC
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3
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Liukkonen V, Nordin A, Arola J, Färkkilä M, Åberg F. Role of Autoimmunity in Patients Transplanted for Acute Liver Failure of Unknown Origin: A Clinical and Graft Biopsy Analysis. Liver Transpl 2020; 26:764-773. [PMID: 32034878 DOI: 10.1002/lt.25729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The etiology and prognosis of acute liver failure (ALF) remains unknown in a significant proportion of cases. Signs of autoimmunity may be present, but no consistent pattern has been observed. We aimed to analyze if pretransplant immunological findings, human leukocyte antigen (HLA) haplotypes, and clinical features among patients with an unknown etiology differ from those of autoimmune or other known etiologies. We also analyzed whether such signs impact posttransplant biopsy findings or complications. All adult ALF patients undergoing liver transplantation (LT) in Finland during 1987-2015 were followed to 2016. Data were collected from the LT registry, pathology database, and patient records. A total of 124 patients were included in the analysis. Study subgroups were acute autoimmune hepatitis (AIH; n = 25), known non-AIH etiology (n = 54), and unknown etiology (n = 45). The unknown etiology group differed from the known non-AIH group with regard to the following pretransplant autoimmunity-associated features: positive perinuclear anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (36% versus 8%; P = 0.02) and higher mean immunoglobulin A (IgA; 3.2 ± 1.7 versus 2.1 ± 1.4, P = 0.006) and immunoglobulin G (IgG; 12.7 ± 4.3 versus 8.5 ± 3.6, P = 0.001). AIH-associated HLA haplotypes B8, DR3, and B8DR3 were more common in the AIH group (40%, 44%, and 36%, respectively) and in the unknown group (29%, 33%, and 29%, respectively) than in the known non-AIH group (11%, 17%, and 11%, respectively) or in the Finnish general population (17%, 18%, and 8%, respectively). However, these findings had no association with protocol biopsies, extrahepatic autoimmune diseases, or survival. Patients with ≥ 1 rejection episode had higher pretransplant IgA (3.7 ± 2.3 versus 2.6 ± 1.2; P = 0.02) and IgG (16.4 ± 10.2 versus 12.4 ± 6.8; P = 0.03) than those without rejections. Autoimmunity-associated pretransplant laboratory findings and HLA haplotypes were common in ALF of unknown etiology, but they showed minimal predictive value for posttransplant biopsy findings, clinical complications, or survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ville Liukkonen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Arno Nordin
- Transplantation and Liver Surgery Clinic, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Johanna Arola
- Department of Pathology, Laboratory of Helsinki University Hospital (HUSLAB), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Martti Färkkilä
- Department of Gastroenterology, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Fredrik Åberg
- Transplantation and Liver Surgery Clinic, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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4
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Autoimmune Hepatitis-Immunologically Triggered Liver Pathogenesis-Diagnostic and Therapeutic Strategies. J Immunol Res 2019; 2019:9437043. [PMID: 31886312 PMCID: PMC6899271 DOI: 10.1155/2019/9437043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Revised: 09/15/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a severe liver disease that arises in genetically predisposed male and female individuals worldwide. Diagnosis of AIH is made clinically applying diagnostic scores; however, the heterotopic disease phenotype often makes a rapid determination of disease challenging. AIH responds favorably to steroids and pharmacologic immunosuppression, and liver transplantation is only necessary in cases with acute liver failure or end-stage liver cirrhosis. Recurrence or development of de novo AIH after transplantation is possible, and treatment is similar to standard AIH therapy. Current experimental investigations of T cell-mediated autoimmune pathways and analysis of changes within the intestinal microbiome might advance our knowledge on the pathogenesis of AIH and trigger a spark of hope for novel therapeutic strategies.
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5
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Di Giorgio A, Nicastro E, Dalla Rosa D, Nebbia G, Sonzogni A, D'Antiga L. Transplant-free Survival in Chronic Liver Disease Presenting as Acute Liver Failure in Childhood. Transplantation 2019; 103:544-551. [PMID: 30028785 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000002367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In adults, the absence of a preexisting chronic liver disease (CLD) is required to diagnose acute liver failure (ALF). The pediatric classification does not consider this aspect, thus previous studies pooled together children with ALF and children with unknown CLD presenting with acute hepatic decompensation (ALF-CLD). We aimed to compare prevalence, features, and outcome of children with ALF-CLD to those with a proper ALF. METHODS Patients admitted between 1996 and 2017 because of ALF defined by Pediatric Acute Liver Failure criteria (raised transaminases, International Normal Ratio ≥2.0, no history of liver disease) were classified as ALF-CLD if diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis, Wilson disease, Budd-Chiari syndrome, hepatitis B virus reactivation, inborn errors of metabolism. The others were classified as ALF. RESULTS Seventy-four children (median age, 4 years; 1.0-8.8; male/female, 36/38] with ALF were found; 18 of <1 year of age were excluded. Fifty-six (median age, 6.6 years; 2.7-11.7; male/female, 23/33], 22 with ALF-CLD (autoimmune hepatitis, n = 14; Wilson disease, n = 6; inborn errors of metabolism, n = 2) and 34 with ALF (paracetamol overdose, n = 6; viral infections, n = 3; mushroom poisoning, n = 5; indeterminate, n = 20) were compared. In ALF-CLD, the median age at onset was higher, alanine aminotransferase, albumin, and International Normal Ratio levels were lower, splenomegaly, ascites, and cirrhosis were more common (all P < 0.01). On multivariate analysis, the diagnosis of ALF-CLD was an independent predictor of transplant-free survival (P = 0.006). CONCLUSIONS In children, ALF-CLD is common, has peculiar features, and is associated with a favorable outcome. This study suggests the need to distinguish this entity from other forms of ALF in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Di Giorgio
- Paediatric Hepatology, Gastroenterology and Transplantation, Hospital Papa Giovanni XXIII Bergamo, Italy
| | - Emanuele Nicastro
- Paediatric Hepatology, Gastroenterology and Transplantation, Hospital Papa Giovanni XXIII Bergamo, Italy
| | - Davide Dalla Rosa
- Paediatric Hepatology, Gastroenterology and Transplantation, Hospital Papa Giovanni XXIII Bergamo, Italy
| | - Gabriella Nebbia
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Aurelio Sonzogni
- Liver and Transplant Pathology, Hospital Papa Giovanni XXIII Bergamo, Italy
| | - Lorenzo D'Antiga
- Paediatric Hepatology, Gastroenterology and Transplantation, Hospital Papa Giovanni XXIII Bergamo, Italy
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6
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Dalekos GN, Koskinas J, Papatheodoridis GV. Hellenic Association for the Study of the Liver Clinical Practice Guidelines: Autoimmune hepatitis. Ann Gastroenterol 2019; 32:1-23. [PMID: 30598587 PMCID: PMC6302199 DOI: 10.20524/aog.2018.0330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a relatively rare acute or chronic liver disease of unknown etiology characterized by large heterogeneity. Its distribution is global, covering all ages, both sexes and all ethnic groups. The aim of the present Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG) of the Hellenic Association for the Study of the Liver was to provide updated guidance and help to gastroenterologists, hepatologists, internists and general practitioners for AIH diagnosis and management. AIH diagnosis is based on clinicopathological characteristics: namely, polyclonal hypergammaglobulinemia, particularly of immunoglobulin G (IgG), circulating autoantibodies, interface hepatitis on liver histology, absence of viral hepatitis, and a favorable response to immunosuppression. Clinical manifestations at disease onset are variable, ranging from asymptomatic to the acute/severe form. Aminotransferase and bilirubin levels vary, while the presence of hepatitis at the histological level is a prerequisite for diagnosis. Autoantibodies are the hallmark for AIH diagnosis; therefore, the CPG describe the appropriate serological algorithm for their detection. AIH therapy should aim to achieve complete biochemical (normalization of IgG and aminotransferases) and histological remission. All patients who have active disease, even those with cirrhosis, should be treated with individualized and response-guided induction therapy using prednisolone in combination with azathioprine or mycophenolate mofetil as first-line therapy. Immunosuppression should be given for at least 3 years and for at least 2 years after the achievement of complete biochemical response, while a liver biopsy should be recommended before treatment discontinuation. Current CPG are also provided for several specific conditions and difficult-to-treat patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- George N. Dalekos
- Institute of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Larissa (George N. Dalekos)
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa (George N. Dalekos)
| | - John Koskinas
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, “Hippokratio” General Hospital of Athens, Athens (John Koskinas)
| | - George V. Papatheodoridis
- Department of Gastroenterology, Medical School of National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, “Laiko” General Hospital of Athens, Athens (George V. Papatheodoridis), Greece
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7
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Zachou K, Arvaniti P, Azariadis K, Lygoura V, Gatselis NK, Lyberopoulou A, Koukoulis GK, Dalekos GN. Prompt initiation of high-dose i.v. corticosteroids seems to prevent progression to liver failure in patients with original acute severe autoimmune hepatitis. Hepatol Res 2019; 49:96-104. [PMID: 30248210 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Revised: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 09/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kalliopi Zachou
- Institute of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Larissa, Greece.,Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Pinelopi Arvaniti
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Kalliopi Azariadis
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Lygoura
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Nikolaos K Gatselis
- Institute of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Larissa, Greece.,Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Aggeliki Lyberopoulou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - George K Koukoulis
- Department of Pathology, Medical School, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - George N Dalekos
- Institute of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Larissa, Greece.,Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
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Abstract
Acute liver failure (ALF) is a rare but highly fatal condition. The most common causes include drug-induced and viral hepatitis, but other less common etiologies, especially autoimmune hepatitis, Budd-Chiari syndrome, and Wilson disease, need to be considered. Because diagnosis is frequently tied to potential for reversibility of ALF and prognosis, early identification in a timely manner is crucial. Other causes of ALF are more easily recognizable based on specific circumstances, such as ALF in pregnancy or ischemic hepatitis. Ultimately, maintaining a wide differential diagnosis in patients with ALF is essential to identifying the proper treatment and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Russell Rosenblatt
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Weill Cornell Medical College, 1305 York Avenue, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Robert S Brown
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Weill Cornell Medical College, 1305 York Avenue, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10021, USA.
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9
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Di Giorgio A, Sonzogni A, Piccichè A, Alessio G, Bonanomi E, Colledan M, D'Antiga L. Successful management of acute liver failure in Italian children: A 16-year experience at a referral centre for paediatric liver transplantation. Dig Liver Dis 2017; 49:1139-1145. [PMID: 28663066 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2017.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 05/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Identifying the causes of acute liver failure (ALF) and predictors of death or liver transplantation (LTX) is crucial to decide its management. We aimed to describe features and outcome of ALF in Italian children. METHODS Retrospective review of cases presenting between 1996-2012. ALF was defined by high transaminases, INR ≥2.0 regardless of hepatic encephalopathy (HE), no evidence of underlying chronic liver disease. RESULTS 55 children (median age 2.6 years, range 0.1-15.1; M/F=31/24) had ALF due to autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) in 10 (18%), metabolic disorders in 9 (17%), paracetamol overdose in 6 (11%), mushroom poisoning in 3 (5%), viral infection in 1 (2%), indeterminate in 26 (47%); 25/55 recovered with supportive management (45%); 28/55 underwent LTX and 2 died on the waiting list (55%). On multivariate analysis severity of HE grade 3-4 and bilirubin ≥12mg/dl were independent predictors of death or LTX (p<0.05). After a median follow up of 4 years (range 2-15.0 years) the overall survival rate was 93%. CONCLUSION Children with ALF can be managed successfully with combined medical treatment and transplantation, warranting a survival rate similar to children transplanted because of chronic conditions. In our cohort of patients severe HE and high bilirubin on admission were independent predictors of the need of LTX.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Di Giorgio
- Paediatric Hepatology, Gastroenterology and Transplantation, Hospital Papa Giovanni XXIII Bergamo, Italy
| | - A Sonzogni
- Liver and Transplant Pathology, Hospital Papa Giovanni XXIII Bergamo, Italy
| | - A Piccichè
- Hospital Management, Hospital Papa Giovanni XXIII Bergamo, Italy
| | - G Alessio
- Laboratory Medicine, Hospital Papa Giovanni XXIII Bergamo, Italy
| | - E Bonanomi
- Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Hospital Papa Giovanni XXIII Bergamo, Italy
| | - M Colledan
- General Surgery and Transplantation, Hospital Papa Giovanni XXIII Bergamo, Italy
| | - L D'Antiga
- Paediatric Hepatology, Gastroenterology and Transplantation, Hospital Papa Giovanni XXIII Bergamo, Italy.
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Liberal R, Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D. Contemporary issues and future directions in autoimmune hepatitis. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 10:1163-1174. [PMID: 27215278 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2016.1193004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a severe life-threatening hepatopathy of unknown etiology, affecting both pediatric and adult populations, and characterised by inflammatory liver histology, circulating non-organ-specific autoantibodies, and hypergammaglobulinaemia. AIH is a very heterogeneous disease with a variety of clinical presentations, ranging from asymptomatic liver test abnormalities to acute severe hepatitis or even acute liver failure. It responds very well to immunosuppressive treatment with prednisolone with or without azathioprine. Patients who are intolerant or fail to respond to standard therapy are candidates for alternative immunosuppressive regimens, the combination of steroids with mycophenolate mofetil or calcineurin inhibitors being the most frequently reported. The pathogenesis of AIH remains not completely understood, although there is evidence that genetic predisposition, molecular mimicry and defective immunoregulatory mechanisms contribute to the autoimmune liver damage. Areas covered: A literature search was conducted using the key-words 'autoimmune hepatitis', 'immunogenetics', 'regulatory T-cells' and 'immunosuppression'. The aim of this review is to discuss recent breakthroughs in the understanding AIH pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment. Expert commentary: Progress in the understanding of AIH pathogenesis is likely to contribute to the development of novel therapeutic strategies, such as the adoptive transfer of autologous expanded antigen-specific regulatory T-cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Liberal
- a Institute of Liver Studies and Paediatric Liver, GI & Nutrition Centre , King's College Hospital , London , UK
| | - Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- a Institute of Liver Studies and Paediatric Liver, GI & Nutrition Centre , King's College Hospital , London , UK
| | - Diego Vergani
- a Institute of Liver Studies and Paediatric Liver, GI & Nutrition Centre , King's College Hospital , London , UK
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11
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Liberal R, Krawitt EL, Vierling JM, Manns MP, Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D. Cutting edge issues in autoimmune hepatitis. J Autoimmun 2016; 75:6-19. [PMID: 27502148 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2016.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2016] [Revised: 07/06/2016] [Accepted: 07/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a severe liver disease affecting all age groups worldwide. Novel basic and clinical aspects of AIH, addressed at a Monothematic Conference in London in September 2015, are highlighted in this review. The diagnosis of AIH relies upon detection of characteristic autoantibodies, hypergammaglobulinemia, and interface hepatitis on liver histology. The International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group (IAIHG) has devised diagnostic scoring systems to help in comparative studies and clinical practice. AIH arises in a genetically predisposed host, when yet unknown triggers - such an encounter with a pathogen - lead to a T cell-mediated immune response targeting liver autoantigens. This immune response is inadequately controlled because regulatory mechanisms are impaired. The mainstay of treatment for AIH is immunosuppression, which should be instituted as soon as the diagnosis is made. Standard treatment regimens include relatively high doses of predniso(lo)ne, which are tapered gradually as azathioprine is introduced. Recent guidelines have described newer treatment regimens and have tightened the goal of therapy to complete normalization of biochemical, serological and histological parameters. Mycophenolate mofetil, calcineurin inhibitors, mTOR inhibitors and biological agents are potential salvage therapies, but should be reserved for selected non-responsive patients and administered only in experienced centers. Liver transplantation is a life-saving option for those patients who progress to end-stage liver disease. Further dissection of cellular and molecular pathways involved in AIH pathogenesis is likely to lead to the discovery of novel, tailored and better tolerated therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Liberal
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Edward L Krawitt
- Department of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - John M Vierling
- Departments of Medicine and Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Baylor-St Luke's Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK; Paediatric Liver, GI & Nutrition Centre, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Diego Vergani
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK.
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12
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Suzuki H, Harada S, Takao S, Takahashi M, Kato M, Kotoh K. Low-grade elevation of fibrinogen-degradation products is an important parameter to identify acute presentation of autoimmune hepatitis. Scand J Gastroenterol 2016; 51:986-93. [PMID: 27161820 DOI: 10.3109/00365521.2016.1168865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Diagnosing early-stage acute autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) without pathological findings is difficult. Recent reports indicated that macrophages are not activated during disease development, unlike in other acute liver injuries. We suggest that hepatitis without macrophage activation should lack sinusoidal fibrin deposition, which might help diagnose the acute presentation of AIH. MATERIAL AND METHODS To test this hypothesis, 295 consecutive patients with acute liver injury enrolled into this study. Their clinical data on admission were analyzed to verify the differences between acute presentation of AIH and other liver injuries. RESULTS The distribution of plasma fibrinogen degradation products (FDP) showed two clusters: patients without elevated FDP and those with measurable FDP levels of various degrees. Most AIH patients are included in the former. Multivariate logistic analysis of patients' laboratory data was performed for useful parameters to identify the acute presentation of AIH. FDP, alanine transaminase, zinc sulfate turbidity test and HBsAg levels were significant. Based on the odds ratio obtained from the analysis, we assigned each result individual points and constructed a convenient scoring system, which showed high sensitivity and specificity to identify AIH. Additionally, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.928. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicated that the process of macrophage activation and subsequent sinusoidal fibrin deposition was not involved in the development of the acute presentation of AIH. Our new scoring system including FDP levels could contribute to rapid diagnosis of the acute presentation of AIH without liver biopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideo Suzuki
- a Department of Medicine and Bioregulatory Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences , Kyushu University , Fukuoka , Japan
| | - Shigeru Harada
- a Department of Medicine and Bioregulatory Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences , Kyushu University , Fukuoka , Japan
| | - Shinichiro Takao
- a Department of Medicine and Bioregulatory Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences , Kyushu University , Fukuoka , Japan
| | - Motoi Takahashi
- a Department of Medicine and Bioregulatory Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences , Kyushu University , Fukuoka , Japan
| | - Masaki Kato
- a Department of Medicine and Bioregulatory Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences , Kyushu University , Fukuoka , Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Kotoh
- a Department of Medicine and Bioregulatory Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences , Kyushu University , Fukuoka , Japan
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13
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Affiliation(s)
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- EASL office, 7 Rue Daubin, CH 1203 Geneva, Switzerland,
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14
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Liberal R, Vergani D, Mieli-Vergani G. Update on Autoimmune Hepatitis. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2015; 3:42-52. [PMID: 26357634 PMCID: PMC4542083 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2014.00032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2014] [Revised: 12/08/2014] [Accepted: 12/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), a liver disorder affecting both children and adults, is characterized by inflammatory liver histology, elevated transaminase levels, circulating nonorganspecific autoantibodies, and increased levels of immunoglobulin G, in the absence of a known etiology. Two types of AIH are recognized according to seropositivity: smooth muscle antibody and/or antinuclear antibody define AIH type 1 and antibodies to liver-kidney microsome type 1 and/or liver cytosol type 1 define AIH type 2. AIH type 1 affects both adults and children, while AIH type 2 is mainly a paediatric disease, though it does occasionally affects young adults. AIH should be considered during the diagnostic workup of any patient with increased liver enzyme levels. AIH is exquisitely responsive to immunosuppressive treatment with prednisolone with or without azathioprine, with symptom free long-term survival for the majority of patients. For those who do not respond to standard treatment, or who are difficult-to-treat, mycophenolate mofetil and, in the absence of a response, calcineurin inhibitors should be tried in addition to steroids. The pathogenesis of AIH is not fully understood, although there is mounting evidence that genetic susceptibility, molecular mimicry and impaired immunoregulatory networks contribute to the initiation and perpetuation of the autoimmune attack. Liver damage is thought to be mediated primarily by CD4 T-cells, although recent studies support the involvement of diverse populations, including Th17 cells. A deeper understanding of the pathogenesis of AIH is likely to contribute to the development of novel treatments, such as the adoptive transfer of autologous expanded antigenspecific regulatory T-cells, which ultimately aim at restoring tolerance to liver-derived antigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Liberal
- Paediatric Liver, GI & Nutrition Centre and Institute of Liver Studies, King's College London School of Medicine at King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Diego Vergani
- Paediatric Liver, GI & Nutrition Centre and Institute of Liver Studies, King's College London School of Medicine at King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- Paediatric Liver, GI & Nutrition Centre and Institute of Liver Studies, King's College London School of Medicine at King's College Hospital, London, UK
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15
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is considered an underdiagnosed cause of fulminant hepatic failure (FHF). Autoimmune FHF (AI-FHF) is believed to lead invariably to liver transplantation (LTX) or death. We aimed to describe the autoimmune features of children diagnosed as having AI-FHF and indeterminate FHF (ID-FHF), and describe the outcome of patients with AI-FHF treated with immunosuppressive drugs. METHODS In this case-control study, the files of patients with AI-FHF and ID-FHF were reviewed and compared. AIH was diagnosed based on positive autoantibodies, raised immunoglobulin G, and histology when available. FHF was defined by raised transaminases, international normalised ratio ≥ 2.0, presence of encephalopathy, and no previously recognised liver disease. RESULTS A total of 46 children with FHF were managed in the last 15 years: 10/46 (22%) had AI-FHF, 20/46 (43%) ID-FHF, and 16 had other diagnosis. The mean follow-up time was 4.6 years. AI-FHF and ID-FHF differed for the presence of autoantibodies (10/10, 6/10 liver/kidney microsome [LKM]-type, vs 3/20, none LKM, P < 0.0001), immunoglobulin G level (1845 vs 880 mg/dL, P < 0.001), median age at diagnosis (6.4 vs 1.8 years, P = 0.017), and alanine aminotransferase level (1020 vs 2386 IU/L, P = 0.029). Liver histology did not allow to differentiate the 2 conditions. Among the patients with AI-FHF, 4/9 who received steroids recovered; 5/9 required LTX and 1 died awaiting treatment. CONCLUSIONS AIH is a much more common cause of FHF than previously suggested, and a complete autoantibody testing including LKM-type is essential in this setting. Autoantibodies are uncommon in ID-FHF, and histology cannot distinguish it from AI-FHF. A cautious steroid trial may avoid LTX in some of the patients with AI-FHF.
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16
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Tanaka T, Sugawara Y, Kokudo N. Liver transplantation and autoimmune hepatitis. Intractable Rare Dis Res 2015; 4:33-8. [PMID: 25674386 PMCID: PMC4322593 DOI: 10.5582/irdr.2014.01034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2014] [Accepted: 01/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver Transplantation (LT) is an effective treatment for patients with end-stage liver disease including autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). Indication for LT for AIH does not differ basically from other liver diseases including both acute and chronic types of disease progression, although it is reported to be an infrequent indication for LT worldwide due to the therapeutic advances of immunosuppression. The outcome following LT is feasible, with current patient and graft survival exceeding 75% at 5 years. Recurrent and de-novo AIH posttranslant has also been reported; and this seems to have important clinical implications because its management differs from the standard treatment for allograft rejection. In this review, we discuss the characteristics of AIH, focusing on the indication for LT and issues raised following LT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomohiro Tanaka
- Organ Transplantation Service, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Sugawara
- Artificial Organ and Transplantation Division, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Address correspondence to: Dr. Yasuhiko Sugawara, Artificial Organ and Transplantation Division, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan. E-mail:
| | - Norihiro Kokudo
- Artificial Organ and Transplantation Division, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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17
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Liberal R, Zen Y, Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D. Liver transplantation and autoimmune liver diseases. Liver Transpl 2013; 19:1065-77. [PMID: 23873751 DOI: 10.1002/lt.23704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2013] [Accepted: 06/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Liver transplantation (LT) is an effective treatment for patients with end-stage autoimmune liver diseases such as primary biliary cirrhosis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and autoimmune hepatitis. Indications for LT for these diseases do not differ substantially from those used for other acute or chronic liver diseases. Despite the good outcomes reported, the recurrence of autoimmune liver disease is relatively common in the allograft. In addition, it has become apparent that autoimmunity and autoimmune liver disease can arise de novo after transplantation for nonautoimmune liver disorders. An awareness of the existence of recurrent autoimmune liver diseases and de novo autoimmune hepatitis after LT has important clinical implications because their management differs from the standard antirejection treatment and is similar to the management of classic autoimmune liver diseases in the native liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Liberal
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College London School of Medicine at King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom; Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Staufer K, Trauner M, Fuhrmann V. Akutes Leberversagen. WIENER KLINISCHE WOCHENSCHRIFT. EDUCATION 2012; 7:59-76. [PMID: 32288850 PMCID: PMC7101669 DOI: 10.1007/s11812-012-0051-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Staufer
- Klinische Abteilung für Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Intensivstation 13h1, Universitätsklinik für Innere Medizin III, Medizinische Universität Wien, Wien, Österreich
| | - Michael Trauner
- Klinische Abteilung für Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Intensivstation 13h1, Universitätsklinik für Innere Medizin III, Medizinische Universität Wien, Wien, Österreich
| | - Valentin Fuhrmann
- Klinische Abteilung für Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Intensivstation 13h1, Universitätsklinik für Innere Medizin III, Medizinische Universität Wien, Wien, Österreich
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Ilyas JA, O'Mahony CA, Vierling JM. Liver transplantation in autoimmune liver diseases. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol 2011; 25:765-82. [PMID: 22117641 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpg.2011.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2011] [Accepted: 09/30/2011] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Liver transplantation is indicated for terminal phases of autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cirrhosis and primary sclerosing cholangitis. Indications for transplantation in autoimmune liver diseases are similar to those used in other acute or chronic liver diseases. Therapeutic advances have reduced the need for transplantation for autoimmune hepatitis and primary biliary cirrhosis but not for primary sclerosing cholangitis. Overall, outcomes of transplantation for autoimmune liver diseases are excellent. However, recurrence of autoimmune liver diseases in the allograft has variable impacts on graft and patient survivals. Treatment of recurrent diseases requires changes in immunosuppression or addition of ursodeoxycholic acid. Among autoimmune liver diseases, only autoimmune hepatitis occurs de novo in recipients transplanted for other diseases. Patients transplanted for autoimmune hepatitis or primary sclerosing cholangitis are at risk for reactivation or de novo onset of ulcerative colitis. Better understanding of the pathogenesis of recurrent autoimmune liver diseases is needed to devise effective means of prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jawad A Ilyas
- Fellow in Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Liver Center, Baylor College of Medicine and St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital, 1709 Dryden, Suite 1500, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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