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Musigk N, Suwalski P, Golpour A, Fairweather D, Klingel K, Martin P, Frustaci A, Cooper LT, Lüscher TF, Landmesser U, Heidecker B. The inflammatory spectrum of cardiomyopathies. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1251780. [PMID: 38464847 PMCID: PMC10921946 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1251780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Infiltration of the myocardium with various cell types, cytokines and chemokines plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of cardiomyopathies including inflammatory cardiomyopathies and myocarditis. A more comprehensive understanding of the precise immune mechanisms involved in acute and chronic myocarditis is essential to develop novel therapeutic approaches. This review offers a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge of the immune landscape in cardiomyopathies based on etiology. It identifies gaps in our knowledge about cardiac inflammation and emphasizes the need for new translational approaches to improve our understanding thus enabling development of novel early detection methods and more effective treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Musigk
- Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité, Department of Cardiology, Angiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Phillip Suwalski
- Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité, Department of Cardiology, Angiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ainoosh Golpour
- Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité, Department of Cardiology, Angiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - DeLisa Fairweather
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Center for Clinical and Translational Science, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Karin Klingel
- Cardiopathology Institute for Pathology, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Pilar Martin
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cardiovascular (CIBER-CV, ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Leslie T. Cooper
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Thomas F. Lüscher
- GZO-Zurich Regional Health Centre, Wetzikon & Cardioimmunology, Centre for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Royal Brompton & Harefield Hospitals and National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ulf Landmesser
- Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité, Department of Cardiology, Angiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bettina Heidecker
- Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité, Department of Cardiology, Angiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Berlin, Germany
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2
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Freekh DA, Helmy MW, Said M, El-Khodary NM. The effect of direct acting antiviral agents on vascular endothelial function in Egyptian patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection. Saudi Pharm J 2021; 29:1120-1128. [PMID: 34703365 PMCID: PMC8523355 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2021.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is correlated with cerebrovascular and cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study aimed to assess the effect of treatment with DAAs on vascular endothelial function in cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic HCV infected patients without any CVD risk factors. Fifty chronic HCV genotype 4 infected patients, without cardiovascular risks who have been listed to receive sofosbuvir/daclatasvir with ribavirin combination as triple therapy for 3 months were prospectively recruited. Endothelial dysfunction markers as soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1) and Von willebrand factor (vWf) and inflammation marker (IL6) were estimated at baseline and 3 months post the end of therapy (SVR). All patients achieved SVR. VCAM1 level was significantly improved after HCV clearance with DAA in cirrhotic HCV patients (P = 0.002) compared to patients with mild liver fibrosis (P = 0.006). Levels of vWF also decreased significantly in cirrhosis and non-cirrhosis groups after SVR (P < 0.001 and P = 0.011, respectively). Systemic inflammatory marker (IL6) showed significant decrease in cirrhotic patients (P = 0.001). While, IL6 level did not change significantly in non-cirrhotic group (P = 0.061). Also at SVR, noninvasive liver fibrosis indices have been reduced significantly in the two groups (P < 0.001). HCV clearance by new DAA treatment improves the vascular endothelial dysfunction in Egyptian HCV infected patients with different levels of liver fibrosis and with no risk factors for endothelial dysfunction or CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalia A Freekh
- Clinical Pharmacy & Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damanhour University, Damanhour City, Egypt
| | - Maged W Helmy
- Professor of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Pharmacology & Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damanhour University, Damanhour City, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Said
- Professor of Endemic Medicine & Hepatology, Endemic Medicine & Hepatology Department, Cairo University, Cairo City, Egypt
| | - Noha M El-Khodary
- Lecturer of Clinical Pharmacy, Clinical Pharmacy & Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damanhour University, Damanhour City, Egypt
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3
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Hepatitis C Virus Clearance by Direct-Acting Antivirals Agents Improves Endothelial Dysfunction and Subclinical Atherosclerosis: HEPCAR Study. Clin Transl Gastroenterol 2021; 11:e00203. [PMID: 32955194 PMCID: PMC7431267 DOI: 10.14309/ctg.0000000000000203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has been related to increased cardiovascular (CV) risk. The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of sustained virological response (SVR) on endothelial dysfunction and subclinical atherosclerosis in patients with hepatitis C virus treated with direct-acting antiviral agents. METHODS A total of 114 patients were prospectively recruited and underwent CV risk assessment including (i) endothelial dysfunction determined through laser Doppler flowmetry and (ii) subclinical atherosclerosis, elucidated by the ankle-brachial index (ABI). Atherogenic lipid profile (total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides); markers of oxidative stress (oxidized low-density lipoprotein antibodies [OLAbs]), soluble markers of adhesion (vascular cell adhesion molecule [VCAM], e-selectin, and soluble markers of angiogenesis; and vascular endothelial growth factor, endothelial [EMPs] and platelet [PMPs] apoptotic microparticles, and cell-free DNA [cfDNA]) were measured. All determinations were performed at baseline, 12 weeks (SVR time), and 1 year after treatment. RESULTS In patients with endothelial dysfunction, area of hyperemia improved after virus clearance (P = 0.013) and was related to significant decrease in VCAM, e-selectin (P < 0.001), and cfDNA (P = 0.017) and to increased OLAb levels (P = 0.001). In patients with subclinical atherosclerosis at baseline, a significantly improved ABI was seen after HCV clearance (P < 0.001). Levels of both EMPs and PMPs also decreased after SVR and at follow-up (P = 0.006 and P = 0.002, respectively). DISCUSSION HCV clearance improved not only liver function but also endothelial dysfunction and subclinical atherosclerosis promoted by decrease in levels of VCAM, e-selectin, cfDNA, and PMPs and EMPs.
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4
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Broker M, Frager SZ, Patel NS, Lebovics E, Frishman WH. The Inflammatory Relationship Between Hepatitis C Virus With Coronary and Carotid Atherosclerosis. Cardiol Rev 2021; 29:178-183. [PMID: 32618587 DOI: 10.1097/crd.0000000000000314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV), a global health concern, has been linked to various hepatic and extrahepatic deleterious manifestations. Several observational studies have either supported the increased likelihood of coronary and carotid atherosclerosis after infection with HCV or refuted it. To date, there has been no clear consensus to support either train of thought, as randomized, controlled clinical trials have not been completed. In this review, we first discuss articles that support the notion that HCV infection leads to increased plaque formation due to systemic inflammation and then focus on articles that refute this idea. From the literature, we do know that both inflammatory and lipid processes play a role in plaque formation, and thus both components are important in the successful treatment of atherosclerosis. Based on our review of the literature, we do believe that HCV-infected individuals are at an increased risk for more severe coronary artery disease than their healthy counterparts. Although there is no irrefutable evidence that links HCV infection with plaque formation and/or rupture, cardioprotective measures should be taken to reduce poor health outcomes, especially in those individuals who are already at risk of coronary disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Broker
- From the Department of Medicine, New York Medical College/Westchester Medical Center, Valhalla, NY
| | - Shalom Z Frager
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, New York Medical College/Westchester Medical Center, Valhalla, NY
| | - Nayan S Patel
- Department of Medicine, University of Rochester/Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester, NY
| | - Edward Lebovics
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, New York Medical College/Westchester Medical Center, Valhalla, NY
| | - William H Frishman
- From the Department of Medicine, New York Medical College/Westchester Medical Center, Valhalla, NY
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5
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Lapumnuaypol K, Pisarcik D, Putthapiban P, Sukhumthammarat W, Wijarnpreecha K, Thongprayoon C, Ungprasert P. Direct-acting antiviral agents decrease haemoglobin A1c level in patients with diabetes infected with hepatitis C virus: A systematic review & meta-analysis. Indian J Med Res 2021; 152:562-567. [PMID: 34145095 PMCID: PMC8224154 DOI: 10.4103/ijmr.ijmr_1088_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background & objectives: Several epidemiologic studies have demonstrated that type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is more prevalent in patients infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV), and the eradication of HCV has been shown to decrease the risk of T2DM. This meta-analysis was undertaken to see if treatment with direct-acting antiviral (DAA) agents would improve glycaemic control among HCV-infected patients with T2DM . Methods: A systematic review was conducted using MEDLINE and EMBASE databases since inception to February 2018. Eligible studies must be cohort studies that recruited HCV-infected patients with T2DM and received DAA therapy. The studies must report the change of haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level (before vs. after DAA therapy). Patients who achieved sustained virologic response (SVR) were included in the meta-analysis. The mean HbA1c level and standard deviation of participants were extracted from each study to calculate the mean difference (MD). Pooled MD was then calculated using the random effects model. Results: Four cohort studies with 2648 patients were included. Among HCV-infected T2DM patients who achieved SVR with DAA agents, the mean HbA1c level after treatment was significantly lower than the mean HbA1c level before treatment, with the pooled MD of −0.50 per cent (95% confidence interval, −0.66 to −0.34, I2 = 77%). The main limitation of this study was the lack of comparison groups. Therefore, it could not be concluded that the observed decreased HbA1c level was a direct result of DAA therapy. Interpretation & conclusions: Treatment with DAA agents was found to be associated with a significant reduction of post-treatment HbA1c level compared with pre-treatment HbA1c level among T2DM patients who achieved SVR.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David Pisarcik
- Department of Internal Medicine, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, PA, USA
| | | | | | - Karn Wijarnpreecha
- Department of Gastroenterology, Mayo Clinic Hospital, Gastroenterology - Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Charat Thongprayoon
- Department of Nephrology, Mayo Clinic, Nephrology & Hypertension Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Patompong Ungprasert
- Department of Research & Development, Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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6
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Gitto S, Cursaro C, Bartoli A, Margotti M, Andreone P. Hepatitis C: clinical management and debated issues. Minerva Med 2020; 112:228-237. [PMID: 33319975 DOI: 10.23736/s0026-4806.20.07208-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus represents an important global health issue with 71 million of infected people in the word. Direct-acting antivirals are quite new molecules that hit specific Hepatitis C virus proteins useful for viral replication and assembly. Notably, Direct-acting antivirals bring to high sustained virological response rates showing also a great safety profile. This treatment revolution had an impact on transplantation world, in fact the number of liver transplants due to Hepatitis C virus-related cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma is quickly decreasing. Even if this therapy has achieved excellent results in terms of morbility and mortality rates' reduction, there are some debated issues to consider. In the present review the main clinical challenges in every-day management of Hepatitis C virus patients treated with Direct-acting antivirals and the debated effects of viral clearance (metabolic, cardiovascular, immunologic and neoplastic) are discussed. The detection of barriers that can preclude the delivery of Hepatitis C virus care, is the most complex challenge for the scientific community. To obtain the Hepatitis C virus global eradication by 2030, as the World Health Organization has set, will be complex and laborious and will need a further multilevel effort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Gitto
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Liver, University Hospital Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Carmela Cursaro
- Unit of Internal and Metabolic Medicine, University Hospital of Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandra Bartoli
- Unit of Internal and Metabolic Medicine, University Hospital of Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Marzia Margotti
- Unit of Internal and Metabolic Medicine, University Hospital of Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Pietro Andreone
- Unit of Internal and Metabolic Medicine, University Hospital of Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy -
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7
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Castelo A, Mello CEB, Teixeira R, Madruga JVR, Reuter T, Pereira LMMB, Silva GF, Álvares-DA-Silva MR, Zambrini H, Ferreira PRA. HEPATITIS C IN THE BRAZILIAN PUBLIC HEALTH CARE SYSTEM: BURDEN OF DISEASE. ARQUIVOS DE GASTROENTEROLOGIA 2019; 55:329-337. [PMID: 30785514 DOI: 10.1590/s0004-2803.201800000-74] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infection by hepatitis C virus is one of the leading causes of chronic hepatitis C and cause severe burden for patients, families and the health care system. OBJECTIVE The aims of this research were to assess the severity of liver fibrosis, comorbidities and complications of hepatitis C virus; to examine health-related quality of life (HRQoL), productivity loss and resource use and costs in a sample of Brazilian chronic hepatitis C, genotype 1, patients. METHODS This was a cross-sectional multicenter study performed in genotype-1 chronic hepatitis C patients to assess disease burden in the Brazilian public health care system between November 2014 and March 2015. Patients were submitted to a liver transient elastography (FibroScan) to assess liver fibrosis and answered an interview composed by a questionnaire specifically developed for the study and three standardized questionnaires: EQ-5D-3L, HCV-PRO and WPAI:HepC. RESULTS There were 313 subjects enrolled, with predominance of women (50.8%), caucasian/white (55.9%) and employed individuals (39.9%). Mean age was 56 (SD=10.4) years old. Moreover, 42.8% of patients who underwent FibroScan were cirrhotic; the most frequent comorbidity was cardiovascular disease (62.6%) and the most frequent complication was esophageal varices (54.5%). The results also showed that "pain and discomfort" was the most affected HRQoL dimension (55.0% of patients reported some problems) and that the mean HCV-PRO overall score was 69.1 (SD=24.2). Regarding productivity loss, the most affected WPAI:HepC component was daily activity (23.5%) and among employed patients, presenteeism was more frequent than absenteeism (18.5% vs 6.5%). The direct medical costs in this chronic hepatitis C sample was 12,305.72USD per patient in the 2 years study period; drug treatment costs represented 95.9% of this total. CONCLUSION This study showed that most patients are cirrhotic, present high prevalence of cardiometabolic diseases and esophageal varices, reduced HRQoL mainly in terms of pain/discomfort, and work productivity impairment, especially presenteeism. Additionally, we demonstrated that hepatitis C virus imposes an economic burden on Brazilian Health Care System and that most of this cost is due to drug treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adauto Castelo
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | | | - Rosangela Teixeira
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Faculdade de Medicina, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
| | | | - Tania Reuter
- Hospital Universitário Cassiano Antonio de Moraes, Vitória, ES, Brasil
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8
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Fukuda R, Kondo Y. Hepatitis C virus infection could affect the pathogenesis of ischemic heart diseases in northern Japan. Hepatol Res 2019; 49:355-359. [PMID: 30375711 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2018] [Revised: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Previously, our group reported that lymphotropic hepatitis C virus (HCV) could induce various kinds of immune dysfunctions. The immune dysfunctions could cause vascular disease by inducing cryoglobulinemia. It has been reported that ischemic heart diseases might be caused by HCV. However, the infectious rate of HCV in patients with ischemic heart disease has not been clarified in northern Japan. Therefore, we tried to determine the rate of HCV infectivity in patients with ischemic heart disease. METHODS The target patients of this study were automatically selected using an electronic medical record system to exclude selection bias. The system identified 16 484 patients with ischemic heart disease who were included in this study. In addition, 12 902 subjects who had received medical checkups were included as the control group. RESULTS The positive rate of HCV antibody among the patients with ischemic disease in our hospital was 2.58%, which was significantly higher (P < 0.01) than in the medical checkup patients (0.84%). The positive rate of HCV antibody in the patients with ischemic heart disease in each age group was significantly higher than in the corresponding age groups of the medical checkup patients. The rate of chronic kidney disease in HCV antibody-positive patients treated by percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was significantly higher than in HCV antibody-negative patients treated by PCI (P = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS Hepatitis C virus infection might be associated with the pathogenesis of ischemic heart disease and HCV antibody positivity might be a risk factor for ischemic heart disease in northern Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryo Fukuda
- Department of Hepatology, Sendai Kousei Hospital, Sendai, Japan.,Treatment Center for Liver Cancer, Sendai Kousei Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yasuteru Kondo
- Department of Hepatology, Sendai Kousei Hospital, Sendai, Japan.,Treatment Center for Liver Cancer, Sendai Kousei Hospital, Sendai, Japan
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9
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Interferon- and ribavirin-free therapy with new direct acting antivirals (DAA) for chronic hepatitis C improves vascular endothelial function. Int J Cardiol 2018; 271:296-300. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2018.04.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2017] [Revised: 03/25/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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10
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Gadallah M, Kandil S, Mohsen A. Association between hepatitis C infection and cerebro-cardiovascular disease: analysis of a national population-based survey in Egypt. Trop Med Int Health 2018; 23:738-747. [PMID: 29723920 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine the association between hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, cardiovascular risk factors and cerebro-cardiovascular (CCV) disease. METHODS The source of data was the Egypt Health Issues Survey conducted in 2015. Participants were 11 256 individuals with complete HCV testing, age 25-59 years. Data on demographics, cardiovascular risk factors, CCV disease (myocardial infarction and/or cerebral stroke) and HCV infection were retrieved. Descriptive, bivariate, multivariable logistic regression and sensitivity analyses were performed to determine the independent association of past HCV exposure or chronic infection with diabetes, hypertension and CCV disease. RESULTS 3.9% of participants were antibody positive/RNA negative and considered to have past HCV exposure; 7.9% had detectable HCV-RNA and were considered to have chronic infection. Participants with negative antibodies and no history of liver disease (n = 9928) were the control group. In addition to the previously known risk factors, multivariable analyses revealed that diabetes was independently associated with past HCV exposure (OR = 1.71, 95% CI: 1.27-2.32) and HCV chronic infection (OR = 1.56, 95% CI: 1.23-1.97), whereas CCV disease was independently associated with past exposure (OR = 2.69, 95% CI: 1.62-4.46) and not with chronic infection. No evidence of an association between hypertension and either HCV status was found. CONCLUSION The association of both past HCV exposure and chronic infection with diabetes and that of past HCV exposure with CCV disease may suggest targeting HCV-positive reactors for preventive and curative programmes addressing extrahepatic complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Gadallah
- Department of Community, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sahar Kandil
- Department of Community, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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11
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Aguilera V, Di Maira T, Conde I, Fornés-Ferrer V, Vinaixa C, Pallarés C, Carvalho-Gomes A, Cubells A, García M, Rubín Á, Benlloch S, Gonzalez-Dieguez L, Molina JM, Puchades L, López-Labrador FX, Prieto M, Berenguer M. Cytomegalovirus reactivation in liver transplant recipients due to hepatitis C cirrhosis is associated with higher cardiovascular risk - an observational, retrospective study. Transpl Int 2018; 31:649-657. [PMID: 29493818 DOI: 10.1111/tri.13145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Revised: 10/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The association between cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation and cardiovascular risk has been reported in solid organ transplant populations; however, it has yet to be assessed in liver transplantation (LT). We aim to evaluate whether CMV reactivation is associated with cardiovascular events (CVE) in HCV-LT patients. LT patients (2010 and 2014) due to HCV cirrhosis were included. Clinically significant CMV (CS-CMV) was defined as viral load (VL) >5000 copies/ml, need of therapy or CMV disease. Baseline variables and endpoint measures (CVE, survival, severe recurrent hepatitis C, de novo tumors, and diabetes) were collected. One hundred and forty patients were included. At LT, a history of AHT was present in 23%, diabetes 22%, tobacco use 45%, obesity 20%, and renal impairment (eGFR < 60 ml/min) in 26.5%. CS-CMV reactivation occurred in 25% of patients. Twenty-six patients (18.5%) developed a CVE. Cox regression analysis revealed two factors significantly associated with CVE: Pre-LT DM [HR = 4.6 95% CI (1.6, 13), P = 0.004] and CS-CMV [HR = 4.7 95% CI (1.8, 12.5), P = 0.002]. CS-CMV was not independently associated with the remaining endpoints except for survival (P = 0.03). In our series, CS-CMV reactivation was associated with a greater risk of developing CVE, thus confirming data from other solid organ transplant populations and emphasizing the need for adequate CMV control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Aguilera
- Liver Transplantation and Hepatology Unit, Hospital Universitari i Politécnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain.,CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Valencia, Spain
| | - Tommaso Di Maira
- Liver Transplantation and Hepatology Unit, Hospital Universitari i Politécnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Isabel Conde
- Liver Transplantation and Hepatology Unit, Hospital Universitari i Politécnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain.,Laboratorio de Hepatología y Trasplante Hepático, Instituto de Investigación La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Carmen Vinaixa
- Liver Transplantation and Hepatology Unit, Hospital Universitari i Politécnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain.,CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Valencia, Spain
| | - Carmen Pallarés
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Valencia, Spain.,Laboratorio de Hepatología y Trasplante Hepático, Instituto de Investigación La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Angela Carvalho-Gomes
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Valencia, Spain.,Laboratorio de Hepatología y Trasplante Hepático, Instituto de Investigación La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Almudena Cubells
- Laboratorio de Hepatología y Trasplante Hepático, Instituto de Investigación La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - María García
- Liver Transplantation and Hepatology Unit, Hospital Universitari i Politécnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain.,CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ángel Rubín
- Liver Transplantation and Hepatology Unit, Hospital Universitari i Politécnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain.,CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Valencia, Spain
| | - Salvador Benlloch
- Liver Transplantation and Hepatology Unit, Hospital Universitari i Politécnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain.,CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Jose Miguel Molina
- Microbiology Department, Hospital Universitari i Politécnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Lorena Puchades
- Liver Transplantation and Hepatology Unit, Hospital Universitari i Politécnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - F Xavier López-Labrador
- Fundación para el fomento de la Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de la Comunidad Valenciana (FISABIO), Valencia, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBER ESP), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Martin Prieto
- Liver Transplantation and Hepatology Unit, Hospital Universitari i Politécnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain.,CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Valencia, Spain
| | - Marina Berenguer
- Liver Transplantation and Hepatology Unit, Hospital Universitari i Politécnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain.,CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Valencia, Spain.,Department of Medicine, Universitat de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
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12
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Bridge SH, Pagano S, Jones M, Foster GR, Neely D, Vuilleumier N, Bassendine MF. Autoantibody to apolipoprotein A-1 in hepatitis C virus infection: a role in atherosclerosis? Hepatol Int 2018; 12:17-25. [PMID: 29423541 PMCID: PMC5814532 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-018-9842-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Background/purpose One to three per cent of the world’s population has hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, which is not only a major cause of liver disease and cancer but also associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis, despite an ostensibly favourable lipid profile. Autoantibodies are frequent in HCV infection and emerging evidence shows that autoantibodies could be valuable for cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk stratification. This study investigated a novel independent biomarker of CVD, autoantibodies to apolipoprotein A-1 (anti-apoA-1 IgG) and lipids in patients with chronic HCV before, during and after direct-acting anti-viral (DAA) therapy. Methods Eighty-nine blinded serum samples from 27 patients with advanced chronic HCV were assayed for lipids and anti-apoA-1 IgG by ELISA. Results Pre-treatment HCV viral load correlated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C, r = 0.417; p = 0.042) and negatively with apolipoprotein (apo)B (r = − 0.497; p = 0.013) and markers of CVD risk, the apoB/apoA-1 ratio (r = − 0.490; p = 0.015) and triglyceride level (TG)/HDL-C ratio (r = − 0.450; p = 0.031). Fourteen (52%) of 27 patients had detectable anti-apoA-1 IgG autoantibodies pre-treatment; only two became undetectable with virological cure. Autoantibody-positive sera had lower apoA-1 (p = 0.012), HDL-C (p = 0.009) and total cholesterol (p = 0.006) levels. Conclusions This is the first report of the presence of an emerging biomarker for atherosclerosis, anti-apoA-1 IgG, in some patients with HCV infection. It may be induced by apoA-1 on the surface of HCV lipoviral particles. The autoantibodies inversely correlate with apoA-1 and HDL levels and may render HDL dysfunctional. Whether these hypothesis-generating findings have clinical implications in HCV patients requires further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon H Bridge
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.,Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Sabrina Pagano
- Division of Laboratory Medicine, Department of Genetics and Laboratory Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Meleri Jones
- The Liver Unit, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Graham R Foster
- The Liver Unit, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Dermot Neely
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Nicolas Vuilleumier
- Division of Laboratory Medicine, Department of Genetics and Laboratory Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Margaret F Bassendine
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. .,Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Imperial College London, 10th Floor QEQM Wing, St. Mary's Hospital Campus, South Wharf Street, London, W2 1NY, UK.
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Evidence has been accumulated during the last decade showing that HCV infection plays an important activity at hepatic and extra-hepatic level. Chronic HCV is associated with a large spectrum of extra-hepatic manifestations including lympho-proliferative diseases and metabolic abnormalities (such as insulin resistance and fatty liver disease). MATERIAL AND METHODS We have performed an extensive review of the medical literature regarding the increased risk of cardiovascular and kidney disease that has been observed in various groups of HCV-infected patients. The potential link between such increased risk and the metabolic consequences of chronic HCV infection has been explored. RESULTS According to a systematic review with a meta-analysis of longitudinal studies (n = 9 clinical observational studies; n = 1,947,034 unique patients), we found a strong relationship between positive anti-HCV serologic status and increased incidence of chronic kidney disease in the adult general population, the summary estimate for adjusted hazard ratio was 1.43 (95% confidence intervals, 1.23; 1.63, P = 0.0001) (random-effects model) in anti-HCV positive patients. In another meta-analysis of clinical observational studies (n = 145,608 unique patients on long term dialysis; n = 14 observational studies), anti-HCV sero-positive status was an independent and significant risk factor for death in patients on maintenance dialysis. The summary estimate for adjusted relative risk (all-cause mortality) was 1.35 with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 1.25; 1.47 (P < 0.01) in anti-HCV positive patients on maintenance dialysis. An updated and stratified analysis (n = 4 studies, n = 91,916 patients on maintenance dialysis) resulted in an adjusted HR for cardiovascular mortality among anti-HCV positive patients of 1.21 (95% CI, 1.06; 1.39) (P < 0.01); the homogeneity assumption was not rejected. The mechanisms underlying such relationships remain unclear; it has been suggested that HCV promotes atherogenesis through direct and indirect mechanisms. CONCLUSIONS Clinical trials are under way to assess whether the clearance of HCV RNA from serum by direct-acting antiviral drugs reduces all cause or disease-specific (cardiovascular) mortality among patients on maintenance dialysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Fabrizi
- Division of Nephrology, Maggiore Hospital and IRCCS Foundation. Milano, Italy
| | - Francesca M Donato
- Division of Gastroenterology, Maggiore Hospital and IRCCS Foundation. Milano, Italy
| | - Piergiorgio Messa
- Division of Nephrology, Maggiore Hospital and IRCCS Foundation, University School of Medicine. Milano, Italy Division of Nephrology, Maggiore Hospital and IRCCS Foundation. Milano, Italy
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14
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Impaired Platelet Aggregation and Rebalanced Hemostasis in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18051016. [PMID: 28481325 PMCID: PMC5454929 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18051016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2017] [Revised: 05/03/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased risk of both cardiovascular disease (CVD) and bleeding has been found in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) infection, and a re-balanced hemostasis has been proposed. The aim of this study was to investigate functional whole blood coagulation and platelet function in CHC infection. The prospective study included 82 patients with CHC infection (39 with advanced liver fibrosis and 43 with no or mild liver fibrosis) and 39 healthy controls. A total of 33 patients were treated for CHC infection and achieved sustained virological response (SVR). Baseline and post-treatment blood samples were collected. Hemostasis was assessed by both standard coagulation tests and functional whole blood hemostatic assays (thromboelastograhy (TEG), and platelet aggregation (Multiplate). Patients with CHC and advanced fibrosis had impaired platelet aggregation both compared to patients with no or mild fibrosis and to healthy controls. Patients with CHC and advanced fibrosis also had lower antithrombin, platelet count, and coagulation factors II-VII-X compared to healthy controls. In contrast, TEG did not differ between groups. In treated patients achieving SVR, post-treatment platelet count was higher than pre-treatment counts (p = 0.033) and ADPtest, ASPItest, and RISTOhightest all increased post treatment (all p < 0.05). All Multiplate tests values, however, remained below those in the healthy controls. CHC-infected patients displayed evidence of rebalanced hemostasis with only partly hemostatic normalization in patients achieving SVR. The implications of rebalanced hemostasis and especially the impact on risk of CVD and bleeding warrants further studies.
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15
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Maggi P, Bruno G, Perilli F, Saracino A, Volpe A, Santoro C, Ladisa N, Angarano G. Effects of Therapy with Maraviroc on the Carotid Intima Media Thickness in HIV-1/HCV Co-infected Patients. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 31:125-131. [PMID: 28064231 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.11035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2016] [Revised: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 11/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate, in human immunodeficiency virus-hepatitis C virus co-infected patients, the impact of C-C chemokine receptor type 5 (CCR5) antagonist maraviroc-based antiretroviral therapy on the carotid intima media thickness and on atheromasic plaques. PATIENTS AND METHODS In this pilot prospective study, 12 HIV-HCV co-infected patients underwent color-Doppler ultrasonography before and 48 weeks after switching to a dual therapy based on maraviroc plus protease inhibitors boosted with ritonavir. Changes of intima media thickness, inflammatory and endothelial adhesion biomarkers levels, Veterans Aging Cohort Study index and Framingham risk score were evaluated. RESULTS At baseline 11 (91.6%) patients showed pathological ultrasonographic findings. After 48 weeks, two patients showed an amelioration of intima media thickness. Of the remaining patients with plaques, four showed a reduction of the previously diagnosed plaque; no patients worsened. CONCLUSION Our data suggest that CCR5 inhibition could reduce the development of atherosclerosis especially in the non-calcific stage and could play an important role in the blockade of atheromasic plaque progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Maggi
- Institute of Infectious Diseases, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Bruno
- Institute of Infectious Diseases, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | | | | | - Anna Volpe
- Institute of Infectious Diseases, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Carmen Santoro
- Institute of Infectious Diseases, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Ladisa
- Institute of Infectious Diseases, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
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16
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Hepatitis C virus and atherosclerosis: A legacy after virologic cure? Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2017; 41:25-30. [PMID: 27840032 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2016.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Revised: 09/14/2016] [Accepted: 09/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major pathogen with approximately 3% of the world's population (over 170 million) infected. Epidemiological studies have shown HCV is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular mortality as well as peripheral arterial disease. This is despite HCV inducing an ostensibly favourable lipid profile with accompanying low classical risk score for atherosclerosis (AS). We discuss possible factors involved in the aetiopathogenesis of atherosclerosis in chronic HCV and hypothesise that an important mechanism underlying the development of AS is the presence of circulating low-density immune complexes that induce an inflammatory response. We suggest that HCV particles may be inducing an antibody response to lipoproteins present in the lipoviral particles and sub-viral particles - a concept similar to the more general 'autoantibody' response to modified LDL. After virologic cure some AS risk factors will recede but an increase in serum cholesterol could result in progression of early atherosclerotic lesions, leaving a legacy from persistent HCV infection that has clinical and therapeutic implications.
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17
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CUCIUREANU TUDOR, CHIRIAC STEFAN, CHIORESCU MADALINA, GÎRLEANU IRINA, TRIFAN ANCA. Chronic hepatitis C virus infection: a new modifiable cardio-metabolic risk factor? CLUJUL MEDICAL (1957) 2017; 90:251-255. [PMID: 28781519 PMCID: PMC5536202 DOI: 10.15386/cjmed-793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 04/27/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C infection is a systemic disease that leads to a high risk of cirrhosis and hepatic carcinoma, as well as extrahepatic related disorders, immune-related and metabolic alterations such as glucose metabolism impairment and steatosis, thus being a new cardio-metabolic risk factor. It has been shown that, due to chronic inflammation, HCV infection has a direct effect on the arterial wall, initiating endothelial dysfunction which is the first step in atherosclerotic processes with proatherogenic effects and numerous cardiovascular events. The recent data emphasize that HCV infection can induce insulin resistance in the liver and peripheral tissues through multiple mechanisms which interfere with insulin signaling, inducing the production of several proinflammatory cytokines, and modify the lipid metabolism with the result of hepatic steatosis, which is more pronounced in patients with HCV. The emergence of new direct acting, interferon-free antiviral treatment, leading to HCV cure in most cases with a satisfactory safety profile is, according to numerous studies, improving the glucose metabolism disorders and lowering the number of cardiovascular events in patients who obtained sustained viral response, thiugh further studies are needed to clarify definitively the role of HCV infection in cardiovascular and metabolic alterations, as well as the impact of viral eradication on cardiovascular outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- TUDOR CUCIUREANU
- Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Iasi, Romania
- “Grigore T. Popa“ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, Romania
- Address for correspondence:
| | - STEFAN CHIRIAC
- Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Iasi, Romania
- “Grigore T. Popa“ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, Romania
| | - MADALINA CHIORESCU
- Department of Medical Specialties, “Grigore T. Popa“ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, Romania
| | - IRINA GÎRLEANU
- Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Iasi, Romania
- “Grigore T. Popa“ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, Romania
| | - ANCA TRIFAN
- Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Iasi, Romania
- “Grigore T. Popa“ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, Romania
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18
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Morales AL, Junga Z, Singla MB, Sjogren M, Torres D. Hepatitis C eradication with sofosbuvir leads to significant metabolic changes. World J Hepatol 2016; 8:1557-1563. [PMID: 28050236 PMCID: PMC5165269 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v8.i35.1557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2016] [Revised: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 10/24/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To assess the effect of sofosbuvir (SOF) based regimens on glycemic and lipid control.
METHODS This is a retrospective analysis of hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients treated and cured with a SOF regimen [SOF/ribavirin/interferon, SOF/simeprevir, or SOF/ledipasvir (LDV) ± ribavirin] from January 2014 to March 2015. Patients with hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) and lipid panels within six months before and six months after therapy were identified and included in our study. Due to the known hemolytic effect of ribavirin, HbA1C was obtained a minimum of three months post-treatment for the patients treated with a ribavirin regimen. Medical history, demographics, HCV genotype, pre-therapy RNA, and liver biopsies were included in our analysis. The patients who started a new medication or had an adjustment of baseline medical management for hyperlipidemia or diabetes mellitus (DM) were excluded from our analysis.
RESULTS Two hundred and thirty-four patients were reviewed, of which 60 patients met inclusion criteria. Sixty-three point three percent were male, 26.7% were Caucasian, 41.7% were African American and 91.7% were infected with hepatitis C genotype 1. Mean age was 60.6 ± 6.7 years. Thirty-nine patients had HbA1C checked before and after treatment, of which 22 had the diagnosis of DM type 2. HbA1C significantly decreased with treatment of HCV (pretreatment 6.66% ± 0.95% vs post-treatment 6.14% ± 0.65%, P < 0.005). Those treated with SOF/LDV had a lower HbA1C response than those treated with other regimens (0.26% ± 0.53% vs 0.71% ± 0.83%, P = 0.070). Fifty-two patients had pre- and post-treatment lipid panels; there was a significant increase in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and total cholesterol (TC) after treatment (LDL: 99.5 ± 28.9 mg/dL vs 128.3 ± 34.9 mg/dL, P < 0.001; TC: 171.6 ± 32.5 mg/dL vs 199.7 ± 40.0 mg/dL, P < 0.001). Pre-treatment body-mass index (BMI) did not differ from post-treatment BMI (P = 0.684).
CONCLUSION Eradication of HCV with a SOF regimen resulted in a significant drop in HbA1C and an increase in LDL and TC post therapy.
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Hepatitis C-related cirrhosis. Current status. Med Clin (Barc) 2016; 148:78-85. [PMID: 27855947 DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2016.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Revised: 09/14/2016] [Accepted: 09/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects around 150 million people. It is a leading cause of liver related morbidity and mortality through its predisposition to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and end-stage liver complications. New treatments based on direct-acting antivirals have opened a new era in the management of HCV cirrhosis. They allow for HCV eradication without substantial side effects in almost all cirrhotic patients, reducing the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, liver decompensation and mortality. This review provides an update on HCV cirrhosis. The paper focuses on the disease burden and major progresses in the diagnosis, follow-up and treatment of this patient subgroup.
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Barakat AAEK, Nasr FM, Metwaly AA, Morsy S, Eldamarawy M. Atherosclerosis in chronic hepatitis C virus patients with and without liver cirrhosis. Egypt Heart J 2016; 69:139-147. [PMID: 29622968 PMCID: PMC5839344 DOI: 10.1016/j.ehj.2016.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 10/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chronic Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and liver cirrhosis may be associated with atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease (CAD). There are two phases to atherosclerosis, Subclinical and Clinical. Assessment of atherosclerosis may be started at its Subclinical phase by the evaluation of Epicardial Fat Thickness (EpFT) and Carotid Intima Thickness (CIMT). Aim of the study The aim of the study was to evaluate Clinical and Subclinical atherosclerosis in chronic HCV patients with and without liver cirrhosis by evaluating CIMT and EpFT and correlating the results with Child-Pugh functional scoring of cirrhosis as well as with ultrasound and laboratory parameters that define the severity of liver disease. Patients and methods This study involved 64 chronic HCV patients that were divided into two groups: 24 patients without liver cirrhosis and 40 patients with liver cirrhosis in addition to 20 apparently healthy volunteers serving as control. All of the 84 subjects were subjected to the following: Clinical evaluation; Routine Laboratory Evaluation (CBC, Liver Function Tests, Renal Function Tests, Serum electrolytes, Cholesterol, Triglycerides, HBs antigen and HCV antibody); ECG; Abdominal ultrasound; Echocardiographic evaluation of segmental wall motion abnormalities and EpFT and B-Mode Carotid ultrasonography for evaluation of CIMT. Results In the cirrhotic HCV group, the CIMT and EpFT were both significantly increased [Compared to control group (p = 0.000), compared to the non-cirrhotic HCV group (p = 0.000)]. In the non-cirrhotic HCV group, the CIMT and EpFT were both significantly increased compared to the control group with a p-value of 0.003 for CIMT and 0.048 for EpFT. The CIMT and EpFT were also positively correlated with each other (r = 0.456, p = 0.001). There was a statistically significant increase in the EpFT and CIMT in Child class B patients compared to Child class A (p = 0.007 for CIMT and p = 0.028 for EpFT) and in Child class C patients compared to Child class B patients (p = 0.001 for CIMT and 0.005 for EpFT). CIMT and EpFT were correlated positively with AST (r = 0.385, p = 0.002 for CIMT, and r = 0.379, p = 0.003 for EpFT), Total Bilirubin (r = 0.378, p = 0.003 for CIMT, and r = 0.384, p = 0.002 for EpFT), INR% (r = 0.456, p = 0.001 for CIMT, and r = 0.384, p = 0.001 for EpFT), CRP (r = 0.378, p = 0.003 for CIMT, and r = 0.386, p = 0.002 for EpFT), spleen span (r = 0.417, p = 0.001 for CIMT, and r = 0.437, p = 0.001 for EpFT) and portal Vein Diameter (r = 0.372, p = 0.003 for CIMT, and r = 0.379, p = 0.003 for EpFT). CIMT and EpFT were correlated negatively with Albumin (r = -0.379, p = 0.003 for CIMT, and r = -0.370, p = 0.003 for EpFT), platelets count (r = -0.382, p = 0.002 for CIMT, and r = -0.378, p = 0.003 for EpFT) and Liver Span (r = -0.433, p = 0.001 for CIMT, and r = -0.424, p = 0.001 for EpFT). Conclusion EpFT and CIMT significantly increased in chronic hepatitis C virus patients especially in those with cirrhosis and closely correlated with each other. Their thickness also correlated with the Child-Pugh functional scoring of cirrhosis as well as with ultrasound and laboratory parameters that define the severity of liver disease.The echocardiographic assessment of EpFT and the carotid Doppler assessment of CIMT may provide appropriate and simple screening markers for subclinical atherosclerosis and cardiovascular risk in chronic HCV patients with and without cirrhosis.
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Key Words
- BMI, body mass index
- CAD, coronary artery disease
- CHD, coronary heart disease
- CIMT, carotid intima media thickness
- Carotid intima media thickness
- Chronic hepatitis C virus
- ESLD, end-stage liver disease
- EpFT, epicardial fat thickness
- Epicardial fat thickness
- FRS, Framingham risk score
- HBs, hepatitis B surface antigen
- HCV, chronic hepatitis C virus
- LT, liver transplantation
- Liver cirrhosis
- TTE, transthoracic echocardiography
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fatma Mohammad Nasr
- Intensive Care Department (ICU), Theodor Bilharz Research Institute (TBRI), Giza, Egypt
- Corresponding author at: ICU, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, 12-14 El-Nile Street, Warraq El-hadar, Giza 12411, Egypt and 15 Wadi Degla Street, Zahraa Al-Maadi, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Amna Ahmed Metwaly
- Intensive Care Department (ICU), Theodor Bilharz Research Institute (TBRI), Giza, Egypt
| | - Sherif Morsy
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute (TBRI), Giza, Egypt
| | - Mervat Eldamarawy
- Intensive Care Department (ICU), Theodor Bilharz Research Institute (TBRI), Giza, Egypt
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