Direct-acting antivirals and hepatocellular carcinoma in chronic hepatitis C: A few lights and many shadows

Incidence of Liver and Non-liver Cancers After Hepatitis C Virus Eradication: A Population-Based Cohort Study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) offer a high rate of hepatitis C virus (HCV) eradication. However, concerns on the risk of cancer after HCV eradication remain. Our study aimed at quantifying the incidence of cancer in patients treated with anti-HCV therapies in Catalonia (Spain) and their matched controls.

METHODS

This was a population-based study using real-world data from the public healthcare system of Catalonia between 2012 and 2016. Propensity score matching was performed in patients with HCV infection treated with interferon-based therapy (IFN), sequential IFN and DAA (IFN+DAA), and DAA only (DAA) with concurrent controls. We estimated the annual incidence of overall cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, and non-liver cancer of HCV-treated patients and their corresponding rate ratios.

RESULTS

The study included 11,656 HCV-treated patients and 49,545 controls. We found statistically significant increases in the rate of overall cancer for IFN+DAA-treated (rate ratio [RR] 1.77, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.27-2.46) and DAA-treated patients (RR 1.90, 95% CI 1.66-2.19) and in the rate of HCC for IFN-treated (RR 1.50, 95% CI 1.02-2.22), IFN+DAA-treated (RR 3.89, 95% CI 2.26-6.69), and DAA-treated patients (RR 6.45, 95% CI 4.90-8.49) compared with their corresponding controls. Moreover, DAA-treated patients with cirrhosis showed an increased rate of overall cancer versus those without cirrhosis (RR 1.92, 95% CI 1.51-2.44).

CONCLUSIONS

Results showed that overall cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma incidence in Catalonia was significantly higher among HCV-treated patients compared with matched non-HCV-infected controls, and risks were higher in patients with cirrhosis. An increased awareness of the potential occurrence of uncommon malignant events and monitoring after HCV eradication therapy may benefit patients.

Improved outcomes of liver resection for hepatitis C-related hepatocellular carcinoma after the introduction of direct-acting antiviral therapy

BACKGROUND

Assess impact of direct-acting antivirals introduction on outcomes after liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma.

METHODS

391 patients (1991-2021) treated with resection for hepatocellular carcinoma on Hepatitis C background were divided according to receiving Hepatitis C treatment, treatment type, achievement of sustained virological response (SVR), time of resection pre- (Era 1, 1991-2011) and post-direct acting antivirals introduction (Era 2, 2012-2021). Survival was estimated with Kaplan-Meier curves, Cox regression analysis performed to identify survival predictors.

RESULTS

Majority of patients had single lesion (67.8%), diameter >2 cm in 60.6%, no evidence of macroscopic vascular invasion on imaging. Pathology showed vascular invasion in 69.6% of patients, 76.5% microvascular. Recurrence developed in 247 patients (63.2%). 194 patients (49.6%) achieved SVR. Overall survival at 1-, 3-, 5-years was 94.6%, 85.7%, 78.8% for patients who achieved SVR, 80.1%, 48.1%, 29.9% in those who did not (p < 0.001). 220 patients (56.3%) were in Era 1, 171 (43.7%) in Era 2. Survival at 1-, 3-, 5-years was 76.1%, 49%, 36% in Era 1, 94.5%, 82.5%, 70.3% in Era 2 (p < 0.001). SVR was an independent predictor of survival on multiple Cox Regression analysis.

CONCLUSION

While many aspects of HCC management have evolved, SVR following direct-acting antivirals independently improves HCC resection outcomes.

Investigating the effect of polymerase inhibitors on cellular proliferation: Computational studies, cytotoxicity, CDK1 inhibitory potential, and LC-MS/MS cancer cell entrapment assays

Directly acting antivirals (DAAs) are a breakthrough in the treatment of HCV. There are controversial reports on their tendency to induce hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in HCV patients. Numerous reports have concluded that the HCC is attributed to patient-related factors while others are inclined to attribute this as a DAA side-effect. This study aims to investigate the effect of polymerase inhibitor DAAs, especially daclatasivir (DLT) on cellular proliferation as compared to ribavirin (RBV). The interaction of DAAs with variable cell-cycle proteins was studied in silico. The binding affinities to multiple cellular targets were investigated and the molecular dynamics were assessed. The in vitro effect of the selected candidate DLT on cancer cell proliferation was determined and the CDK1 inhibitory potential in was evaluated. Finally, the cellular entrapment of the selected candidates was assessed by an in-house developed and validated LC-MS/MS method. The results indicated that polymerase inhibitor antiviral agents, especially DLT, may exert an anti-proliferative potential against variable cancer cell lines. The results showed that the effect may be achieved via potential interaction with the multiple cellular targets, including the CDK1, resulting in halting of the cellular proliferation. DLT exhibited a remarkable cell permeability in the liver cancer cell line which permits adequate interaction with the cellular targets. In conclusion, the results reveal that the polymerase inhibitor (DLT) may have an anti-proliferative potential against liver cancer cells. These results may pose DLT as a therapeutic choice for patients suffering from HCV and are liable to HCC development.

Egyptian Society of Liver Cancer Recommendation Guidelines for the Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Globally, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth most common cause of death from cancer. The prevalence of this pathology, which has been on the rise in the last 30 years, has been predicted to continue increasing. HCC is the most common cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality in Egypt and is also the most common cancer in males. Chronic liver diseases, including chronic hepatitis C, which is a primary health concern in Egypt, are considered major risk factors for HCC. However, HCC surveillance is recommended for patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) and liver cirrhosis; those above 40 with HBV but without cirrhosis; individuals with hepatitis D co-infection or a family history of HCC; and Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients exhibiting significant fibrosis or cirrhosis. Several international guidelines aid physicians in the management of HCC. However, the availability and cost of diagnostic modalities and treatment options vary from one country to another. Therefore, the current guidelines aim to standardize the management of HCC in Egypt. The recommendations presented in this report represent the current management strategy at HCC treatment centers in Egypt. Recommendations were developed by an expert panel consisting of hepatologists, oncologists, gastroenterologists, surgeons, pathologists, and radiologists working under the umbrella of the Egyptian Society of Liver Cancer. The recommendations, which are based on the currently available local diagnostic aids and treatments in the country, include recommendations for future prospects.

Diagnosis and monitoring of hepatocellular carcinoma in Hepatitis C virus patients using attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy

BACKGROUND

Current diagnostic methods for assessment of hepatitis C virus related hepatocellular carcinoma and subsequent categorization of hepatocellular carcinoma into non-angio-invasive hepatocellular carcinoma and angio-invasive hepatocellular carcinoma, to establish appropriate treatment strategies, are costly, invasive and requires multiple screening steps. This demands alternative diagnostic approaches that are cost-effective, time-efficient, and minimally invasive, while maintaining their efficacy for screening of hepatitis c virus related hepatocellular carcinoma. In this study, we propose that attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared in conjunction with principal component analysis - linear discriminant analysis and support vector machine multivariate algorithms holds a potential as a sensitive tool for the detection of hepatitis C virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma and the subsequent categorization of hepatocellular carcinoma into non-angio-invasive hepatocellular carcinoma and angio-invasive hepatocellular carcinoma.

METHODS

Freeze-dried sera samples collected from 31 hepatitis c virus related hepatocellular carcinoma patients and 30 healthy individuals, were used to acquire mid-infrared absorbance spectra (3500-900 cm-1) using attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared. Chemometric machine learning techniques were utilized to build principal component analysis - linear discriminant analysis and support vector machine discriminant models for the spectral data of hepatocellular carcinoma patients and healthy individuals. Sensitivity, specificity, and external validation on blind samples were calculated.

RESULTS

Major variations were observed in the two spectral regions i.e., 3500-2800 and 1800-900 cm-1. IR spectral signatures of hepatocellular carcinoma were reliably different from healthy individuals. Principal component analysis - linear discriminant analysis and support vector machine models computed 100% accuracy for diagnosing hepatocellular carcinoma. To classify the non-angio-invasive hepatocellular carcinoma/ angio-invasive hepatocellular carcinoma status, diagnostic accuracy of 86.21% was achieved for principal component analysis - linear discriminant analysis. While the support vector machine showed a training accuracy of 98.28% and a cross-validation accuracy of 82.75%. External validation for support vector machine based classification observed 100% sensitivity and specificity for accurately classifying the freeze-dried sera samples for all categories.

CONCLUSIONS

We present the specific spectral signatures for non-angio-invasive hepatocellular carcinoma and angio-invasive hepatocellular carcinoma, which were prominently differentiated from healthy individuals. This study provides an initial insight into the potential of attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared to diagnose hepatitis C virus related hepatocellular carcinoma but also to further categorize into non-angio-invasive and angio-invasive hepatocellular carcinoma.

Prediction of hepatic decompensation and hepatocellular carcinoma after direct-acting antiviral therapy in patients with hepatitis C-related liver cirrhosis: a cohort study

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the rate of hepatic decompensation and de novo HCC and identify their independent factors in HCV genotype 4-infected patients with compensated liver cirrhosis following successful direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included 1789 patients with HCV genotype 4-related compensated liver cirrhosis who achieved viral eradication after DAAs. Baseline and follow-up clinical, laboratory, albumin-bilirubin score (ALBI), and abdominal ultrasound were recorded to detect hepatic decompensation and de novo HCC. Logistic regression was performed to evaluate the variables associated with decompensation and HCC.

Results

During the 24-month period of follow-up, 184 (10.28%) patients developed hepatic decompensation. Ascites was the commonest presentation. Baseline serum albumin, bilirubin, and platelet count were the independent factors associated with hepatic decompensation (P-values 0.022, 0.03, and < 0.001, respectively). A formula was developed for the prediction of decompensation using these 3 factors (AUC: 0.641 at cutoff 0.1098969 with a sensitivity of 59.9% and specificity of 61.7%). Pre-treatment ALBI score could predict decompensation at cutoff value − 2.5184, AUC 0.609, sensitivity 58.3%, and specificity 59.7%. Post-treatment ALBI score could predict hepatic decompensation after DAA therapy at cutoff value − 2.9521, AUC 0.597, sensitivity 48.1%, and specificity 75.5%. Sixteen (0.9%) patients developed de novo HCC. Age (odds ratio: 1.061, 95%, confidence interval: 1–1.126) and male gender (OR 3.450, 95% CI 1.105–10.769) were the independent factors associated with the development of de novo HCC but not the ALBI score.

Conclusion

Baseline demographic and laboratory data could predict hepatic decompensation and HCC in patients with compensated liver cirrhosis after successful DAA therapy

Hepatocellular carcinoma and hepatitis C virus treatments: The bold and the beautiful

The occurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most serious complications of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Recently, effective antiviral medications have made sustained viral response (SVR) or cure a realistic therapeutic goal for most chronic HCV patients. Given HCV's tumorigenic propensity, it is not surprising that achieving SVR is helpful in preventing HCC. This review briefly summarizes and discusses the existing evidence on the relationship between hepatic carcinogenesis and viral eradication by antivirals, which is mainly divided into interferon-based and direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) based therapy. DAAs have changed the treatment landscape of chronic HCV, reaching high rates of SVR even in patients with advanced cirrhosis, with few contraindications and little side effects. Although some early reports suggested that DAA treatment increased the chance of HCC occurrence, more subsequent observational studies have refuted this theory. The probability of HCC recurrence after HCV eradication appears to be decreasing over time following SVR. Despite virological suppression/cure, individuals with liver cirrhosis are still at risk of HCC and should be monitored. There is a considerable need for markers/scores to predict the long-term risk of HCC in patients with HCV-related liver disease who attain SVR with direct-acting antivirals.

Tolloid-like 1 gene variant rs17047200, pretreatment FIB-4, ALBI and PALBI scores as predictors of hepatocellular carcinoma occurrence after directly acting antivirals

Aim of the study

Identifying persons at increased risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after exposure to directly acting antivirals (DAAs) is of utmost importance. Our aim was to identify the predictors of de novo HCC occurrence among cirrhotic patients after hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment using DAAs.

Material and methods

529 cirrhotic patients who initiated treatment for HCV using DAAs were followed up for 2 years from the end of treatment for development of HCC. Pretreatment clinical and laboratory data were assessed as possible predictors for HCC occurrence. Genotyping for tolloid-like 1 gene (TLL1) variant rs17047200 was assessed in all patients who developed HCC and in the matched control group.

Results

Pretreatment bilirubin, FIB-4 and platelet-albumin-bilirubin (PALBI) scores were significantly higher among those who developed HCC than those who did not develop HCC during the 2-year follow-up period while hemoglobin level was significantly lower. ROC curve analysis revealed that at a cut-off ≥ 3.07, pretreatment FIB-4 had a sensitivity of 76.5%, and negative predictive value (NPV) of 92%. At a cut-off ≥ -2.5, pretreatment PALBI score had a sensitivity of 82.4%, and NPV of 93.2%. Regarding genotyping for TLL1 rs17047200 there were no statistically significant differences between those who developed HCC during follow-up and the matched control group.

Conclusions

TLL1 rs17047200 genotyping is not helpful in predicting HCC occurrence after DAAs. On the other hand, lower pretreatment hemoglobin level and higher pretreatment bilirubin, FIB-4 and PALBI scores are associated with higher risk of HCC development after DAAs.

Epidemiology and Risk Factors for Acute Viral Hepatitis in Bangladesh: An Overview

Viral infections by hepatotropic viruses can cause both acute and chronic infections in the liver, resulting in morbidity and mortality in humans. Hepatotropic viruses, including hepatitis A virus (HAV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), hepatitis D virus (HDV), and hepatitis E virus (HEV), are the major pathogens that cause acute and chronic infections in humans. Although all of these viruses can cause acute hepatitis in humans, HAV and HEV are the predominant causative agents in Bangladesh, where the occurrence is sporadic throughout the year. In this review, we provide an overview of the epidemiology of hepatotropic viruses that are responsible for acute hepatitis in Bangladesh. Additionally, we focus on the transmission modes of these viruses and the control and prevention of infections.

Biomarkers for the Detection and Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients Treated with Direct-Acting Antivirals

Simple Summary

Chronic Hepatitis C virus (HCV) represents the main etiological factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in developed countries. The introduction of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) improved the eradication of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) but not the reduction in the incidence of HCV-associated HCC. Some patients still develop HCC, even after reaching a sustained virological response (SVR). This review is a summary of pre-clinical studies that investigated predictive biomarkers for HCC occurrence and recurrence in HCV-infected patients treated with DAAs. The presented biomarkers are found dysregulated in serum or tissue at specific time points (before, during, after DAA treatment or post SVR) and correlated with HCC-predisposing conditions. Thus, this review aims to improve the management of patients developing HCV-induced HCC.

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth-most common type of cancer worldwide and chronic Hepatitis C virus (HCV) represents the main etiological factor in developed countries. HCV promotes hepatocarcinogenesis through persistent liver inflammation and dysregulation of cell signaling pathways. The introduction of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) resulted in a significant improvement in the eradication of the virus, with an expected reduction of HCC incidence. However, the risk of HCC development can persist after DAA treatment. Recent studies have investigated the potential use of molecular biomarkers that predict HCC occurrence or recurrence helping the stratification of patients under surveillance. This review aimed to summarize all pre-clinical exploration of predictive biomarkers to identify DAA-treated patients at risk for HCC development. Dysregulated microRNAs, lncRNAs, histone modifications, cytokines, proteins, and sphingolipids represent various classes of HCC risk predictors identified in two different biological sources (tissue and serum). The non-invasive serum markers can provide a more accessible means to perform clinical monitoring and predict the risk of HCC. In addition, conditions like cirrhosis, predisposing to HCC, strongly correlate with most of the molecular predictors identified, supporting the value of these molecules as possible biomarkers of HCC in DAA-treated patients.

Hepatitis B Virus-Associated Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is DNA-based virus, member of the Hepadnaviridae family, which can cause liver disease and increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in infected individuals, replicating within the hepatocytes and interacting with several cellular proteins. Chronic hepatitis B can progressively lead to liver cirrhosis, which is an independent risk factor for HCC. Complications as liver decompensation or HCC impact the survival of HBV patients and concurrent HDV infection worsens the disease. The available data provide evidence that HBV infection is associated with the risk of developing HCC with or without an underlying liver cirrhosis, due to various direct and indirect mechanisms promoting hepatocarcinogenesis. The molecular profile of HBV-HCC is extensively and continuously under study, and it is the result of altered molecular pathways, which modify the microenvironment and lead to DNA damage. HBV produces the protein HBx, which has a central role in the oncogenetic process. Furthermore, the molecular profile of HBV-HCC was recently discerned from that of HDV-HCC, despite the obligatory dependence of HDV on HBV. Proper management of the underlying HBV-related liver disease is fundamental, including HCC surveillance, viral suppression, and application of adequate predictive models. When HBV-HCC occurs, liver function and HCC characteristics guide the physician among treatment strategies but always considering the viral etiology in the treatment choice.

Risk factors for developing hepatocellular carcinoma in patients treated with direct-acting antivirals

INTRODUCTION AND AIM

Chronic hepatitis C is one of the main causes of cirrhosis of the liver. Treatment with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) improves survival. There is controversy as to whether AADs create an increased risk for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim of the present study was to determine the risk factors for developing HCC in patients with chronic hepatitis C treated with DAAs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cohort study was conducted, within the time frame of June 2017 and June 2018, on patients >18 years of age, with chronic hepatitis C, genotypes 1 and 4, with one year of follow-up, to evaluate the presence of HCC.

RESULTS

We analyzed 108 patients, 71 (65%) of whom were women. Mean patient age was 56.24 years (±10.6), 1b was the most frequent genotype (63%), and 49% of the patients received treatment with DAAs (ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir plus dasabuvir). Thirty-four (31%) patients were obese. Fifty-three percent (58) had cirrhosis and 82% (89) had Child-Pugh class A liver function. Sustained virologic response at 12 weeks was 100%. Eight (7%) patients developed HCC and 1b was the most frequently associated genotype (87%). The presence of regenerative nodules >10 mm (P < .05), esophageal varices (P < .05), cirrhosis of the liver (P < .05), Child-Pugh B-C (P < .05), and alpha-fetoprotein >20 IU/mL (P = 0.20) one year after treatment were associated with the development of HCC.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk factors for developing HCC were the presence of cirrhosis of the liver, Child-Pugh class B liver function, esophageal and/or gastric varices, and genotype 1b.

Liver Disease Outcomes after Sustained Virological Response in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Infection Treated with Generic Direct-Acting Antivirals

The introduction of generic direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) in Egypt is associated with a superior cure rate of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. However, the course of progressive liver damage and developing liver related complications in patients with sustained virologic response (SVR) remain unclear. This study was designed to examine the long-term outcomes of generic DAA-induced virological cure in a real-life cohort of HCV patients with or without comorbid schistosomiasis. We prospectively enrolled a cohort of 506 recently cured HCV patients (437 Child-Pugh class A [Child-A] and 69 Child-Pugh class B [Child-B]). All patients were clinically evaluated at different time points during a 2-year follow-up (November 2018 to February 2021). Over the course of treatment and follow-up, 77 (15.2%) patients (42 [9.6%] Child-A and 35 [50.7%] Child-B) experienced complications at different time points. The overall mortality rate was approximately 1/1,000 person-years. The incidence of hepatic insufficiency was approximately 5.5/1,000 person-years, and that of de novo hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was approximately 8.3/1,000 person-years. A sustained improvement in liver indices up to 2 years of follow-up was observed. In the Cox regression model, pretreatment decompensated cirrhosis predicted the occurrence of adverse liver events and HCC after therapy. In conclusion, in HCV patients with advanced cirrhosis or coexisting hepatic schistosomiasis, generic DAA-induced SVR remains robust with favorable clinical outcomes although the risk of hepatocarcinogenesis cannot be eliminated. Surveillance of patients with treated HCV infection is an important aspect of postcure care for early detection and management of liver disease-related adverse events.

Association between direct-acting antiviral agents in hepatitis C virus treatment and hepatocellular carcinoma occurrence and recurrence: The endless debate

Since direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) have been introduced into hepatitis C virus treatment, the sustained viral response (SVR) rate has significantly increased to more than 95%. Scientific evidence supports the idea that SVR after interferon therapy has beneficial effects related to cirrhosis progression, resulting in a reduction in the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, a significant debate exists related to DAA impact on HCC development. We reviewed the current literature highlighting the controversial data related to DAA association with de novo HCC occurrence or recurrence and possible pathophysiology of HCC related to DAAs. After a review of the published literature, we believe that the current evidence does not confirm or repudiate a higher rate of de novo HCC occurrence or recurrence related to DAA therapy. More trials are needed to determine if there is an association between HCC occurrence or recurrence and DAA or if it is related to preexisting liver cirrhosis.

P53 is a risk factor of de-novo hepatitis C-related hepatocellular carcinoma treated with direct-acting antivirals: a case-control study

BACKGROUND

The mechanisms underlying de-novo hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) is still under investigation. This work aims to study P53 and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) as possible diagnostics of de-novo hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) following DAAs in comparison to alpha-fetoprotein (AFP).

METHOD

This case-control study included 166 patients with liver cirrhosis divided into group-1: patients without HCC (n = 50), group-2: patients with de-novo HCC following DAAs, and achieved sustained virological response (n = 50), and group-3: patients with HCC without DAAs (n = 66). P53 antibody and HGF were determined using a quantitative sandwich enzyme immunoassay technique (Cusabio Co, Houston, USA).

RESULTS

Patients with HCC showed significantly higher HGF. Patients with de-novo HCC following DAAs had significantly higher P53 than HCC without DAAs (P < 0.0001). The multiple logistic regression analysis showed that the P53 levels were significantly associated with susceptibility to de-novo HCC (P value = 0.004). The best overall formula was constructed for HCC diagnosis by entering significant markers into the regression model. A three markers model was developed = (1.22 + AFP X 0.002 + HGF X 0.001 + P53 X 0.001). The medians (percentiles) of combined three markers were 1.8 (1.0-2.1) in liver cirrhosis and 2.2 (2.0-2.9) in all HCC (P < 0.00001). The AUC of combined markers was greater than a single marker. The AUC was 0.87 to differentiate HCC from liver cirrhosis; AUC 0.91 to differentiate de-novo HCC after DAAs from liver cirrhosis.

CONCLUSION

P53 may serve as a diagnostic marker for de-novo HCC after DAAs therapy. HGF may serve as a diagnostic marker for HCC but not specific for de-novo HCC after DAAs therapy.

Morphological, dynamic and functional characteristics of liver pseudolesions and benign lesions

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide and one of the most common causes of death among patients with cirrhosis, developing in 1-8% of them every year, regardless of their cirrhotic stage. The radiological features of HCC are almost always sufficient for reaching the diagnosis; thus, histological confirmation is rarely needed. However, the study of cirrhotic livers remains a challenge for radiologists due to the developing of fibrous and regenerative tissue that cause the distortion of normal liver parenchyma, changing the typical appearances of benign lesions and pseudolesions, which therefore may be misinterpreted as malignancies. In addition, a correct distinction between pseudolesions and malignancy is crucial to allow appropriate targeted therapy and avoid treatment delays.The present review encompasses technical pitfalls and describes focal benign lesions and pseudolesions that may be misinterpreted as HCC in cirrhotic livers, providing the imaging features of regenerative nodules, large regenerative nodules, siderotic nodules, hepatic hemangiomas (including rapidly filling and sclerosed hemangiomas), segmental hyperplasia, arterioportal shunts, focal confluent fibrosis and focal fatty changes. Lastly, the present review explores the most promising new imaging techniques that are emerging and that could help radiologists differentiate benign lesions and pseudolesions from overt HCC.

Serum α-fetoprotein level at treatment completion is a useful predictor of hepatocellular carcinoma occurrence more than one year after hepatitis C virus eradication by direct-acting antiviral treatment

Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) have recently been developed to treat hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, and interferon-free DAA treatment has improved liver function of HCV patients. The risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) occurrence following HCV eradication has been previously reported, but HCC may have been missed following imaging diagnosis before DAA administration in previous studies. Therefore, the present study aimed to identify definite predictors of HCC occurrence ≥1 year after DAA treatment. Among 956 patients receiving DAAs for HCV infection, 567 patients who achieved sustained virologic response with no history of HCC treatment were enrolled in this study between September 2014 and July 2021. The incidence of HCC in HCV-infected patients ≥1 year following DAA treatment, and the predictors contributing to HCC occurrence were identified using clinical characteristics and blood test results. In the present study, 25 patients developed HCC. The incidence of HCC was 1.4%, 3.2%, 4.9% and 6.8% at 2, 3, 4 and 5 years, respectively, from the end of treatment with DAAs. Multivariate logistic analysis revealed serum α-fetoprotein level at end of treatment (EOT-AFP) >3.8 ng/ml ≥1 year following treatment with DAAs (HR, 9.7; p < .0001) as an independent factor that may contribute to HCC occurrence following DAA treatment. In conclusion, serum EOT-AFP level may serve an important role in determining the risk of HCC occurrence ≥1 year after DAA treatment. Regular examinations are required even if serum EOT-AFP level is low at treatment completion.

HCC in the Era of Direct-Acting Antiviral Agents (DAAs): Surgical and Other Curative or Palliative Strategies in the Elderly

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for 75-85% of primary liver malignancies, and elderlies have the highest incidence rates. Direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) have shown satisfying results in terms of HCV sustained viral response (SVR). However, data regarding HCC risk post-DAA-SVR is still conflicting. This study aims to consider HCC onset in moderate underlying liver disease. We conducted a retrospective study on 227 chronically infected patients (cHCV), treated with DAAs. Patients were divided into three groups: "de novo occurrent HCC", "recurrent HCC", and "without HCC". Fifty-six patients aged <65 years (yDAA) were studied separately. HCC patients aged ≥65 years (DAA-HCC) were compared to a historical group of 100 elderly HCC patients, treated with peginterferon (Peg-IFN) ± ribavirin antiviral agents, non-SVR (hHCC). The HCC prevalence in DAA patients was 32.75%: "de novo occurrent'' 18.13% and "recurrent'' 14.62%, despite 42.85% of them having no fibrosis to mild or moderate fibrosis (F0-F1-F2). yDAA showed 5.36% "de novo occurrent" HCC. Curative procedure rates were compared between DAA-HCC and hHCC at the first and at recurrent presentation (22 (39.29%) vs. 72 (72%); 17 (30.36%) vs. 70 (70%), respectively (p < 0.001)). No significant difference was found in 3-year OS (p = 0.6). However, in cause-specific mortality analysis, HCC-related death was higher in the DAA-treated group, whereas cirrhosis-related death was more common in the historical group (p = 0.0288), considering together the two causes of death. A more accurate patient stratification according to multifactorial and new diagnostic investigations identifying HCC risk might allow an improvement in management and access to curative therapies.

Evaluation of the Benefits of TACE Combined with Sorafenib for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Based on Untreatable TACE (unTACEable) Progression

Purpose

Outcomes after the treatment for unresectable or advanced-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are unsatisfied. We evaluated the therapeutic benefits of a combination therapy strategy for these patients through transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) plus sorafenib.

Patients and Methods

In total, 85 patients with HCC classified as intermediate and advanced stage from June 2012 to November 2017 were retrospectively investigated. We divided patients into the monotherapy (n=43; TACE alone) and combined therapy (n=42; TACE plus sorafenib) groups.

Results

Compared with the TACE alone group, the TACE plus sorafenib experienced significantly prolonged progression-free survival (PFS) (mean 21 months vs 12 months; P = 0.0005) and overall survival (OS) (mean 32 months vs 21 months; P = 0.0157). The disease control rate (DCR) of TACE plus sorafenib group was 80.95%, which was significantly increased than the TACE alone group (55.81%) (P<0.05), as well as objective response rate (ORR) (23.81% vs 16.28%). Besides, the rates of liver-related AEs and liver failure in the TACE plus sorafenib group were not increased in contrast to TACE alone group, and there were no new safety concerns. To sum up, the superiority of combination therapy with significantly prolonging progression-free and overall survival was observed, meanwhile finding a significant increase in tumor response rate and manageable safety in the combined therapy in contrast to the monotherapy group.

Conclusion

Based on unTACEble progression, the superiority of the combination therapy is that TACE plus sorafenib has been bringing about significantly better outcomes compared with TACE alone for HCC patients.

Structure-Based and Rational Design of a Hepatitis C Virus Vaccine

A hepatitis C virus (HCV) vaccine is a critical yet unfulfilled step in addressing the global disease burden of HCV. While decades of research have led to numerous clinical and pre-clinical vaccine candidates, these efforts have been hindered by factors including HCV antigenic variability and immune evasion. Structure-based and rational vaccine design approaches have capitalized on insights regarding the immune response to HCV and the structures of antibody-bound envelope glycoproteins. Despite successes with other viruses, designing an immunogen based on HCV glycoproteins that can elicit broadly protective immunity against HCV infection is an ongoing challenge. Here, we describe HCV vaccine design approaches where immunogens were selected and optimized through analysis of available structures, identification of conserved epitopes targeted by neutralizing antibodies, or both. Several designs have elicited immune responses against HCV in vivo, revealing correlates of HCV antigen immunogenicity and breadth of induced responses. Recent studies have elucidated the functional, dynamic and immunological features of key regions of the viral envelope glycoproteins, which can inform next-generation immunogen design efforts. These insights and design strategies represent promising pathways to HCV vaccine development, which can be further informed by successful immunogen designs generated for other viruses.

Host pharmacogenetic factors that may affect liver neoplasm incidence upon using direct-acting antivirals for treating hepatitis C infection

Introduction

Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) represent a breakthrough in hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment as they directly inhibit HCV nonstructural (NS) proteins (NS3/4A, NS5A, and NS5B). However, ongoing debates exist regarding their relationship with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) whose incidence is widely debated among investigators. This study was conducted to identify host pharmacogenetic factors that may influence HCC incidence upon using HCV DAAs.

Materials and methods

Details regarding 16 HCV DAAs were collected from literature and DrugBank database. Digital structures of these drugs were fed into the pharmacogenomics/pharmacovigilance in-silico pipeline (PHARMIP) to predict the genetic factors that may underpin HCC development.

Results

We identified 184 unique genes and 40 unique variants that may have key answers for the DAA/HCC paradox. These findings could be used in different methods to aid in the precise application of HCV DAAs and minimize the proposed risk for HCC. All results could be accessed at: https://doi.org/10.17632/8ws8258hn3.2.

Discussion

All the identified factors are evidence related to HCC and significantly predicted by PHARMIP as DAA targets. We discuss some examples of the methods of using these results to address the DAA/HCC controversy based on the following three primary levels: 1 - individual DAA drug, 2 - DAA subclass, and 3 - the entire DAA class. Further wet laboratory investigation is required to evaluate these results.

Plasma interleukin-17 and alpha-fetoprotein combination effectively predicts imminent hepatocellular carcinoma occurrence in liver cirrhotic patients

Background

Predicting imminent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in liver cirrhotic patients is an unmet medical need. We aimed to investigate circulatory biomarkers and their optimum combinations in a prospective study.

Methods

We investigated plasma interleukin 17 (IL-17) concentrations, quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), for the prediction of HCC in a large cohort of 404 HCC-naïve liver cirrhotic patients regularly followed after recruitment. Additionally, IL-17 in surgically resected tumor tissues were evaluated using immunohistochemistry staining.

Results

IL-17 was detected in HCC tissues. The IL-17 concentrations in the peripheral blood do not have correlation with an extensive list of 31 common demographic, metabolic and liver function variables in the cohort of liver cirrhotic patients. Furthermore, patients stratified by IL-17 and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) showed distinctive cumulative incidence of HCC. Imminent HCC, defined here as HCC occurrence within 1 year, can be predicted by IL-17 alone with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC] of 0.762 (P = 0.002). An multivariate analysis showed that age, hepatitis C viral infection, AFP and IL-17 were four independent factors associated with imminent HCC (adjusted P = 0.03, 0.041, 0.024 and 0.008 respectively). An explicit risk score (R) combining the concentrations of two plasma biomarkers, AFP and IL-17, achieved a high AUC of 0.933 (95% confidence interval 0.893–0.972, P < 0.001) in predicting imminent HCC, with 100% sensitivity and 79.9% specificity at the optimum cutoff. The score is defined as: \documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$${\text{R}} = (2.6914)*{\text{IL-17}} + (0.3909)*{\text{AFP}} - (0.80812875)*{\text{IL-17}}^{2} + (0.10288876884)*{\text{IL-17}}^{2} *{\text{AFP}}.$$\end{document}R=(2.6914)∗IL-17+(0.3909)∗AFP-(0.80812875)∗IL-172+(0.10288876884)∗IL-172∗AFP.

Conclusions

The circulatory IL-17 concentration is a predictor of subsequent HCC occurrence in liver cirrhotic patients. The combination of AFP and IL-17 is highly effective in predicting imminent HCC within 1 year.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12876-021-01761-1.

Differentiation of small (≤ 3 cm) hepatocellular carcinomas from benign nodules in cirrhotic liver: the added additive value of MRI-based radiomics analysis to LI-RADS version 2018 algorithm

Background

Accurate characterization of small nodules in a cirrhotic liver is challenging. We aimed to determine the additive value of MRI-based radiomics analysis to Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System version 2018 (LI-RADS v 2018) algorithm in differentiating small (≤ 3 cm) hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) from benign nodules in cirrhotic liver.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 150 cirrhosis patients with histopathologically confirmed small liver nodules (HCC, 112; benign nodules, 44) were evaluated from January 2013 to October 2018. Based on the LI-RADS algorithm, a LI-RADS category was assigned for each lesion. A radiomics signature was generated based on texture features extracted from T1-weighted, T2W, and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) images by using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression model. A nomogram model was developed for the combined diagnosis. Diagnostic performance was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis.

Results

A radiomics signature consisting of eight features was significantly associated with the differentiation of HCCs from benign nodules. Both LI-RADS algorithm (area under ROC [A_z] = 0.898) and the MRI-Based radiomics signature (A_z = 0.917) demonstrated good discrimination, and the nomogram model showed a superior classification performance (A_z = 0.975). Compared with LI-RADS alone, the combined approach significantly improved the specificity (97.7% vs 81.8%, p = 0.030) and positive predictive value (99.1% vs 92.9%, p = 0.031) and afforded comparable sensitivity (97.3% vs 93.8%, p = 0.215) and negative predictive value (93.5% vs 83.7%, p = 0.188).

Conclusions

MRI-based radiomics analysis showed additive value to the LI-RADS v 2018 algorithm for differentiating small HCCs from benign nodules in the cirrhotic liver.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12876-021-01710-y.

Impact of liver-stiffness measurement on hepatocellular carcinoma development in chronic hepatitis C patients treated with direct-acting antivirals: A systematic review and time-to-event meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) treated with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) are still at risk for developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) even after achieving sustained virologic response (SVR). Liver-stiffness measurement (LSM) on imaging has been investigated as a predictor of HCC occurrence.

OBJECTIVES

To provide systematic summary of the predictive value of LSM in predicting HCC occurrence in HCV patients treated with DAA.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search of the PubMed-MEDLINE and EMBASE databases was performed to identify studies that evaluated the predictive value of LSM in CHC patients treated with DAAs. Pooled hazard ratio (HR) comparing HCC occurrence between patients with positive and negative results on LSM was calculated for all studies and various subgroups. Subgroup analyses and meta-regression were performed.

RESULTS

A review of 135 candidate articles identified eight eligible articles with a total of 3398patients for qualitative review and meta-analysis. The pooled HR for HCC occurrence determined by LSM was 3.43 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.63-7.19) with heterogeneity (I²  = 81.87%, P < 0.001), thus indicating that LSM might be helpful for predicting HCC occurrence. In subgroup analyses, pooled HRs were different according to the study design (2.29; [95% CI, 0.96-5.45] for retrospective studies; 4.61 [95% CI, 2.44-8.71] for prospective studies), study population (4.00 [95% CI, 2.00-7.99] for CHC; 2.64 [0.99-7.00] for CHC with liver cirrhosis) and LSM parameter (3.17 [95% CI, 1.35-7.41] for baseline LSM; 4.19 [95% CI, 1.89-9.29] for others). In multivariate meta-regression, study design was the only influencing factor for pooled HR for HCC occurrence (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Consistent evidence demonstrated the predictive value of LSM for HCC occurrence in CHC patients treated with DAA. The significant influencing factor for risk of HCC occurrence indicated by LSM was study design.

Hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence after directly acting antivirals for chronic hepatitis C: a 2-year follow-up study

AIM OF THE STUDY

Data regarding hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence after directly acting antivirals for hepatitis C are contradictory. Our aim was to study the HCC recurrence in patients who received directly acting antivirals after tumor ablation.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This retrospective study included all Child-Pugh A and B patients with hepatitis C related < 5 cm single or up to 3 HCC without any vascular or extrahepatic involvement whose lesions were managed using microwave or radiofrequency ablation at the Internal Medicine Department of Alexandria Faculty of Medicine, in the period from 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2016, and then received directly acting antivirals.

RESULTS

Data from 52 patients were analyzed. Throughout the 2 years from ablation, 42.3% of patients experienced tumor recurrence (22 out of 52 patients). In addition, two subjects died and 4 subjects were lost to follow-up before any tumor recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Although our study included both modified Child-Pugh A and B patients and included lesions up to 5 cm treated using thermal ablation, the 2-year HCC recurrence rate was similar to that previously reported after surgical resection or radiofrequency ablation of lesions up to 3 cm in Child-Pugh A patients before development of directly acting antivirals.

Assessment of Liver Stiffness Regression and Hepatocellular Carcinoma Risk in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients after Treatment with Direct-Acting Antiviral Drugs

Background and Objectives: Chronic hepatitis C virus infection affects about 71 million people worldwide. It is one of the most common chronic liver conditions associated with an increased risk of developing liver cirrhosis and cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in liver fibrosis and the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma after direct-acting antiviral drug therapy, and to assess factors, linked with these outcomes. Materials and Methods: 70 chronic hepatitis C patients were evaluated for factors linked to increased risk of de novo liver cancer and ≥ 20% decrease of ultrasound transient elastography values 12 weeks after the end of treatment. Results: The primary outcome was an improvement of liver stiffness at the end of treatment (p = 0.004), except for patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 (p = 0.49). Logistic regression analysis revealed factors associated with ≥ 20% decrease of liver stiffness values: lower degree of steatosis in liver tissue biopsy (p = 0.053); no history of interferon-based therapy (p = 0.045); elevated liver enzymes (p = 0.023–0.036); higher baseline liver stiffness value (p = 0.045) and absence of splenomegaly (p = 0.035). Hepatocellular carcinoma developed in 4 (5.7%) patients, all with high alpha-fetoprotein values (p = 0.0043) and hypoechoic liver mass (p = 0.0001), three of these patients had diabetes mellitus type 2. Conclusions: Liver stiffness decrease was significant as early as 12 weeks after the end of treatment. Patients with diabetes and advanced liver disease are at higher risk of developing non-regressive fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma even after successful treatment.

An overview of hepatocellular carcinoma with atypical enhancement pattern: spectrum of magnetic resonance imaging findings with pathologic correlation

BACKGROUND

In the setting of cirrhotic liver, the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is straightforward when typical imaging findings consisting of arterial hypervascularity followed by portal-venous washout are present in nodules larger than 1 cm. However, due to the complexity of hepatocarcinogenesis, not all HCCs present with typical vascular behaviour. Atypical forms such as hypervascular HCC without washout, isovascular or even hypovascular HCC can pose diagnostic dilemmas. In such cases, it is important to consider also the appearance of the nodules on diffusion-weighted imaging and hepatobiliary phase. In this regard, diffusion restriction and hypointensity on hepatobiliary phase are suggestive of malignancy. If both findings are present in hypervascular lesion without washout, or even in iso- or hypovascular lesion in cirrhotic liver, HCC should be considered. Moreover, other ancillary imaging findings such as the presence of the capsule, fat content, signal intensity on T2-weighted image favour the diagnosis of HCC. Another form of atypical HCCs are lesions which show hyperintensity on hepatobiliary phase. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to provide an overview of HCCs with atypical enhancement pattern, and focus on their magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features.

CONCLUSIONS

In order to correctly characterize atypical HCC lesions in cirrhotic liver it is important to consider not only vascular behaviour of the nodule, but also ancillary MRI features, such as diffusion restriction, hepatobiliary phase hypointensity, and T2-weighted hyperintensity. Fat content, corona enhancement, mosaic architecture are other MRI feautures which favour the diagnosis of HCC even in the absence of typical vascular profile.

lnc-HOTAIR predicts hepatocellular carcinoma in chronic hepatitis C genotype 4 following direct-acting antivirals therapy

Emerging hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been sequentially reported in chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) treated with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). Homeobox transcript antisense RNA (HOTAIR), an oncogene, has been reported to be associated with cancer. We investigated the predictive value of lnc-HOTAIR for HCC surveillance in chronic HCV patients following DAAs therapy. The expression levels of lnc-HOTAIR and ATG-7 genes were measured in 220 with chronic HCV, following a DAAs based therapy for 12 weeks, the patients were followed-up for attentive surveillance of HCC for 12 months after starting DAAs. In terms of lnc-HOTAIR, patients with HCC and high viral load had significantly higher median expression levels of HOTAIR of (68 vs. 24; p = .001) and (94 vs. 52; p = .001), respectively. Moreover, the median expression level of ATG-7 was higher in those who developed HCC (114 vs. 51; p = .001). The expression of lnc-HOTAIR and ATG-7 are significant predictors of the development of HCC in HCV-4 infected patients treated with DAAs, with a cut-off value of 37 and 86, respectively. The increased expression levels of lnc-HOTAIR more than 68 in HCC patients following DAAs were correlated with poorer disease outcomes compared to those with lower expression levels; however, ATG-7 expression levels more than 114 were correlated with worse overall survival but not the progression-free one. We suggest that high expression levels of lnc-HOTAIR could serve as a risk assessment biomarker for HCC before and during DAAs course therapy in Chronic HCV-4 patients, and should be rigorously taken into consideration before DAAs.

Risk Factors, Pathogenesis, and Strategies for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Prevention: Emphasis on Secondary Prevention and Its Translational Challenges

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-associated mortality globally. Given the limited therapeutic efficacy in advanced HCC, prevention of HCC carcinogenesis could serve as an effective strategy. Patients with chronic fibrosis due to viral or metabolic etiologies are at a high risk of developing HCC. Primary prevention seeks to eliminate cancer predisposing risk factors while tertiary prevention aims to prevent HCC recurrence. Secondary prevention targets patients with baseline chronic liver disease. Various epidemiological and experimental studies have identified candidates for secondary prevention-both etiology-specific and generic prevention strategies-including statins, aspirin, and anti-diabetic drugs. The introduction of multi-cell based omics analysis along with better characterization of the hepatic microenvironment will further facilitate the identification of targets for prevention. In this review, we will summarize HCC risk factors, pathogenesis, and discuss strategies of HCC prevention. We will focus on secondary prevention and also discuss current challenges in translating experimental work into clinical practice.

Incidence of HCC in chronic hepatitis C patients with advanced hepatic fibrosis who achieved SVR following DAAs: A prospective study

Liver cirrhosis is an important risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma. The reported annual incidence of HCC is about 3%-8% in CHC cirrhotic patients. Based on the Cochrane systematic review, there was no clear evidence, on the long-term clinical effects of DAAs in patients achieving SVR, as regard liver cirrhosis-related HCC incidence. The aim of the study was to determine the incidence of HCC in chronic hepatitis C patients genotype IV with liver cirrhosis and advanced liver fibrosis after achieving SVR following DAA treatment in a prospective large cohort of HCV patients with long follow-up. This was a prospective observational cohort study including 2372 CHC patients with advanced liver fibrosis or cirrhosis receiving DAA therapy in outpatient clinics at the Egyptian Liver Research Institute and Hospital since January 2015. Liver fibrosis was assessed using transient elastography. Abdominal ultrasonography and AFP measurement were done at baseline and follow-up visits every 6 months, in addition to triphasic abdominal MSCT when needed. Patients were followed up after achieving SVR12 for at least 12 months. HCC developed in 109 cases during the follow-up period (mean 23.60 ± 8.25 months). Overall HCC incidence was 2.338/100 PY, 95% CI = 1.942-2.814. In patients with cirrhosis, the incidence of HCC was 2.917/100 PY, 95% CI = 2.407-3.535, while in patients with advanced liver fibrosis the incidence of HCC was 0.664/100 PY, 95% CI = 0.333-1.326. In conclusion, the incidence of HCC was reduced in chronic hepatitis C genotype 4 patients with liver cirrhosis (F4) and advanced hepatic fibrosis (F3) who achieved SVR following DAA therapy.

Simeprevir, daclatasvir, and sofosbuvir for hepatitis C virus-infected patients: Long-term follow-up results from the open-label, Phase II IMPACT study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection have resulted in high rates of sustained virologic response (SVR) following 8 to 24 weeks of treatment. However, difficult-to-cure/cirrhotic patients typically require a longer treatment duration and less is known regarding the long-term durability of SVR or effect on liver disease progression; to assess this, the IMPACT study followed patients for a 3-year period after end of treatment.

METHODS

The Phase II, open-label, nonrandomized IMPACT study assessed the efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetics of the combination of three DAAs (simeprevir, sofosbuvir, and daclatasvir) in HCV genotype 1/4-infected, treatment-naïve/-experienced cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension or decompensated liver disease. Patients from a single site in the United States were assigned to one of two groups by Child-Pugh (CP) score: CP A, CP score less than 7 and evidence of portal hypertension; CP B, CP score of 7 to 9. All patients received simeprevir 150 mg, daclatasvir 60 mg, and sofosbuvir 400 mg once-daily for 12 weeks between September 2014 and August 2015. All 40 patients included in the study (male, 63%; median age, 58.5 years) achieved SVR 12 and 24 weeks after end of treatment, and the combination was well tolerated.

RESULTS

All patients who reached the 3-year follow-up timepoint maintained SVR (CP A, 15/15; CP B, 18/18). CP scores and Model for End-stage Liver Disease scores remained relatively stable, and mean FibroScan and FibroTest scores declined. No new safety signals were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

In the IMPACT study, virologic response to simeprevir, sofosbuvir, and daclatasvir was durable over 3 years (http://ClinicalTrials.gov number: NCT02262728).

Tumor aggression among hepatitis-C related hepatocellular carcinoma patients: an observational study regarding the impact of anti-HCV therapy

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) represents a major risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development and anti-HCV therapy is a significant measure to reduce the incidence of HCC, however development of HCC in HCV treated patients is an emerging clinical problem which needs to be investigated. In this study we aim to analyze association between anti-HCV therapy and tumor pattern of HCV related HCC patients.

METHODS

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) patients with seropositivity for hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibodies, registered at three tertiary care hospitals of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, Pakistan during August 2017 to July 2018 were enrolled. Selected patients were then segregated in two groups on the basis of their HCV treatment history i.e., "TN" (HCV Treatment Naïve i.e. having no history/medical record for treatment prior to HCC diagnosis) and "TH" (Treated for HCV infection). Aggressiveness index (AgI) scoring system was applied to determine the tumor pattern. Univariate and multivariate analysis was carried out to analyze the independent effect of anti-HCV therapy on tumor pattern.

RESULTS

Out of 234 consecutive HCC patients, 171 HCV-related HCC patients were enrolled in final analysis and labeled as "TN" (n = 120) and "TH" (n = 51). Tumor pattern was found to be significantly aggressive (P = 0.02) in the treated cohort with an adjusted odds of 2.47 for aggressive and 6.92 for highly aggressive tumor. Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) was strongly associated with highly aggressive tumor pattern (P = 0.012). Patients in TN group were found to be marginally older than those in the TH group (59.5 vs. 55 years) where mean age of the patients treated with direct acting anti-viral agents was found to be visibly lower than mean age of patients who received interferon based treatment (53.5 vs. 57 years) with significant masculine predominance (62.1 vs. 37.9%, P = 0.049).

CONCLUSION

We observed raised neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and prominence of younger age with aggressive tumor biology in HCV treated HCC patients. These observations highlight the need for a longitudinal prospective study on HCV positive subjects treated with antivirals, irrespective of treatment response.

Impact of direct-acting antiviral therapy for hepatitis C-related hepatocellular carcinoma

With the introduction of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) agents, hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment has dramatically improved. However, there are insufficient data on the benefits of DAA therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The purpose of this study was to investigate the outcome of patients who received DAA therapy after HCC treatment. We retrospectively reviewed patients with HCV-related HCC in a single medical center, and the outcome of patients with or without DAA therapy was analyzed. In total, 107 HCC patients were enrolled, of whom 60 had received DAA therapy after treatment for HCC. There were no significant intergroup differences in age, sex, laboratory results, or tumor burden. A more advanced stage was noted in the no DAA group (P = 0.003). In the treatment modality, sorafenib was commonly prescribed in the no DAA group (P = 0.007). The DAA group had a longer overall survival (OS) time than the no DAA group (P<0.001). When stratified by Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer staging, the DAA group had better OS in the HCC stages 0-A and B-C (P = 0.034 and P = 0.006). There were 35 patients who received DAA therapy after curative HCC therapy. At a median follow-up of 20 months, 37.1% patients had HCC recurrence after DAA therapy. There was no statistical difference in recurrence-free survival between patients receiving and those not receiving DAA (P = 0.278). DAA therapy improved the survival outcome of HCC patients and did not increase recurrent HCC after curative therapy. .

Multimodality Management of Ruptured Large Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Its Recurrence: Rupture at Presentation Should Not Rupture Hope of Long-Term Survival

A 59-year-old gentleman with a history of aortic valve replacement presented with spontaneously ruptured hepatocellular carcinoma in right lobe of a hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related chronic liver disease with hemoperitoneum. This acute emergency was managed by transarterial embolization. Right trisectionectomy with preservation of segment IVB after augmentation of future liver remnant by transarterial chemoembolization followed by portal vein embolization was subsequently performed. Sustained virological response to HCV was attained after surgery using sofosbuvir-based regimen. He had a delayed operative bed recurrence 1.5 years later with pulmonary metastatic disease which was managed by operative bed metastasectomy with mesh reconstruction of diaphragm and sorafenib. He is on sorafenib since past 3 years and doing well at 4.5-years follow-up since the first presentation, with significant regression of pulmonary disease and no other disease elsewhere, which highlights that where there is hope, there is a way.

Predictors of hepatocellular carcinoma after hepatitis C virus eradication following direct-acting antiviral treatment: relationship with serum zinc

The recently approved direct-acting antivirals (DAA) agents are effective in terms of sustained virologic response (SVR) rates and are well tolerated in most hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients. This study aimed to analyze the association between serum zinc levels in patients who developed hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) following HCV eradication after DAA treatment. The retrospective study included 769 HCV-infected patients who achieved SVR after DAA treatment. We calculated the annual incidence rate of HCC and identified risk factors associated with HCC development. We also assessed serum zinc and clinical factors at both baseline and end of treatment (EOT). During follow-up (median duration 35 months), HCC occurred in 18/769 (2.3%) patients. From the multivariate analysis, serum zinc <60 µg/dl [hazard ratio (HR) 5.936] and AFP ≥6.0 ng/dl (HR 5.862) at baseline, baseline-zinc <60 µg/dl (HR 6.283), EOT-serum zinc <63 µg/dl (HR 6.011), baseline-AFP ≥6.0 ng/dl (HR 8.163), and EOT-M2BPGi ≥2.5 (HR 12.194) at baseline and EOT were independently associated with increased HCC risk. In patients who achieved HCV eradication following DAA treatment, serum zinc levels before and at EOT could be a risk factor for developing HCC.

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) in Egypt: A comprehensive overview

BACKGROUND

Worldwide, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a universal problem and its epidemiological data showed variation from place to place. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth and fourth common cancer in worldwide and Egypt, respectively. Egypt ranks the third and 15^th most populous country in Africa and worldwide, respectively. The aim of this review is to compare the status of HCC in Egypt to that in the worldwide from different issues; risk factors, screening and surveillance, diagnosis and treatment, prevention, as well as research strategy.

MAIN BODY

The risk factors for HCC in Egypt are of great importance to be reported. The risk factor for HCC are either environmental- or host/genetic-related risk factors. In the last years, there is a tangible improvement of both screening and surveillance strategies of HCC in Egypt. The unprecedented national screening campaign launched by the end of 2018 is a mirror image of this improvement. While the improvement of the HCC prevention requires the governmental health administration to implement health policies. Although the diagnosis of Egyptian HCC patients follows the international guidelines but HCC treatment options are limited in terms of cost. In addition, there are limited Egyptian reports about HCC survival and relapse. Both basic and clinical HCC research in Egypt are still limited compared to worldwide.

SHORT CONCLUSION

Deep analysis and understanding of factors affecting HCC burden variation worldwide help in customization of efforts exerted to face HCC in different countries especially large country like Egypt. Overall, the presence of a research strategy to fight HCC in Egyptian patients will help in the optimum allocation of available resources to reduce the numbers of HCC cases and deaths and to improve the quality of life.

Hepatitis C Virus Structure: Defined by What It Is Not

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) represents an important and growing public health problem, chronically infecting an estimated 70 million people worldwide. This blood-borne pathogen is generating a new wave of infections in the United States, associated with increasing intravenous drug use over the last decade. In most cases, HCV establishes a chronic infection, sometimes causing cirrhosis, end-stage liver disease, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Although a curative therapy exists, it is extremely expensive and provides no barrier to reinfection; therefore, a vaccine is urgently needed. The virion is asymmetric and heterogeneous with the buoyancy and protein content similar to low-density lipoparticles. Core protein is unstructured, and of the two envelope glycoproteins, E1 and E2, the function of E1 remains enigmatic. E2 is responsible for specifically binding host receptors CD81 and scavenger receptor class B type I (SR-BI). This review will focus on structural progress on HCV virion, core protein, envelope glycoproteins, and specific host receptors.

2019 Update of Indian National Association for Study of the Liver Consensus on Prevention, Diagnosis, and Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in India: The Puri II Recommendations

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the major causes of morbidity, mortality, and healthcare expenditure in patients with chronic liver disease in India. The Indian National Association for Study of the Liver (INASL) had published its first guidelines on diagnosis and management of HCC (The Puri Recommendations) in 2014, and these guidelines were very well received by the healthcare community involved in diagnosis and management of HCC in India and neighboring countries. However, since 2014, many new developments have taken place in the field of HCC diagnosis and management, hence INASL endeavored to update its 2014 consensus guidelines. A new Task Force on HCC was constituted that reviewed the previous guidelines as well as the recent developments in various aspects of HCC that needed to be incorporated in the new guidelines. A 2-day round table discussion was held on 5th and 6th May 2018 at Puri, Odisha, to discuss, debate, and finalize the revised consensus statements. Each statement of the guideline was graded according to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment Development and Evaluation system with minor modifications. We present here the 2019 Update of INASL Consensus on Prevention, Diagnosis, and Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in India: The Puri-2 Recommendations.

Medical oncology management of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma 2019: a reality check

In terms of global cancer-related deaths, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has the fourth highest mortality rate. Up until 2017, treatment of advanced HCC was largely limited to sorafenib, an oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor, with little to no success in the development of alternative treatment options. However, in the past two years, there has been an unprecedented increase in both the number and type of treatment options available for HCC. As of 2019, the US FDA has approved four oral tyrosine kinase inhibitors, two immune checkpoint inhibitors, and one anti-angiogenesis antibody for the treatment of HCC. Even with this new variety, systemic treatment of advanced HCC remains largely unsatisfactory, and the median survival rate stands at approximately one year. The expected breakthrough of using immune checkpoint inhibitors in advanced HCC did not materialize in 2019. The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors in conjunction with oral tyrosine kinase inhibitors or anti-angiogenesis medications is the current clinical research trend, the results of which are eagerly anticipated. Despite limited progress in survival, HCC research is currently experiencing a period of growth and innovation, and there is hope for significant advances in the treatment of advanced HCC as the field continues to develop.

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a global health problem, and an estimated 71·1 million individuals are chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). The global incidence of HCV was 23·7 cases per 100 000 population (95% uncertainty interval 21·3-28·7) in 2015, with an estimated 1·75 million new HCV infections diagnosed in 2015. Globally, the most common infections are with HCV genotypes 1 (44% of cases), 3 (25% of cases), and 4 (15% of cases). HCV transmission is most commonly associated with direct percutaneous exposure to blood, via blood transfusions, health-care-related injections, and injecting drug use. Key high-risk populations include people who inject drugs, men who have sex with men, and prisoners. Approximately 10-20% of individuals who are chronically infected with HCV develop complications, such as cirrhosis, liver failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma over a period of 20-30 years. Direct-acting antiviral therapy is now curative, but it is estimated that only 20% of individuals with hepatitis C know their diagnosis, and only 15% of those with known hepatitis C have been treated. Increased diagnosis and linkage to care through universal access to affordable point-of-care diagnostics and pangenotypic direct-acting antiviral therapy is essential to achieve the WHO 2030 elimination targets.

Role of Liver Stiffness Measurement in Predicting HCC Occurrence in Direct-Acting Antivirals Setting: A Real-Life Experience

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the liver stiffness measurement and the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in HCV cirrhotic patients undergoing new direct-acting antivirals.

METHODS

From April 2015 to April 2017, all consecutive HCV cirrhotic patients treated by direct-acting antivirals were enrolled. A liver stiffness measurement was computed at baseline, and an ultrasound evaluation was provided for all patients at baseline and every 6 months until 1 year after the stopping of the antiviral therapy. The diagnosis of HCC was performed according to international guidelines by imaging technique workup.

RESULTS

Two hundred and fifty-eight HCV patients with a diagnosis of cirrhosis were identified. The median liver stiffness was 25.5 kPa. Thirty-five patients developed HCC. Patients were divided into three groups, based on their liver stiffness: < 20 kPa (n = 72), between 20 and 30 kPa (n = 92) and > 30 kPa (n = 94). Compared to the < 20 kPa and 20-30 kPa groups, the > 30 kPa group showed a statistically significant increased risk of HCC (p = 0.019; HR 0.329; 95% CI 0.131-0.830). A ROC curve analysis to assess the overall predictive performance of liver stiffness measurement on the HCC risk was performed. The results allow us to identify a cutoff value of liver stiffness measurement equal to 27.8 kPa, which guarantees the highest sensitivity and specificity (respectively, 72% and 65%).

CONCLUSIONS

The data underline that the baseline liver stiffness measurement and ultrasound surveillance is a valuable tool for assessing the risk of HCC in cirrhotic patients undergoing the direct-acting antivirals treatment.

In Chronic Hepatitis C Infection, Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cell Accumulation and T Cell Dysfunctions Revert Partially and Late After Successful Direct-Acting Antiviral Treatment

Chronic HCV infection is characterized by several immunological alterations, such as the accumulation of suppressor cells and of hyperactivated T lymphocytes. However, it is unclear whether direct-acting antiviral (DAA)-mediated HCV clearance restores immune dysfunctions. We performed a phenotypic characterization by flow cytometry of different immune cell subsets, including monocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells (M-MDSCs) and T lymphocytes in 168 patients with persistent HCV infection not treated, under DAA therapies and sustained virological responders. Chronic HCV infection prompted the accumulation of M-MDSCs independently of patient and clinical characteristics, and altered their metabolic properties. HCV RNA was undetectable in the majority of patients just after few weeks of DAA therapy, whereas M-MDSC levels normalized only 6 months after therapy. In addition, HCV infection deeply perturbed the T cell compartment since a re-distribution of memory CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells was observed at the expenses of naïve cells, and memory T lymphocytes displayed increased activation. Notably, these features were only partially restored by DAA therapies in the CD4, but not in the CD8, compartment as high immune activation levels persisted in the terminally differentiated memory CD8⁺ T cells even more than 1 year after sustained virological response. Together, these results suggest that successful DAA therapies do not lead to full immunological reconstitution as fast as viral clearance.

Review on chemogenomic approaches towards hepatitis C viral targets

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the most prevalent viral pathogen that infects more than 185 million people worldwide. HCV infection leads to chronic liver diseases such as liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) are the recent combination therapy for HCV infection with reduced side effects than prior therapies. Sustained virological response (SVR) acts as a gold standard marker to monitor the success of antiviral treatment. Older treatment therapies attain 50-55% of SVR compared with DAAs which attain around 90-95%. The current review emphasizes the recent chemogenomic updates that have been unfolded through structure-based drug design of HCV drug target proteins (NS3/4A, NS5A, and NS5B) and ligand-based drug design of DAAs in achieving a stable HCV viral treatment strategies.

Hepatitis C virus core protein modulates several signaling pathways involved in hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer, and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection plays a major role in HCC development. The molecular mechanisms by which HCV infection leads to HCC are varied. HCV core protein is an important risk factor in HCV-associated liver pathogenesis and can modulate several signaling pathways involved in cell cycle regulation, cell growth promotion, cell proliferation, apoptosis, oxidative stress and lipid metabolism. The dysregulation of signaling pathways such as transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Wnt/β-catenin (WNT), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) by HCV core protein is implicated in the development of HCC. Therefore, it has been suggested that this protein be considered a favorable target for further studies in the development of HCC. In addition, considering the axial role of these signaling pathways in HCC, they are considered druggable targets for cancer therapy. Therefore, using strategies to limit the dysregulation effects of core protein on these signaling pathways seems necessary to prevent HCV-related HCC.

Hepatitis C virus-associated hepatocellular carcinoma after sustained virologic response

The introduction of a direct-acting antiviral (DAA) for patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, could lead to higher sustained virologic response (SVR) rates with fewer adverse events, and it could shorten the treatment duration relative to the interferon era. Although most recent clinical studies have demonstrated that the occurrence rates of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are decreased by SVR with both interferon-based and interferon-free-regimens, there are several reports about the unexpected observation of high rates of early tumor occurrence and recurrence in patients with HCV-related HCC undergoing interferon-free therapy despite SVR. Several mechanisms of HCC occurrence and rapid immunological changes, including cytokines and chemokines during and after DAA treatment, have also been reported. We focused on the possibilities that HCC occurs or recurs during and after DAA treatment, based on the reported clinical and basic studies. Further studies and observations will be needed to determine the short-term and long-term effects on hepatocarcinogenesis caused by the eradication of HCV with DAAs. New serum biomarkers and a follow-up system for HCV-patients with SVR should be established.

The Multifaceted Roles of Autophagy in Flavivirus-Host Interactions

Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved cellular process in which intracellular components are eliminated via lysosomal degradation to supply nutrients for organelle biogenesis and metabolic homeostasis. Flavivirus infections underlie multiple human diseases and thus exert an immense burden on public health worldwide. Mounting evidence indicates that host autophagy is subverted to modulate the life cycles of flaviviruses, such as hepatitis C virus, dengue virus, Japanese encephalitis virus, West Nile virus and Zika virus. The diverse interplay between autophagy and flavivirus infection not only regulates viral growth in host cells but also counteracts host stress responses induced by viral infection. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the role of autophagy in the flavivirus life cycle. We also discuss the impacts of virus-induced autophagy on the pathogeneses of flavivirus-associated diseases and the potential use of autophagy as a therapeutic target for curing flavivirus infections and related human diseases.

The comprehensive outcomes of hepatitis C virus infection: A multi-faceted chronic disease

Treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has been revolutionized with the introduction of pangenotypic, interferon- and ribavirin-free regimens associated with high cure rates and a low side effect profile. Additionally, there is evidence that HCV cure reduces HCV complications, improves patient-reported outcomes and is cost-saving in most western countries in the long term. This is a review of the comprehensive burden of HCV and the value of eliminating HCV infection. With the introduction of the interferon-free all-oral, once a day pill treatment regimen for the cure of HCV, the potential to eliminate HCV by 2030 has become a possibility for some regions of the world. Nevertheless, there are barriers to screening, linkage to care, and treatment in many countries that must be overcome in order to reach this goal. In conclusion, globally, work must continue to ensure national policies are in place to support screening, linkage to care and affordable treatment in order to eliminate HCV.

Hepatocellular carcinoma after direct-acting antiviral therapy for chronic HCV infection: Is it a real risk?

The newer oral treatments for chronic hepatitis C virus infection are one of the greatest revolutions in modern medicine. These drugs promise to eradicate the infection, showing high cure rates even in difficult to treat populations with very few side effects. Nevertheless, some cases of recurrence and de novo hepatocellular carcinoma after treatment with these drugs have been reported. We describe two cases of patients treated with direct-acting antiviral agents that developed hepatocarcinoma during follow-up post-treatment.