Prevalence of HCV Antibody and its Associated Factors: A Study from Sentinel Hospitals in China / 生物医学与环境科学（英文）

OBJECTIVE@#The prevalence and related factors of serum anti-HCV in different regions and hospitals have not been studied extensively in China. We used routine screening data to determine the prevalence of HCV antibody in hospital patients, evaluate the epidemic trend of hepatitis C and formulate screening strategies.@*METHODS@#Patient information and HCV antibody testing results were collected from January 2017 to December 2019 in 77 HCV sentinel hospitals in China. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to determine the characteristics and associations.@*RESULTS@#HCV antibody prevalence rates were distinct among patients in different departments, with a range of 0.33%-6.93%. Patients who were admitted to the liver disease-related departments (a OR = 10.76; 95% CI, 10.27-11.28), Internal Medicine (a OR = 2.87; 95% CI, 2.75-3.00), and Department of Surgery (a OR = 1.95; 95% CI, 1.87-2.04), were more likely to be tested for HCV antibody positive. HCV antibody prevalence was associated with patients aged 45 years and older (a OR = 2.74; 95% CI, 2.69-2.80), testing in infetious disease hospitals (a OR = 2.33; 95% CI, 2.26-2.40) and secondary hospitals (a OR = 1.72; 95% CI, 1.69-1.75). Patients in sentinel hospitals of the Northeast (a OR = 12.75; 95% CI, 12.40-13.11), the Central (a OR = 1.65; 95% CI, 1.61-1.70), and the West (a OR = 1.78; 95% CI, 1.73-1.83) China had higher HCV prevalence than those who were in the Eastern coastal area.@*CONCLUSION@#Those who were over 45 years old and saw doctors for liver diseases, and invasive diagnosis and treatment should be referred to HCV antibody testing.

Global trajectories of liver cancer burden from 1990 to 2019 and projection to 2035 / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

BACKGROUND@#Large disparities exist in liver cancer burden trends across countries but are poorly understood. We aimed to investigate the global trajectories of liver cancer burden, explore the driving forces, and predict future trends.@*METHODS@#Data on the liver cancer burden in 204 countries and territories from 1990 to 2019 were extracted from the Global Burden of Disease Study. The age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) and age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) trajectories were defined using growth mixture models. Five major risk factors contributing to changes in the ASIR or ASMR and socioeconomic determinants were explored using the identified trajectories. A Bayesian age-period-cohort model was used to predict future trends through 2035.@*RESULTS@#Three trajectories of liver cancer burden were identified: increasing, stable, and decreasing groups. Almost half of the American countries were classified in the decreasing group (48.6% for ASIR and ASMR), and the increasing group was the most common in the European region (ASIR, 49.1%; ASMR, 37.7%). In the decreasing group, the decrease of liver cancer due to hepatitis B contributed 63.4% and 60.4% of the total decreases in ASIR and ASMR, respectively. The increase of liver cancer due to alcohol use, hepatitis C, and hepatitis B contributed the most to the increase in the increasing group (30.8%, 31.1%, and 24.2% for ASIR; 33.7%, 30.2%, and 22.2% for ASMR, respectively). The increasing group was associated with a higher sociodemographic index, gross domestic product per capita, health expenditure per capita, and universal health coverage (all P <0.05). Significant variations in disease burden are predicted to continue through 2035, with a disproportionate burden in the decreasing group.@*CONCLUSION@#Global disparities were observed in liver cancer burden trajectories. Hepatitis B, alcohol use, and hepatitis C were identified as driving forces in different regions.

Colestasis intrahepática del embarazo: forma de presentación temprana y relación con la infección por el virus de la hepatitis C: reporte de casos / Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy: early presentation and relationship with infection by the hepatitis C virus: case reports / Colestase intra-hepática da gravidez: forma de apresentação precoce e sua relação com a infecção por vírus da hepatite C: relato de casos

Se describe los casos de tres pacientes a quien se les realiza diagnóstico de colestasis intrahepática del embarazo (CIE) de aparición temprana. En dos de ellos el diagnóstico se relacionó con infección por el virus de la hepatitis C (VHC). Reconocer que esta enfermedad puede presentarse de manera temprana en el embarazo y su relación con la infección por el VHC es fundamental para hacer un diagnóstico oportuno de ambas enfermedades y tomar las conductas terapéuticas adecuadas, mejorando así el pronóstico materno y fetal.

It is of great importance to acknowledge that this disease can occur early in pregnancy and that its relationship with HCV infection is a key point for a prompt diagnosis, allowing taking timely appropriate therapeutic decisions, aimed at improving the fetal prognosis.

Descrevemos os casos de três pacientes com diagnóstico de colestase intra-hepática da gravidez de início precoce. Em dois deles o diagnóstico estava relacionado à infecção pelo vírus da hepatite C (VHC). Reconhecer que esta doença pode se manifestar precocemente na gravidez e sua relação com a infecção pelo VHC é fundamental para fazer um diagnóstico oportuno de ambas as doenças e assumir condutas terapêuticas adequadas, melhorando assim o prognóstico materno e fetal.

Risco de Recorrência do Carcinoma Hepatocelular após o Uso de Antivirais de Ação Direta no Tratamento de Hepatite C: Revisão Sistemática e Metanálise / Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Recurrence After the Use of Direct-Acting Antivirals in the Treatment of Hepatitis C: Systematic Review and Metanalysis / Riesgo de Recurrencia del Carcinoma Hepatocelular tras el Uso de Antivirales de Acción Directa en el Tratamiento de la Hepatitis C: Revisión Sistemática y Metanálisis

Introdução: A hepatite C está associada ao desenvolvimento do carcinoma hepatocelular (CHC). O regime terapêutico baseado em interferon vem sendo substituído pelos antivirais de ação direta (AAD) para tratamento da infecção pelo vírus da hepatite C (HCV). Contudo, estudos recentes evidenciaram um aumento inesperado da recorrência do CHC em pacientes tratados com AAD para resolução da hepatite C. Objetivo: Avaliar o risco de recorrência de hepatocarcinoma após uso de AAD em pacientes com infecção por HCV. Método: Realizou-se um levantamento nas bases de dados PubMed, MEDLINE e LILACS de acordo com os descritores DeCS/MeSH ((hepatocellular carcinoma) AND recurrence) AND Direct-acting antiviral. A revisão obedeceu ao protocolo PRISMA e está cadastrada na plataforma PROSPERO. A análise estatística dos dados foi realizada no software RStudio. Resultados: Sete artigos foram selecionados resultando em 847 pacientes. Entre os tratados com AAD, a taxa de recorrência variou entre 11,1% e 42,1% e, no grupo controle, ocorreu em 5% a 65,6% dos pacientes. O risco relativo (RR) de recorrência do CHC no grupo de pacientes que recebeu AAD foi menor do que o risco evidenciado no grupo controle, apesar de não haver significância estatística (RR 0,71 95% IC [0,55;0,93] I²=38%, p=0,14). O tempo até o diagnóstico da recorrência teve uma média de 9,35 meses no grupo exposto à terapia e 13,42 meses no grupo controle. Conclusão: Sugere-se que a terapia com AAD não aumenta o risco de recorrência do CHC em comparação com grupos controle. Nos pacientes que desenvolveram recorrência, ocorreu com maior frequência dentro do primeiro ano após introdução dos AAD.

Introduction: Hepatitis C is associated with the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The interferon-based therapeutic regimen has been replaced by direct-acting antivirals (AAD) to treat HCV virus infection. However, recent studies have shown an unexpected increase in HCC recurrence in patients treated with AAD to resolve hepatitis C. Objective: To assess the risk of hepatocarcinoma recurrence after using AAD in patients with HCV infection. Method: A survey was carried out in PubMed, MEDLINE, and LILACS databases according to the descriptors DeCS/MeSH ((hepatocellular carcinoma) AND recurrence) AND Direct-acting antiviral. The review followed the PRISMA protocol and is registered on the PROSPERO platform. The data statistical analysis was performed through RStudio software. Results: Seven articles were selected resulting in 847 patients. Among those treated with AAD, the recurrence rate varied between 11.1% to 42.1% and, in the control group, it occurred in 5% to 65.6% of the patients. The relative risk (RR) of recurrence of HCC in the group of patients who received AAD was less than the risk evidenced in the control group, although there is no statistical significance (RR 0.71 95% CI [0.55; 0.93] I²=38%, p=0.14). The mean time until the diagnosis of recurrence was 9.35 months in the group exposed to therapy and 13.42 months in the control group. Conclusion: It is suggested that therapy with AAD does not increase the risk of HCC recurrence compared to control groups. In patients who developed recurrence, it occurred more frequently within the first year after the introduction of AAD.

Introducción: La hepatitis C está asociada con el desarrollo de carcinoma hepatocelular (CHC). El régimen terapéutico basado en interferón ha sido reemplazado por antivirales de acción directa (AAD) para tratar la infección por VHC. Sin embargo, estudios recientes han mostrado un incremento inesperado en la recurrencia del CHC en pacientes tratados con AAD para resolución de la hepatitis C. Objetivo: Evaluar el riesgo de recurrencia del hepatocarcinoma después de usar AAD en pacientes con infección por VHC. Método: Se realizó una pesquisa en las bases de datos PubMed, MEDLINE y LILACS según los descriptores DeCS/MeSH ((carcinoma hepatocelular) AND recurrencia) AND antiviral de acción directa. La revisión siguió el protocolo PRISMA y está registrada en la plataforma PROSPERO. El análisis estadístico de los datos se realizó mediante el software RStudio. Resultados: Fueron seleccionados 7 artículos resultando en 847 pacientes. Entre los tratados con AAD, la tasa de recurrencia varió entre el 11,1% y el 42,1% y, en el grupo de control, ocurrió entre el 5% y el 65,6% de los pacientes. El riesgo relativo (RR) de recurrencia del CHC en el grupo de pacientes que recibieron AAD fue inferior que el riesgo evidenciado en el grupo control, aunque no hay significación estadística (RR 0,71; IC del 95% [0,55; 0,93] I²=38%, p=0,14). El tiempo hasta el diagnóstico de recidiva fue de 9,35 meses en el grupo expuesto a terapia y de 13,42 meses en el grupo control. Conclusión: Se sugiere que la terapia con AAD no aumenta el riesgo de recurrencia del CHC en comparación con los grupos control. En los pacientes que desarrollaron recurrencia, esta ocurrió con mayor frecuencia durante el primer año después de la introducción de los AAD.

Risco de Recorrência do Carcinoma Hepatocelular após o Uso de Antivirais de Ação Direta no Tratamento de Hepatite C: Revisão Sistemática e Metanálise / Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Recurrence After the Use of Direct-Acting Antivirals in the Treatment of Hepatitis C: Systematic Review and Metanalysis / Riesgo de Recurrencia del Carcinoma Hepatocelular tras el Uso de Antivirales de Acción Directa en el Tratamiento de la Hepatitis C: Revisión Sistemática y Metanálisis

Introdução: A hepatite C está associada ao desenvolvimento do carcinoma hepatocelular (CHC). O regime terapêutico baseado em interferon vem sendo substituído pelos antivirais de ação direta (AAD) para tratamento da infecção pelo vírus da hepatite C (HCV). Contudo, estudos recentes evidenciaram um aumento inesperado da recorrência do CHC em pacientes tratados com AAD para resolução da hepatite C. Objetivo: Avaliar o risco de recorrência de hepatocarcinoma após uso de AAD em pacientes com infecção por HCV. Método: Realizou-se um levantamento nas bases de dados PubMed, MEDLINE e LILACS de acordo com os descritores DeCS/MeSH ((hepatocellular carcinoma) AND recurrence) AND Direct-acting antiviral. A revisão obedeceu ao protocolo PRISMA e está cadastrada na plataforma PROSPERO. A análise estatística dos dados foi realizada no software RStudio. Resultados: Sete artigos foram selecionados resultando em 847 pacientes. Entre os tratados com AAD, a taxa de recorrência variou entre 11,1% e 42,1% e, no grupo controle, ocorreu em 5% a 65,6% dos pacientes. O risco relativo (RR) de recorrência do CHC no grupo de pacientes que recebeu AAD foi menor do que o risco evidenciado no grupo controle, apesar de não haver significância estatística (RR 0,71 95% IC [0,55;0,93] I²=38%, p=0,14). O tempo até o diagnóstico da recorrência teve uma média de 9,35 meses no grupo exposto à terapia e 13,42 meses no grupo controle. Conclusão: Sugere-se que a terapia com AAD não aumenta o risco de recorrência do CHC em comparação com grupos controle. Nos pacientes que desenvolveram recorrência, ocorreu com maior frequência dentro do primeiro ano após introdução dos AAD.

Introduction: Hepatitis C is associated with the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The interferon-based therapeutic regimen has been replaced by direct-acting antivirals (AAD) to treat HCV virus infection. However, recent studies have shown an unexpected increase in HCC recurrence in patients treated with AAD to resolve hepatitis C. Objective: To assess the risk of hepatocarcinoma recurrence after using AAD in patients with HCV infection. Method: A survey was carried out in PubMed, MEDLINE, and LILACS databases according to the descriptors DeCS/MeSH ((hepatocellular carcinoma) AND recurrence) AND Direct-acting antiviral. The review followed the PRISMA protocol and is registered on the PROSPERO platform. The data statistical analysis was performed through RStudio software. Results: Seven articles were selected resulting in 847 patients. Among those treated with AAD, the recurrence rate varied between 11.1% to 42.1% and, in the control group, it occurred in 5% to 65.6% of the patients. The relative risk (RR) of recurrence of HCC in the group of patients who received AAD was less than the risk evidenced in the control group, although there is no statistical significance (RR 0.71 95% CI [0.55; 0.93] I²=38%, p=0.14). The mean time until the diagnosis of recurrence was 9.35 months in the group exposed to therapy and 13.42 months in the control group. Conclusion: It is suggested that therapy with AAD does not increase the risk of HCC recurrence compared to control groups. In patients who developed recurrence, it occurred more frequently within the first year after the introduction of AAD.

Introducción: La hepatitis C está asociada con el desarrollo de carcinoma hepatocelular (CHC). El régimen terapéutico basado en interferón ha sido reemplazado por antivirales de acción directa (AAD) para tratar la infección por VHC. Sin embargo, estudios recientes han mostrado un incremento inesperado en la recurrencia del CHC en pacientes tratados con AAD para resolución de la hepatitis C. Objetivo: Evaluar el riesgo de recurrencia del hepatocarcinoma después de usar AAD en pacientes con infección por VHC. Método: Se realizó una pesquisa en las bases de datos PubMed, MEDLINE y LILACS según los descriptores DeCS/MeSH ((carcinoma hepatocelular) AND recurrencia) AND antiviral de acción directa. La revisión siguió el protocolo PRISMA y está registrada en la plataforma PROSPERO. El análisis estadístico de los datos se realizó mediante el software RStudio. Resultados: Fueron seleccionados 7 artículos resultando en 847 pacientes. Entre los tratados con AAD, la tasa de recurrencia varió entre el 11,1% y el 42,1% y, en el grupo de control, ocurrió entre el 5% y el 65,6% de los pacientes. El riesgo relativo (RR) de recurrencia del CHC en el grupo de pacientes que recibieron AAD fue inferior que el riesgo evidenciado en el grupo control, aunque no hay significación estadística (RR 0,71; IC del 95% [0,55; 0,93] I²=38%, p=0,14). El tiempo hasta el diagnóstico de recidiva fue de 9,35 meses en el grupo expuesto a terapia y de 13,42 meses en el grupo control. Conclusión: Se sugiere que la terapia con AAD no aumenta el riesgo de recurrencia del CHC en comparación con los grupos control. En los pacientes que desarrollaron recurrencia, esta ocurrió con mayor frecuencia durante el primer año después de la introducción de los AAD.

Hepatitis B and C viral infections screening in a Tunisian IBD population under immunosuppressive therapies / Detección de infecciones virales de hepatitis B y C en una población de EII de Túnez sometida a terapias inmunosupresoras

ABSTRACT Background : Immunosuppressive drugs have become a mainstay of therapy for the inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). These treatments expose to a risk of hepatitis B and C reactivation. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of hepatitis B and C viruses in Tunisian IBD patients on immunosuppressive treatments. Materials and methods : Patients with inflammatory bowel disease were consecutively recruited over a 2 years period (2017-2018). Prevalence of viral hepatitis B and C as well as clinical, biological and virological presentation, management and outcome were assessed. Factors associated to hepatitis B and C were also analyzed (SPSS software, p value <0.05). Results : Seventy four patients with IBD were included: 38 women and 36 men. Among them 62 (83.8%) had CD and (16.2%) had UC. Mean age was 43.5±14.2 years. Six patients (8.1%) had at least one positive HVB marker. Hepatitis C infection was found in 4% patients. HBs Ag was positive in only one patient (1.3%) with positive HBV DNA. Anti HBc and anti HBs antibodies were positive respectively in 6 and 4 patients. Vaccination against hepatitis B was proposed for 22% of our patients with negative anti HBc antibodies and HBs Ag. Two patients presented non-severe acute hepatitis C with sustained virological response after antiviral treatment. IBD did not relapse under antiviral treatment. A 3rd patient had chronic hepatitis C infection. She was treated with Pegylated Interferon alpha and Ribavirine. No cases of viral reactivation have been reported. Noassociated factors to hepatitis B and C viral infections were identified in our study. Conclusion : The prevalence of hepatitis B infection in IBD patients under immunosuppressive therapy was similar to the general population, while the hepatitis C prevalence was higher than the national prevalence. Screening for hepatitis B and C viral infections is mandatory in inflammatory bowel disease patients. Vaccination against hepatitis B is highly recommended.

RESUMEN Antecedentes : Los fármacos inmunosupresores se han convertido en un pilar de la terapia para las enfermedades inflamatorias del intestino (EII). Estos tratamientos exponen al riesgo de reactivación de la hepatitis B y C. Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la prevalencia de los virus de la hepatitis B y C en pacientes tunecinos con EII que reciben tratamientos inmunosupresores. Materiales y métodos : Los pacientes con enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal fueron reclutados consecutivamente durante un período de 2 años (2017-2018). Se evaluó la prevalencia de las hepatitis virales B y C, así como la presentación, el tratamiento y los resultados clínicos, biológicos y virológicos. También se analizaron los factores asociados a la hepatitis B y C (software SPSS, valor de p<0,05). Resultados : Se incluyeron 74 pacientes con EII: 38 mujeres y 36 hombres. Entre ellos, 62 (83,8%) tenían EC y (16,2%) CU. La edad media fue de 43,5 ± 14,2 años. Seis pacientes (8,1%) tenían al menos un marcador HVB positivo. Se encontró infección por hepatitis C en el 4% de los pacientes. HBs Ag fue positivo en sólo un paciente (1,3%) con ADN del VHB positivo. Los anticuerpos anti-HBc y anti-HBs fueron positivos respectivamente en 6 y 4 pacientes. Se propuso la vacunación contra la hepatitis B para el 22% de nuestros pacientes con anticuerpos anti-HBc negativos y Ag HBs. Dos pacientes presentaron hepatitis C aguda no grave con respuesta virológica sostenida tras el tratamiento antiviral. La EII no recayó con el tratamiento antiviral. Un tercer paciente tenía infección crónica por hepatitis C. Fue tratada con interferón alfa pegilado y ribavirina. No se han notificado casos de reactivación viral. En nuestro estudio no se identificaron factores asociados a las infecciones virales por hepatitis B y C. Conclusión : La prevalencia de infección por hepatitis B en pacientes con EII bajo terapia inmunosupresora fue similar a la población general, mientras que la prevalencia de hepatitis C fue mayor que la prevalencia nacional. La detección de infecciones virales de hepatitis B y C es obligatoria en pacientes con enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal. Se recomienda encarecidamente la vacunación contra la hepatitis B.

El síndrome de fatiga crónica en el curso de la hepatitis C. Presentación de un caso / Chronic fatigue syndrome in the course of Hepatitis C

RESUMEN Se supone que aproximadamente 80 millones de personas a nivel mundial están infectadas con el virus de la hepatitis C. Un aproximado del 60 % de dichos pacientes aqueja síndrome de fatiga crónica. Se presentó un paciente portador de hepatitis crónica de tipo C, con manifestaciones clínicas de síndrome de fatiga crónica por más de dos años. Se han reportado estudios internacionales que han demostrado la relación existente entre el desarrollo de la respuesta inmune y el daño que ocasiona en el tejido cerebral la infección por virus de hepatitis C. Este trabajo tiene como objetivo la presentación del primer caso que se tiene referencia (AU).

ABSTRACT It is believed that almost 80 million persons are infected with the Hepatitis C virus around the world, and 60 % of them suffer the chronic fatigue syndrome. For that reason we present the case of a patient who is a carrier of the chronic fatigue syndrome for more than two years. Reports of international research have showed the relation between the immune answer and the damage caused by the infection of the hepatitis C virus in the brain tissues. The aim of this work is presenting the first case reported in Cuba (AU).

Estratégias de melhoria, expansão do diagnóstico e monitoramento das infecções por HTLV-1 e HTLV-2 nas coinfecções por HIV, HBV e HCV / Improvement strategies, expansion of diagnosis and monitoring of HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 infections in HIV, HBV and HCV co-infections

Para avaliar o impacto das coinfecções pelos vírus T-linfotrópicos humanos 1 e 2 (HTLV-1/-2) e vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV) nas hepatites virais B e C, e analisar estratégias para melhoria e expansão do diagnóstico das infecções por HTLV-1/2, realizou-se este estudo. O impacto nas hepatites foi analisado pelas medianas de carga viral (CV) e clareamento viral obtidos em cada grupo de indivíduos infectados pelos vírus das hepatites B (HBV, n=1.910) e C (HCV, n=1.315), separados quanto à positividade para as coinfecções. A menor CV de HBV foi detectada nos HBV/HTLV-2, independente do status HIV (p<0,05). Enquanto os coinfectados HCV/HIV, HCV/HIV/HTLV-1/-2, apresentaram as maiores CV de HCV (p<0,05), e a menor foi detectada nos pacientes HCV/HTLV-2. No início do estudo 61,1% dos HBV/HTLV-2 e 21,4% dos HBV/HTLV-1 tinham CV indetectável. Contrapondo as porcentagens de CV indetectável nos HCV/HTLV-1 e HCV/HTLV-2, que eram inicialmente similares e, durante o acompanhamento, ocorreu mais depuração do HCV em pacientes HCV/HTLV-2 [OR 2,65; IC 95% (1,17­5,99)]. A busca por marcadores genéticos virais que pudessem interferir nos testes diagnósticos para HTLV-1/2, avaliou 69 amostras de DNA de indivíduos de SP [HTLV-1 (n=44) e HTLV-2 (n=25)] e, encontrou os subtipos HTLV-1aA e HTLV-2c e os respectivos genótipos TaxA e TaxC entre as estirpes circulantes. Ainda, mutações pontuais (LTR), sinônimas e não sinônimas (env e tax) e deleção de segmentos genômicos de HTLV-1/-2 (provírus defectivos), foram associados com pior desempenho dos testes de triagem e confirmatórios...(AU)

The value of morphofunctional magnetic resonance imaging with hepatospecific contrast agent in the characterization of hepatocellular carcinoma in a non-cirrhotic patient with hepatitis C

SUMMARY Hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with hepatitis C in the absence of cirrhosis is uncommon. We demonstrate the importance of morphofunctional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with a hepatospecific contrast agent by describing an asymptomatic female patient with HCV, who presented with a nodule detected on ultrasound. She underwent inconclusive computed tomography, presenting no signs of chronic liver disease. MRI with hepatospecific contrast providing functional information combined with the superior tissue contrast inherent to this method stands out for its greater accuracy with the possibility of not resorting to invasive diagnostic methods. With increasing experience and the dissemination of this new diagnostic modality in the medical field, its use and other potential benefits of morphofunctional MRI with hepatospecific contrast agents may be established, benefiting patients with challenging focal liver lesions.

RESUMO O surgimento de carcinoma hepatocelular em pacientes portadores de hepatite C na ausência de cirrose é de ocorrência pouco comum. Demonstramos a importância da ressonância magnética (RM) morfofuncional com contraste hepatoespecífico por meio da descrição de uma paciente do sexo feminino, assintomática, portadora do vírus da hepatite C (VHC), que se apresentou com nódulo detectado na ultrassonografia. Realizou tomografia computadorizada inconclusiva, sem sinais de hepatopatia crônica. A RM com contraste hepatoespecífico, ao proporcionar informações funcionais, somado ao superior contraste tecidual inerente ao método, destaca-se pela maior acurácia, com a possiblidade de não se recorrer a métodos diagnósticos invasivos. Com o acúmulo de experiência e divulgação dessa nova modalidade diagnóstica no meio médico, sua utilização e outros potenciais benefícios da RM morfofuncional com contraste hepatoespecífico podem vir a se estabelecer, beneficiando pacientes com lesões hepáticas focais desafiadoras.

Perfil dos genótipos do HCV e subtipos de HIV em pacientes coinfectados no Sul do Brasil / Profile of hcv genotypes and hiv-subtypes among hiv-coinfected patients in southern brazil

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Hepatitis B and C virus (HBV and HCV) are the two most common infections among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients. OBJECTIVE: To identify the frequency of HIV subtypes and HCV genotypes in HIV-coinfected patients. METHODS: A cross-sectional and retrospective study was carried out into two reference centers in Southern Brazil between January 1, 2002 and June 30, 2016. The Abbott Real Time HCV Genotype II system was used for routine diagnostics to determine the HCV genotype based on dual-target real-time PCR. Proviral HIV-1 RNA was extracted from serum samples and fragments of the pol gene were generated by PCR. The HIV-1 PT and RT gene sequences were submitted to Maximum Likelihood Phylogenetic analysis by collecting reference sequences from the HIV-1 group M subtype of the Los Alamos database. RESULTS: During the study period, 3340 patients with HIV were diagnosed at both referral centers, of which 4.97% (166/3340) had HBV and/or HCV coinfection. Seroprevalence of HIV-HBV, HIV-HCV and HIV-HBV-HCV was 37.4%, 58.4%, and 4.2%, respectively. HIV-HCV-coinfected patients had a lower median nadir CD4+ T-cell count when compared to HIV-HBV-coinfected patients (P=0.01). Among those coinfected with HCV, HCV-1 (HCV-1) and HCV-3 (HCV-3) genotypes were the most prevalent, being detected in 73.8% and 21.4%, respectively. Among the HCV-1 coinfected patients, 79.3% and 20.1% had subtypes 1a and 1b, respectively. HIV subtype B was the most prevalent in HIV-coinfected patients. There was no significant difference regarding nadir CD4+ T-cell count and HIV viral load when compared to coinfected with HCV-1 with HCV-3, as well as those co-infected with HCV-1a with HCV-1b. CONCLUSION: In the present study, a higher frequency of subtype B of HIV and HCV-1 were found in HIV-coinfected patients. Further larger-scale and long-term studies are needed to better understand the effect of HCV genotypes in HIV-infected patients.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: Os vírus das hepatites B e C (VHB e VHC) são os causadores das duas infecções mais comuns entre os pacientes infectados pelo vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV). OBJETIVO: Identificar a frequência dos subtipos do HIV e genótipos de VHC em pacientes coinfectados com HIV. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal e retrospectivo realizado em dois centros de referência do Sul do Brasil, entre 1º de janeiro de 2002 e 30 de junho de 2016. O sistema Abbott Real Time HCV Genótipo II foi utilizado para diagnósticos de rotina para determinar o genótipo do HCV com base na PCR em tempo real de duplo alvo. O RNA viral do HIV-1 foi extraído de amostras de soro e fragmentos do gene pol foram obtidos por PCR. As sequências do gene PT e RT do HIV-1 foram submetidas à análise filogenética por máxima verossimilhança através da coleta de sequências de referência do subtipo M do grupo HIV-1 da base de dados Los Alamos. RESULTADOS: Durante o período do estudo, 3340 pacientes foram diagnosticados com HIV em ambos os centros de referência, dos quais 4,97% (166/3340) possuíam coinfecção com HBV e/ou HCV. A soroprevalência de HIV-HBV, HIV-HCV e HIV-HBV-HCV foi de 37,4%, 58,4% e 4,2%, respectivamente. Pacientes HIV-VHC possuíam menor nadir de células T CD4+ quando comparados aos pacientes HIV-VHB (P=0,01). Entre os pacientes HIV-VHC, os genótipos VHC-1 e VHC-3 foram os mais prevalentes, sendo encontrados em 73,8% e 21,4%, respectivamente. Entre os coinfectados com VHC-1, 79,3% e 20,1% tinham subtipos 1a e 1b, respectivamente. O subtipo B do HIV foi o mais prevalente em pacientes coinfectados. Não houve diferença significativa em relação nadir de células T CD4+ e carga viral do HIV quando comparadas os coinfectados com o VHC-1 com o VHC-3, assim como, os coinfectados com HCV-1a quando comparados com o HCV-1b. CONCLUSÃO: No presente estudo, uma maior frequência do subtipo B do HIV e do VHC-1 foram encontrados em pacientes coinfectados com HIV. Outros estudos em larga escala e a longo prazo são necessários para entender melhor o efeito dos genótipos do HCV em pacientes infectados pelo HIV.

Necrolytic acral erythema in a Chinese patient with hepatitis C and hepatitis B virus coinfection

Abstract: Necrolytic acral erythema is a distinct erythema that has been described as an extrahepatic manifestation of hepatitis C virus infection. Most reported cases have been in Africa, especially Egypt. We report the first case (to the best of our knowledge) of necrolytic acral erythema in a Chinese patient with HCV and HBV coinfection. We aim to increase awareness for recognizing this condition in the Chinese population.

El trasplante de hígado es un procedimiento plausible, efectivo y seguro en pacientes con hemofilia: caso clínico / Liver transplantation in hemophilia A: report of one case

Due to blood derivative requirements, many patients with hemophilia were exposed to Hepatitis C virus infection (HCV) before the availability of HCV testing. We report a 46-year-old male with Hemophilia A with a hepatitis virus C infection since 2004 causing a cirrhosis. Due to a hepatopulmonary syndrome, he received a liver allograph using a factor VIII replacement protocol, after eradicating the virus C. He had a good postoperative evolution, and no more factor VIII was required after transplantation until his last assessment.

An eye on hepatitis C: a review / O olho na hepatite C: uma revisão

ABSTRACT This review aims to caution ophthalmologists about the ocular consequences leading to the diagnosis of hepatitis C virus infection. In addition, in this context, the effects of old and new drugs are discussed in the ophthalmological setting. The importance of early diagnosis and the curative treatment of the disease has been reported in the national and international literature, demonstrating that its progression has important implications for daily clinical and surgical ophthalmological practice. Despite the scarcity of studies on new direct-acting antiviral drugs, fewer side effects of these drugs have been shown when compared with conventional interferon treatment with or without ribavirin. The ophthalmologist's risk of becoming infected, as demonstrated by the presence of the virus in ocular structures, and the possibility of contamination, is also discussed.

RESUMO Esta revisão objetiva alertar os oftalmologistas sobre as consequências oculares que levam ao diagnóstico da infecção pelo vírus da Hepatite C. Além disso, neste contexto, os efeitos de drogas antigas e novas são discutidos no cenário oftalmológico. A importância do diagnóstico precoce e do tratamento curativo da doença tem sido relatada na literatura nacional e internacional, demonstrando que sua progressão tem implicações importantes para a prática oftalmológica diária. Apesar da escassez de estudos sobre novos medicamentos antivirais de ação direta, foram demonstrados menos efeitos colaterais desses medicamentos quando comparados ao tratamento convencional com interferon, com ou sem ribavirina associado ou não à rivabirina. O risco do oftalmologista de se infectar, como demonstrado pela presença do vírus nas estruturas oculares, e a possibilidade de contaminação, também é discutido.

Hidrotórax hepático: presentación de 3 casos con diferentes enfoques terapéuticos / Hepatic hydrothorax: presentation of 3 cases with different therapeutic approaches

El hidrotórax hepático (HH) se define como un derrame pleural mayor de 500 ml en pacientes con cirrosis e hipertensión portal. Representa una complicación infrecuente por lo general asociada con ascitis y su origen se relaciona con el paso de líquido ascítico a través de pequeños defectos en el diafragma de predominio en el hemitórax derecho. Una vez establecido el diagnóstico por imágenes, la toracentesis diagnostica permite confirmar un trasudado. La terapia inicial está basada en la restricción de sodio y el uso combinado de diuréticos. El 20-25% de los pacientes desarrolla un HH refractario, el cual requiere intervenciones invasivas tales como la derivación percutánea portosistémica intrahepática (DPPI), la reparación de los defectos diafragmáticos por videotoracoscopia asistida asociada a pleurodésis química y el uso de un catéter pleural tunelizado. No se recomienda la inserción de un tubo de tórax por su elevada morbilidad y mortalidad. El tratamiento definitivo del HH es el trasplante hepático el cual alcanza una excelente sobrevida. Presentamos tres casos de hidrotórax hepático con diferentes enfoques terapéuticos que incluyeron el manejo conservador con dieta y diuréticos, la inserción fallida de un tubo de tórax con pleurodesis y una DPPI.

Hepatic hydrothorax is uncommon transudative pleural effusion greater than 500 ml in association with cirrhosis and portal hypertension. Ascites is also present in most of the patients and the pathophysiology include the passage of ascites fluid through small diaphragmatic defects. After diagnostic thoracentesis studies, the first line management is restricting sodium intake and diuretics combination including stepwise dose of spironolactone plus furosemide. Therapeutic thoracentesis is a simple and effective procedure to relief dyspnea. Hepatic hydrothorax is refractory in approximately 20-25% and treatments options include repeated thoracentesis, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPS) placement, chemical pleurodesis with repair diaphragmatic defects using video-assisted thoracoscopy surgery (VATS), and insertion of an indwelling pleural catheter. Chest tube insertion carries significant morbidity and mortality with questionable benefit. Hepatic transplantation remains the best treatment option with long term survival. We present three cases of hepatic hydrothorax with different therapeutic approach including first line management, failed chest tube insertion and TIPS placement.

Rheumatological manifestations associated with viral Hepatitis B or C

Abstract INTRODUCTION Rheumatological findings and rheumatic diseases may be associated with hepatitis virus infection. This study assessed the frequency of these manifestations in a reference unit in Acre, Brazil. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study with a convenience sample of patients having their first consultation at the rheumatology outpatient clinics of a referral unit in Rio Branco, Acre, from March to November 2017. Sociodemographic, clinical, laboratory, and imaging data registereds using a standardized questionnaire form. RESULTS Among the 600 patients with rheumatic complaints, 3.0% were newly diagnosed with hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV), and 8.7% were previously diagnosed with hepatitis. Among the 70 patients with hepatitis, 54.3% were carriers of HBV and 45.7% of HCV. For patients infected with HBV and HCV, arthralgia was the most prevalent rheumatic manifestation in 97.4% and 90.6%, followed by myalgia in 81.6% and 65.6%, and arthritis in 26.3% and 40.6% of patients, respectively, according to the descriptive analysis performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software. In comparative analyses using the chi-squared test, despite the fact that fibromyalgia was the most prevalent rheumatic disease only the Rheumatoid Arthritis there were differences in distribution between the carriers of HCV (18.8%) and HBV (2.6%). According to the Fisher's exact test, hypothyroidism was the most frequent comorbidity in patients with HCV (21.9%). CONCLUSIONS An increased frequency of musculoskeletal manifestations, better than those reported in the medical literature, in patients infected with HBV and HCV was observed.

Fluctuations in serological hepatitis C virus levels in HIV patients

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have identical transmission routes, explaining the high prevalence of coinfections. The main aim of this study was to detect fluctuations in serological HCV levels in HIV patients. METHODS: We analyzed samples of 147 patients who attended an outpatient service that supports HIV/AIDS patients in São Paulo city. We also recruited 22 HCV-monoinfected patients who attended the Instituto Adolfo Lutz Laboratory in São Paulo city, to compare the test results. Serological testing of the blood samples was performed for the detection of HCV antibodies. The samples were then analyzed using real-time PCR for RNA viral quantification and sequencing. RESULTS We found that 13.6% of the study population was coinfected with HIV and HCV. In 20% of coinfected patients, fluctuations in serology results were detected in samples collected during the follow-up. No changes in anti-HCV serological markers were observed in HCV-monoinfected patients. An HCV viral load was detected in 9,5% of the samples collected from HIV patients. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings provide important clinical data to public health professionals and highlight the importance of periodic monitoring of HCV/HIV coinfected patients.

To determine correlation between biochemical parameters of nutritional status with disease severity in HCV related liver cirrhosis

Objective: To identify correlation between biochemical parameters of nutritional status with disease severity in HCV related liver cirrhosis in patients attending tertiary care hospital

Methods: Total 259 HCV related liver cirrhosis patients who attended the outpatient department of KRL Hospital, Islamabad from June 2016 to January 2018 were included in this crosssectional study. HCV status was confirmed with PCR. Cirrhosis was preestablished by ultrasound, while cirrhosis severity was gauged by CTP score. Biochemical parameters for nutrition status included serum albumin, creatinine, cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides, hemoglobin, ferritin, sodium, potassium, magnesium and calcium. Other demographic and clinical data were also recorded

Results: The mean age of patients was 58.73 +/- 6.04 years with 57.1% being males. The average BMI was 22.72 +/- 1.69 kg/m[2]. Majority patients i.e. 123 [47.5%] belonged to CTP-A, 67 [25.9%] were in CTP-B and 69 [26.6%] in CTP-C groups. Significant negative correlations of cirrhosis severity were established with BMI, albumin, creatinine, cholesterol, LDL, TG, HDL, hemoglobin, sodium and magnesium indicative of malnutrition. Analysis of biochemical parameters amongst individual cirrhosis groups revealed significant negative correlation across the same factors in group CTP-C, while CTP-A correlated positively with these parameters. The only significant correlation found in CTP-B was with albumin, HDL, hemoglobin, sodium and magnesium

Conclusion: Considering limitations of standard ways alone to assess malnutrition in liver cirrhosis, biochemical parameters are valid to aid in diagnosing malnutrition

Poliartritis agudas virales / Viral acute polyarthritis

Las poliartritis agudas son cuadros de menos seis semanas de duración, cuyas causas pueden o no ser infecciosas. Entre las primeras, destacan las virales, con gran varie-dad de agentes causales. Entre ellos se distinguen por su frecuencia: virus hepatitis B,virus hepatitis C, parvovirus B19, virus rubéola y la fiebre Chicungunya. Tienen elementos comunes, como su expresión poliarticular, generalmente simétrica, con predilección por las pequeñas articulaciones de las manos, siendo habitualmente autolimitadas. A su vez, poseen elementos propios, clínicos y de laboratorio, que permiten diferenciarlos, teniendo algunos una evolución más agresiva con morbilidad más significativa. A su vez, por sus características clínicas y de laboratorio, plantean el diagnóstico diferencial con enfermedades inmunoreumatológicas, como la artritis reumatoidea y el lupus eritematoso sistémico, entre otras.Se realiza una revisión del cuadro clínico y de laboratorio de las poliartritis causadas por los virus señalados, su diagnóstico diferencial y posibilidades terapéuticas.

The acute polyarthritis are pictures of less six weeks duration, whose causes can be or not to be infectious. Among the first, the viral ones stand out with a variety of causal agents. Among there distinguished by their frequency: virus hepatitis B, hepatitis C virus, parvovirus B19, rubella virus and the fever Chicungunya. They have common elements, such as his expression polyarticular, usually symmetrical, with a predilection for the small joints of the hands, being usually self-limiting. At the same time, they have own laboratory and clinical elements that allow differentiation, some having a more aggressive evolution with more significant morbidity. At the same time, for its clinical and laboratory characteristics, raise the differential diagnosis of immunohematological diseases, such as arthritis rheumatoid and systemic lupus erythematosus among others.Is done a review of clinical and laboratory of the polyarthritis caused by the mentioned viruses, differential diagnosis and therapeutic possibilities.

Caracterización del paciente con Hepatitis C bajo control en el Sistema Público de Salud, Chile. Año 2016 -2017- / Characterization of hepatitis C patients under treatment in the Public Health System, Chile-2016

At the 67° World Health Assembly (WHA67.6), member states are encouraged to undertake measures to ensure and strengthen surveillance, prevention, access to treatment and control of viral hepatitis in all countries. In this context- and although in Chile hepatitis C is considered a low endemic pathology- efforts have been made to improve the lives of people infected by this virus. In the process of inclusion of new direct-action therapies such as Explicit Guarantees in Health (GES), it was necessary to know the real demand, as well as some important variables for decision-making. Methodology: In 2016, the Ministry of Health requested to the centers of hepatitis C of the public health system of the country, to report in Excel spreadsheets the list of patients under control, including variables of clinical-epidemiological interest. Sensitive data from these cases guaranteed throughout the process. Descriptive analysis of the profile of the patient, genotype, comorbidities, as well as liver transplantation, the result of previous treatment and candidates for new therapies according to prioritization criteria, established in GES regulation. In the results the characterization of the patients is described: the age is concentrated between 45 and 69 years old, without greater difference by sex, the most common genotype is 1 with 60% and 18% for genotype 3, 35% has cirrhosis, 21% has esophageal varicose veins, 6% HCV/HIV co-infection, 0.8% HCV/HBV co-infection, 7% with hemophilia.

En la 67ª Asamblea Mundial de la Salud (WHA67.6) se recomienda a los estados miembros emprender medidas para garantizar y fortalecer la vigilancia, prevención, acceso al tratamiento y control de las hepatitis virales en todos los países. En este contexto, y pese a que en Chile se considera la hepatitis C como una patología de baja endemia, se han realizado esfuerzos para mejorar la vida de las personas infectadas por este virus. En el proceso de inclusión de las nuevas terapias de acción directa como garantías explícitas en Salud (GES), se requirió conocer la demanda real, así como algunas variables importantes para la toma de decisiones. Metodología: El año 2016 desde el Ministerio de Salud se solicitó a los centros tratantes de hepatitis C del sistema público de salud del país, informar el listado de pacientes bajo control, incluyendo variables de interés clínico epidemiológico requeridas en planillas Excel. Se garantizó en todo el proceso los datos sensibles de estos casos. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo del perfil del paciente, genotipo, comorbilidades, así como trasplante hepático, resultado de tratamiento anterior y candidatos a nuevas terapias según criterios de priorización, establecidos en la norma GES. En los resultados se describe la caracterización de los pacientes: la edad se concentra entre los 45 y 69 años, sin mayor diferencia por sexo, el genotipo más común es el 1 con 60% y 18% para el genotipo 3, 35% presenta cirrosis, 21% presenta várices esofágicas, 6% coinfección VHC/VIH, 0,8% coinfección VHC/VHB, 7% con hemofilia.