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Pagnotta A, Formica VM, Ascione A, Covello R, Zoccali C. Massive bone allograft engineered with autologous vessels: A new perspective for the future. Hand Surg Rehabil 2022; 41:648-653. [PMID: 35700916 DOI: 10.1016/j.hansur.2022.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Reconstruction is very important to ensure good function and quality of life after bone tumor resection. For metacarpals and phalanges, amputation and toe transfer are the gold-standard indications; nevertheless, allograft reconstruction must also be taken into account. Unfortunately, because of its inert biological behavior, it undergoes progressive resorption, with frequent fracture. Several attempts have been made to induce new vascularization in massive bone allograft, with poor results. However, neo-angiogenesis was reported with vascular loops, and we therefore hypothesized that heterologous graft integration could be enhanced by creating a vascular loop through the graft. A 50-year-old male with chondrosarcoma of the ring finger of the left hand underwent wide resection. An allogenic middle phalanx of comparable size was then prepared to fill the defect. Two small windows were performed proximally and distally on the radial surface of the allogenic phalanx, and a 4 cm-long vein graft was inserted inside the medullary canal. Metacarpophalangeal joint stability was achieved by collateral ligament reconstruction with micro-anchors. The distal part of the allograft was then stabilized to the middle phalanx with a 1.5 mm-thick micro-plate and screws. The radial proper palmar digital artery was proximally and distally sutured end-to-end to the vein graft, under microscopy. At 12-month follow-up, the allograft was fused, and histology performed at plate removal at 18 months revealed viable spindle cells with osteoblastic differentiation, without evidence of atypia, in a dense fibrous stroma. At 22 months' follow-up, the patient was apparently disease-free, and satisfied with his manual function.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Pagnotta
- Hand and Microsurgery Unit, Jewish Hospital, Via Fulda 14, 00148 Rome, Italy
| | - V M Formica
- Hand and Microsurgery Unit, Jewish Hospital, Via Fulda 14, 00148 Rome, Italy
| | - A Ascione
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Pathological Sciences, Sapienza, University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - R Covello
- Oncological Orthopedics Department, IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - C Zoccali
- Oncological Orthopedics Department, IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, Italy; Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Science, University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
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Rosato V, Ascione A, Nevola R, Fracanzani AL, Piai G, Messina V, Claar E, Coppola C, Fontanella L, Lombardi R, Staiano L, Valente G, Fascione MC, Giorgione C, Mazzocca A, Galiero R, Perillo P, Marrone A, Sasso FC, Adinolfi LE, Rinaldi L. Factors affecting long-term changes of liver stiffness in direct-acting anti-hepatitis C virus therapy: A multicentre prospective study. J Viral Hepat 2022; 29:26-34. [PMID: 34582610 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The long-term changes of liver stiffness (LS) in patients who achieve viral clearance after direct-acting anti-HCV therapy remain undefined. We conducted a multicentre prospective study to investigate this aspect. Patients with HCV infection treated with DAAs were enrolled from six Italian centres; they underwent clinical, biochemical, ultrasound and transient elastography evaluations before treatment (T0), 12 weeks (SVR12) and 24 months (T24) after the end of therapy. Among the 516 consecutive patients enrolled, 301 had cirrhosis. LS significantly decreased from T0 to SVR (14.3 vs 11.1 kPa, p = .002), with a progressive reduction until T24 (8.7 kPa, p < .001). However, only patients with steatosis and those who developed HCC did not experience a late improvement in LS. Multivariate analysis of baseline and follow-up variables identified steatosis as the only independent predictor of failure of LS improvement (OR 1.802, p = .013). ROC curve analysis of the association of LS with the risk of developing HCC showed that SVR12 ≥14.0 kPa had the highest accuracy (sensitivity 82%, specificity 99%; AUC: 0.774). Multivariate analysis revealed that LS was the only variable independently associated with an increased risk of developing HCC (OR 6.470, p = .035). Achieving an SVR was associated with a progressive, long-term decline of LS, suggesting a late improvement in liver fibrosis, besides the resolution of inflammation. Fatty liver and the development of HCC interfered with late reduction of LS. Patients with an LS ≥14 kPa at 12 weeks after the end of treatment were at higher risk for developing HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonio Ascione
- Center for Liver Disease, Ospedale Buon Consiglio - Fatebenefratelli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Riccardo Nevola
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Anna Ludovica Fracanzani
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Fondazione Cà Granda IRCCS, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Guido Piai
- Liver Unit for Transplant Management (SATTE), AORN Sant'Anna e San Sebastiano, Caserta, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Messina
- Infectious Diseases Unit, AORN Sant'Anna e San Sebastiano, Caserta, Italy
| | - Ernesto Claar
- Liver Unit, Ospedale Evangelico Betania, Napoli, Italy
| | - Carmine Coppola
- Internal Medicine and Hepatology Unit, Gragnano Hospital, Gragnano, Italy
| | - Luca Fontanella
- Center for Liver Disease, Ospedale Buon Consiglio - Fatebenefratelli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Rosa Lombardi
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Fondazione Cà Granda IRCCS, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Staiano
- Internal Medicine and Hepatology Unit, Gragnano Hospital, Gragnano, Italy
| | - Giovanna Valente
- Liver Unit for Transplant Management (SATTE), AORN Sant'Anna e San Sebastiano, Caserta, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Fascione
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Chiara Giorgione
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Annalisa Mazzocca
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Raffaele Galiero
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | | | - Aldo Marrone
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Carlo Sasso
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Luigi Elio Adinolfi
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Luca Rinaldi
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
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Moffa S, Perna A, Cattolico A, Sellitto C, Ascione A, Tafuri D, Guerra G, Lucariello A. Evaluations of Muscular Strength, Ability to Balance and Health Status in Prisoners during COVID-19. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:4316. [PMID: 33921737 PMCID: PMC8072899 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18084316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Recent events in prisons during the COVID-19 pandemic showed how the health situation and overcrowding in prisons are a source of high risk to the health and physical and mental well-being of the prison population and how this has become an important medical problem. The original purpose of this study, which was initially planned to last 6 months, was to examine the effects of a training program on cardio-respiratory capacity, resistance to dynamic strength of the upper and lower body and muscle mass. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the purpose was subsequently modified by highlighting whether and which deficiencies occurred as a result of the absence of physical activity. Forty adult men between 35 and 55 years of age with more than 1 year of detention were selected and randomly divided into two groups: the experimental group and control group. The fitness training protocol of the experimental group consisted of three weekly sessions lasting 90 min, while control group subjects followed a walk of 30-60 min three days a week without running or resistance training. The unpaired and paired t-tests revealed significant effects of both health status and fitness level (p < 0.05; p < 0.01) on group training. The results of this research show that prisoners can improve their fitness and health through participation in physical education programs. This conclusion is especially important for prisoners who have to serve very long prison sentences and who are at great risk of showing poor physical condition levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Moffa
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “Vincenzo Tiberio”, University of Molise, Via F. De Santis, 86100 Campobasso, Italy; (S.M.); (A.P.); (G.G.)
| | - Angelica Perna
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “Vincenzo Tiberio”, University of Molise, Via F. De Santis, 86100 Campobasso, Italy; (S.M.); (A.P.); (G.G.)
| | - Alessandro Cattolico
- Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, Section of Human Anatomy, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Napoli, Italy; (A.C.); (C.S.)
| | - Carmine Sellitto
- Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, Section of Human Anatomy, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Napoli, Italy; (A.C.); (C.S.)
| | - Antonio Ascione
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University “Aldo Moro”, Piazza Umberto I, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | - Domenico Tafuri
- Department of Sport Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples “Parthenope”, Via Medina 40, 80133 Naples, Italy;
| | - Germano Guerra
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “Vincenzo Tiberio”, University of Molise, Via F. De Santis, 86100 Campobasso, Italy; (S.M.); (A.P.); (G.G.)
| | - Angela Lucariello
- Department of Sport Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples “Parthenope”, Via Medina 40, 80133 Naples, Italy;
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De Luca M, Addario L, Lombardi A, Imparato M, Fontanella L, Addario M, Picascia D, Di Costanzo GG, Ascione A. Adipopenia Is the Rapid Screening Tool that Best Predicts Mortality in Patients with Decompensated Cirrhosis: Results of a Prospective Study. J Gastrointestin Liver Dis 2021; 30:94-102. [PMID: 33548124 DOI: 10.15403/jgld-3071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Patients with liver cirrhosis (LC) often have malnutrition (MN), which can be associated with decompensation, infection, and death. The aims were to determine: the prevalence of MN in patients with LC and ascites, its impact on mortality, and the relationship between MN and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP). METHODS Nutritional status (NS) was analysed in cirrhotic patients, experiencing their first episode of ascites, who were consecutively admitted at two clinical liver centres between November 2014 and October 2016. The participants underwent diagnostic paracentesis and were followed up to assess their outcomes. RESULTS 110 participants underwent NS assessment in addition to routine clinical procedures. The prevalence of MN was 30.9% according to corrected body mass index, 67.3% according to upper mid-arm muscle area (UMA) and 40% according to upper mid-arm fat area (UFA). The percentages of the participants remaining alive were 68.1% at 3 months, 59.3% at 6 months, 45.1% at 12 months and 24.2% at the end of the study. Univariate analysis showed that SBP, model for end-stage liver disease (MELD), UFA, UMA and age were significantly associated with mortality. Multivariate analysis showed that only SBP, MELD and UFA (hazard ratio 2.2) were independently associated with mortality. There was a correlation between adipopenia, but not sarcopenia, and SBP. CONCLUSIONS Adipopenia, as assessed by UFA, was present in 40% of the cirrhotic patients, and it was independently associated with mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Michele Imparato
- Centre for Liver Disease, Buon Consiglio - Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Napoli, Italy.
| | - Luca Fontanella
- Centre for Liver Disease, Buon Consiglio - Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Napoli, Italy.
| | - Marco Addario
- Centre for Liver Disease, Buon Consiglio - Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Napoli, Italy.
| | - Desiree Picascia
- Hepato-Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Precision Medicine, L. Vanvitelli University, Napoli, Italy.
| | | | - Antonio Ascione
- Centre for Liver Disease, Buon Consiglio - Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Napoli, Italy.
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Sacco R, Messina V, Gentilucci UV, Adinolfi LE, Ascione A, Barbarini G, Barlattani A, Cariti G, Cozzolongo R, Fimiani B, Francavilla R, Furlan C, Garrucciu G, Iovinella V, Rinaldi L, Marignani M, Begini P, Palitti VP, Pellicelli AM, Scifo G, Facciorusso A, Giacomelli L, Shah A, Bertino G, Perazzo S, Bresci G, Izzi A. Sustained virological response in patients with HCV treated with daclatasvir plus sofosbuvir, with or without ribavirin: a large, field-practice study. Drugs Context 2020; 9:dic-2020-4-11. [PMID: 33408749 PMCID: PMC7747789 DOI: 10.7573/dic.2020-4-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The once-daily oral combination of daclatasvir (DCV) and sofosbuvir (SOF), with or without ribavirin (RBV), is effective and well tolerated in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV). However, further field-practice studies are necessary to investigate the effectiveness and safety of the DCV+SOF combination in diverse subpopulations of patients with HCV, including those who are more challenging to treat such as patients with a genotype 3 (G3) infection. The aim of this retrospective, multicenter, field-practice study was to investigate the therapeutic efficacy and safety of the oral combination of DCV and SOF, with or without RBV (DCV+SOF±RBV), in a large unselected cohort of patients with chronic HCV infection (CHC). Patients and methods Consecutive patients received DCV+SOF±RBV for 12 or 24 weeks. The efficacy endpoint was sustained virological response at 12 weeks after the end of treatment (SVR12). Safety factors were also considered. Results A total of 620 patients were included in this study; the predominant genotype was G3 (55.3%). Of the total sample, 248 (40%) patients were treated with DCV+SOF+RBV and 372 (60%) did not receive RBV. The majority of patients assessed at week 12 (98%, 596/608) achieved SVR12. Among G3 patients, 98.8% (335/339) achieved SVR12. The most common adverse event was elevated bilirubin (30.6%), recorded in 4.9% of cases as a grade 3–4 adverse event. Conclusion This study shows the high pan-genotypic effectiveness and safety of the DCV+SOF±RBV combination in a large, unselected sample of CHC patients with G1–4, including a wide proportion of G3 CHC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodolfo Sacco
- Gastroenterology and Metabolic Diseases Unit - Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Messina
- Infectious Disease Unit Sant'Anna e San Sebastiano Hospital Caserta, Italy
| | | | | | - Antonio Ascione
- Center for Liver Diseases "Buon Consiglio-Fatebenefratelli" Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Giuseppe Cariti
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, University of Turin, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Raffaele Cozzolongo
- Division of Gastroenterology, IRCCS "S De Bellis Hospital", Castellana Grotte, Italy
| | - Basilio Fimiani
- Internal Medicine Unit, "Umberto I" Hospital, Nocera Inferiore, Italy
| | | | - Caterina Furlan
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Policlinico "Umberto I", Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Luca Rinaldi
- Internal Medicine Unit "L Vanvitelli" University, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Paola Begini
- Digestive and Liver Diseases "S. Andrea" Hospital Rome, Italy
| | | | - Adriano M Pellicelli
- Liver Disease unit Department of Liver Transplantation "San Camillo" Hospital Rome, Italy
| | - Gaetano Scifo
- Infectious Disease Unit "Umberto I" Hospital, Siracusa, Italy
| | | | - Luca Giacomelli
- Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | | | | | - Serena Perazzo
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Emergency Infectious Diseases "D. Cotugno" Hospital Naples, Italy
| | - Giampaolo Bresci
- Gastroenterology and Metabolic Diseases Unit - Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Antonio Izzi
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Emergency Infectious Diseases "D. Cotugno" Hospital Naples, Italy
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D'Erasmo L, Maranghi M, Brancato F, Stanca I, Montali A, Pigna G, Francone M, Ascione A, Arca M. Atherosclerotic coronary artery disease burden by ct scan in subjects with molecularly defined heterozygous familial hypercolesterolemia (HEFH), polygenic familial hypercholesterolemia (PFH) and controls: A pilot study. Atherosclerosis 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2020.10.130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Baronio M, Freni-Sterrantino A, Pinelli M, Natalini G, Tonini G, Marri M, Baglivo M, Sabatini T, Maltese PE, Chiurazzi P, Michelini S, Morreale G, Ascione A, Notaro P, Bertelli M. Italian SARS-CoV-2 patients in intensive care: towards an identikit for subjects at risk? Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2020; 24:9698-9704. [PMID: 33015815 DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202009_23061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate patient characteristics and factors that increase the risk of being admitted to intensive care and that influence survival in cases of SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia. PATIENTS AND METHODS One-hundred and ninety-one SARS-CoV-2 patients were admitted to the "Fondazione Poliambulanza di Brescia" Hospital (Brescia, Lombardy, Italy) in the period 1st March 2020 to 11th April 2020. Data on demographics, clinical presentation at admission, co-morbidities, pharmacological treatment, admission to intensive care and death was recorded. Logistic regression and survival analysis were carried out to investigate the risk of being admitted to intensive care and the risk of death. RESULTS The mean age of the study cohort was 64.6±9.9 years (range 20-88). Median BMI was 28.5±5 kg/m2. Fever (81%) and dyspnea (65%) were the most common symptoms on admission. Most of patients (63%) had at least one co-existing disease. The 157 (82%) patients admitted to intensive care were more likely to be of intermediate age (60-69 years; OR 3.23, 95% CI 1.32-8.38), overweight (OR 2.66, 95% CI 1.02-7.07) or obese (OR 5.63, 95% CI 1.73-21.09) and with lymphocytopenia (OR 2.75, 95% CI 1.17-6.89) than the 34 patients admitted to the ordinary ward. During intensive care, 50% of patients died and their death was associated with older age (HR 2.06, 95% CI 1.07-3.97), obesity (HR 2.23, 95% CI 1.15-4.35) and male gender (HR 1.9, 95% CI 1.02-3.57). CONCLUSIONS We found that admission to intensive care and poor survival were associated with advanced age and higher body mass index, albeit with differences in statistical significance. Pre-existing diseases and symptoms on admission were not associated with different clinical outcomes. Interestingly, male gender was more prevalent among SARS-CoV-2 patients and was related negatively to survival, but it was not associated with more frequent admission to intensive care.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Baronio
- Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Fondazione Poliambulanza, Brescia, Italy.
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Vespasiani-Gentilucci U, Rosina F, Pace-Palitti V, Sacco R, Pellicelli A, Chessa L, De Vincentis A, Barlattani M, Barlattani A, Feletti V, Mussetto A, Zolfino T, Russello M, Cozzolongo R, Garrucciu G, Niro G, Bacca D, Bertino G, Claar E, Ascione A, D'Adamo G, Adinolfi LE, Scifo G, Izzi A. Rate of non-response to ursodeoxycholic acid in a large real-world cohort of primary biliary cholangitis patients in Italy. Scand J Gastroenterol 2019; 54:1274-1282. [PMID: 31564176 DOI: 10.1080/00365521.2019.1669702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Background and aim: Response to ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is crucial for the prediction of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) prognosis, and different response criteria were validated and proposed by reference centers for PBC. To date, rates of non-response to UDCA from real-world series are lacking.Methods: Hepatology/Gastroenterology centers belonging to 'Club Epatologi Ospedalieri' (CLEO) and 'Associazione Italiana Gastroenterologi Ospedalieri' (AIGO) were invited to participate in the study, and asked to extract all patients followed for PBC, without any selection or exclusion, and fill in the database provided.Results: Thirty-four centers were enrolled throughout Italy, for a total of 713 patients. None of these centers, except one, had a hepatology outpatient clinic devoted to the care of patients with autoimmune liver diseases. After excluding 79 cases of PBC/autoimmune hepatitis overlaps, 634 patients were analyzed: mean age, 64.4 ± 12.0 years; 91.2% females; F/M 10.3/1. For patients with at least 1 year of UDCA treatment (583), rates of non-response to UDCA were evaluated according to the Paris-I/-II, Toronto and GLOBE criteria, and compared with those in the original cohorts: 27% vs 39% in Paris-I cohort; 39.6% vs 52% in Paris-II; 20.1% vs 43.5% in Toronto; 15.7% vs 30% in GLOBE (age-specific cutoffs). Mean alkaline phosphatase levels on UDCA treatment, and the age-adjusted prevalence of F3/F4 fibrosis, appeared lower in this PBC population than in reference cohorts.Conclusions: A mean ∼15% better response to UDCA is observed in a real-world PBC population, probably due to migration of some of most severe/advanced cases to PBC referral centers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Rodolfo Sacco
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Luchino Chessa
- Liver Unit, University Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonio De Vincentis
- Internal Medicine and Hepatology, University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Valentina Feletti
- Gastroenterology Unit, Santa Maria Delle Croci Hospital, Ravenna, Italy
| | | | - Teresa Zolfino
- Department of Gastroenterology, Brotzu Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Raffaele Cozzolongo
- Gastroenterology Unit, National Institute of Gastroenterology "S de Bellis" Reseach Hospital, Castellana Grotte (Bari), Italy
| | - Giovanni Garrucciu
- General Medicine and Medical Pathology, Sassari University Hospital, Sassari, Italy
| | - Grazia Niro
- Department of Gastroenterology, Casa Sollievo Della Sofferenza Institute, San Giovanni Rotondo (Foggia), Italy
| | - Donato Bacca
- Internal Medicine Unit, Casarano Hospital, Lecce, Italy
| | - Gaetano Bertino
- Department of Hepatology, University Hospital Policlinico Vittorio Emanuele, Catania, Italy
| | - Ernesto Claar
- Department of Hepatology, Betania Hospital, Napoli, Italy
| | - Antonio Ascione
- Department of Hepatology, Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Napoli, Italy
| | - Giuseppe D'Adamo
- Department of General Medicine, Umberto I Hospital ASL Salerno, Nocera Inferiore, Italy
| | - Luigi Elio Adinolfi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Luigi Vanvitelli University of Campania, Napoli, Italy
| | - Gaetano Scifo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Umberto I Hospital, Siracusa, Italy
| | - Antonio Izzi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, D. Cotugno Hospital, Napoli, Italy
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9
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Rinaldi L, Guarino M, Perrella A, Pafundi PC, Valente G, Fontanella L, Nevola R, Guerrera B, Iuliano N, Imparato M, Trabucco A, Sasso FC, Morisco F, Ascione A, Piai G, Adinolfi LE. Role of Liver Stiffness Measurement in Predicting HCC Occurrence in Direct-Acting Antivirals Setting: A Real-Life Experience. Dig Dis Sci 2019; 64:3013-3019. [PMID: 30937719 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-019-05604-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Rinaldi
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza Miraglia, 80138, Naples, Italy.
| | - Maria Guarino
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandro Perrella
- VII Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Ospedali dei Colli P. O. D. Cotugno, Naples, Italy
| | - Pia Clara Pafundi
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza Miraglia, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanna Valente
- Department of Medical Sciences, A.O.R.N. S. Anna and S. Sebastiano, Caserta, Italy
| | - Luca Fontanella
- Department of Internal Medicine, Centre for Liver Disease, Buon Consiglio Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Riccardo Nevola
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza Miraglia, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Barbara Guerrera
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza Miraglia, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Natalina Iuliano
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza Miraglia, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Michele Imparato
- Department of Internal Medicine, Centre for Liver Disease, Buon Consiglio Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessio Trabucco
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza Miraglia, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Carlo Sasso
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza Miraglia, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Filomena Morisco
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Ascione
- Department of Internal Medicine, Centre for Liver Disease, Buon Consiglio Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Guido Piai
- Department of Medical Sciences, A.O.R.N. S. Anna and S. Sebastiano, Caserta, Italy
| | - Luigi Elio Adinolfi
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza Miraglia, 80138, Naples, Italy
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Cusano P, Ascione A, Mezzapesa GN. Reliability of aerobic and anaerobic field tests in in measuring athletes’ performances: A statistical approach on a cohort of 100 subjects. jhse 2019. [DOI: 10.14198/jhse.2019.143.02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Ascione A, De Luca M, Melazzini M, Montilla S, Trotta MP, Petta S, Puoti M, Sangiovanni V, Messina V, Bruno S, Izzi A, Villa E, Aghemo A, Zignego AL, Orlandini A, Fontanella L, Gasbarrini A, Marzioni M, Giannini EG, Craxì A. Safety and efficacy of ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir/dasabuvir plus ribavirin in patients over 65 years with HCV genotype 1 cirrhosis. Infection 2018; 46:607-615. [PMID: 29808463 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-018-1157-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To analyse safety and efficacy of treatment based on ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir/dasabuvir plus ribavirin in the sub-group of GT1 patients older than 65 years. METHODS We collected data extracted from the ABACUS compassionate-use nationwide Italian programme, in patients with cirrhosis due to hepatitis C virus (HCV) Genotype-1 (GT1) or 4 and at high risk of decompensation. GT1-HCV-infected patients received once-daily ombitasvir/paritaprevir, with the pharmacokinetic enhancer ritonavir (25/150/100 mg) and twice-daily dasabuvir (250 mg) plus Ribavirin (RBV) (OBV/PTV/r + DSV + RBV) for 12 (GT1b) or 24 (GT1a) weeks. Endpoints were to evaluate safety and efficacy, the latter defined as HCV RNA negative 12 weeks after the end of treatment (SVR12). RESULTS Patients who suffered any adverse event (AE) were 74/240 (30.8%); 13/240 (5.4%) discontinued the treatment. A multivariate analysis found albumin < 3.5 g/dL (OR 2.04: 95% CI 1.0-4.2, p < 0.05) and hypertension (OR 4.6: 95% CI 2.3-9.2, p < 0.001) as variables independently associated with AE occurrence. The SVR12 was 95% (228/240). Multivariate analysis identified baseline bilirubin < 2 mg/dL (OR 4.9: 95% CI 1.17-20.71, p = 0.029) as the only variable independently associated with SVR12. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that OBV/PTV/r + DSV + RBV is safe and effective in real-life use in patients with compensated cirrhosis, HCV-GT1 infection, and age over 65.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Ascione
- Department of Medicine, Centre for Liver Disease, Buon Consiglio-Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Via Manzoni 220, 80123, Naples, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | - Salvatore Petta
- Department of Gastroenterology, DiBiMIS, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Massimo Puoti
- Division of Infectious Diseases, AO Niguarda Ca' Granda Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Savino Bruno
- Humanitas University and IRCCS Clinical Institute Humanitas, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonio Izzi
- Infectious Disease, Cotugno Hospital, AORN Ospedali dei Colli, Naples, Italy
| | - Erica Villa
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, AOU Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessio Aghemo
- UO Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Hospital Maggiore Policlinico of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Linda Zignego
- Interdepartmental Centre for Systemic Manifestations of Hepatitis Viruses (MaSVE), Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Luca Fontanella
- Department of Medicine, Centre for Liver Disease, Buon Consiglio-Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Via Manzoni 220, 80123, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Gasbarrini
- Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Agostino Gemelli Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Marzioni
- Clinic of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Edoardo G Giannini
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Antonio Craxì
- Department of Gastroenterology, DiBiMIS, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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Palmiero G, Melillo E, Ferro A, Ascione R, Ascione A, Carlomagno G, Monda V, Severino S, Caso P. P887Left atrial dysfunction as the main determinant of clinical status, right ventricular dysfunction and pulmonary hypertension in HFrEF patients with significant functional mitral regurgitation. Eur Heart J 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehy564.p887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- G Palmiero
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Naples, Italy
| | - E Melillo
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Naples, Italy
| | - A Ferro
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Naples, Italy
| | - R Ascione
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Naples, Italy
| | - A Ascione
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Naples, Italy
| | - G Carlomagno
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Naples, Italy
| | - V Monda
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Naples, Italy
| | - S Severino
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Naples, Italy
| | - P Caso
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Naples, Italy
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Rinaldi L, Ascione A, Messina V, Rosato V, Valente G, Sangiovanni V, Zampino R, Marrone A, Fontanella L, de Rosa N, Orabona P, Buonomo C, Chirianni A, Adinolfi LE, Piai G. Influence of antiviral therapy on the liver stiffness in chronic HBV hepatitis. Infection 2018; 46:231-238. [PMID: 29335905 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-017-1113-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Accepted: 12/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of antiviral therapy on liver stiffness measurement (LSM). METHODS Two hundred HBV patients were enrolled from four hospital centers in southern Italy; median age was 50.7 (25-75) males were 68%; 171 patients underwent to liver biopsy and 200 patients had LSM at baseline and 189 at the end of follow-up. One hundred and forty-nine patients were treated with nucleos(t)ide analogs, while 51 patients were untreated. The cutoffs of the LSM, related to the fibrosis stages, were as follows: non-advanced fibrosis ≤ 8.1 kPa and advanced fibrosis ≥ 8.2 Kpa. RESULTS At baseline, the median value of LSM was 14.1 kPa for advanced fibrosis/cirrhosis and 6.9 kPa for non-advanced fibrosis. LSM was performed at 24 months from the start of therapy. The treated patients (68% received Entecavir and 32% Tenofovir) showed a decrease in liver stiffness measurement of 1.5 kPa (p < 0.001) in non-advanced fibrosis and of 6 kPa (p < 0.001) in advanced fibrosis/cirrhosis. In the patients not undergoing antiviral treatment, no statistically significant change of the LSM was observed (p = 0.26). A logistic binary regression model showed that the only independent factor associated with a significant change in the LSM was the liver stiffness value at baseline (odd ratio 2.855; 95% CI 1.456-5.788; (p = 0.007). CONCLUSION Long-term antiviral therapy induced a significant reduction of liver stiffness measurement and this result may be related to the reduction of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Rinaldi
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic, and Geriatric Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza Miraglia, 80138, Naples, Italy.
| | - Antonio Ascione
- Department of Internal Medicine, Centre for Liver Diseases, Ospedale Buon Consiglio Fatebenefratelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Messina
- Infectious Diseases C.O. Unit, AORN S. Anna and S. Sebastiano, Caserta, Italy
| | - Valerio Rosato
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic, and Geriatric Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza Miraglia, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanna Valente
- Department of Medical Sciences, AORN S.Anna e S. Sebastiano, Caserta, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Sangiovanni
- Department of Infectious Emergencies and Infectious Diseases, Azienda Ospedaliera Dei Colli, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Zampino
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic, and Geriatric Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza Miraglia, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Aldo Marrone
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic, and Geriatric Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza Miraglia, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Luca Fontanella
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic, and Geriatric Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza Miraglia, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Nicolina de Rosa
- Department of Diagnostic Service, Azienda Ospedaliera dei Colli, Naples, Italy
| | - Pasquale Orabona
- Department of Service, AORN S. Anna and S. Sebastiano, Caserta, Italy
| | - Carmela Buonomo
- Department of Service, AORN S. Anna and S. Sebastiano, Caserta, Italy
| | - Antonio Chirianni
- Department of Infectious Emergencies and Infectious Diseases, Azienda Ospedaliera Dei Colli, Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Elio Adinolfi
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic, and Geriatric Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza Miraglia, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Guido Piai
- Department of Medical Sciences, AORN S.Anna e S. Sebastiano, Caserta, Italy
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Ascione A, Fontanella L, Imparato M, Rinaldi L, De Luca M. Mortality from cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma in Western Europe over the last 40 years. Liver Int 2017; 37:1193-1201. [PMID: 28111883 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2016] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Cirrhosis (LC) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are highly prevalent in Europe, with accompanying high mortality rates and social costs. As epidemiological data on these diseases are scarce, age-standardized death rate (ASDR) can serve as an indirect assessment of their burden. METHODS We analysed the ASDRs for LC and HCC from data reported in the WHO official death registries from 1970 to 2010, and compared ASDRs over the decades. The European Detailed Mortality Database was also used as source of data. RESULTS In 1970, Portugal had the highest reported mortality for LC, followed by France and Italy. However, in 2010, Finland, Austria and Germany were respectively the three highest, while the UK showed the highest increase over those four decades (+284.8%). The annual ASDRs for LC have dropped in Europe from 20.4/105 inhabitants in 1970 to 9.6 in 2010; a 53% decrease. For HCC, Spain, Italy and Denmark were ranked first through third, while in 2010 Italy, France and Luxembourg replaced them. Portugal had the highest increase (+654.7%). In 1980-2010, the ASDR for HCC in Europe increased from 3.4/105 inhabitants to 6.3, up 85.4%. In the majority of nations-except for the UK, Finland and Ireland-there was a decrease in LC mortality and an increase for HCC mortality. CONCLUSIONS The LC mortality rate is decreasing in Europe, yet there is a significant increase in HCC mortality. This phenomenon requires greater attention so we can understand the risk factors and implement preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Ascione
- Department of Medicine, Centre for Liver Disease, Buon Consiglio - Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Luca Fontanella
- Department of Medicine, Centre for Liver Disease, Buon Consiglio - Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Michele Imparato
- Department of Medicine, Centre for Liver Disease, Buon Consiglio - Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Luca Rinaldi
- Department of Scienze Mediche Chirurgiche Neurologiche Metaboliche e dell'Invecchiamento, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
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Petta S, Marzioni M, Russo P, Aghemo A, Alberti A, Ascione A, Antinori A, Bruno R, Bruno S, Chirianni A, Gaeta GB, Giannini EG, Merli M, Messina V, Montilla S, Perno CF, Puoti M, Raimondo G, Rendina M, Silberstein FC, Villa E, Zignego AL, Pani L, Craxì A. Ombitasvir, paritaprevir, and ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir, plus ribavirin for patients with hepatitis C virus genotype 1 or 4 infection with cirrhosis (ABACUS): a prospective observational study. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2017; 2:427-434. [PMID: 28497758 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(17)30048-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2016] [Revised: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 01/24/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We ran a compassionate use nationwide programme (ABACUS) to provide access to ombitasvir, paritaprevir, and ritonavir, with dasabuvir, plus ribavirin for hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1 infection and ombitasvir, paritaprevir, and ritonavir, plus ribavirin for HCV genotype 4 infection in patients with cirrhosis at high risk of decompensation while approval of these regimens was pending in Italy. METHODS In this prospective observational study, we collected data from a compassionate use nationwide programme from March 17, 2014, to May 28, 2015. Patients with HCV genotype 1 infection and cirrhosis at high risk of decompensation were given coformulated ombitasvir (25 mg), paritaprevir (150 mg), and ritonavir (100 mg) once daily and dasabuvir (250 mg) twice daily for 12 weeks (patients with HCV genotype 1b infection) or 24 weeks (patients with HCV genotype 1a infection). Patients with HCV genotype 4 infection were given coformulated ombitasvir (25 mg), paritaprevir (150 mg), and ritonavir (100 mg) once per day for 24 weeks. All patients were given weight-based ribavirin. The primary efficacy endpoint was sustained virological response at week 12 after the end of treatment (SVR12), analysed by intention-to-treat. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify baseline characteristics associated with SVR12. Adverse events were recorded throughout the study. FINDINGS 728 (96%) of 762 patients with cirrhosis who were given ombitasvir, paritaprevir, and ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir, plus ribavirin therapy for 12 or 24 weeks achieved SVR12. Logistic regression analyses identified that bilirubin concentrations of less than 2 mg/dL were associated with SVR12 (odds ratio [OR] 4·76 [95% CI 1·83-12·3]; p=0·001). 166 (23%) of 734 patients included in safety analyses had an adverse event. 25 (3%) patients discontinued treatment because of adverse events. Asthenia was the most commonly reported adverse event, occurring in 36 (5%) patients. INTERPRETATION Our findings suggest that the safety and effectiveness of ombitasvir, paritaprevir, and ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir, plus ribavirin in patients with HCV genotype 1 or 4 infection and cirrhosis at high risk of decompensation in a real-life setting are similar to those reported in clinical trials. The concordance with clinical trials provides reassurance that the reported efficacy of this treatment in clinical trials will translate to its use in routine clinical practice. FUNDING Dipartimento Biomedico di Medicina Interna e Specialistica dell'Universita di Palermo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Petta
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Biomedical Department of Internal and Specialized Medicine (DiBiMIS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Marco Marzioni
- Clinic of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | | | - Alessio Aghemo
- L'Unità Operativa Gastroenterologia ed Epatologia, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Alfredo Alberti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Antonio Ascione
- Centro per le malattie del Fegato, Ospedale Fatebenefratelli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Andrea Antinori
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases, "Lazzaro Spallanzani" Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientific (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Raffaele Bruno
- Dipartimento Malattie Infettive, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Pavia Italia, Università degli studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Savino Bruno
- Humanitas University and Humanitas Research Hospital Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonio Chirianni
- UOC Infezioni sistemiche e dell'immunodepresso, AO Ospedali dei Colli Napoli, Napoli, Italy
| | | | - Edoardo G Giannini
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Manuela Merli
- Gastroenterology Department of Clinical Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Messina
- Infectious Diseases Unit, AORN Sant'Anna e San Sebastiano, Caserta, Italy
| | | | - Carlo Federico Perno
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Puoti
- Department of Infectious Diseases, AO Niguarda Ca' Granda, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Raimondo
- Division of Clinical and Molecular Hepatology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Maria Rendina
- Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, University Hospital Policlinico Bari, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Erica Villa
- Division of Gastroenterology, Azienda Ospedaliero, Universitaria Policlinico di Modena, Italy Università degli Studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Anna Linda Zignego
- Interdepartmental Centre MASVE, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Luca Pani
- Italian Medicines Agency, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Craxì
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Biomedical Department of Internal and Specialized Medicine (DiBiMIS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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Pellicelli AM, Pace Palitti V, Vignally P, Ceccherini-Silberstein F, Siciliano M, Giannelli V, Moretti A, Tarquini P, Scifo G, Messina V, Ascione A, Izzi A, Marignani M, D'Ambrosio C, Fondacaro L, Ettorre GM, Ialongo P, Sacco R, Perno CF, Barbarini G. Efficacy and safety of sofosbuvir/simeprevir plus flat dose ribavirin in genotype 1 elderly cirrhotic patients: A real-life study. Liver Int 2017; 37:653-661. [PMID: 27782373 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The proportion of HCV-infected patients over age 65 years in Western countries is increasing. This growth and the advent of new antiviral therapy bring into the question the real-world efficacy and safety of the combination of sofosbuvir (SOF) and simeprevir (SMV) plus a flat dose of 800 mg/d ribavirin (RBV) in elderly patients with cirrhosis compared to younger patients. METHODS Retrospective observational multicentre real-life investigation study of SOF/SMV/RBV for a duration of 12 weeks in HCV genotype 1-infected patients with cirrhosis. RESULTS Of the 270 patients enrolled in this study, with compensated cirrhosis, 133 (49.2%) were ≥65 years of age. Sustained virological response at 12 weeks (SVR12) was achieved by 94.2% (129/137) of those aged <65 years and 97.7% (130/133) of those ≥65 years. Diabetes was the most common comorbidity in patients ≥65 years compared to younger patients (26.3% vs 12.4% P<.003). The most common adverse event (AE) in elderly patients was a grade 2 anaemia (35.3% vs 19.9% P<.004). CONCLUSIONS Sofosbuvir/simeprevir plus a daily flat dose of RBV 800 mg for 12 weeks was highly effective and safe in genotype 1 elderly patients with compensated cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriano M Pellicelli
- Liver Disease Unit, Department of Liver Transplantation, San Camillo Forlanini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Massimo Siciliano
- Internal Medicine, Catholic University Policlinico Gemelli, Rome, Italy
| | - Valerio Giannelli
- Liver Disease Unit, Department of Liver Transplantation, San Camillo Forlanini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Gaetano Scifo
- Infectious Disease, Umberto I Hospital, Siracusa, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Messina
- Infectious Disease, Sant'Anna and San Sebastiano Hospital Caserta, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Ascione
- Center for Liver Disease, Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Napoli, Italy
| | - Antonio Izzi
- Infectious Disease, Cotugno Hospital, Napoli, Italy
| | - Massimo Marignani
- Digestive and Liver Disease Unit, Faculty Medicine and Psychology, S. Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia D'Ambrosio
- Liver Disease Unit, Department of Liver Transplantation, San Camillo Forlanini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Fondacaro
- Liver Disease Unit, Department of Liver Transplantation, San Camillo Forlanini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe M Ettorre
- Division of General Surgery and Liver Transplantation, S. Camillo Forlanini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Rodolfo Sacco
- Liver Unit, Azienda Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, Italy
| | - Carlo F Perno
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, University of Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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Orio F, Tafuri D, Ascione A, Marciano F, Savastano S, Colarieti G, Orio M, Colao A, Palomba S, Muscogiuri G. Lifestyle changes in the management of adulthood and childhood obesity. MINERVA ENDOCRINOL 2016; 41:509-515. [PMID: 27600645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Adulthood and childhood obesity is rapidly becoming an epidemic problem and it has a short and long-term impact on health. Short-term consequences are mostly represented by psychological effects; in fact obese children have more chances to develop psychological or psychiatric problems than non-obese children. The main long-term effect is represented by the fact that childhood obesity continues into adulthood obesity and this results in negative effects in young adult life, since obesity increases the risk to develop morbidity and premature mortality. The obesity-related diseases are mostly represented by hypertension, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular diseases. Medical treatment should be discouraged in childhood because of the side effects and it should be only reserved for obese children with related medical complications. Lifestyle changes should be encouraged in both adulthood and childhood obesity. This review focuses on the management of obesity both in adulthood and in childhood, paying particular attention to lifestyle changes that should be recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Orio
- Department of Sport Sciences and Wellness, Parthenope University, Naples, Italy -
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CLEO Study Group, Ascione A, Adinolfi LE, Amoroso P, Andriulli A, Armignacco O, Ascione T, Babudieri S, Barbarini G, Brogna M, Cesario F, Citro V, Claar E, Cozzolongo R, D’Adamo G, D’Amico E, Dattolo P, De Luca M, De Maria V, De Siena M, De Vita G, Di Giacomo A, De Marco R, De Stefano G, De Stefano G, Di Salvo S, Di Sarno R, Farella N, Felicioni L, Fimiani B, Fontanella L, Foti G, Furlan C, Giancotti F, Giolitto G, Gravina T, Guerrera B, Gulminetti R, Iacobellis A, Imparato M, Iodice A, Iovinella V, Izzi A, Liberti A, Leo P, Lettieri G, Luppino I, Marrone A, Mazzoni E, Messina V, Monarca R, Narciso V, Nosotti L, Pellicelli AM, Perrella A, Piai G, Picardi A, Pierri P, Pietromatera G, Resta F, Rinaldi L, Romano M, Rossini A, Russello M, Russo G, Sacco R, Sangiovanni V, Schiano A, Sciambra A, Scifo G, Simeone F, Sullo A, Tarquini P, Tundo P, Vallone A. Boceprevir or telaprevir in hepatitis C virus chronic infection: The Italian real life experience. World J Hepatol 2016; 8:949-956. [PMID: 27574549 PMCID: PMC4976214 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v8.i22.949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Revised: 06/23/2016] [Accepted: 07/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To check the safety and efficacy of boceprevir/telaprevir with peginterferon/ribavirin for hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1 in the real-world settings.
METHODS: This study was a non-randomized, observational, prospective, multicenter. This study involved 47 centers in Italy. A database was prepared for the homogenous collection of the data, was used by all of the centers for data collection, and was updated continuously. All of the patients enrolled in this study were older than 18 years of age and were diagnosed with chronic infection due to HCV genotype 1. The HCV RNA testing was performed using COBAS-TaqMan2.0 (Roche, LLQ 25 IU/mL).
RESULTS: All consecutively treated patients were included. Forty-seven centers enrolled 834 patients as follows: Male 64%; median age 57 (range 18-78), of whom 18.3% were over 65; mean body mass index 25.6 (range 16-39); genotype 1b (79.4%); diagnosis of cirrhosis (38.2%); and fibrosis F3/4 (71.2%). The following drugs were used: Telaprevir (66.2%) and PEG-IFN-alpha2a (67.6%). Patients were naïve (24.4%), relapsers (30.5%), partial responders (14.8%) and null responders (30.3%). Overall, adverse events (AEs) occurred in 617 patients (73.9%) during the treatment. Anemia was the most frequent AE (52.9% of cases), especially in cirrhotic. The therapy was stopped for 14.6% of the patients because of adverse events or virological failure (15%). Sustained virological response was achieved in 62.7% of the cases, but was 43.8% in cirrhotic patients over 65 years of age.
CONCLUSION: In everyday practice, triple therapy is safe but has moderate efficacy, especially for patients over 65 years of age, with advanced fibrosis, non-responders to peginterferon + ribavirin.
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Orio F, Tafuri D, Ascione A, Marciano F, Savastano S, Colarieti G, Orio M, Colao A, Palomba S, Muscogiuri G. Lifestyle changes in the management of adulthood and childhood obesity. MINERVA ENDOCRINOL 2014:R07Y9999N00A140033. [PMID: 25517402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Adulthood and childhood obesity is rapidly becoming an epidemic problem and it has a short and long term impact on health. Short term consequences are mostly represented by psychological effects, in fact obese children have more chances to develop psychological or psychiatric problems than non--obese children. The main long term effect is represented by the fact that childhood obesity continues into adulthood obesity and this results in negative effects in young adult life, since obesity increases the risk to develop morbidity and premature mortality. The obesity--related diseases are mostly represented by hypertension, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidaemia, cardiovascular diseases. Medical treatment should be discouraged in childhood because of the side effects and it should be only reserved for obese children with related medical complications. Lifestyle changes should be encouraged in both adulthood and childhood obesity. This review focuses on the management of obesity both in adulthood and in childhood, paying particular attention to lifestyle changes that should be recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Orio
- Endocrinology, Department of Sport Sciences and Wellness, University "Parthenope" Naples, Italy -
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22
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Colombatto P, Brunetto MR, Maina AM, Romagnoli V, Almasio P, Rumi MG, Ascione A, Pinzello G, Mondelli M, Muratori L, Rappuoli R, Rosa D, Houghton M, Abrignani S, Bonino F. HCV E1E2-MF59 vaccine in chronic hepatitis C patients treated with PEG-IFNα2a and Ribavirin: a randomized controlled trial. J Viral Hepat 2014; 21:458-65. [PMID: 24750327 PMCID: PMC4166695 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2012] [Accepted: 06/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) vaccines may be able to increase viral clearance in combination with antiviral therapy. We analysed viral dynamics and HCV-specific immune response during retreatment for experienced patients in a phase Ib study with E1E2MF59 vaccine. Seventy-eight genotype 1a/1b patients [relapsers (30), partial responders (16) and nonresponders (32) to interferon-(IFN)/ribavirin-(RBV)] were randomly assigned to vaccine (V:23), Peg-IFNα2a-180-ug/qw and ribavirin 1000-1200-mg/qd for 48 weeks (P/R:25), or their combination (P/R + V:30). Vaccine (100 μg/0.5 mL) was administered intramuscularly at week 0-4-8-12-24-28-32-36. Neutralizing of binding (NOB) antibodies and lymphocyte proliferation assay (LPA) for E1E2-specific-CD4 + T cells were performed at week 0-12-16-48. Viral kinetics were analysed up to week 16. The vaccine was safe, and a sustained virological response (SVR) was achieved in 4 P/R + V and 2 P/R patients. Higher SVR rates were observed in prior relapsers (P/R + V = 27.3%; P/R = 12.5%). Higher NOB titres and LPA indexes were found at week 12 and 16 in P/R + V as compared to P/R patients (P = 0.023 and 0.025, P = 0.019 and <0.001, respectively). Among the 22 patients with the strongest direct antiviral effects of IFN (ε ≥ 0.800), those treated with P/R + V (10) reached lower HCV-RNA levels (P = 0.026) at week 16. HCV E1E2MF59 vaccine in combination with Peg-IFNα2a + RBV was safe and elicited E1E2 neutralizing antibodies and specific CD4 + T cell proliferation. Upon early response to IFN, vaccinations were associated with an enhanced second phase viral load decline. These results prompt phase II trials in combination with new antiviral therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Colombatto
- Hepatology Unit, University Hospital of PisaPisa, Italy
| | - M R Brunetto
- Hepatology Unit, University Hospital of PisaPisa, Italy
| | - A M Maina
- Hepatology Unit, University Hospital of PisaPisa, Italy
| | - V Romagnoli
- Hepatology Unit, University Hospital of PisaPisa, Italy
| | - P Almasio
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia, Di.Bi.M.I.S., University of PalermoPalermo, Italy
| | - M G Rumi
- 1st Gastroentrology Unit ‘Ca Granda’- IRCCS Foundation, University of MilanoMilano, Italy
| | - A Ascione
- Liver Unit, Cardarelli HospitalNapoli, Italy
| | - G Pinzello
- Medical Department, Niguarda HospitalMilano, Italy
| | - M Mondelli
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of PaviaPavia, Italy
| | - L Muratori
- Department of Clinical Medicine, ‘S.Orsola-Malpighi’ University Hospital of BolognaBologna, Italy
| | | | | | - M Houghton
- Canada Excellence Research Chair in Virology University of AlbertaEdmonton, AB, Canada
| | - S Abrignani
- National Institute of Molecular Genetics (INGM)Milano, Italy
| | - F Bonino
- Liver and Digestive Division, General Medicine 2 Unit, University Hospital of PisaPisa, Italy
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Ascione A, Bruno S, Coppola C, Mangia A, Orlandini A, Schmitz M, Deodato B, Puoti M. Treatment Outcomes and Predictors of Response in Treatment-Naive HCV Patients Treated with Peginterferon Alfa/Ribavirin in Real-World Italian Clinics: Sub-Analysis from the PROPHESYS Cohort. Hepatogastroenterology 2014; 61:1094-1106. [PMID: 26158171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Within Europe, Italy has the highest incidence of HCV. PROPHESYS was a large, non-interventional, multinational cohort study of patients treated with peginterferon alfa-2a or -2b/ribavirin for CHC; 22.4% of patients were from Italian centers. This sub-analysis evaluates real-life practice and treatment outcomes in Italy. METHODOLOGY The PROPHESYS 2 cohort included 1604 HCV mono-infected, treatment-naive patients. All patients were prescribed peginterferon alfa/ribavirin at the discretion of the treating physician according to country-specific requirements. RESULTS The majority of G1-3 patients were White/Caucasian and 48.4% had HCV G1 infection. Overall, SVR24 rates of 44.9%, 81.4% and 69.1% were achieved in G1-, 2- and 3-infected patients. In G1 patients, SVR24 rates declined with increasing FIB-4 score; this trend was not observed for G2/3-infected patients. Virologic response by Week 2 and 4 was highly predictive of SVR24 (G1: 91.7%, 84.8%; G2: 91.1%, 89.7%; G3: 92.9%, 86.7%, respectively). Absence of virologic response by Week 12 had the highest negative predictive value across genotypes. CONCLUSIONS In Italian patients, a virologic response by Week 2 or 4 was highly predictive of SVR24 across genotypes. These data demonstrate the importance of monitoring on-treatment response to help guide treatment decisions. FIB-4 score correlated well with SVR24 in G1 patients.
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Abstract
AIMS Statins are the main lipid-lowering treatment in both primary and secondary prevention populations. Whether statins deteriorates glycemic control, predisposing to the onset of diabetes mellitus has been a matter of recent concern. Statins may accelerate progression to diabetes via molecular mechanisms that impact insulin sensitivity and secretion. In this review, we debate the relative effect of statins in driving insulin resistance and the impairment of insulin secretion. METHODS Narrative overview of the literature synthesizing the findings of literature was retrieved from searches of computerized databases, hand searches, and authoritative texts employing the key words "Statins", "Randomized Clinical Trial", "Insulin sensitivity", "Insulin resistance", "Insulin Secretion", "Diabetes Mellitus" alone and/or in combination. RESULTS The weight of clinical evidence suggests a worsening effect of statins on insulin resistance and secretion, anyway basic science studies did not find a clear molecular explanation, providing conflicting evidence regarding both the beneficial and the adverse effects of statin therapy on insulin sensitivity. CONCLUSIONS Although most of the clinical studies suggest a worsening of insulin resistance and secretion, the cardiovascular benefits of statin therapy outweigh the risk of developing insulin resistance, thus the data suggest the need to treat dyslipidemia and to make patients aware of the possible risk of developing type 2 diabetes or, if they already are diabetic, of worsening their metabolic control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Muscogiuri
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University "Federico II" , Naples , Italy
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25
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Ascione A, Masarone M, Tritto G, Coppola C, Mascolo C, Persico M, Forte G, Fontanella L, De Luca M, Di Costanzo GG, Study Group TSCIROCCO. Etiology of newly-diagnosed cases of chronic liver disease in Southern Italy: results of a prospective multicentric study. Ital J Med 2013. [DOI: 10.4081/itjm.2013.409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
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Orio F, Muscogiuri G, Ascione A, Marciano F, Volpe A, La Sala G, Savastano S, Colao A, Palomba S. Effects of physical exercise on the female reproductive system. MINERVA ENDOCRINOL 2013; 38:305-319. [PMID: 24126551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The excess in physical activity could be closely linked to considerable negative consequences on the whole body. These dysfunctions called as "female athlete triad"' by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) include amenorrhea, osteoporosis and disorder eating. The female athlete triad poses serious health risks, both on the short and on the long term, to the overall well-being of affected individuals. Sustained low energy availability can impair health, causing many medical complications within skeletal, endocrine, cardiovascular, reproductive and central nervous system. On the contrary, several studies have shown, that physical activity improves cardiovascular risk factors, hormonal profile and reproductive function. These improvements include a decrease in abdominal fat, blood glucose, blood lipids and insulin resistance, as well as improvements in menstrual cyclicity, ovulation and fertility, decreases in testosterone levels and Free Androgen Index (FAI) and increases in sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). Other studies reported that physical activity improved self-esteem, depression and anxiety. Thus, the aim of this review is to elucidate the effect of physical exercise on female reproductive system and viceversa the impact of hormonal status on physical activity and metabolism. In addition this review supports the idea that physical exercise is a helpful tool for the management of obesity, prevention of cardiovascular, metabolic diseases and female reproductive organs related diseases (e.g. breast cancer). When the excess in physical activity leads up to the female athlete triad, it is imperative to treat each component of the triad by employing both pharmacological and non pharmacological treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Orio
- Department of Endocrinology "Parthenope" University of Naples, Naples, Italy -
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Messina G, De Luca V, Viggiano A, Ascione A, Iannaccone T, Chieffi S, Monda M. Autonomic nervous system in the control of energy balance and body weight: personal contributions. Neurol Res Int 2013; 2013:639280. [PMID: 23691314 PMCID: PMC3649682 DOI: 10.1155/2013/639280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2013] [Revised: 03/12/2013] [Accepted: 03/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of obesity is increasing in the industrialized world, so that the World Health Organization considers obesity as a "pandemia" in rich populations. The autonomic nervous system plays a crucial role in the control of energy balance and body weight. This review summarizes our own data and perspectives, emphasizing the influence exerted by autonomic nervous system on energy expenditure and food intake, which are able to determine the body weight. Activation of the sympathetic discharge causes an increase in energy expenditure and a decrease in food intake, while reduction of food intake and body weight loss determines a reduction of the sympathetic activity. On the other hand, pathophysiological mechanisms of the obesity involve alterations of the sympathetic nervous system in accordance with the "Mona Lisa Hypothesis," an acronym for "most obesities known are low in sympathetic activity." Furthermore, the parasympathetic influences on the energy expenditure are analyzed in this review, showing that an increase in parasympathetic activity can induce a paradoxical enhancement of energy consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- G. Messina
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Human Physiology and Clinical Dietetic Service, Second University of Naples, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - V. De Luca
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Human Physiology and Clinical Dietetic Service, Second University of Naples, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - An. Viggiano
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - A. Ascione
- Faculty of Motor Sciences, University of Naples “Parthenope,” Naples, Italy
| | - T. Iannaccone
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Human Physiology and Clinical Dietetic Service, Second University of Naples, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - S. Chieffi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Human Physiology and Clinical Dietetic Service, Second University of Naples, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - M. Monda
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Human Physiology and Clinical Dietetic Service, Second University of Naples, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Naples, Italy
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Di Costanzo GG, Tortora R, De Luca M, Galeota Lanza A, Lampasi F, Tartaglione MT, Picciotto FP, Imparato M, Mattera S, Cordone G, Ascione A. Impact of age on toxicity and efficacy of sorafenib-targeted therapy in cirrhotic patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Med Oncol 2013; 30:446. [PMID: 23307255 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-012-0446-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2012] [Accepted: 12/27/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is increasing worldwide and the proportion of older patients with HCC is expected to steadily rise in the next years. Sorafenib is the standard of care for patients with advanced HCC but there is a lack of detailed data on how older patients with cirrhosis tolerate this drug. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the impact of age on the effects of sorafenib-targeted therapy in patients with HCC and cirrhosis. We analyzed a consecutive cohort of HCC patients not eligible for surgery or locoregional treatment, with Child-Pugh score ≤ 7, and an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0-1, treated with sorafenib. Clinical outcomes and treatment-related adverse events (AEs) were compared between younger (< 70 years) and older (≥ 70 years) patients. Overall, 150 patients, 90 in the younger (median age 60 years) and 60 in the older (median age 72 years) group, were evaluated. Treatment duration was 4 months in both groups. The median time to progression and overall survival were longer in older than in younger group (12 vs. 8 months and 16 vs. 12 months, respectively), although the differences did not reach a statistical significance. Grade 3-4 AEs were more frequently observed in younger than in older group (15.7 vs. 9.2 %, respectively; p = .0146). In field practice, sorafenib treatment in elderly patients with cirrhosis and HCC resulted at least as effective and safe as in younger patients. However, severe AEs occurred more frequently in younger patients.
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Abstract
Boceprevir (Victrelis), from the oral α-ketoamide class of slow-binding reversible hepatitis C virus (HCV)-NS3 protease inhibitors, creates a new class of drugs: direct acting antivirals (DDAs). Boceprevir is highly selective against HCV serine protease. Its use is restricted to genotype 1 HCV infection and it must not be used as monotherapy. Boceprevir is given orally, rapidly absorbed, reaching plasma peak concentration within 1-2 h and is metabolized by aldo-ketoreductase and partly by the cytochrome P450 enzyme CYP3A4/5. Administration with drugs that induce or inhibit CYP3A4/5 could decrease or increase its plasma concentration. The optimal dosage is 800 mg three times daily; capsules should be taken with food. Boceprevir was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicines Agency and is indicated in combination with peginterferon plus ribavirin for the treatment of patients with genotype 1 HCV who have not received previous treatment or whose condition has failed to respond to previous therapy. In the Serine Protease Inhibitor Therapy 2 (SPRINT-2) trial (treatment-naïve patients) and RESPOND-2 trial (patients whose condition relapsed or did not respond to previous treatment), the boceprevir-containing regimen was always more effective than standard of care (SOC). Adverse events were similar in the treatment groups, but in the boceprevir treated group, anemia was more frequent, requiring erythropoietin in nearly 40% of cases. Discontinuation of therapy because of adverse events was identical in all treated groups. As for cost effectiveness, two studies showed that boceprevir plus SOC is cost effective with regard to the lifetime incidence of liver complications, quality of life years, and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio. The management of this therapy is more complex than before for physicians and patients. The educational role of the physician is crucial for successful therapy and counseling should be carefully given, especially for adherence to the assigned treatment.
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Morisco F, Stroffolini T, Mele A, Taliani G, Smedile A, Caronna S, Tosti ME, Niro G, Levrero M, Fiorillo MT, Amoruso DC, Ascione A, Caporaso N. Etiology of and risk factors for transient and persistent aminotransferase elevation in a population of virus-free blood donors: a multicentre study. Dig Liver Dis 2010; 42:441-5. [PMID: 19643684 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2009.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2009] [Revised: 05/12/2009] [Accepted: 06/23/2009] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AIM We evaluated the etiology and risk factors for transient and persistently elevated aspartate and/or alanine aminotransferase levels in virus-free blood donors. INCLUSION CRITERIA HBsAg/HBV-DNA and anti-HCV/HCV-RNA negative blood donors with elevated aspartate aminotransferase and/or alanine aminotransferase, observed in 5 blood transfusion centres in Italy from 2004 to 2005. Aspartate aminotransferase/alanine aminotransferase levels were measured at entry and every 2 months during a period of 6 months. RESULTS 291 individuals were evaluated (144 with persistent and 147 with transient abnormal aminotransferases). High body mass index was the most frequent (75.5%) etiological factor and was more common in the persistent elevated levels group, compared to the transient elevated levels group (82.0% vs 65.3%; p<0.01). Excessive alcohol intake (>2 units/day) was reported in 23.6%, with no differences between the two groups. Instead, recent use of medication or paint exposure were most frequently associated with transient elevated levels than persistent elevated levels (61.6% vs 23.3% for drugs and 13.7% vs 4.3% for paint, p<0.001). Considering the participants with transient elevated levels as controls, the multivariate analysis showed that high body mass index was the only independent predictor of persistent elevated aminotransferase levels (OR=5.3; 95%CI=1.88-13.42 for those with body mass index>29.9). CONCLUSIONS In virus-free blood donors, excessive body mass index is the most frequent etiological factor of abnormal aminotransferases and it is the sole risk factor associated with persistently elevated aminotransferases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filomena Morisco
- Department of Food Science, University of Naples Federico II, 80055 Portici, Naples, Italy.
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Ascione A, De Luca M, Tartaglione MT, Lampasi F, Di Costanzo GG, Lanza AG, Picciotto FP, Marino-Marsilia G, Fontanella L, Leandro G, Lafeuille H, Ughetto S, Darcha C, Chevallier M, Martineau N, Dubost S, Randl K, Dhumeaux D, Bommelaer G, Bonny C. Peginterferon alfa-2a plus ribavirin is more effective than peginterferon alfa-2b plus ribavirin for treating chronic hepatitis C virus infection. Gastroenterology 2010; 138:116-22. [PMID: 19852964 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2009.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2009] [Revised: 10/11/2009] [Accepted: 10/15/2009] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection are frequently treated with a combination of pegylated interferon (peginterferon) and ribavirin. This study compared the efficacy and safety of peginterferon alfa-2a and peginterferon alfa-2b, each in combination with ribavirin. METHODS A total of 320 consecutive, treatment-naive, HCV RNA-positive patients with chronic hepatitis were randomly assigned to once-weekly peginterferon alfa-2a (180 microg, group A) or peginterferon alfa-2b (1.5 microg/kg, group B) plus ribavirin 1000 mg/day (body weight <75 kg) or 1200 mg/day (body weight >or=75 kg) for 48 weeks (genotype 1 or 4) or 24 weeks (genotype 2 or 3). The primary end point was sustained virological response (SVR) by intention-to-treat. RESULTS More patients in group A than group B achieved an SVR (110/160 [68.8%] vs 87/160 [54.4%]; P = .008). Higher SVR rates were obtained in group A than group B among patients with genotype 1/4 (51/93 [54.8%] vs 37/93 [39.8%]; P = .04), with genotype 2/3 (59/67 [88.1%] vs 50/67 [74.6%]; P = .046), without cirrhosis (96/127 [75.6%] vs 75/134 [55.9%]; P = .005), and with baseline levels HCV RNA >500,000 IU/mL (58/84 [69%] vs 43/93 [46.2%]; P = .002). SVR rates in groups A and B were not statistically different among patients with baseline HCV RNA <or=500,000 IU/mL (52/76 [68.4%] vs 44/67 [65.7%]; P = .727) or in patients with cirrhosis (14/33 [42.4%] vs 12/26 [46.1%]; P = .774). CONCLUSIONS In patients with chronic HCV infection, peginterferon alfa-2a plus ribavirin produced a significantly higher SVR rate than peginterferon alfa-2b plus ribavirin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Ascione
- Department of Gastroenterology, Liver Unit, Cardarelli Hospital, Napoli, Italy.
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Addario L, Di Costanzo GG, Tritto G, Cavaglià E, Angrisani B, Ascione A. Fatal ischemic acute pancreatitis complicating trans-catheter arterial embolization of small hepatocellular carcinoma: do the risks outweigh the benefits? J Hepatol 2008; 49:149-52. [PMID: 18486260 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2008.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2007] [Revised: 02/10/2008] [Accepted: 02/13/2008] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an accepted indication for liver transplantation (LT). Pre-LT adjuvant ablation treatments to prevent tumour progression and drop out from the waiting list have been increasingly adopted at most transplant centers. Trans-catheter arterial chemo-embolization (TACE) is frequently used, but the procedure can be difficult and severe complications may arise. Among them, acute ischemic pancreatitis occasionally occurs and may clinically mimic a post-embolization syndrome. Fatal outcomes of this complication have been reported exceptionally but never in patients awaiting LT. The present case raises concern about the widespread application of TACE and highlights the need for a critical evaluation of the risks and benefits to patients with monofocal small HCC who are scheduled for LT. Superselective embolization of the tumour-feeding artery and systematic monitoring of serum pancreatic enzymes after this radiological procedure are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Addario
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Gastroenterology, Cardarelli Hospital, Napoli, Italy
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33
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Jensen DM, Ascione A. Future directions in therapy for chronic hepatitis C. Antivir Ther 2008; 13 Suppl 1:31-36. [PMID: 18432161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The development of new antiviral therapies in the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) is reviewed, including a discussion of the potential advances that this treatment will bring. Data from new molecules in Phase I and II clinical trials, specifically polymerase and protease inhibitors, will be discussed. The potential for resistance has been reported when these have been used as monotherapy. However, their use in combination with pegylated interferon, particularly in the presence of ribavirin, has resulted in significant improvements in antiviral activity. Preliminary studies have confirmed that the new molecules are well tolerated and further clinical studies are underway to evaluate their efficacy. Nevertheless, because of its critical role at all stages of therapy, pegylated interferon is likely to remain the cornerstone of HCV therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald M Jensen
- Center for Liver Diseases, University of Chicago Hospitals, Chicago, IL, USA.
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Abstract
The development of new antiviral therapies in the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) is reviewed, including a discussion of the potential advances that this treatment will bring. Data from new molecules in Phase I and II clinical trials, specifically polymerase and protease inhibitors, will be discussed. The potential for resistance has been reported when these have been used as monotherapy. However, their use in combination with pegylated interferon, particularly in the presence of ribavirin, has resulted in significant improvements in antiviral activity. Preliminary studies have confirmed that the new molecules are well tolerated and further clinical studies are underway to evaluate their efficacy. Nevertheless, because of its critical role at all stages of therapy, pegylated interferon is likely to remain the cornerstone of HCV therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald M Jensen
- Center for Liver Diseases, University of Chicago Hospitals, Chicago, IL, USA
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Picciotto FP, Tritto G, Lanza AG, Addario L, De Luca M, Di Costanzo GG, Lampasi F, Tartaglione MT, Marsilia GM, Calise F, Cuomo O, Ascione A. Sustained virological response to antiviral therapy reduces mortality in HCV reinfection after liver transplantation. J Hepatol 2007; 46:459-65. [PMID: 17196700 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2006.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2006] [Revised: 08/28/2006] [Accepted: 10/31/2006] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS HCV infection recurs almost in all HCV-positive patients receiving liver transplantation and carries a poor prognosis. Aim of this study was to analyze efficacy and effect on survival of antiviral therapy in this clinical setting. METHODS Pegylated-interferon alpha-2b and ribavirin were administered at a dose of 1 microg/kg of bwt weekly and 600-800 mg/day. Planned duration of treatment was 24 or 48 weeks according to HCV genotype. Patients who failed to respond at week 24 were considered as non-responders. RESULTS 61 patients were enrolled. According to intention-to-treat analysis, 44 (72%) patients were considered as treatment failure (31 non-responders, 4 relapsers, 9 dropout). Sustained virological response was achieved in 17 cases (28%). Genotype 2, higher doses of antivirals and absence of histological cirrhosis were predictors of sustained virological response. In the follow up, patients with sustained virological response had a significantly lower mortality compared to patients with treatment failure (chi2=6.9; P<0.01). CONCLUSIONS Response rate to antiviral therapy in HCV reinfection after liver transplantation is higher if a full dose of antiviral drugs is administered and if treatment starts before histological cirrhosis has developed. Sustained virological response improves patient survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Paolo Picciotto
- Unità Operativa Complessa di Epatologia, Azienda Ospedaliera di Rilievo Nazionale A. Cardarelli, Napoli, Italy
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Bruno S, Stroffolini T, Colombo M, Bollani S, Benvegnù L, Mazzella G, Ascione A, Santantonio T, Piccinino F, Andreone P, Mangia A, Gaeta GB, Persico M, Fagiuoli S, Almasio PL. Sustained virological response to interferon-alpha is associated with improved outcome in HCV-related cirrhosis: a retrospective study. Hepatology 2007; 45:579-87. [PMID: 17326216 DOI: 10.1002/hep.21492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 520] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The effect of achieving a sustained virological response (SVR) following interferon-alpha (IFNalpha) treatment on the clinical outcomes of patients with HCV-related cirrhosis is unknown. In an attempt to assess the risk of liver-related complications, HCC and liver-related mortality in patients with cirrhosis according to the response to IFNalpha treatment, a retrospective database was developed including all consecutive patients with HCV-related, histologically proven cirrhosis treated with IFNalpha monotherapy between January 1992 and December 1997. SVR was an undetectable serum HCV-RNA by PCR 24 weeks after IFNalpha discontinuation. HCC was assessed by ultrasound every 6 months. Independent predictors of all outcomes were assessed by Cox regression analysis. Of 920 patients, 124 (13.5%) were classified as achieving a SVR. During a mean follow-up of 96.1 months (range: 6-167) the incidence rates per 100 person-years of liver-related complications, HCC and liver-related death were 0, 0.66, and 0.19 among SVR and 1.88, 2.10, and 1.44 among non-SVR (P<0.001 by log-rank test). Multivariate analyses found that non-SVR was associated with a higher risk of liver-related complications (hazard ratio, HR, not applicable), HCC (HR 2.59; 95% CI 1.13-5.97) and liver-related mortality (HR 6.97; 95% CI 1.71-28.42) as compared to SVR. CONCLUSION Thus, in patients with HCV-related, histologically proven cirrhosis, achievement of a SVR after IFNalpha therapy was associated with a reduction of liver-related mortality lowering both the risk of complications and HCC development. Irrespective of SVR achievement, all patients should continue surveillance because the risk of occurrence of HCC was not entirely avoided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Savino Bruno
- Liver Unit, Department of Medicine, AO Fatebenefratelli e Oftalmico, Milan, Italy
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Bolondi L, Piscaglia F, Gatta A, Salerno F, Bernardi M, Ascione A, Ferraù O, Sacerdoti D, Visentin S, Trevisani F, Mazzanti R, Donati G, Arena U, Gentilini P. Effect of potassium canrenoate, an anti-aldosterone agent, on incidence of ascites and variceal progression in cirrhosis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2006; 4:1395-402. [PMID: 16931172 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2006.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Because aldosterone-dependent sodium and water retention contribute to portal hypertension, the safety and effect of an antialdosteronic drug (Kcanrenoate) have been evaluated on the occurrence of de novo appearance of ascites and the development of esophageal varices or the progression of small varices. METHODS Inclusion criteria were as follows: Child-Pugh A viral pre-ascitic cirrhosis, with either F1 esophageal varices or no varices, but endoscopic and/or ultrasound evidence of portal hypertension. Thirteen Italian Liver Units prospectively enrolled 120 patients randomized to receive double-blind either Kcanrenoate (100 mg/day; 66 patients) or placebo (54 patients). Endoscopy and sonography were performed at entry and at 52 weeks unless the patient developed ascites earlier, whereas laboratory examinations were performed at entry and every 3 months thereafter. An intention-to-treat analysis was performed, with each end point assessed by the Fisher exact test; the cumulative risk for the appearance of any end point was analyzed by the adjusted log-rank test (Tarone-Ware), with censoring for drop-outs. RESULTS The progression of variceal status or appearance of ascites, analyzed independently, was not significantly more frequent on placebo (24.1% and 9.2%, respectively) than on Kcanrenoate (12.1% and 1.5%, respectively), whereas the cumulative occurrence of end points was decreased on Kcanrenoate (17.6% vs 38.3% with placebo; P < .05, Tarone-Ware test). The incidence of adverse events was negligible and did not differ between groups. CONCLUSIONS This preliminary study shows that 100 mg/day of Kcanrenoate is well tolerated and does not reduce the individual incidence of ascites and/or the appearance or progression of esophageal varices in preascitc cirrhosis, but may decrease their 1-year cumulative occurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Bolondi
- Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
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Ascione A, Ascione T, Lanza AG, Utech W, Di Costanzo GG, Macri M. Factors influencing outcome of lamivudine in anti-HBe-positive chronic hepatitis B. Hepatogastroenterology 2006; 53:919-23. [PMID: 17153453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Lamivudine has been shown to benefit patients with anti-HBe/HBV-DNA-positive chronic hepatitis B. The aim of the study was to evaluate factors influencing outcome of lamivudine therapy during two years of post-treatment follow-up in a prospective clinical trial. METHODOLOGY Thirty-one consecutive patients, submitted to liver biopsy, were treated with lamivudine at 100mg/daily for twelve months and followed-up for twenty-four months. The patients were never treated before with interferon or stopped at least six months before starting lamivudine. ALT was measured monthly and HBV-DNA every three months. RESULTS At the end of therapy 25 (81%) patients had both biochemical and virological response; 2 (6%) patients showed persistent viremia and 4 (13%) patients developed viral resistance during treatment. Twenty-three (92%) out of 25 responders relapsed during the follow-up; over 50% of all cases relapsed within 6 months. The relapse is related to higher HBV-DNA baseline levels. At relapse, 4/23 (17%) patients had symptomatic acute hepatitis. CONCLUSIONS Lamivudine is associated with the risk of developing viral mutants and, after therapy discontinuation, to high rate of relapse. In relapsing patients severe acute recurrence of hepatitis B may occur. Decisions about lamivudine monotherapy should take into account the limited long-term efficacy, effects of relapse, costs and predictive factors for response.
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Palumbo G, Ascione A, Rosa R, Mocavero P, Lascio C, Mattei A, Corcione A. 735 POSTOPERATORY ANALGESIA IN THORACIC SURGERY: RETROSPECTIVE STUDY. Eur J Pain 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/s1090-3801(06)60738-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Addario L, Scaglione G, Tritto G, Di Costanzo GG, De Luca M, Lampasi F, Galeota Lanza A, Picciotto FP, Tartaglione MT, Utech W, Macr M, Giannelli E, Ascione A. Prognostic value of quantitative liver function tests in viral cirrhosis: a prospective study. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2006; 18:713-20. [PMID: 16772827 DOI: 10.1097/01.meg.0000219104.40435.43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Widespread application of quantitative liver function tests as a prognostic tool is controversial. In this study we assessed the predictivity of serial evaluations of galactose elimination capacity (GEC) and the monoethylglycinexylidide (MEGX) test on survival in viral cirrhosis, and secondarily we compared these tests with Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) and Model for End Stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores. METHODS In a cohort of 35 patients with viral cirrhosis, GEC and MEGX were evaluated every 6 months for 24 months and compared with CTP and MELD scores at the same time intervals. The end points were patient death or liver transplantation. RESULTS Statistically significant differences between dead/transplanted patients and survivors were found for basal values of GEC, MEGX, CTP and MELD. Receiver-operating characteristics curves of CTP and MELD scores showed a higher prognostic accuracy than GEC and MEGX. On multivariate analysis, neither GEC nor MEGX were independent predictors of survival. Repeated-measures analysis of GEC and MEGX did not increase the prognostic accuracy of these tests and did not add useful prognostic information on patient outcome during the following 6 months. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that neither single nor repeated determinations of GEC and MEGX are superior to CTP and MELD scores in predicting prognosis of patients with viral cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Addario
- Unità Operativa Complessa di Epatologia, Azienda Ospedaliera A. Cardarelli, Napoli, Italy
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Alberti A, Ascione A, Colombo M, Craxi A, Piccinino F, Rizzetto M, Sarracino M, Stroffolini T, Iannacone C. O.064 Antiviral treatment for hepatitis C virus infection in the real practice: A nationwide Italian experience (the PROBE study). J Clin Virol 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/s1386-6532(06)80069-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Affiliation(s)
- G G Di Costanzo
- Division of Hepatology, Cardarelli Hospital, Via GB Ruoppolo 59, 80128 Napoli, Italy.
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Almasio PL, Niero M, Angioli D, Ascione A, Gullini S, Minoli G, Oprandi NC, Pinzello GB, Verme G, Andriulli A. Experts' opinions on the role of liver biopsy in HCV infection: a Delphi survey by the Italian Association of Hospital Gastroenterologists (A.I.G.O.). J Hepatol 2005; 43:381-7. [PMID: 16006002 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2005.02.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2004] [Revised: 02/09/2005] [Accepted: 02/10/2005] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Liver biopsy represents the gold standard to establish a diagnosis in all liver patients, but its current position in chronic viral hepatitis is questioned. We aimed to create a consensus on best practice of use of liver biopsy in the management of chronic HCV infection. METHODS We applied the Delphi method to 12 clinical scenarios of chronic HCV infection, to assess the extent of agreement (consensus measurement) and to resolve disagreement (consensus development) on the appropriateness of liver biopsy. RESULTS Among 108 chosen hepatologists, 61 (56.5%) accepted to participate to the first-round survey. In four patients the majority of experts (from 61.4 to 86.2%) agreed not to perform liver biopsy; in two cases an equivalent opinion was found, and in the remaining six scenarios the majority of experts would have recommended a biopsy. No expert recommended liver biopsy in all cases, while most agreed for an histological evaluation of 4 to 8 cases. At the second round, 36 experts (59%) submitted ballots. Fifty-four out of 431 (12.6%) original judgments were changed with equal distribution among different scenarios. CONCLUSIONS Our survey showed a great divergence of management of similar patients and should provide a stimulus for an evidence-based evaluation of liver histology in chronic HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piero Luigi Almasio
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Palermo, A.O.U.P. Piazza delle Cliniche, 2, 90127, Palermo, Italy.
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Marzorati G, Ascione A. Penis Strangulation by Metallic Rings. Urologia 2004. [DOI: 10.1177/039156030407100305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Penile strangulation (“penile tourniquet syndrome”) is a rare serious injury that occurs mostly amoung children and may be accidental or intentional. In adults usually it is volontary as a consequence of sexual drive arousing manouvres. The severity of the strangulation depends on different elements such as: length of the lesions, materials used and degree of strangulation. In this report, we describe a psicopathic man with penis and two hand's fingers strangulation caused by the use of metallic rings placed 2 days before that caused a permanent urethrocutaneous fistula.
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Affiliation(s)
- G. Marzorati
- Struttura Complessa di Urologia, AO Niguarda Ca’ Granda, Milano
| | - A. Ascione
- Struttura Complessa di Urologia, AO Niguarda Ca’ Granda, Milano
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Morisco F, Vitaglione P, Carbone A, Stingo S, Scarpati S, Ascione A, Marmo R, Fogliano V, Caporaso N. Tomato-based functional food as interferon adjuvant in HCV eradication therapy. J Clin Gastroenterol 2004; 38:S118-20. [PMID: 15220675 DOI: 10.1097/01.mcg.0000128935.48082.f9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
GOALS The authors conducted a study to verify whether supplementation with an antioxidant-rich tomato-based functional food reduces anemia during pegylated interferon and ribavirin therapy for chronic hepatitis C. BACKGROUND Oxidative stress plays a major role in the physiopathology of hemolytic anemia during ribavirin therapy. The efficacy of antioxidant supplementation with vitamins C and E as pure compounds, is still controversial. METHODS A functional food with a high content of natural antioxidants and with high carotenoid bioavailability was developed. The authors enrolled 92 patients with chronic hepatitis C, treated with standard combination therapy. Forty-six of them received a daily dose (100 g) of functional food (group 1), and 46 did not (group 2). The effect of antioxidant activity was assessed comparing compliance with the full dose of ribavirin and hemoglobin levels during the first 3 months of treatment. RESULTS Only 8.7% of patients in group 1 had to reduce their daily ribavirin dose, whereas ribavirin reduction was necessary for 30.4% of patients in group 2 (P = 0.09). Hemoglobin levels showed significant differences at 15, 30, and 90 days during the observation time. CONCLUSION Results demonstrated that the authors' functional food reduces the severity of ribavirin-related anemia and improves the tolerance to the full dose of ribavirin in patients with chronic hepatitis C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filomena Morisco
- Department of Food Science, University of Naples, Federico II, Italy.
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Di Costanzo GG, Picciotto FP, Marsilia GM, Ascione A. Hepatic splenosis misinterpreted as hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic patients referred for liver transplantation: report of two cases. Liver Transpl 2004; 10:706-9. [PMID: 15108266 DOI: 10.1002/lt.20162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Liver transplantation is one of the main therapeutic options for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) occurring in cirrhotic patients; an accurate diagnosis and staging of this cancer is crucial to selecting the candidates for this treatment. Although the best diagnostic strategy is debated, the guidelines proposed by the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) are used by many centers. We report 2 cases of cirrhotic patients with hepatic splenosis, a rare condition that may be misinterpreted as HCC. In conclusion, the application of the EASL guidelines in the first case would have led to an incorrect staging of the cancer and in the second case would have led to a false diagnosis of HCC.
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De Marco F, Liguori R, Giardina MG, D'Armiento M, Angelucci E, Lucariello A, Morante R, Cimino L, Galeota-Lanza A, Tarantino G, Ascione A, Budillon G, Vecchione R, Martinelli R, Matarazzo M, De Simone V. High prevalence of non-HFE gene-associated haemochromatosis in patients from southern Italy. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004; 42:17-24. [PMID: 15061375 DOI: 10.1515/cclm.2004.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
AbstractHereditary haemochromatosis is an autosomal recessive disorder of iron regulation that results in abnormal intestinal iron absorption with progressive iron overloading of parenchymal cells. Two specific, single point mutations of the
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco De Marco
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, AORN "Cardarelli", Napoli, Italy
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Abstract
The TNF-family molecule, RANKL, is a key regulator of bone remodeling and essential for the development and activation of osteoclasis. Bone involvement signals diesease activity in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and influences the progenesis. The molecular mechanism and soluble factors involved in osteoclastic activation in haematological malignancies remain unclear except for Multiple Myeloma and Adult T-cell Leukemia. The aim of this paper is to report the first case of Follicular Lymphoma with bone involvement displaying an aberrant expression of RANKL in malignant cells. The detection of RANKL in Follicullar Lymphoma may help to prevent bone lesion in patients by determining an appropriate treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Barcala
- Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires - CITOMLAB, Argentina
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Ascione A, De Luca M, Di Costanzo GG, Picciotto FP, Lanza AG, Canestrini C, Morisco F, Tuccillo C, Caporaso N. Incidence of side effects during therapy with different types of alpha interferon: a randomised controlled trial comparing recombinant alpha 2b versus leukocyte interferon in the therapy of naive patients with chronic hepatitis C. Curr Pharm Des 2002; 8:977-80. [PMID: 11945144 DOI: 10.2174/1381612024607018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alpha interferon (IFN) alone or in combination with Ribavirin (RBV) is the treatment of choice for HCV related chronic liver disease. There are many types of alpha IFN and to date only few reports are available comparing different types of alpha interferon. We run a randomised controlled trial with the aim to compare tolerability and efficacy of two different types of IFN: recombinant alpha 2b interferon (IFN-R) and leukocyte alpha n-3 interferon (IFN-L) at the same dosage of 3 MU subcutaneously thrice weekly for one year. METHODS one hundred sixty eight consecutive anti-HCV positive naive patients, 34 mild chronic active hepatitis (MCH), 81 moderate-severe hepatitis (MSCR) and 53 active cirrhosis (CIRR) that met the inclusion criteria were enrolled into the study. The diagnosis of HCV chronic liver disease was established by liver biopsy performed on patients with abnormal serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) value for at least one year. HCV serology: all patients were tested for confirmatory test RIBA II, HCV-RNA, and identification of viral genotype. Patients were randomised to receive either IFN-R or IFN-L. Follow-up continued for at least two years after stopping treatment. RESULTS no significant differences were observed between the two groups of treatment as far as the incidence of side effects is concerned. Tolerability was good: only 11 in IFN-R and 8 patients IFN-L group respectively had to stop therapy due to side effects. The two types of IFN showed a comparable efficacy: an end of therapy response was observed in 34% of IFN-R and 30% of IFN-L patients; a sustained response was seen in 16% of IFN-R and in 19% of IFN-L patients. CONCLUSIONS in the treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis C there was no statistically significant difference in tolerability and efficacy between the two IFNs tested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Ascione
- Dept. of Gastroenterology, Liver and Pancreatic Unit, Cardarelli Hospital, Naples, Italy.
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Marin ME, Marcó Del Pont J, Dibar E, Fernandez Caniggia L, Greco G, Flores Y, Ascione A. Catheter-related bacteremia caused by Roseomonas gilardii in an immunocompromised patient. Int J Infect Dis 2002; 5:170-1. [PMID: 11724677 DOI: 10.1016/s1201-9712(01)90095-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- M E Marin
- Department of Microbiology and Pediatrics, Hospital Italiano, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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