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Giannitrapani L, Di Gaudio F, Cervello M, Scionti F, Ciliberto D, Staropoli N, Agapito G, Cannataro M, Tassone P, Tagliaferri P, Seidita A, Soresi M, Affronti M, Bertino G, Russello M, Ciriminna R, Lino C, Spinnato F, Verderame F, Augello G, Arbitrio M. Genetic Biomarkers of Sorafenib Response in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2197. [PMID: 38396873 PMCID: PMC10888718 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042197] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The identification of biomarkers for predicting inter-individual sorafenib response variability could allow hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patient stratification. SNPs in angiogenesis- and drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME)-related genes were evaluated to identify new potential predictive biomarkers of sorafenib response in HCC patients. Five known SNPs in angiogenesis-related genes, including VEGF-A, VEGF-C, HIF-1a, ANGPT2, and NOS3, were investigated in 34 HCC patients (9 sorafenib responders and 25 non-responders). A subgroup of 23 patients was genotyped for SNPs in ADME genes. A machine learning classifier method was used to discover classification rules for our dataset. We found that only the VEGF-A (rs2010963) C allele and CC genotype were significantly associated with sorafenib response. ADME-related gene analysis identified 10 polymorphic variants in ADH1A (rs6811453), ADH6 (rs10008281), SULT1A2/CCDC101 (rs11401), CYP26A1 (rs7905939), DPYD (rs2297595 and rs1801265), FMO2 (rs2020863), and SLC22A14 (rs149738, rs171248, and rs183574) significantly associated with sorafenib response. We have identified a genetic signature of predictive response that could permit non-responder/responder patient stratification. Angiogenesis- and ADME-related genes correlation was confirmed by cumulative genetic risk score and network and pathway enrichment analysis. Our findings provide a proof of concept that needs further validation in follow-up studies for HCC patient stratification for sorafenib prescription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Giannitrapani
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), 90146 Palermo, Italy; (L.G.); (M.C.)
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (F.D.G.); (A.S.); (M.S.); (M.A.)
| | - Francesca Di Gaudio
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (F.D.G.); (A.S.); (M.S.); (M.A.)
| | - Melchiorre Cervello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), 90146 Palermo, Italy; (L.G.); (M.C.)
| | - Francesca Scionti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (N.S.); (P.T.); (P.T.)
| | - Domenico Ciliberto
- Medical and Translational Oncology Unit, A.O.U. R. Dulbecco, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Nicoletta Staropoli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (N.S.); (P.T.); (P.T.)
- Medical and Translational Oncology Unit, A.O.U. R. Dulbecco, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Agapito
- Department of Legal, Economic and Social Sciences, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Mario Cannataro
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (N.S.); (P.T.); (P.T.)
- Medical and Translational Oncology Unit, A.O.U. R. Dulbecco, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
- College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
| | - Pierosandro Tagliaferri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (N.S.); (P.T.); (P.T.)
- Medical and Translational Oncology Unit, A.O.U. R. Dulbecco, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Aurelio Seidita
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (F.D.G.); (A.S.); (M.S.); (M.A.)
- Villa Sofia-Cervello Hospital, C.O.U. Medical Oncology, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (F.S.); (F.V.)
| | - Maurizio Soresi
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (F.D.G.); (A.S.); (M.S.); (M.A.)
| | - Marco Affronti
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (F.D.G.); (A.S.); (M.S.); (M.A.)
| | - Gaetano Bertino
- Hepatology Unit, A.O.U. Policlinico-San Marco, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | | | - Rosaria Ciriminna
- Institute of Nanostructured Materials, National Research Council (CNR), 90146 Palermo, Italy; (R.C.); (C.L.)
| | - Claudia Lino
- Institute of Nanostructured Materials, National Research Council (CNR), 90146 Palermo, Italy; (R.C.); (C.L.)
| | - Francesca Spinnato
- Villa Sofia-Cervello Hospital, C.O.U. Medical Oncology, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (F.S.); (F.V.)
| | - Francesco Verderame
- Villa Sofia-Cervello Hospital, C.O.U. Medical Oncology, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (F.S.); (F.V.)
| | - Giuseppa Augello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), 90146 Palermo, Italy; (L.G.); (M.C.)
| | - Mariamena Arbitrio
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
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2
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De Vincentis A, D'Amato D, Cristoferi L, Gerussi A, Malinverno F, Lleo A, Colapietro F, Marra F, Galli A, Fiorini C, Coco B, Brunetto M, Niro GA, Cotugno R, Saitta C, Cozzolongo R, Losito F, Giannini EG, Labanca S, Marzioni M, Marconi G, Morgando A, Pellicano R, Vanni E, Cazzagon N, Floreani A, Chessa L, Morelli O, Muratori L, Pellicelli A, Pompili M, Ponziani F, Tortora A, Rosina F, Russello M, Cannavò M, Simone L, Storato S, Viganò M, Abenavoli L, D'Antò M, De Gasperi E, Distefano M, Scifo G, Zolfino T, Calvaruso V, Cuccorese G, Palitti VP, Sacco R, Bertino G, Frazzetto E, Alvaro D, Mulinacci G, Palermo A, Scaravaglio M, Terracciani F, Galati G, Ronca V, Zuin M, Claar E, Izzi A, Picardi A, Invernizzi P, Vespasiani‐Gentilucci U, Carbone M. Predictors of serious adverse events and non-response in cirrhotic patients with primary biliary cholangitis treated with obeticholic acid. Liver Int 2022; 42:2453-2465. [PMID: 35932095 PMCID: PMC9804305 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Obeticholic acid (OCA) has recently been restricted in patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) with "advanced cirrhosis" because of its narrow therapeutic index. We aimed to better define the predicting factors of hepatic serious adverse events (SAEs) and non-response in cirrhotic patients undergoing OCA therapy. METHODS Safety and efficacy of treatment were evaluated in a cohort of consecutive PBC cirrhotic patients started with OCA. OCA response was evaluated according to the Poise criteria. Risk factors for hepatic SAEs and non-response were reported as risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS One hundred PBC cirrhotics were included, 97 Child-Pugh class A and 3 class B. Thirty-one had oesophageal varices and 5 had a history of ascites. Thirty-three per cent and 32% of patients achieved a biochemical response at 6 and 12 months respectively. Male sex (adjusted-RR 1.75, 95%CI 1.42-2.12), INR (1.37, 1.00-1.87), Child-Pugh score (1.79, 1.28-2.50), MELD (1.17, 1.04-1.30) and bilirubin (1.83, 1.11-3.01) were independently associated with non-response to OCA. Twenty-two patients discontinued OCA within 12 months: 10 for pruritus, 9 for hepatic SAEs (5 for jaundice and/or ascitic decompensation; 4 for upper digestive bleeding). INR (adjusted-RR 1.91, 95%CI 1.10-3.36), lower albumin levels (0.18, 0.06-0.51), Child-Pugh score (2.43, 1.50-4.04), history of ascites (3.5, 1.85-6.5) and bilirubin (1.30, 1.05-1.56), were associated with hepatic SAEs. A total bilirubin≥1.4 mg/dl at baseline was the most accurate biochemical predictor of hepatic SAEs under OCA. CONCLUSIONS An accurate baseline assessment is crucial to select cirrhotic patients who can benefit from OCA. Although OCA is effective in one third of cirrhotics, bilirubin level ≥1.4 mg/dl should discourage from its use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daphne D'Amato
- Gastroenterology Unit, Città della salute e della scienzaTurinItaly
| | - Laura Cristoferi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Centre for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano‐Bicocca, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE‐LIVER), San Gerardo HospitalMonzaItaly
| | - Alessio Gerussi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Centre for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano‐Bicocca, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE‐LIVER), San Gerardo HospitalMonzaItaly
| | - Federica Malinverno
- Division of Gastroenterology, Centre for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano‐Bicocca, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE‐LIVER), San Gerardo HospitalMonzaItaly
| | - Ana Lleo
- Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center IRCCSHumanitas UniversityMilanItaly
| | - Francesca Colapietro
- Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center IRCCSHumanitas UniversityMilanItaly
| | - Fabio Marra
- Internal Medicine and Hepatology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical MedicineUniversity of FirenzeFirenzeItaly
| | - Andrea Galli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biochemical SciencesUniversity of FlorenceFlorenceItaly
| | - Cecilia Fiorini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biochemical SciencesUniversity of FlorenceFlorenceItaly
| | - Barbara Coco
- Hepatology Unit, University Hospital of PisaPisaItaly
| | | | - Grazia Anna Niro
- Gastroenterology Unit, Fondazione Casa Sollievo Della Sofferenza IRCCSSan Giovanni RotondoItaly
| | - Rosa Cotugno
- Gastroenterology Unit, Fondazione Casa Sollievo Della Sofferenza IRCCSSan Giovanni RotondoItaly
| | - Carlo Saitta
- Division of Medicine and HepatologyUniversity Hospital of Messina “Policlinico G. Martino”MessinaItaly
| | - Raffaele Cozzolongo
- Gastroenterology UnitNational Institute of Gastroenterology “S de Bellis” Research HospitalCastellana GrotteItaly
| | - Francesco Losito
- Gastroenterology UnitNational Institute of Gastroenterology “S de Bellis” Research HospitalCastellana GrotteItaly
| | - Edoardo Giovanni Giannini
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Internal MedicineUniversity of Genova, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San MartinoGenovaItaly
| | - Sara Labanca
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Internal MedicineUniversity of Genova, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San MartinoGenovaItaly
| | - Marco Marzioni
- Clinic of Gastroenterology and HepatologyUniversità Politecnica delle MarcheAnconaItaly
| | - Giulia Marconi
- Clinic of Gastroenterology and HepatologyUniversità Politecnica delle MarcheAnconaItaly
| | - Anna Morgando
- Gastroenterology Unit, Città della salute e della scienzaTurinItaly
| | | | - Ester Vanni
- Gastroenterology Unit, Città della salute e della scienzaTurinItaly
| | - Nora Cazzagon
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Surgery, Oncology and GastroenterologyPadua University HospitalPaduaItaly
| | - Annarosa Floreani
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Surgery, Oncology and GastroenterologyPadua University HospitalPaduaItaly
| | - Luchino Chessa
- Liver Unit, University Hospital of CagliariCagliariItaly
| | - Olivia Morelli
- Clinic of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of MedicineUniversità degli Studi di PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | - Luigi Muratori
- DIMEC Università di Bologna, Policlinico di Sant'OrsolaBolognaItaly
| | | | - Maurizio Pompili
- Internal Medicine and Hepatology Unit, Policlinico GemelliSapienza UniversityRomeItaly
| | - Francesca Ponziani
- Internal Medicine and Hepatology Unit, Policlinico GemelliSapienza UniversityRomeItaly
| | - Annalisa Tortora
- Internal Medicine and Hepatology Unit, Policlinico GemelliSapienza UniversityRomeItaly
| | | | | | | | - Loredana Simone
- Department of GastroenterologyUniversity Hospital Sant'AnnaFerraraItaly
| | - Silvia Storato
- IRCCS Sacro Cuore Institute Don Calabria, GastroenterologyNegrarItaly
| | - Mauro Viganò
- Hepatology Unit, San Giuseppe HospitalMilanItaly
| | - Ludovico Abenavoli
- Department of Health SciencesUniversity “Magna Graecia” of CatanzaroItaly
| | - Maria D'Antò
- Hepatology Unit, Santa Maria delle Grazie HospitalPozzuoliItaly
| | - Elisabetta De Gasperi
- Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico – Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology – CRC “A.M. and A. Migliavacca” Center for Liver DiseaseMilanItaly
| | - Marco Distefano
- Department of Infectious DiseasesUmberto I HospitalSyracuseItaly
| | - Gaetano Scifo
- Department of Infectious DiseasesUmberto I HospitalSyracuseItaly
| | - Teresa Zolfino
- Department of GastroenterologyBrotzu HospitalCagliariItaly
| | | | | | | | | | - Gaetano Bertino
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology UnitUniversity Hospital Policlinico Vittorio EmanueleCataniaItaly
| | - Evelise Frazzetto
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology UnitUniversity Hospital Policlinico Vittorio EmanueleCataniaItaly
| | - Domenico Alvaro
- Department of Translational and Precision MedicineUniversity La SapienzaRomeItaly
| | - Giacomo Mulinacci
- Division of Gastroenterology, Centre for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano‐Bicocca, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE‐LIVER), San Gerardo HospitalMonzaItaly
| | - Andrea Palermo
- Division of Gastroenterology, Centre for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano‐Bicocca, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE‐LIVER), San Gerardo HospitalMonzaItaly
| | - Miki Scaravaglio
- Division of Gastroenterology, Centre for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano‐Bicocca, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE‐LIVER), San Gerardo HospitalMonzaItaly
| | | | - Giovanni Galati
- Internal Medicine and HepatologyUniversity Campus Bio‐Medico of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Vincenzo Ronca
- Division of Gastroenterology, Centre for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano‐Bicocca, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE‐LIVER), San Gerardo HospitalMonzaItaly
| | - Massimo Zuin
- Liver and Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Health SciencesUniversita’ degli Studi di MilanoMilanItaly,ASST Santi Paolo e CarloUniversity Hospital San PaoloMilanItaly
| | | | - Antonio Izzi
- Department of Infectious DiseasesD. Cotugno HospitalNapoliItaly
| | - Antonio Picardi
- Internal Medicine and HepatologyUniversity Campus Bio‐Medico of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Centre for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano‐Bicocca, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE‐LIVER), San Gerardo HospitalMonzaItaly
| | | | - Marco Carbone
- Division of Gastroenterology, Centre for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano‐Bicocca, European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE‐LIVER), San Gerardo HospitalMonzaItaly
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Malaguarnera G, Catania VE, Bertino G, Chisari LM, Castorina M, Bonfiglio C, Cauli O, Malaguarnera M. Acetyl-L-carnitine Slows the Progression from Prefrailty to Frailty in Older Subjects: A Randomized Interventional Clinical Trial. Curr Pharm Des 2022; 28:3158-3166. [PMID: 36043711 DOI: 10.2174/1381612828666220830092815] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ageing is characterized by a gradual decline in body function, representing the clinical situation called "frailty". Prefrailty is the intermediate stage between frailty and robust condition. L-carnitine (LC) plays an important role in energy production from long-chain fatty acids in mitochondria, and its serum level is lower in prefrail and frail subjects. OBJECTIVE This study aims to evaluate the effect of Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR) in pre-frail older patients. METHODS We scheduled 3 months of treatment and then 3 months of follow-up. A total of 92 subjects were selected from May, 2009 to July, 2017, in a randomized, observational, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. We scheduled 3 months of treatment and then 3 months of follow-up. ALCAR (oral 1.5 g/bis in die - BID) or placebo groups were used. RESULTS After the treatment, only the treated group displayed a decrease in C reactive protein (CRP) p < 0.001 and an increase in serum-free carnitine and acetylcarnitine (p < 0.05) in Mini-Mental state (MMSE) p < 0.0001 and 6-walking distance (p < 0.0001); ALCAR group vs. placebo group showed a decrease in HDL cholesterol and CRP (p < 0.01), an increase in MMSE score (p < 0.001) and in the 6-walking distance (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS ALCAR treatment delays the incidence and severity of onset of degenerative disorders of the elderly in prefrail subjects with improvement in memory and cognitive processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Malaguarnera
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Vito Emanuele Catania
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Gaetano Bertino
- Hepatology Unit, A.O.U. Policlinico- San Marco, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Laura Maria Chisari
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | | | - Omar Cauli
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Podiatry, University of Valencia, c/Jaume Roig s/n, 46010 Valencia, Spain.,Frailty and Cognitive Impairment Organized Group (FROG), University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Michele Malaguarnera
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Department of Psychobiology, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Valencia, Avda. Blasco Ibáñez, 21, 46010, Valencia, Spain
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4
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Campana LG, Quaglino P, de Terlizzi F, Mascherini M, Brizio M, Spina R, Bertino G, Kunte C, Odili J, Matteucci P, MacKenzie Ross A, Schepler H, Clover JAP, Kis E. Health-related quality of life trajectories in melanoma patients after electrochemotherapy: real-world insights from the InspECT register. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2022; 36:2352-2363. [PMID: 35870122 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.18456] [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] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electrochemotherapy (ECT) effectively controls skin metastases from cutaneous melanoma. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to evaluate health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in melanoma patients pre-/post-ECT and its effect on treatment outcome. METHODS The analysis included prospective data from the International Network for Sharing Practices of ECT register. Following the Standard Operating Procedures, patients received intravenous or intratumoural bleomycin (15,000 IU/m2 ; 1000 IU mL/cm3 ) followed by 100-microsecond, 1000-V/cm electric pulses. Endpoints included response (RECIST v3.0), local progression-free survival (LPFS), toxicity (CTCAE v5.0), and patient-reported HRQoL at baseline, one, two, four and ten months (EuroQol [EQ-5D-3L], including 5-item utility score [EQ-5D] and visual analogue scale for self-reported health state [EQ-VAS]). Comparisons within/between subgroups were made for statistical and minimal important differences (MID). HRQoL scores and clinical covariates were analysed to identify predictors of response in multivariate analysis. RESULTS Median tumour size was 2 cm. Complete response rate, G3 toxicity and one-year LPFS in 378 patients (76% of the melanoma cohort) were 47%, 5%, and 78%. At baseline, age-paired HRQoL did not differ from the general European population. Following ECT, both EQ-5D and EQ-VAS scores remained within MID boundaries, particularly among complete responders. A subanalysis of the EQ-5D items revealed a statistically significant deterioration in pain/discomfort and mobility (restored within four months), and self-care and usual activities (throughout the follow-up) domains. Concomitant checkpoint inhibition correlated with better EQ-5D and EQ-VAS trajectories. Baseline EQ-5D was the exclusive independent predictor for complete response (RR 14.76, p=0.001). CONCLUSIONS HRQoL of ECT melanoma patients parallels the general population and is preserved in complete responders. Transient deterioration in pain/discomfort and mobility and persistent decline in self-care and usual activities may warrant targeted support interventions. Combination with checkpoint inhibitors is associated with better QoL outcomes. Baseline HRQoL provides predictive information which can help identify patients most likely to respond.
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Affiliation(s)
- L G Campana
- Department of Surgery, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
- Department of Surgery, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - P Quaglino
- Dermatologic Clinic, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Italy
| | - F de Terlizzi
- Biophysics Department, IGEA S.p.A., 41012 Carpi, Modena, Italy
| | - M Mascherini
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Polyclinic Hospital San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - M Brizio
- Dermatologic Clinic, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Italy
| | - R Spina
- Psychology Unit, University Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - G Bertino
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head Neck Surgery, Policlinico San Matteo Foundation IRCCS, Pavia University, Pavia, Italy
| | - C Kunte
- Department of Dermatosurgery and Dermatology, Artemed Fachklinik, Munich, Germany
| | - J Odili
- Department of Plastic Surgery, St. Georges University Hospitals NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - P Matteucci
- Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Hull, UK
| | - A MacKenzie Ross
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, St Thomas' Hospital, UK
| | - H Schepler
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University KöR, Mainz, Germany
| | - J A P Clover
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
- Cancer Research, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - E Kis
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University of Szeged, Hungary
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5
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Calvaruso V, Petta S, Cacciola I, Cabibbo G, Cartabellotta F, Distefano M, Scifo G, Di Rosolini MA, Russello M, Prestileo T, Madonia S, Malizia G, Montineri A, Digiacomo A, Licata A, Benanti F, Bertino G, Enea M, Battaglia S, Squadrito G, Raimondo G, Cammà C, Craxì A, Di Marco V. Liver and cardiovascular mortality after hepatitis C virus eradication by DAA: Data from RESIST-HCV cohort. J Viral Hepat 2021; 28:1190-1199. [PMID: 33896097 PMCID: PMC8359835 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13523] [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] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Real-world evidence on the course of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) chronic liver disease after Sustained Virologic Response (SVR) obtained with direct-acting antiviral drugs (DAAs) are still limited, and the effects on mortality remain unclear. We evaluated the post-treatment survival of 4307 patients in the RESIST-HCV cohort (mean age 66.3 ± 11.6 years, 56.9% males, 24.7% chronic hepatitis, 66.9% Child-Pugh A cirrhosis and 8.4% Child-Pugh B cirrhosis) treated with DAAs between March 2015 and December 2016 and followed for a median of 73 weeks (range 16-152). Proportional cause-specific hazard regression for competing risks was used to evaluate the survival and to assess the predictors of liver and cardiovascular death. Overall, 94.7% of patients achieved SVR while 5.3% were HCV RNA-positive at last follow-up. Sixty-three patients (1.4%) died during the observation period. SVR was associated with a decreased risk of liver mortality (hazard ratio,HR0.09, beta -2.37, p < .001). Also, platelet count (HR 0.99, beta-0.01, p = .007) and albumin value (HR 0.26, beta -1.36 p = .001) were associated with liver mortality by competing risk analysis. SVR was associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular mortality regardless of presence of cirrhosis (HR 0.07, beta-2.67, p < .001). Presence of diabetes (HR 3.45, beta 1.24, p = .014) and chronic kidney disease class ≥3 (HR 3.60, beta 1.28, p = 0.016) were two factors independently associated with higher risk of cardiovascular mortality. Patients with SVR to a DAA therapy have a better liver and cardiovascular survival, and the effects of HCV eradication are most evident in patients with compensated liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenza Calvaruso
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Department of Health Promotion Sciences Maternal and Infantile Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialities, PROMISE, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Salvatore Petta
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Department of Health Promotion Sciences Maternal and Infantile Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialities, PROMISE, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Irene Cacciola
- UOC Epatologia Clinica e Biomolecolare, Messina, Italy.,AOUP G. Martino, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Sperimentale, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Cabibbo
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Department of Health Promotion Sciences Maternal and Infantile Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialities, PROMISE, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Marco Distefano
- UOC Malattie Infettive, Ospedale Umberto I di Siracusa, ASP Siracusa, Siracusa, Italy
| | - Gaetano Scifo
- UOC Malattie Infettive, Ospedale Umberto I di Siracusa, ASP Siracusa, Siracusa, Italy
| | | | | | - Tullio Prestileo
- UOC Malattie Infettive, ARNAS Civico-Di Cristina-Benefratelli, Palermo, Italy
| | | | | | - Arturo Montineri
- UOC Malattie infettive, AO Universitaria V. Emanuele di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Anna Licata
- UOC Medicina Interna, AOUP Paolo Giaccone, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Gaetano Bertino
- UOC Medicina Interna, AO Universitaria V. Emanuele di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Enea
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Department of Health Promotion Sciences Maternal and Infantile Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialities, PROMISE, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Salvatore Battaglia
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Department of Health Promotion Sciences Maternal and Infantile Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialities, PROMISE, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanni Squadrito
- UOC Epatologia Clinica e Biomolecolare, Messina, Italy.,AOUP G. Martino, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Sperimentale, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giovanni Raimondo
- UOC Epatologia Clinica e Biomolecolare, Messina, Italy.,AOUP G. Martino, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Sperimentale, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Calogero Cammà
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Department of Health Promotion Sciences Maternal and Infantile Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialities, PROMISE, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonio Craxì
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Department of Health Promotion Sciences Maternal and Infantile Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialities, PROMISE, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Vito Di Marco
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Department of Health Promotion Sciences Maternal and Infantile Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialities, PROMISE, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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O'Leary R, Qureshi MA, La Rosa GRM, Vernooij RWM, Odimegwu DC, Bertino G, Polosa R. Respiratory and Cardiovascular Health Effects of e-Cigarette Substitution: Protocol for Two Living Systematic Reviews. JMIR Res Protoc 2021; 10:e29084. [PMID: 34042601 PMCID: PMC8193473 DOI: 10.2196/29084] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite the clear risks of tobacco use, millions of people continue to smoke. Electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), commonly called e-cigarettes, have been proposed as a substitute for those who are unwilling or unable to quit. Current systematic and narrative reviews on the health effects of ENDS use, particularly respiratory and cardiovascular effects, have come to differing conclusions. Objective We conducted two systematic reviews to critically assess and synthesize available human studies on the respiratory and cardiovascular health effects of ENDS substitution for people who smoke. The primary goal is to provide clinicians with evidence on the health effects of ENDS substitution to inform their treatment recommendations and plans. The twin goal of the reviews is to promote health literacy in ENDS users with facts on the health effects of ENDS. Methods These two reviews will be living systematic reviews. The systematic reviews will be initiated through a baseline review. Studies will be evaluated using the JBI quality assessment tools and a checklist of biases drawn from the Centre for Evidence Based Medicine Catalogue of Bias. A narrative synthesis is planned because of the heterogeneity of data. A search for recently published studies will be conducted every 3 months, and an updated review will be published every 6 months for the duration of the project or possibly longer. Results The baseline and updated reviews will be published in a peer-reviewed journal. The findings of the reviews will be reported in a white paper for clinicians and a fact sheet for people who use ENDS. Conclusions The substitution of ENDS for cigarettes is one way to potentially reduce the risks of smoking. Clinicians and their patients need to understand the potential benefits and possible risks of substituting ENDS for cigarettes. Our living systematic reviews seek to highlight the best and most up-to-date evidence in this highly contentious and fast-moving field of research. Trial Registration PROSPERO CRD42021239094; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=239094 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/29084
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Affiliation(s)
- Renee O'Leary
- Center for the Acceleration of Harm Reduction, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Ahmed Qureshi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Robin W M Vernooij
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Gaetano Bertino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Riccardo Polosa
- Center for the Acceleration of Harm Reduction, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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7
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Bertino G, Ragusa R, Corsaro LS, Frazzetto E, Messina V, Inguscio L, Lai C, Maglia M, Nunnari A, Caponnetto P. Improvement of health-related quality of life and psychological well-being after HCV eradication with direct-acting antiviral agents. Real life setting data of an Italian cohort valued by Hepatitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (HQLQv2). Health Psychol Res 2020; 8:9450. [PMID: 33553794 PMCID: PMC7859961 DOI: 10.4081/hpr.2020.9450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
HCV (Hepatitis C Virus) decreases Health-Related Quality of Life with detriments to physical, mental and social health domains. Interferon and Ribavirin treatment is associated with depression and anxiety that further impairs HRQoL (Health- Related Quality of Life). IFN-free (interferon-free) regimes (Direct Acting Antivirals, DAAs) are safe and highly effective drugs, with improvement also of HRQoL and related Psychological Well-Being. Our aim is to describe how the latest generation IFN-free treatment can change quality of life and related Psychological Well-Being in Italian Chronic Hepatitis C/Cirrhosis affected patients. SF-36v2 (Short Form Health Survey is a 36-item, patient-reported survey of patient health) – HQLQv2 (Hepatitis Quality of Life Questionnaire) was administered at two time points: baseline (n=72) and 12 weeks after the end of therapy [n=72, SVR=72 - Sustained Virologic Response (SVR)]. Patients with chronic HCV undergoing DAAs treatment from two Italian centers were enrolled. The overall average of the answers is configured for most of the domains that make up the questionnaire, with scores above 50. The quality of life of this sample is very close to the average of the US population, with a minimum average score of 45.9 for the Role Emotional scale and an average maximum score of 56.4 for the Vitality scale. Both are significant results from statistical analysis. It seems that DAAs treatment therapy does not affect but improves the general quality and psychological state of adult patients with Chronic HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Bertino
- Hepatology Unit, Policlinic "G. Rodolico", Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania
| | - Rosalia Ragusa
- Health Technology Assessment Committee, University Hospital "G. Rodolico", Catania
| | | | - Evelise Frazzetto
- Hepatology Unit, Policlinic "G. Rodolico", Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania
| | - Vincenzo Messina
- Infectious Disease Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera "S. Anna e S. Sebastiano" of Caserta
| | - Lucio Inguscio
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome
| | - Carlo Lai
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome
| | - Marilena Maglia
- Center of Excellence for the Acceleration of Harm Reduction (CoEHAR), Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania
| | - Andrea Nunnari
- School of Medicine, Course of Rehabilitation Science for Health Professions, Università di Catania, Italy
| | - Pasquale Caponnetto
- Center of Excellence for the Acceleration of Harm Reduction (CoEHAR), Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania
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8
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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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9
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Malaguarnera G, Catania VE, Latteri S, Borzì AM, Bertino G, Madeddu R, Drago F, Malaguarnera M. Folate levels in hepatocellular carcinoma patients with portal vein thrombosis. BMC Gastroenterol 2020; 20:375. [PMID: 33172390 PMCID: PMC7653717 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-020-01525-3] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) occurs frequently in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and is often diagnosed in the course of a routine patient evaluation and surveillance for liver cancer. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between folate status and portal vein thrombosis. METHODS HCC with PVT patients were 78, HCC without PVT were 60 and control subjects were 70 randomly selected. We evaluate serum and red blood cellular folate, homocysteine, alpha fetal protein cholesterol, triglycerides, prothrombin time. RESULTS HCC patients with PVT showed lower levels of serum folate, respect HCC patients without PVT, with an average difference of 1.6 nmol/l p < 0.01 (95% CI - 2.54 to - 0.66), red cell folate 33.6 nmol/l p < 0.001 (95% CI - 43.64 to - 23.55) and albumin 0.29 g/dl p < 0.001 (95% CI - 0.42 to - 0.15); PVT patients displayed higher levels of bilirubin 0.53 mg/dl p < 0.001 (95% CI 0.23 to 0.78), INR 0.91 p < 0.001 (95% CI 0.72 to 1.09), γGT 7.9 IU/l (95% CI 4.14 to 11.65) and homocysteine 4.6 μmol/l p < 0.05 (95% CI 0.32 to 8.87) CONCLUSION: The low folate concentration and higher levels of homocysteine are associated with the loss of antithrombotic function, and with a more aggressive course of HCC and with a higher change of complications related to portal vein thrombosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Malaguarnera
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Vito Emanuele Catania
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy.
| | - Saverio Latteri
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio Maria Borzì
- Research Centre "The Great Senescence", University of Catania, 95120, Catania, Italy
| | - Gaetano Bertino
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico "G. Rodolico", Catania, Italy
| | - Roberto Madeddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Michele Malaguarnera
- Research Centre "The Great Senescence", University of Catania, 95120, Catania, Italy
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10
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Latteri S, Malaguarnera G, Catania VE, La Greca G, Bertino G, Borzì AM, Drago F, Malaguarnera M. Homocysteine Serum Levels as Prognostic Marker of Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Portal Vein Thrombosis. Curr Mol Med 2020; 19:532-538. [PMID: 31187711 DOI: 10.2174/1566524019666190610120416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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: 08/14/2018] [Revised: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is a common complication of endstage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim of our study was to evaluate the role of Homocysteine (Hcy) in HCC patient with PVT. Hcy is a sulphur amino-acid involved in two pathways, trans-sulphuration and remethylation, that involve vitamins B6, B12 and folates. METHODS We recruited 54 patients with HCC and PVT, 60 patients with HCC and without PVT and 60 control subjects. We measured serum levels of Hcy, folate, vitamins B6 and B12. RESULTS The comparison between HCC patients with PVT versus HCC without PVT was shown that mean values of Hcy were 6.4 nmol/L (p<0.0073) higher, LDL cholesterol were 4.8 mg/dl (p<0.0079) lower, vitamin B6 were 4.6 nmol/L(p=0.0544) lower, vitamins B 12 were 22.1 pg/ml (p=0.0001) lower. CONCLUSION High serum levels of Hcy are an established thrombotic risk factor in the general population. We found significantly higher levels of Hcy in HCC patients with PVT versus both HCC patients without PVT and controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saverio Latteri
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Giulia Malaguarnera
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy.,Research Centre "The Great Senescence", University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Vito Emanuele Catania
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Gaetano La Greca
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Gaetano Bertino
- Department of Internal Medicine and Systemic Diseases, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio Maria Borzì
- Research Centre "The Great Senescence", University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Michele Malaguarnera
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy.,Research Centre "The Great Senescence", University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
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11
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Malaguarnera G, Latteri S, Madeddu R, Catania VE, Bertino G, Perrotta RE, Dinotta F, Malaguarnera M. High Carbohydrate 19-9 Antigen Serum Levels in Patients with Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer and Primary Occult Cancer. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8080265. [PMID: 32756322 PMCID: PMC7459904 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8080265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC), despite having a favourable prognosis, present an increased risk of occult malignancies. The aim of this study was the evaluation of the usefulness of the mucinous marker carbohydrate 19-9 antigen (CA 19-9) in the diagnosis of occult cancers. (1) Patients and Methods: This is a case control study in which 480 patients with NMSC and 480 matched control subjects with dermatitis were enrolled; 208 patients with NMSC showed upper-normal CA 19-9 values, and 272 showed under-normal CA 19-9 values. (2) Results: The 208 patients positive for CA 19-9 included 87 with basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and 121 with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). The 272 patients negative for CA 19-9 included 107 with BCC and 165 with SCC. For the SCC patients, CA 19-9 serum levels were significant in 121 of the patients (positive), 66 of which were affected by cancer; CA 19-9 was within the normal range in 165 patients, of which 30 were diagnosed with cancer. In the SCC patients, the CA 19-9 sensitivity was 68%, the specificity was 70%, the positive predictive value (PPV) was 54% (95%) and the negative predictive value (NPV) was 81%. In the BCC patients, the CA 19-9 sensitivity was 70%, the specificity was 66%, the PPV was 48% and the NPV was 83%. In the dermatitis patients (controls), we observed 121 patients that were CA 19-9 positive, with 15 malignancies, and 359 CA 19-9-negative patients, with three malignancies. (3) Conclusions: To confirm the association between CA 19-9 and an elevated risk of malignancies in NMSC, prospective cohort studies should be performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Malaguarnera
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania; 95123 Catania, Italy; (G.M.); (M.M.)
| | - Saverio Latteri
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | - Roberto Madeddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy;
| | - Vito Emanuele Catania
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Gaetano Bertino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | - Rosario Emanuele Perrotta
- Department of General Surgery and Medical-Surgery Specialties, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (R.E.P.); (F.D.)
| | - Francesco Dinotta
- Department of General Surgery and Medical-Surgery Specialties, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (R.E.P.); (F.D.)
| | - Michele Malaguarnera
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania; 95123 Catania, Italy; (G.M.); (M.M.)
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Sapuppo A, Pavone P, Praticò AD, Ruggieri M, Bertino G, Fiumara A. Genotype-phenotype variable correlation in Wilson disease: clinical history of two sisters with the similar genotype. BMC Med Genet 2020; 21:128. [PMID: 32532207 PMCID: PMC7291468 DOI: 10.1186/s12881-020-01062-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background Wilson disease (WD) is an Autosomal-Recessive disorder due to mutations of ATP7B gene on chromosome 13q14.3. Inadequate protein function leads to low ceruloplasmin blood levels and copper accumulation in liver, basal ganglia and chornea. Main clinical manifestations are hypertransaminasemia, tremors, dysarthria, dystonia and psychiatric symptoms. The phenotypic variability in WD is considerable and its onset can be heterogeneous: the most common type in childhood is the hepatic involvement, followed by the neurological one or others. The presence of a genotype-phenotype correlation has not yet been fully demonstrated. The phenotypic variability may be explained by the intervention of other modifier genes regulating copper metabolism in the presence of mutations ATP7B. Case presentation A streaking phenotypic variability was observed in two Sicilian sisters carrying the same genotype for ATB7B gene [c.3207C > A / c.3904-2A > G]. Although both started to present signs at age 10 years, onset was characterized by neurological signs in the first (tremors, motor incoordination, language and cognitive impairment), while liver involvement has been the only sign in the other. They started the same chelation therapy. After a 20-year follow-up the former is severely affected (MRI evidence of basal ganglia copper deposits and hyperchogenic liver, thrombocytopenia), while the latter presents only a moderate liver enlargement. In literature, the splice mutation c.3904-2A > G is also reported in Egypt population, associated with acute liver failure or chronic hepatic disease, and it could be typical of Mediterranean area, not being reported in other geographical zones. Conclusion Based on our clinical experience in Eastern Sicily, there is a considerable phenotypic variability in WD, even in the presence of an identical genotype. The mutation c.3904-2A > G could be associated with this phenotypic variability in Mediterranean population, but further studies should be conducted. This condition could be explained by the intervention of modifier genes regulating copper metabolism in the presence of defective ATP7B protein function. Further investigations on their role by Next Generation Sequencing or Whole Exome Analysis might have a profound impact on patients’ management and in particular on therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Sapuppo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | - Piero Pavone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Martino Ruggieri
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Gaetano Bertino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Agata Fiumara
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Ragusa R, Corsaro LS, Frazzetto E, Bertino E, Bellia MA, Bertino G. Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Children and Pregnant Women: An Updated Review of the Literature on Screening and Treatments. AJP Rep 2020; 10:e121-e127. [PMID: 32257593 PMCID: PMC7108952 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1709185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [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: 12/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The aim of the paper is to review the current information relating to the diagnosis and treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in pregnant women and children, particularly those infected by mother-to-child transmission. Study Design A review of published literature was performed to identify relevant articles published between January 2015 and March 2019 on: HCV infection in pregnant woman, mother-to child-transmission of HCV and HCV infection in pediatrics. The results of the evaluation of the different studies were summarized in two sections describing separately the screening and effective treatments in pregnant women and children. Results The rate of mother-to-child transmission of HCV is approximately 5%. HCV infection is strongly associated with cholestasis and preterm birth. Prenatal diagnosis of hepatitis C virus has a dual benefit for mother and child. Perinatally infected children develop cirrhosis in earlier age than those who acquire HCV as adolescents. Pregnant women with cirrhosis have a higher risk of poor maternal and neonatal outcomes than those without cirrhosis. Conclusion To improve public health, universal screening of pregnant women for HCV infection should be performed. Early identification of women and children with HCV infection is important to enable them to be included in assessment and/or treatment programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalia Ragusa
- Health Technology Assessment Committee, Health Directorate, University Hospital “G. Rodolico,” Catania, Italy
| | - Liberato Simone Corsaro
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Evelise Frazzetto
- Hepatology Unit, A.O.U. Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Emanuele Bertino
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Gaetano Bertino
- Hepatology Unit, A.O.U. Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, 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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15
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Giordano L, Di Santo D, Bondi S, Marchi F, Occhini A, Bertino G, Grammatica A, Parrinello G, Peretti G, Benazzo M, Nicolai P, Bussi M. The supraclavicular artery island flap (SCAIF) in head and neck reconstruction: an Italian multi-institutional experience. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 38:497-503. [PMID: 30623895 PMCID: PMC6325652 DOI: 10.14639/0392-100x-1794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The supraclavicular artery island flap (SCAIF) is a thin and pliable pedicled flap that is easy and quick to harvest. Thanks to its particular features and high reliability, it is best indicated for the elderly or most fragile patients. SCAIF is very versatile, as it can be used for reconstruction of oral cavity, oropharynx, hypopharynx, facial and cervical skin and tracheostomal defects. We began using this flap in four Italian tertiary referral centres, with several indications, both as first treatment and as salvage surgery. The aim of the study was to demonstrate the easy reproducibility of the flap among four different centres. A series of 28 patients underwent head and neck reconstructions with SCAIF with no recorded complications during flap harvesting. After the very first cases, harvesting time was approximately 45 minutes; 24 patients had successful flap integration at the recipient site, while the remaining 4 suffered from partial flap necrosis, two of whom needed revision surgery. Other minor complications were reported at the recipient site, always at the most distal and most delicate portion of the flap. Donor site was always closed primarily, with only three cases of partial suture dehiscence. We only selected the most fragile patients for SCAIF reconstruction, such as the elderly or those with one or more comorbidities; for this reason, we reported some serious systemic complications and one intraoperative death. SCAIF is an easy reproducible flap, with multiple possible indications. Its use as an alternative to free flaps in the head and neck region is nowadays under discussion. Its use should be encouraged among head and neck surgeons thanks to its various advantages.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Giordano
- Otolaryngology Service, Head and Neck Department, San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute University, Milan, Italy
| | - D Di Santo
- Otolaryngology Service, Head and Neck Department, San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute University, Milan, Italy
| | - S Bondi
- Otolaryngology Service, Head and Neck Department, San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute University, Milan, Italy
| | - F Marchi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, University of Genoa, Italy
| | - A Occhini
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - G Bertino
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - A Grammatica
- Unit of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Italy
| | - G Parrinello
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, University of Genoa, Italy
| | - G Peretti
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, University of Genoa, Italy
| | - M Benazzo
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - P Nicolai
- Unit of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Italy
| | - M Bussi
- Otolaryngology Service, Head and Neck Department, San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute University, Milan, Italy
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16
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Cabibbo G, Celsa C, Calvaruso V, Petta S, Cacciola I, Cannavò MR, Madonia S, Rossi M, Magro B, Rini F, Distefano M, Larocca L, Prestileo T, Malizia G, Bertino G, Benanti F, Licata A, Scalisi I, Mazzola G, Di Rosolini MA, Alaimo G, Averna A, Cartabellotta F, Alessi N, Guastella S, Russello M, Scifo G, Squadrito G, Raimondo G, Trevisani F, Craxì A, Di Marco V, Cammà C. Direct-acting antivirals after successful treatment of early hepatocellular carcinoma improve survival in HCV-cirrhotic patients. J Hepatol 2019; 71:265-273. [PMID: 30959157 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2019.03.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.6] [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: 08/14/2018] [Revised: 03/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The effectiveness of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) against hepatitis C virus (HCV), following successful treatment of early hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), has been studied extensively. However, the benefit in terms of overall survival (OS) remains to be conclusively demonstrated. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of DAAs on OS, HCC recurrence, and hepatic decompensation. METHODS We prospectively enrolled 163 consecutive patients with HCV-related cirrhosis and a first diagnosis of early Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage 0/A HCC, who had achieved a complete radiologic response after curative resection or ablation and were subsequently treated with DAAs. DAA-untreated patients from the ITA.LI.CA. cohort (n = 328) served as controls. After propensity score matching, outcomes of 102 DAA-treated (DAA group) and 102 DAA-untreated patients (No DAA group) were compared. RESULTS In the DAA group, 7/102 patients (6.9%) died, HCC recurred in 28/102 patients (27.5%) and hepatic decompensation occurred in 6/102 patients (5.9%), after a mean follow-up of 21.4 months. OS was significantly higher in the DAA group compared to the No DAA group (hazard ratio [HR] 0.39; 95% CI0.17-0.91; p = 0.03). HCC recurrence was not significantly different between the DAA and No DAA groups (HR0.70; 95% CI0.44-1.13; p = 0.15). A significant reduction in the rate of hepatic decompensation was observed in the DAA group compared with the No DAA group (HR0.32; 95% CI0.13-0.84; p = 0.02). In the DAA group, sustained virologic response was a significant predictor of OS (HR 0.02; 95% CI 0.00-0.19; p <0.001), HCC recurrence (HR 0.25; 95% CI 0.11-0.57; p <0.001) and hepatic decompensation (HR 0.12; 95% CI 0.02-0.38; p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS In patients with HCV-related cirrhosis who had been successfully treated for early HCC, DAAs significantly improved OS compared with No DAA treatment. LAY SUMMARY We aimed to determine whether direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) significantly improve overall survival in patients with hepatitis C virus-related compensated cirrhosis and a first diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) which has been successfully treated with curative resection or ablation. Using propensity-score matched patients, we found that DAAs improved overall survival and reduced the risk of hepatic decompensation. However, the risk of HCC recurrence was not significantly reduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Cabibbo
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dipartimento di Promozione della Salute, Materno Infantile, Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Ciro Celsa
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dipartimento di Promozione della Salute, Materno Infantile, Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Vincenza Calvaruso
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dipartimento di Promozione della Salute, Materno Infantile, Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Salvatore Petta
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dipartimento di Promozione della Salute, Materno Infantile, Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Irene Cacciola
- UOC Epatologia Clinica e Biomolecolare; AOUP G. Martino, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Sperimentale, University of Messina, Italy
| | | | | | - Margherita Rossi
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dipartimento di Promozione della Salute, Materno Infantile, Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Bianca Magro
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dipartimento di Promozione della Salute, Materno Infantile, Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Francesca Rini
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dipartimento di Promozione della Salute, Materno Infantile, Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Licia Larocca
- UOC Malattie Infettive, AOUP G. Rodolico, Catania, Italy
| | - Tullio Prestileo
- UOC Malattie Infettive, ARNAS Civico-Di Cristina-Benefratelli, Palermo, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Anna Licata
- UOC Medicina Interna, AOUP Paolo Giaccone, Palermo, Italy
| | - Ignazio Scalisi
- UOC Medicina Interna, Ospedale di Mazzara del Vallo, ASP, Trapani, Italy
| | - Giovanni Mazzola
- UOC Malattie Infettive, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Paolo Giaccone, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Alaimo
- UOC Medicina Interna, Ospedale di Agrigento, ASP Agrigento, Italy
| | - Alfonso Averna
- UOC Malattie Infettive, Ospedale di Caltanissetta, ASP Caltanissetta, Italy
| | | | - Nicola Alessi
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dipartimento di Promozione della Salute, Materno Infantile, Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Salvatore Guastella
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dipartimento di Promozione della Salute, Materno Infantile, Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Gaetano Scifo
- UOC Malattie Infettive, Ospedale Umberto I, Siracusa, Italy
| | - Giovanni Squadrito
- UOC Epatologia Clinica e Biomolecolare; AOUP G. Martino, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Sperimentale, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Giovanni Raimondo
- UOC Epatologia Clinica e Biomolecolare; AOUP G. Martino, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Sperimentale, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Franco Trevisani
- Semeiotica Medica, Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Italy
| | - Antonio Craxì
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dipartimento di Promozione della Salute, Materno Infantile, Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Vito Di Marco
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dipartimento di Promozione della Salute, Materno Infantile, Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Calogero Cammà
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dipartimento di Promozione della Salute, Materno Infantile, Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Italy.
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Bertino G, Lepenne Y, Tinelli C, Giordano L, Cacciola S, Di Santo D, Occhini A, Benazzo M, Bussi M. Radial vs ulnar forearm flap: a preliminary study of donor site morbidity. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 39:322-328. [PMID: 30933177 PMCID: PMC6843587 DOI: 10.14639/0392-100x-2102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to compare donor site morbidity after reconstructive surgery with Ulnar Forearm Free Flap (UFFF) and Radial Forearm Free Flap (RFFF) with subjective methods. The UFFF and the RFFF were applied for reconstruction of soft tissue defects of the head and neck region in 30 patients (20 M and 10 F; age range 28-75 years) affected by head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. The Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire was used to assess morbidity of the donor site. Analysis of the patients’ DASH scores showed an overall median DASH total score of 9.17. No significant differences were observed for median values of the RFFF and UFFF groups (7.14 vs 10 respectively) or for the values in males and females (5 vs 13.3 respectively). The UFFF can be considered a valid alternative to the RFFF for reconstruction of soft tissue defects of the head and neck area; it is safe, easy to harvest and is not associated with major morbidities of the donor site as demonstrated by the DASH questionnaire.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Bertino
- Department of Otolaryngology Head Neck Surgery, University of Pavia, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Y Lepenne
- Department of Otolaryngology Head Neck Surgery, University of Pavia, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - C Tinelli
- Biometric Unit, IRCCS Policlinico S. Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - L Giordano
- Otolaryngology Service, Head and Neck Department, "San Raffaele" Hospital, "Vita-Salute" University, Milan, Italy
| | - S Cacciola
- Department of Otolaryngology Head Neck Surgery, University of Pavia, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - D Di Santo
- Otolaryngology Service, Head and Neck Department, "San Raffaele" Hospital, "Vita-Salute" University, Milan, Italy
| | - A Occhini
- Department of Otolaryngology Head Neck Surgery, University of Pavia, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - M Benazzo
- Department of Otolaryngology Head Neck Surgery, University of Pavia, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - M Bussi
- Otolaryngology Service, Head and Neck Department, "San Raffaele" Hospital, "Vita-Salute" University, Milan, Italy
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Odili J, Kunte C, Clover J, Bertino G, Campana L, Muir T, Liew S, Moir G, Orlando A, Kis E, Mowatt D, Saxinger W, Quaglino P, Sersa G, Curatolo P, Bechara F, Rutkowski P, De Cian F, Matteucci P, Gehl J. Electrochemotherapy as an adjunct to the surgical management of metastatic melanoma: experience of the inspECT group (2008 to 2018). Eur J Surg Oncol 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2018.10.117] [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: 10/27/2022] Open
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Bertino G, Di Felice S, De Terlizzi F, Muir T, Curatolo P, Rotunno R, Groselj A, Kis E, Gehl J, Clover A, Campana L, Moir G, Odili J, Liew S, Quaglino P, Kunte C, Orlando A. Basal cell carcinoma and electrochemotherapy: the InspECT experience. Eur J Surg Oncol 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2018.10.115] [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: 10/27/2022] Open
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20
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Malaguarnera M, Latteri S, Bertino G, Madeddu R, Catania VE, Currò G, Borzì AM, Drago F, Malaguarnera G. D-dimer plasmatic levels as a marker for diagnosis and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma patients with portal vein thrombosis. Clin Exp Gastroenterol 2018; 11:373-380. [PMID: 30323642 PMCID: PMC6174900 DOI: 10.2147/ceg.s172663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is one of the severe complications of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). PVT deteriorates the liver, and its dysfunction increases the risk of bleeding, influencing the prognosis of patients with liver cirrhosis and HCC. The aim of our study was to investigate whether D-dimer testing could be a sensitive marker for the diagnosis and prognosis of HCC patients with PVT. Patients and methods Between June 2010 and December 2015, 118 HCC patients were admitted to Cannizzaro Hospital, Catania, and 50 controls were recruited from their relatives for health examinations. All enrolled patients were diagnosed and pathologically confirmed as having HCC. D-dimer was measured with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using 2 monoclonal antibodies against nonoverlapping determinants of D-dimer. Results D-dimer levels in HCC patients with PVT were significantly higher vs HCC patients without PVT, P<0.002, and vs controls, P<0.001. Conclusion Plasma D-dimer is a sensitive marker of fibrin turnover and allows for the recognition of activated coagulation which may be manifested in HCC with PVT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Malaguarnera
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, Catania, Italy, .,Research Center "The Great Senescence", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Saverio Latteri
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "Gian Filippo Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Gaetano Bertino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Roberto Madeddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Vito Emanuele Catania
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "Gian Filippo Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Currò
- Department of Human Pathology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Antonio Maria Borzì
- Research Center "The Great Senescence", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, Catania, Italy,
| | - Giulia Malaguarnera
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, Catania, Italy,
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Calvaruso V, Cabibbo G, Cacciola I, Petta S, Madonia S, Bellia A, Tinè F, Distefano M, Licata A, Giannitrapani L, Prestileo T, Mazzola G, Di Rosolini MA, Larocca L, Bertino G, Digiacomo A, Benanti F, Guarneri L, Averna A, Iacobello C, Magro A, Scalisi I, Cartabellotta F, Savalli F, Barbara M, Davì A, Russello M, Scifo G, Squadrito G, Cammà C, Raimondo G, Craxì A, Di Marco V. Incidence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients With HCV-Associated Cirrhosis Treated With Direct-Acting Antiviral Agents. Gastroenterology 2018; 155:411-421.e4. [PMID: 29655836 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2018.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 247] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2017] [Revised: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Studies have produced conflicting results of the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with hepatitis C virus-associated cirrhosis treated with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). Data from clinics are needed to accurately assess the occurrence rate of HCC in patients with cirrhosis in the real world. METHODS We collected data from a large prospective study of 2,249 consecutive patients (mean age = 65.4 years, 56.9% male) with hepatitis C virus-associated cirrhosis (90.5% with Child-Pugh class A and 9.5% with Child-Pugh class B) treated with DAAs from March 2015 through July 2016 at 22 academic and community liver centers in Sicily, Italy. HCC occurrence was evaluated by Kaplan-Meier curves. Cox regression analysis was used to identify variables associated with HCC development. RESULTS A sustained virologic response (SVR) was achieved by 2,140 patients (total = 95.2%; 95.9% with Child Pugh class A and 88.3% with Child Pugh class B; P < .001). Seventy-eight patients (3.5%) developed HCC during a mean follow-up of 14 months (range = 6-24 months). At 1 year after exposure to DAAs, HCC developed in 2.1% of patients with Child-Pugh class A with an SVR and 6.6% of patients with no SVR and in 7.8% of patients with Child-Pugh class B with an SVR and 12.4% of patients with no SVR (P < .001 by log-rank test). Albumin level below 3.5 g/dL (hazard ratio = 1.77, 95% confidence interval = 1.12-2.82, P = .015), platelet count below 120 × 109/L (hazard ratio = 3.89, 95% confidence interval = 2.11-7.15, P < .001), and absence of an SVR (hazard ratio = 3.40, 95% confidence interval = 1.89-6.12, P < .001) were independently associated increased risk for HCC. The mean interval from exposure to DAAs to an HCC diagnosis was 9.8 months (range = 2-22 months) and did not differ significantly between patients with (n = 64, 9.2 months) and without (n = 14, 12.0 months) an SVR (P = .11). A larger proportion of patients with an SVR had a single HCC lesion (78% vs 50% without an SVR; P = .009) or an HCC lesion smaller than 3 cm (58% vs 28% without an SVR; P = .07). CONCLUSIONS In an analysis of data from a large prospective study of patients with hepatitis C virus-associated compensated or decompensated cirrhosis, we found that the SVR to DAA treatment decreased the incidence of HCC over a mean follow-up of 14 months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenza Calvaruso
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia e Epatologia, Dipartimento Biomedico di Medicina Interna e Specialistica (Di.Bi.M.I.S.), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Cabibbo
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia e Epatologia, Dipartimento Biomedico di Medicina Interna e Specialistica (Di.Bi.M.I.S.), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Irene Cacciola
- UOC Epatologia Clinica e Biomolecolare and AOUP G Martino, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Sperimentale, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Salvatore Petta
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia e Epatologia, Dipartimento Biomedico di Medicina Interna e Specialistica (Di.Bi.M.I.S.), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | | | | | - Fabio Tinè
- UOC Gastroenterologia, AO Villa Sofia-Cervello, Palermo, Italy
| | - Marco Distefano
- UOC Malattie Infettive, Ospedale Vittorio Emanuele di Siracusa, ASP Siracusa, Siracusa, Italy
| | - Anna Licata
- UOC Medicina Interna, AOUP Paolo Giaccone, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Tullio Prestileo
- UOC Malattie Infettive, ARNAS Civico-Di Cristina-Benefratelli, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanni Mazzola
- UOC Malattie Infettive, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Paolo Giaccone, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Licia Larocca
- UOC Malattie infettive, AOUP G Rodolico, Catania, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Luigi Guarneri
- UOC Malattie Infettive, Ospedale di Enna, ASP Enna, Enna, Italy
| | - Alfonso Averna
- UOC Malattie Infettive, Ospedale di Caltanissetta, ASP Caltanissetta, Caltanissetta, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Magro
- UOC Medicina Interna, Ospedale di Agrigento, ASP Agrigento, Agrigento, Italy
| | - Ignazio Scalisi
- UOC Medicina Interna, Ospedale di Mazzara del Vallo, ASP, Trapani, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Savalli
- UOC Malattie Infettive, Ospedale di Trapani, ASP Trapani, Trapani, Italy
| | - Marco Barbara
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia e Epatologia, Dipartimento Biomedico di Medicina Interna e Specialistica (Di.Bi.M.I.S.), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonio Davì
- UOC Malattie Infettive, Ospedale di Modica, ASP Ragusa, Ragusa, Italy
| | | | - Gaetano Scifo
- UOC Malattie Infettive, Ospedale Vittorio Emanuele di Siracusa, ASP Siracusa, Siracusa, Italy
| | - Giovanni Squadrito
- UOC Epatologia Clinica e Biomolecolare and AOUP G Martino, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Sperimentale, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Calogero Cammà
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia e Epatologia, Dipartimento Biomedico di Medicina Interna e Specialistica (Di.Bi.M.I.S.), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanni Raimondo
- UOC Epatologia Clinica e Biomolecolare and AOUP G Martino, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Sperimentale, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Antonio Craxì
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia e Epatologia, Dipartimento Biomedico di Medicina Interna e Specialistica (Di.Bi.M.I.S.), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Vito Di Marco
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia e Epatologia, Dipartimento Biomedico di Medicina Interna e Specialistica (Di.Bi.M.I.S.), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.
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22
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Salomone F, Catania M, Montineri A, Bertino G, Godos J, Rizzo L, Magrì G, Li Volti G. Hepatitis C virus eradication by direct antiviral agents improves glucose tolerance and reduces post-load insulin resistance in nondiabetic patients with genotype 1. Liver Int 2018; 38:1206-1211. [PMID: 29265719 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [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: 08/22/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C is associated with an impairment of glucose homoeostasis, especially in the advanced stages of the disease. Glucose tolerance is an independent predictor of liver-related mortality in patients with cirrhosis because of chronic hepatitis C. However, no study has demonstrated so far weather hepatitis C virus clearance affects glucose tolerance. METHODS To this aim, we performed a prospective study assessing the effects of direct antiviral agents treatment in nondiabetic cirrhotic patients with genotypes 1a/1b and impaired glucose tolerance based on a 75-g oral glucose tolerance test. Impaired glucose tolerance was diagnosed by a 2-hour plasma glucose between 140 and 199 mg/dL. Insulin resistance was estimated by the oral glucose insulin sensitivity index, an oral glucose tolerance test-derived measure. RESULTS After meeting the inclusion criteria, the study population included 32 outpatients (26/6 genotypes 1b/1a; age 62 ± 7.4 years; 18 males) with compensated Child-A cirrhosis. All patients achieved a sustained virological response following direct antiviral agents treatment. After viral eradication, we did not observe change in fasting plasma glucose (103.5 ± 7.1 vs 102.8 ± 7.2 mg/dL, P = .15) but 2-hour plasma glucose was reduced (165.2 ± 22.7 vs 138.5 ± 21.3 mg/dL, P < .001). Hepatitis C virus eradication led also to a significant reduction in HbA1c (6.1 ± 0.2% vs 5.7 ± 0.3%, P < .001) and post-load insulin resistance as assessed by the oral glucose insulin sensitivity index (6.92 ± 1.56 vs 9.52 ± 1.39 mg/kg/min, P < .001). These effects were observed despite no change in body mass index from baseline to follow-up (25.6 ± 4.3 vs 25.8 ± 4.4, P > .5). CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that hepatitis C virus eradication may early improve glucose tolerance in patients with hepatitis C virus-related cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Salomone
- Division of Gastroenterology, Ospedale di Acireale, Azienda Sanitaria Provinciale di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Maurizio Catania
- Division of Laboratory Medicine, Ospedale di Acireale, Azienda Sanitaria Provinciale di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Arturo Montineri
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Ospedale "Ferrarotto", Catania, Italy
| | - Gaetano Bertino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Justyna Godos
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Magrì
- Division of Gastroenterology, Ospedale di Acireale, Azienda Sanitaria Provinciale di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanni Li Volti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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23
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Bertino G, Malaguarnera G, Frazzetto E, Sciuto A, Inserra G, Zanghì GN, Malaguarnera M. Responsibility of hepatitis C virus in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma: From molecular alterations to possible solutions. World J Hepatol 2018; 10:448-451. [PMID: 29988862 PMCID: PMC6033714 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v10.i6.448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2018] [Revised: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
There are several causes of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but certainly the hepatitis C virus (HCV) is one of the most common. The HCV is able to contribute, both directly and indirectly, to the development of HCC. Determining early HCV clearance before an advanced liver disease develops, is absolutely necessary as this prevents the initiation of the cascade of events induced by HCV that may result in the development of HCC. The early treatment of the infection and the clearance of HCV represents today, in the age of the direct antiviral agents (DAAs), an extraordinary opportunity for true prevention of the development of HCV-related HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Bertino
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico “G. Rodolico”, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Giulia Malaguarnera
- Research Center “the Great Senescence”, University of Catania, Catania 95100, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, Catania 95100, Italy
| | - Evelise Frazzetto
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico “G. Rodolico”, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Alice Sciuto
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico “G. Rodolico”, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Gaetano Inserra
- Internal Medicine Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Guido Nicola Zanghì
- Department of Surgery, Policlinico Vittorio Emanuele University Hospital, University of Catania, Catania 95100, Italy
| | - Michele Malaguarnera
- Research Center “the Great Senescence”, University of Catania, Catania 95100, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, Catania 95100, Italy
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24
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Latteri S, Catania VE, Malaguarnera G, Peri A, Bertino G, Frazzetto G, Borzì AM, Biondi A, Perrotta RE, Malaguarnera M. Carcinoembryonic Antigen Serum Levels in Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer. Biomedicines 2018; 6:biomedicines6010024. [PMID: 29473860 PMCID: PMC5874681 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines6010024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2018] [Revised: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a glycoprotein, which is present in the foetal colon, some benign conditions and different malignancies, particularly in colon adenocarcinoma. We focused this study on non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). NMSC is a common malignancy and it is an important source of morbidity and death in the world. In this study we evaluated whether CEA level increases in NMSC. Patients and Methods: A total of 566 patients with non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) were enrolled; 286 patients with NMSC showed CEA levels above normal values, and 280 showed CEA levels below normal values. Patients with high levels of CEA underwent abdominal ultrasound, gastro endoscopy, colonoscopy, and abdominal CT scans. Results: We studied 566 patients, 286 were positive to CEA and 280 were negative. Of the 286 patients positive to CEA, 132 had basal cell carcinoma (64 patients had an associated cancer) and 154 had squamous cell carcinoma (75 patients were affected by cancer). Of the 280 patients negative to CEA, 130 had basal cell carcinoma (12 were associated with cancer), and 150 had squamous cell carcinoma (18 were associated with cancer). The mean age of the 566 case control subjects were 65–81 years. Of the 10 subjects that were the positive control for CEA, two had cancer. Of the 556 subjects that were the negative control for CEA, three had cancer. Conclusions: In patients that present high serum levels of CEA, we give attention to adenocarcinoma tumour first. The pattern of association may be attributable to bias because the group with NMSC were frequently evaluated than those with no history of NMSC. Our results showed that out of 286 patients that were CEA-positive, 139 had cancer, and of the 280 that were CEA-negative, 30 had cancer. Therefore, 20% of patients do not follow the trend. Other markers should be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saverio Latteri
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Vito Emanuele Catania
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Giulia Malaguarnera
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy.
- Research Centre "The Great Senescence", University of Catania, 95120 Catania, Italy.
| | - Andrea Peri
- Department of General Surgery, Policlinico "San Matteo", University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy.
| | - Gaetano Bertino
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Frazzetto
- Research Centre "The Great Senescence", University of Catania, 95120 Catania, Italy.
| | - Antonio Maria Borzì
- Research Centre "The Great Senescence", University of Catania, 95120 Catania, Italy.
| | - Antonio Biondi
- Department of General Surgery and Medical-Surgery Specialties, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy.
| | - Rosario Emanuele Perrotta
- Department of General Surgery and Medical-Surgery Specialties, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy.
| | - Michele Malaguarnera
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy.
- Research Centre "The Great Senescence", University of Catania, 95120 Catania, Italy.
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25
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Ragusa R, Bertino G, Bruno A, Frazzetto E, Cicciu F, Giorgianni G, Lupo L. Evaluation of health status in patients with hepatitis c treated with and without interferon. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2018; 16:17. [PMID: 29343250 PMCID: PMC5773186 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-018-0842-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 01/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The evolution of technology in healthcare has increased the health care’s costs and, the universal healthcare systems, in developed countries, need to ensure proper allocation of resources. Thus, the major issue is assessing the effectiveness of new medical technologies. The evaluation of quality of life in response to new treatments has become a key indicator in chronic conditions for which medical interventions are evaluated not only in terms of increasing the number of expected life years but also in terms of increasing quality of life. The aim of this observational study was to verify whether a simple instrument (EQ-5D-5 L) can capture variations in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and allow us to evaluate the impact of different drug treatment protocols in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) on daily activities. Methods Sixty six patients with HCV were consecutively enrolled in the Hepatology Unit at the University Hospital of Catania “G. Rodolico”. Sixteen patients received new direct-acting-antiviral agents (DAAs) plus pegylated alpha interferon (Peg-α-IFN) protocol (Group A) and 50 DAAs IFN free protocol (Group B). The EQ-5D-5 L® questionnaire and visual analog scale (VAS) were given to both groups to calculate coefficient’s utility. We used the EQ-5D-5 L Crosswalk Index Value Calculator to obtain the utility EQIndex and both parametric and non parametric tests for the statistical analysis. Results The biopsy taken at the beginning of treatment showed comparable cell damage in both groups. The difference in the VAS results was negative for patients who received protocols containing IFN (indicating decreased quality of life),whereas it was positive in patients treated with IFN-free protocols. The baseline EQIndex did not reveal any differences between the two treatment groups. The post-treatment EQIndex was statistically better in the groups that received IFN-free therapy. Conclusions When innovative treatments are introduced into clinical practice, assessing quality of life is mandatory to determine their benefits. The instruments used in the present study are effective in detecting the areas in which improvement has occurred. These instruments can be easily managed by general practitioners for follow up of progression of the disease and referred to the specialist.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Ragusa
- Health Technology Assessment Committee, University Hospital "G. Rodolico", Via Rosso di San Secondo 3, 95128, Catania, Italy.
| | - G Bertino
- Hepatology Unit-Department of clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital "G. Rodolico", Catania, Italy
| | - A Bruno
- Science of Health Professions Technical Diagnostic, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - E Frazzetto
- School of Specialization in Internal Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - F Cicciu
- School of Specialization in Hygiene, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - G Giorgianni
- School of Specialization in Hygiene, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - L Lupo
- Medical Statistic - Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and advanced technologies, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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26
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Malaguarnera G, Madeddu R, Catania VE, Bertino G, Morelli L, Perrotta RE, Drago F, Malaguarnera M, Latteri S. Anorectal mucosal melanoma. Oncotarget 2018; 9:8785-8800. [PMID: 29492238 PMCID: PMC5823579 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.23835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Accepted: 12/26/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Anorectal melanoma is an uncommon and aggressive mucosal melanocytic malignancy. Due to its rarity, the pre-operative diagnosis remains difficult. The first symptoms are non-specific such as anal bleeding, anal mass or pain. Although anorectal melanoma carries a poor prognosis; optimal therapeutics strategies are unclear. Surgical resection remains the mainstay of treatment. The optimal surgical procedure for primary tumours is controversial and can vary from wide local excision or endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) to an abdomino-perineal resection. A high degree of uncertainly exists regarding the benefit of radiation therapy or chemotherapy. The treatment of advanced melanoma is evolving rapidly with better understanding of the disease biology and immunology. Considerable effort has been devoted to the identification of molecular determinants of response to target therapies and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Malaguarnera
- Research Center "The Great Senescence", University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Roberto Madeddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Vito Emanuele Catania
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Gaetano Bertino
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico "G. Rodolico", Catania, Italy
| | - Luca Morelli
- Department of Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Rosario Emanuele Perrotta
- Department of General Surgery and Medical-Surgery Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Michele Malaguarnera
- Research Center "The Great Senescence", University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Saverio Latteri
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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27
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Cabibbo G, Petta S, Calvaruso V, Cacciola I, Cannavò MR, Madonia S, Distefano M, Larocca L, Prestileo T, Tinè F, Bertino G, Giannitrapani L, Benanti F, Licata A, Scalisi I, Mazzola G, Cartabellotta F, Alessi N, Barbàra M, Russello M, Scifo G, Squadrito G, Raimondo G, Craxì A, Di Marco V, Cammà C. Is early recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma in HCV cirrhotic patients affected by treatment with direct-acting antivirals? A prospective multicentre study. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2017; 46:688-695. [PMID: 28791711 DOI: 10.1111/apt.14256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [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: 04/24/2017] [Revised: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data on HCV-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) early recurrence in patients whose HCC was previously cured, and subsequently treated by direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), are equivocal. AIM To assess the risk of HCC early recurrence after DAAs exposure in a large prospective cohort of HCV-cirrhotic patients with previous successfully treated HCC, also looking for risk factors for cancer early recurrence. METHODS We enrolled 143 consecutive patients with complete response after curative treatment of HCC, subsequently treated with DAAs and monitored by the web-based RESIST-HCV database. Clinical, biological, and virological data were collected. The primary endpoint was the probability of HCC early recurrence from DAA starting by Kaplan-Meier method. RESULTS Eighty-six per cent of patients were in Child-Pugh class A and 76% of patients were BCLC A. Almost all patients (96%) achieved sustained virological response. Twenty-four HCC recurrences were observed, with nodular or infiltrative pattern in 83% and 17% of patients, respectively. The 6-, 12- and 18-month HCC recurrence rates were 12%, 26.6% and 29.1%, respectively. Main tumour size and history of prior HCC recurrence were independent risk factors for HCC recurrence by Cox multivariate model. CONCLUSIONS Probability of HCC early recurrence in patients who had HCC previously cured remains high, despite HCV eradication by DAAs. Risk was comparable but not higher to that reported in literature in DAA-untreated patients. Previous HCC recurrence and tumour size can be used to stratify the risk of HCC early recurrence. Further studies are needed to assess impact of DAAs on late recurrence and mortality.
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28
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Kunte C, Letulé V, Gehl J, Dahlstroem K, Curatolo P, Rotunno R, Muir T, Occhini A, Bertino G, Powell B, Saxinger W, Lechner G, Liew SH, Pritchard-Jones R, Rutkowski P, Zdzienicki M, Mowatt D, Sykes A, Orlando A, Mitsala G, Rossi C, Campana L, Brizio M, de Terlizzi F, Quaglino P, Odili J. Electrochemotherapy in the treatment of metastatic malignant melanoma: a prospective cohort study by InspECT. Br J Dermatol 2017; 176:1475-1485. [DOI: 10.1111/bjd.15340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Kunte
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology; Ludwig-Maximilian University; Munich Germany
| | - V. Letulé
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology; Ludwig-Maximilian University; Munich Germany
| | - J. Gehl
- Center for Experimental Drug and Gene Electrotransfer; Department of Oncology; Copenhagen University Hospital Herlev; Herlev Denmark
| | - K. Dahlstroem
- Department of Plastic Surgery; Copenhagen University Hospital Herlev; Denmark
| | - P. Curatolo
- Department of Dermatology and Plastic Surgery; Dermatologic Clinic; University of Rome ‘La Sapienza’; Rome Italy
| | - R. Rotunno
- Department of Dermatology and Plastic Surgery; Dermatologic Clinic; University of Rome ‘La Sapienza’; Rome Italy
| | - T. Muir
- Department of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery; James Cook University Hospital; Middlesbrough U.K
| | - A. Occhini
- Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery; University of Pavia; IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation; Pavia Italy
| | - G. Bertino
- Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery; University of Pavia; IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation; Pavia Italy
| | - B. Powell
- Department of Plastic Surgery; St George's Hospital; London U.K
| | - W. Saxinger
- Department of Dermatology; Klinikum Wels-Grieskirchen; Wels Austria
| | - G. Lechner
- Department of Dermatology; Klinikum Wels-Grieskirchen; Wels Austria
| | - S.-H. Liew
- Department of Plastic Surgery; Whiston Hospital; Prescot Merseyside U.K
| | | | - P. Rutkowski
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma; Maria Sklodowska-Curie Memorial Cancer Center and Institute of Oncology; Warsaw Poland
| | - M. Zdzienicki
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma; Maria Sklodowska-Curie Memorial Cancer Center and Institute of Oncology; Warsaw Poland
| | | | - A.J. Sykes
- Department of Clinical Oncology; Christie Hospital; NHS Foundation Trust; Manchester U.K
| | - A. Orlando
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery; Southmead Hospital; North Bristol NHS Trust; Bristol U.K
| | - G. Mitsala
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery; Southmead Hospital; North Bristol NHS Trust; Bristol U.K
| | - C.R. Rossi
- Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS; Padova Italy
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology; University of Padova; Padova Italy
| | - L. Campana
- Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS; Padova Italy
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology; University of Padova; Padova Italy
| | - M. Brizio
- Department of Medical Sciences; Dermatologic Clinic; University of Torino; Torino Italy
| | - F. de Terlizzi
- Scientific and Medical Department; IGEA S.p.A.; Carpi Italy
| | - P. Quaglino
- Department of Medical Sciences; Dermatologic Clinic; University of Torino; Torino Italy
| | - J. Odili
- Department of Plastic Surgery; St George's Hospital; London U.K
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29
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Malaguarnera G, Bertino G, Chisari G, Motta M, Vecchio M, Vacante M, Caraci F, Greco C, Drago F, Nunnari G, Malaguarnera M. Silybin supplementation during HCV therapy with pegylated interferon-α plus ribavirin reduces depression and anxiety and increases work ability. BMC Psychiatry 2016; 16:398. [PMID: 27842532 PMCID: PMC5109776 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-016-1115-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 09/02/2015] [Accepted: 11/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus infection and interferon treatment are often associated with anxiety, depressive symptoms and poor health-related quality of life. To evaluate the Silybin-vitamin E-phospholipids complex effect on work ability and whether health related factors (anxiety and depression) were associated with work ability in subjects with chronic hepatitis C treated with Pegylated-Interferon-α2b (Peg-IFN) and Ribavirin (RBV). METHODS Thirty-one patients (Group A) with chronic hepatitis and other 31 subjects in Group B were recruited in a randomized, prospective, placebo controlled, double blind clinical trial. Group A received 1.5 mg/kg per week of Peg-IFN plus RBV and placebo, while Group B received the same dosage of Peg-IFN plus RBV plus association of Silybin 94 mg + vitamin E 30 mg + phospholipids 194 mg in pills for 12 months. All subjects underwent to laboratory exams and questionnaires to evaluate depression (Beck Depression Inventory - BDI), anxiety (State-trait anxiety inventory - STAI) and work ability (Work ability Index - WAI). RESULTS The comparison between group A and group B showed significant differences after 6 months in ALT (P < 0.001), and viremia (P < 0.05), after 12 months in ALT (P < 0.001), and AST (P < 0.001), at follow up in AST (P < 0.05), and ALT (P < 0.001). Significant difference were observed after 1 month in WAI (p < 0.001) and BDI (P < 0.05), after 6 months in WAI (P < 0.05) and STAI (P < 0.05), after 12 months and at follow up in WAI, STAI and BDI (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS The supplementation with Silybin-vitamin E -phospholipids complex increased work ability and reduced depression and anxiety in patients treated with Peg-IFN and RBV. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT01957319 , First received: September 25, 2013. Last updated: September 30, 2013 (retrospectively registered).
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Malaguarnera
- Research Center "The Great Senescence", University of Catania, Catania, Italy. .,Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | - Gaetano Bertino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Chisari
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Massimo Motta
- Research Center “The Great Senescence”, University of Catania, Catania, Italy ,Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Michele Vecchio
- U.O.C Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, A.O.U. Policlinico Vittorio Emanuele, Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Vacante
- Research Center “The Great Senescence”, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Caraci
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy ,IRCCS Associazione Oasi Maria S.S., Institute for Research on Mental Retardation and Brain Aging, Troina, Italy
| | - Carmela Greco
- Research Center “The Great Senescence”, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Nunnari
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Michele Malaguarnera
- Research Center “The Great Senescence”, University of Catania, Catania, Italy ,Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Alfonsi E, Terzaghi M, Cosentino G, Tassorelli C, Manni R, Pozzi N, De Icco R, Bertino G, Todisco M, Alvisi E, Fresia M, Pacchetti C, Zangaglia R, Prunetti P, Moglia A. Specific patterns of laryngeal electromyography during wakefulness are associated to sleep disordered breathing and nocturnal stridor in multiple system atrophy. Parkinsonism Relat Disord 2016; 31:104-109. [DOI: 10.1016/j.parkreldis.2016.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2016] [Revised: 07/05/2016] [Accepted: 07/28/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Bertino G, Privitera G, Purrello F, Demma S, Crisafulli E, Spadaro L, Koukias N, Tsochatzis EA. Emerging hepatic syndromes: pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment. Intern Emerg Med 2016; 11:905-16. [PMID: 27273018 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-016-1478-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2016] [Accepted: 05/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Liver cirrhosis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, mainly due to complications of portal hypertension. In this article, we review the current understanding on the pathophysiology, the diagnostic criteria and the available therapeutic options for patients with emerging hepatic syndromes in cirrhosis, namely the hepatorenal, hepato-adrenal and hepatopulmonary syndrome. The hepatorenal syndrome is a well-recognized complication of advanced cirrhosis and is usually associated with an accelerated course to death unless liver transplantation is performed. The hepatopulmonary syndrome is often missed in the evaluation of patients with cirrhosis; however, early recognition is essential for the efficient management of individual patients. The hepato-adrenal syndrome, although not fully characterized, offers an exciting field for research and potential therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Bertino
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico "G. Rodolico", Catania, Italy
| | - Graziella Privitera
- Internal Medicine, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Ospedale Garibaldi-Nesima, Catania, Italy
| | - Francesco Purrello
- Internal Medicine, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Ospedale Garibaldi-Nesima, Catania, Italy
| | - Shirin Demma
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico "G. Rodolico", Catania, Italy
| | - Emanuele Crisafulli
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico "G. Rodolico", Catania, Italy
| | - Luisa Spadaro
- Internal Medicine, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Ospedale Garibaldi-Nesima, Catania, Italy
| | - Nikolaos Koukias
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health and Sheila Sherlock Liver Unit, Royal Free Hospital and UCL, London, UK
| | - Emmanuel A Tsochatzis
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health and Sheila Sherlock Liver Unit, Royal Free Hospital and UCL, London, UK.
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Palmucci S, Attinà G, Cappello G, L. Lanza M, Failla G, Costa P, O. A. Siverino R, Vecchio C, Neri S, V. Foti P, Milone P, Bertino G, C. Ettorre G. Assessing Degree of Hepatic Fibrosis in Patients with Chronic Liver Disease Using Gadoxetic Acid-Enhanced Liver MRI: Preliminary Results. Curr Med Imaging 2016. [DOI: 10.2174/1573405612999160510174657] [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: 11/22/2022]
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Rapisarda V, Loreto C, Malaguarnera M, Ardiri A, Proiti M, Rigano G, Frazzetto E, Ruggeri MI, Malaguarnera G, Bertino N, Malaguarnera M, Catania VE, Di Carlo I, Toro A, Bertino E, Mangano D, Bertino G. Hepatocellular carcinoma and the risk of occupational exposure. World J Hepatol 2016; 8:573-590. [PMID: 27168870 PMCID: PMC4858622 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v8.i13.573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [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: 06/17/2015] [Revised: 09/08/2015] [Accepted: 04/18/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer. The main risk factors for HCC are alcoholism, hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, obesity, type 2 diabetes, cirrhosis, aflatoxin, hemochromatosis, Wilson’s disease and hemophilia. Occupational exposure to chemicals is another risk factor for HCC. Often the relationship between occupational risk and HCC is unclear and the reports are fragmented and inconsistent. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge regarding the association of infective and non-infective occupational risk exposure and HCC in order to encourage further research and draw attention to this global occupational public health problem.
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Di Carlo I, Toro A, Ardiri A, Bertino G. Totally Implantable Venous Access Devices: Efforts Are Needed to Standardize Procedures to Avoid Complications. World J Surg 2016; 40:1781-2. [PMID: 26940579 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-016-3485-2] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Isidoro Di Carlo
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Organs Transplantation and Advanced Technologies, "G.F. Ingrassia" University of Catania, Cannizzaro Hospital, Via Messina 829, 95126, Catania, Italy.
| | - Adriana Toro
- Department of Surgery, Patti Hospital (ME), Patti, Italy
| | - Annalisa Ardiri
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Medical and Pediatric Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Gaetano Bertino
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Medical and Pediatric Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Di Carlo I, Koshy R, Al Mudares S, Ardiri A, Bertino G, Toro A. Giant cavernous liver hemangiomas: is it the time to change the size categories? Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2016; 15:21-9. [PMID: 26818540 DOI: 10.1016/s1499-3872(15)60035-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [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] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Four different sizes (4, 5, 8 and 10 cm in diameter) can be found in the literature to categorize a liver hemangioma as giant. The present review aims to clarify the appropriateness of the size category "giant" for liver hemangioma. DATA SOURCES We reviewed the reports on the categorization of hemangioma published between 1970 and 2014. The number of hemangiomas, size criteria, mean and range of hemangioma sizes, and number of asymptomatic and symptomatic patients were investigated in patients aged over 18 years. Liver hemangiomas were divided into four groups: <5.0 cm, 5.0-9.9 cm, 10.0-14.9 cm and ≥15.0 cm in diameter. Inclusion criteria were noted in 34 articles involving 1972 (43.0%) hemangiomas (>4.0 cm). RESULTS The patients were divided into the following groups: 154 patients (30.0%) with hemangiomas less than 5.0 cm in diameter (small), 182 (35.5%) between 5.0 cm and 9.9 cm (large), 75 (14.6%) between 10.0 and 14.9 cm (giant), and 102 (19.9%) more than 15.0 cm (enormous). There were 786 (39.9%) asymptomatic patients and 791 (40.1%) symptomatic patients. Indications for surgery related to symptoms were reported in only 75 (3.8%) patients. Operations including 137 non-anatomical resection (12.9%) and 469 enucleation (44.1%) were unclearly related to size and symptoms. CONCLUSIONS The term "giant" seems to be justified for liver hemangiomas with a diameter of 10 cm. Hemangiomas categorized as "giant" are not indicated for surgery. Surgery should be performed only when other symptoms are apparent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isidoro Di Carlo
- Departments of General Surgery, Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar; Department of Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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Bertino G, Ardiri A, Proiti M, Rigano G, Frazzetto E, Demma S, Ruggeri MI, Scuderi L, Malaguarnera G, Bertino N, Rapisarda V, Di Carlo I, Toro A, Salomone F, Malaguarnera M, Bertino E, Malaguarnera M. Chronic hepatitis C: This and the new era of treatment. World J Hepatol 2016; 8:92-106. [PMID: 26807205 PMCID: PMC4716531 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v8.i2.92] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [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: 04/23/2015] [Revised: 09/29/2015] [Accepted: 12/18/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the last years it has started a real revolution in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C. This occurred for the availability of direct-acting antiviral agents that allow to reach sustained virologic response in approximately 90% of cases. In the near future further progress will be achieved with the use of pan-genotypic drugs with high efficacy but without side effects.
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Toro A, Bertino G, Ardiri A, Di Carlo I. Does follow-up offer the best quality of life for patients affected by so-called 'giant' haemangiomas of the liver? HPB (Oxford) 2015; 17:1155. [PMID: 26286124 PMCID: PMC4644369 DOI: 10.1111/hpb.12478] [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: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Toro
- Department of Surgery, Patti HospitalMessina, Italy
| | - Gaetano Bertino
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Medical and Pediatric Science, University of CataniaCatania, Italy
| | - Annalisa Ardiri
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Medical and Pediatric Science, University of CataniaCatania, Italy
| | - Isidoro Di Carlo
- Department of Surgical Sciences “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of CataniaCatania, Italy,Department of Surgery, Hamad General HospitalDoha, Qatar,E-mail:
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Malaguarnera M, Motta M, Vacante M, Malaguarnera G, Caraci F, Nunnari G, Gagliano C, Greco C, Chisari G, Drago F, Bertino G. Silybin-vitamin E-phospholipids complex reduces liver fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C treated with pegylated interferon α and ribavirin. Am J Transl Res 2015; 7:2510-2518. [PMID: 26807195 PMCID: PMC4697727] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2015] [Accepted: 10/31/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C is both a virologic and a fibrotic disease, with mortality resulting mainly from the complications of cirrhosis and HCC. The aim was to evaluate the impact on of supplementation with a new pharmaceutical complex of silybinvitamin E-phospholipids in patients with chronic hepatitis C treated with Pegylated-Interferon-α2b plus Ribavirin. In this prospective, randomized, placebo controlled, double blind clinical trial, 32 subjects with chronic hepatitis, received Pegylated-Interferon-α2b (1.5 mg/kg per week) plus Ribavirin and placebo, while 32 subjects received the same dosage of Pegylated-Interferon-α2b plus Ribavirin plus association of Silybin 47 mg + vitamin E 15 mg + phospholipids 97 mg in two pill for 12 months. Serum levels of the following markers of liver fibrosis were evaluated: transforming growth factor beta, hyaluronic acid, metalloproteinase 2, amino-terminal pro-peptide of type III procollagen, tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase type I. The comparison between group A and group B showed a significant difference in ALT (P<0.001), and viremia (P<0.05) after 12 months; in TGF beta levels after 12 months and at follow up (P<0.05); in MMP-2 after 6 months (P<0.05); in PIIINP after 6, 12 months and at follow up (P<0.05); in TIMP-1 after 6, 12 months and at follow up (P<0.001). In conclusion, the supplementation with silybin-vitamin E-phosholipids complex ameliorated the response to Peg-IFN plus RBV treatment and reduced serum levels of markers of liver fibrosis. The ameliorative effect of the complex maybe related to a direct effect on the activation of hepatic stellate cells, or mediated via antioxidants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Malaguarnera
- Research Center, The Great Senescence, University of CataniaItaly
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of CataniaItaly
| | - Massimo Motta
- Research Center, The Great Senescence, University of CataniaItaly
| | - Marco Vacante
- Research Center, The Great Senescence, University of CataniaItaly
| | - Giulia Malaguarnera
- Research Center, The Great Senescence, University of CataniaItaly
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of CataniaItaly
| | - Filippo Caraci
- IRCCS Oasi Maria S.S. Institute for Research on Mental Retardation and Brain AgingTroina, Enna, Italy
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of CataniaItaly
| | - Giuseppe Nunnari
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of CataniaItaly
| | - Caterina Gagliano
- Research Center, The Great Senescence, University of CataniaItaly
- Neurovisual Science Technology (NEST) CataniaItaly
| | - Carmela Greco
- Research Center, The Great Senescence, University of CataniaItaly
| | - Giuseppe Chisari
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of CataniaItaly
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of CataniaItaly
| | - Gaetano Bertino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of CataniaItaly
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Toro A, Bertino G, Ardiri A, Di Carlo I. Commentary on "Insertion of Totally Implantable Central Venous Access Devices by Surgeons" - What Is the Role of Surgeons When Implanting a Totally Implantable Venous Access Device to Prevent Immediate Complications? Ann Coloproctol 2015; 31:163-4. [PMID: 26361619 PMCID: PMC4564669 DOI: 10.3393/ac.2015.31.4.163] [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] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Toro
- Department of Surgery, Patti Hospital (ME), Patti, Italy
| | - Gaetano Bertino
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Medical and Pediatric Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Annalisa Ardiri
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Medical and Pediatric Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Isidoro Di Carlo
- Department of Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy. ; Department of General Surgery, Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar
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Malaguarnera G, Vacante M, Drago F, Bertino G, Motta M, Giordano M, Malaguarnera M. Endozepine-4 levels are increased in hepatic coma. World J Gastroenterol 2015; 21:9103-10. [PMID: 26290636 PMCID: PMC4533041 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i30.9103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2014] [Revised: 03/11/2015] [Accepted: 05/07/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the serum levels of endozepine-4, their relation with ammonia serum levels, the grading of coma and the severity of cirrhosis, in patients with hepatic coma. METHODS In this study we included 20 subjects with Hepatic coma, 20 subjects with minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) and 20 subjects control. All subjects underwent blood analysis, Child Pugh and Model for End - stage liver disease (MELD) assessment, endozepine-4 analysis. RESULTS Subjects with hepatic coma showed significant difference in endozepine-4 (P < 0.001) and NH3 levels (P < 0.001) compared both to MHE and controls patients. Between NH3 and endozepine-4 we observed a significant correlation (P = 0.009; Pearson correlation 0.570). There was a significant correlation between endozepine-4 and MELD (P = 0.017; Pearson correlation = 0.529). In our study blood ammonia concentration was noted to be raised in patients with hepatic coma, with the highest ammonia levels being found in those who were comatose. We also found a high correlation between endozepine-4 and ammonia (P < 0.001). In patients with grade IV hepatic coma, endozepine levels were significantly higher compared to other groups. CONCLUSION This study suggests that an increased level of endozepine in subjects with higher levels of MELD was observed. In conclusion, data concerning involvement of the GABA-ergic system in HE coma could be explained by stage-specific alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Bertino
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Medical and Pediatric Sciences - University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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Bertino G, Demma S, Ardiri A, Proiti M, Malaguarnera G, Bertino N, Malaguarnera M, Malaguarnera M. The immune system in hepatocellular carcinoma and potential new immunotherapeutic strategies. Biomed Res Int 2015; 2015:731469. [PMID: 25893197 PMCID: PMC4393929 DOI: 10.1155/2015/731469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2014] [Revised: 12/11/2014] [Accepted: 12/12/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma is a major health problem worldwide and the third most common cause of cancer-related death. HCC treatment decisions are complex and dependent upon tumor staging. Several molecular targeted agents have been evaluated in clinical trials in advanced HCC. Despite of only modest objective response rates according to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors, several studies showed encouraging results in terms of prolongation of the time to progression, disease stabilization, and survival. Cellular immunotherapy would improve the immune state and has potential in enhancing the therapeutic outcome for HCC patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS A search of the literature was made using cancer literature, the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (WOS) database for the following keywords: "hepatocellular carcinoma," "molecular hepatocarcinogenesis," "targeted therapy," "molecular immunological targets," "tumour-associated antigens," "Tregs," "MDSCs," "immunotherapy." DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Treatment strategies combining blockade of immunoregulatory cell types such as Tregs and MDSCs and of inhibitory receptors, with vaccine-induced activation of TAA-specific T cells, may be necessary to achieve the most effective therapeutic antitumour activity in HCC. In the future, new therapeutic options will be represented by a blend of immunotherapy-like vaccines and T-cell modulators, supplemented by molecularly targeted inhibitors of tumor signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Bertino
- Department of Medical and Pediatric Sciences, Hepatology Unit, University of Catania, Policlinic, Via S. Sofia No. 78, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Shirin Demma
- Department of Medical and Pediatric Sciences, Hepatology Unit, University of Catania, Policlinic, Via S. Sofia No. 78, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Annalisa Ardiri
- Department of Medical and Pediatric Sciences, Hepatology Unit, University of Catania, Policlinic, Via S. Sofia No. 78, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Proiti
- Department of Medical and Pediatric Sciences, Hepatology Unit, University of Catania, Policlinic, Via S. Sofia No. 78, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Giulia Malaguarnera
- Research Centre “The Great Senescence”, University of Catania, Cannizzaro Hospital, Via Messina No. 829, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Bertino
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria No. 6, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Catania, University of Catania Policlinic, Via S. Sofia No. 78, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Mariano Malaguarnera
- Department of Medical and Pediatric Science, Research Centre “The Great Senescence”, University of Catania, Cannizzaro Hospital, Via Messina No. 829, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Michele Malaguarnera
- Research Centre “The Great Senescence”, University of Catania, Cannizzaro Hospital, Via Messina No. 829, 95100 Catania, Italy
- International Ph.D. Program in Neuropharmacology, University of Catania, Cannizzaro Hospital, Via Messina No. 829, 95100 Catania, Italy
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Toro A, Mahfouz AE, Ardiri A, Malaguarnera M, Malaguarnera G, Loria F, Bertino G, Di Carlo I. What is changing in indications and treatment of hepatic hemangiomas. A review. Ann Hepatol 2015; 13:327-39. [PMID: 24927603] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic cavernous hemangioma accounts for 73% of all benign liver tumors with a frequency of 0.4-7.3% at autopsy and is the second most common tumor seen in the liver after metastases. Patients affected by hemangioma usually have their tumor diagnosed by ultrasound abdominal examination for a not well defined pain, but pain persist after treatment of the hemangioma. The causes of pain can be various gastrointestinal pathologies including cholelithiasis and peptic ulcer disease.The malignant trasformation is practically inexistent. Different imaging modalities are used to diagnosis liver hemangioma including ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, and less frequently scintigraphy, positronemission tomography combined with CT (PET/CT) and angiography. Imaging-guided biopsy of hemangioma is usually not resorted to except in extremely atypical cases. The right indications for surgery remain rupture, intratumoral bleeding, Kasabach-Merritt syndrome and organ or vessels compression (gastric outlet obstruction, Budd-Chiari syndrome, etc.) represents the valid indication for surgery and at the same time they are all complications of the tumor itself. The size of the tumor do not represent a valid indication for treatment. Liver hemangiomas, when indication exist, have to be treated firstly by surgery (hepatic resection or enucleation, open, laproscopic or robotic), but in the recent years other therapies like liver transplantation, radiofrequency ablation, radiotherapy, trans-arterial embolization, and chemotherapy have been applied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Toro
- Department of Surgery, Taormina Hospital, Messina, Italy
| | | | - Annalisa Ardiri
- Hepatology Unit. Department of Medical and Pediatric Science, University of Catania, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Malaguarnera
- University of Catania; Research Center "The Great Senescence". Cannizzaro Hospital, Italy
| | | | - Gaetano Bertino
- Hepatology Unit. Department of Medical and Pediatric Science, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Isidoro Di Carlo
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Organ Transplantation and Advanced Technologies, University of Catania. Catania, Italy; Department of Radiology, Hamad General Hospital, Doha Qatar
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Malaguarnera G, Bertino G, Vacante M, Malaguarnera M. Hepatocellular carcinoma markers in the omics era: the glycomic analysis. Hepatobiliary Surg Nutr 2015; 3:407-9. [PMID: 25568863 DOI: 10.3978/j.issn.2304-3881.2014.07.04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2014] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Recently, Kamiyama et al. performed N-glycan profile in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) using the quantitative N-glycomics procedure by way of glycoblotting technology and using an automated glycan purification system. The study showed significant differences of N-glycans profile between healthy volunteers and liver cancer patients. The glycomic approach showed us the usefulness of new tools for identification and application of a new biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and treatment. These findings reveal a new field for future markers discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Malaguarnera
- 1 International PhD programme in Neuropharmacology, 2 Department of Medical and Pediatric Sciences, 3 Research Center "The Great Senescence", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Gaetano Bertino
- 1 International PhD programme in Neuropharmacology, 2 Department of Medical and Pediatric Sciences, 3 Research Center "The Great Senescence", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Vacante
- 1 International PhD programme in Neuropharmacology, 2 Department of Medical and Pediatric Sciences, 3 Research Center "The Great Senescence", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Michele Malaguarnera
- 1 International PhD programme in Neuropharmacology, 2 Department of Medical and Pediatric Sciences, 3 Research Center "The Great Senescence", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Malaguarnera G, Giordano M, Nunnari G, Bertino G, Malaguarnera M. Gut microbiota in alcoholic liver disease: Pathogenetic role and therapeutic perspectives. World J Gastroenterol 2014; 20:16639-16648. [PMID: 25469033 PMCID: PMC4248208 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i44.16639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2014] [Revised: 06/04/2014] [Accepted: 07/11/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is the commonest cause of cirrhosis in many Western countries and it has a high rate of morbidity and mortality. The pathogenesis is characterized by complex interactions between metabolic intermediates of alcohol. Bacterial intestinal flora is itself responsible for production of endogenous ethanol through the fermentation of carbohydrates. The intestinal metabolism of alcohol produces a high concentration of toxic acetaldehyde that modifies gut permeability and microbiota equilibrium. Furthermore it causes direct hepatocyte damage. In patients who consume alcohol over a long period, there is a modification of gut microbiota and, in particular, an increment of Gram negative bacteria. This causes endotoxemia and hyperactivation of the immune system. Endotoxin is a constituent of Gram negative bacteria cell walls. Two types of receptors, cluster of differentiation 14 and Toll-like receptors-4, present on Kupffer cells, recognize endotoxins. Several studies have demonstrated the importance of gut-liver axis and new treatments have been studied in recent years to reduce progression of ALD modifying gut microbiota. It has focused attention on antibiotics, prebiotics, probiotics and synbiotics.
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Mangia A, Cenderello G, Orlandini A, Piazzolla V, Picciotto A, Zuin M, Ciancio A, Brancaccio G, Forte P, Carretta V, Zignego AL, Minerva N, Brindicci G, Marignani M, Baroni GS, Bertino G, Cuccorese G, Mottola L, Ripoli M, Pirisi M. Individualized treatment of genotype 1 naïve patients: an Italian multicenter field practice experience. PLoS One 2014; 9:e110284. [PMID: 25340799 PMCID: PMC4207756 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0110284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2014] [Accepted: 09/15/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Triple therapy including Telaprevir or Boceprevir still represents in many European countries the standard of care for patients with Hepatitis C Virus genotype 1 infection. The number of patients who received this treatment resulted generally lower than expected. We investigated, among naïve patients, number and characteristics of treatment candidates who were started on triple or dual therapy in comparison to those who were deferred. PATIENTS AND METHODS 621 naïve treatment candidates were prospectively evaluated at each center. Factors associated with decision to defer or treat with dual or triple therapy were investigated by univariate and multivariate analyses. Rates of Sustained Virological Response and safety profile were analysed. RESULTS Of candidates to treatment, 33% did not received it. It was mostly due to high risk of Interferon-induced decompensation. Of 397 patients who were started on treatment, 266 (67%) received triple, 131 dual. Among patient receiving treatment, unfavorable IL28B, severe liver damage and higher albumin were independently associated with the physician decision to administer triple therapy. Sustained Virological Response after dual therapy was 66.4%, after triple 73.7% (p = 0.14). 142 patients received Telaprevir. The choice of Telaprevir-based therapy was associated with higher Body Mass Index and advanced liver disease. Sustained Virological Response rates were 71.1% after Telaprevir and 76.6% after Boceprevir. CONCLUSIONS Individualizing treatment with available regimens allows to maximize Sustained Virological Response and to reduce the number of patients who remain untreated. High proportion of patients with severe liver damage urgently need Interferon free treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Mangia
- Hospital IRCCS “Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza”, Liver Unit, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | | | | | - Valeria Piazzolla
- Hospital IRCCS “Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza”, Liver Unit, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Antonio Picciotto
- University of Genova, Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology Unit, Genova, Italy
| | - Massimo Zuin
- “S. Paolo” Hospital, University of Milan, Department of Medicine, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessia Ciancio
- AOU “San Giovanni Battista” - Molinette, Department of Medical Sciences, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Paolo Forte
- “G. Careggi” Hospital, Department of Gastroenterology, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Anna Linda Zignego
- University of Milan, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicola Minerva
- Hospital of Canosa, Department of Internal Medicine, Canosa, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Giuseppe Cuccorese
- “R. Dimiccoli” Hospital, Department of Gaastroenterology, Barletta, Italy
| | - Leonardo Mottola
- Hospital IRCCS “Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza”, Liver Unit, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Maria Ripoli
- Hospital IRCCS “Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza”, Liver Unit, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Mario Pirisi
- Università degli Studi del Piemonte Orientale, Department of Internal Medicine, Novara, Italy
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Toro A, Ardiri A, Mannino M, Arcerito MC, Mannino G, Palermo F, Bertino G, Di Carlo I. Effect of pre- and post-treatment α-fetoprotein levels and tumor size on survival of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma treated by resection, transarterial chemoembolization or radiofrequency ablation: a retrospective study. BMC Surg 2014; 14:40. [PMID: 24993566 PMCID: PMC4107750 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2482-14-40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [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: 11/24/2013] [Accepted: 06/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We evaluated treatment modalities and survival in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), by pre-treatment and 3-month post-treatment serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels and pre-treatment tumor diameters. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 57 patients treated for HCC in our department from January 2002 to December 2012, including their sex, type of hepatitis, Child class, pre-treatment tumor size, pre-treatment levels of albumin, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT), red blood cells, hemoglobin, and total bilirubin, pre- and 3-month post-treatment serum AFP, and treatment modality (transarterial chemoembolization, resection or radiofrequency ablation). Survival was analyzed at 1, 3, and 5 years after treatment. Results The 57 patients included 44 men and 13 women, of whom 44 had hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, 3 had hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, 3 had both HBV and HCV infection, 1 had both HBV and hepatitis D virus infection, and 3 had alcohol-related liver cirrhosis. Both pre- and post-treatment serum AFP levels significantly correlated with recurrent tumor size (P < 0.05 for both). Pre-treatment tumor size did not correlate with recurrent tumor size. Patients who underwent hepatic resection survived significantly longer than those who underwent transarterial chemoembolization or radiofrequency ablation (P < 0.05). Conclusions Serum AFP level is useful in diagnosing tumor recurrence and predicting prognosis in HCC patients treated by hepatic resection, transarterial chemoembolization, and radiofrequency ablation. Hepatic resection remains the treatment of choice for HCC in suitable patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Isidoro Di Carlo
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Organ Transplantation and Advanced Technologies, University of Catania, Cannizzaro Hospital, Via Messina, 829, Catania 95126, Italy.
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Toro A, Mahfouz AE, Ardiri A, Malaguarnera M, Malaguarnera G, Loria F, Bertino G, Di Carlo I. What is changing in indications and treatment of hepatic hemangiomas. A review. Ann Hepatol 2014. [PMID: 24927603 DOI: 10.1016/s1665-2681(19)30839-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [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] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic cavernous hemangioma accounts for 73% of all benign liver tumors with a frequency of 0.4-7.3% at autopsy and is the second most common tumor seen in the liver after metastases. Patients affected by hemangioma usually have their tumor diagnosed by ultrasound abdominal examination for a not well defined pain, but pain persist after treatment of the hemangioma. The causes of pain can be various gastrointestinal pathologies including cholelithiasis and peptic ulcer disease.The malignant trasformation is practically inexistent. Different imaging modalities are used to diagnosis liver hemangioma including ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, and less frequently scintigraphy, positronemission tomography combined with CT (PET/CT) and angiography. Imaging-guided biopsy of hemangioma is usually not resorted to except in extremely atypical cases. The right indications for surgery remain rupture, intratumoral bleeding, Kasabach-Merritt syndrome and organ or vessels compression (gastric outlet obstruction, Budd-Chiari syndrome, etc.) represents the valid indication for surgery and at the same time they are all complications of the tumor itself. The size of the tumor do not represent a valid indication for treatment. Liver hemangiomas, when indication exist, have to be treated firstly by surgery (hepatic resection or enucleation, open, laproscopic or robotic), but in the recent years other therapies like liver transplantation, radiofrequency ablation, radiotherapy, trans-arterial embolization, and chemotherapy have been applied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Toro
- Department of Surgery, Taormina Hospital, Messina, Italy
| | | | - Annalisa Ardiri
- Hepatology Unit. Department of Medical and Pediatric Science, University of Catania, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Malaguarnera
- University of Catania; Research Center "The Great Senescence". Cannizzaro Hospital, Italy
| | | | - Gaetano Bertino
- Hepatology Unit. Department of Medical and Pediatric Science, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Isidoro Di Carlo
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Organ Transplantation and Advanced Technologies, University of Catania. Catania, Italy; Department of Radiology, Hamad General Hospital, Doha Qatar
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Bertino G, Demma S, Ardiri A, Proiti M, Malaguarnera G, Bertino N, Malaguarnera M, Malaguarnera M. Hepatocellular carcinoma: novel molecular targets in carcinogenesis for future therapies. Biomed Res Int 2014; 2014:203693. [PMID: 25089265 PMCID: PMC4096380 DOI: 10.1155/2014/203693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2014] [Revised: 05/29/2014] [Accepted: 05/30/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the most common and lethal malignant tumors worldwide. Over the past 15 years, the incidence of HCC has more than doubled. Due to late diagnosis and/or advanced underlying liver cirrhosis, only limited treatment options with marginal clinical benefit are available in up to 70% of patients. During the last decades, no effective conventional cytotoxic systemic therapy was available contributing to the dismal prognosis in patients with HCC. A better knowledge of molecular hepatocarcinogenesis provides today the opportunity for targeted therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS A search of the literature was made using cancer literature, the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (WOS) database for the following keywords: "hepatocellular carcinoma," "molecular hepatocarcinogenesis," "targeted therapy," and "immunotherapy." DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Treatment decisions are complex and dependent upon tumor staging, presence of portal hypertension, and the underlying degree of liver dysfunction. The knowledge of molecular hepatocarcinogenesis broadened the horizon for patients with advanced HCC. During the last years, several molecular targeted agents have been evaluated in clinical trials in advanced HCC. In the future, new therapeutic options will be represented by a blend of immunotherapy-like vaccines and T-cell modulators, supplemented by molecularly targeted inhibitors of tumor signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Bertino
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Medical and Pediatric Sciences, University of Catania, Policlinic, Via Santa Sofia No. 78, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Shirin Demma
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Medical and Pediatric Sciences, University of Catania, Policlinic, Via Santa Sofia No. 78, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Annalisa Ardiri
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Medical and Pediatric Sciences, University of Catania, Policlinic, Via Santa Sofia No. 78, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Proiti
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Medical and Pediatric Sciences, University of Catania, Policlinic, Via Santa Sofia No. 78, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Giulia Malaguarnera
- Research Centre “The Great Senescence”, University of Catania, Via Messina No. 829, 95126 Catania, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Bertino
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria No. 6, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Michele Malaguarnera
- Research Centre “The Great Senescence”, University of Catania, Via Messina No. 829, 95126 Catania, Italy
| | - Mariano Malaguarnera
- Research Centre “The Great Senescence”, University of Catania, Via Messina No. 829, 95126 Catania, Italy
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Bertino G, Di Carlo I, Ardiri A, Calvagno GS, Demma S, Malaguarnera G, Bertino N, Malaguarnera M, Toro A, Malaguarnera M. Systemic therapies in hepatocellular carcinoma: present and future. Future Oncol 2014; 9:1533-48. [PMID: 24106903 DOI: 10.2217/fon.13.171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is now the third leading cause of cancer deathsworldwide and is generally presented at an advanced stage, limiting patients' quality of life. The conventional cytotoxic systemic therapy has proved to be ineffective in HCC, since its induction several decades ago. Today it is possible to use our knowledge of molecular hepatocarcinogenesis to provide a targeted therapy. Sorafenib has demonstrated large improvements in overall survival in HCC. This review describes the molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets, focusing on sorafenib, sunitinib, tivantinib, antiangiogenic agents, and current and future immunotherapies. Thus, it will be necessary in the future to classify HCCs into subgroups according to their genomic and proteomic profiling. The identification of key molecules/receptors/signaling pathways and the assessment of their relevance as potential targets will be the main future challenge potentially influencing response to therapy. Defining molecular targeted agents that are effective for a specific HCC subgroup will hopefully lead to personalized therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Bertino
- Hepatology Unit - Department of Medical & Pediatric Science, University of Catania Policlinic, Via S Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy
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