Abnormal Hepatic Function Research Articles

A systematic review and meta-analysis of efficacy and safety of isavuconazole for the treatment and prophylaxis of invasive fungal infections.

Isavuconazole is a novel triazole antifungal agent. However, the previous outcomes were highlighted by statistical heterogeneity. This meta-analysis aimed to validate the efficacy and safety of isavuconazole for the treatment and prophylaxis of invasive fungal infections (IFIs) compared with other antifungal agents (amphotericin B, voriconazole and posaconazole). Scopus, EMBASE, PubMed, CINAHL and Ichushi databases were searched for relevant articles that met the inclusion criteria through February 2023. Mortality, IFI rate, discontinuation rate of antifungal therapy and incidence of abnormal hepatic function were evaluated. The discontinuation rate was defined as the percentage of therapy discontinuations due to adverse events. The control group included patients who received other antifungal agents. Of the 1784 citations identified for screening, 10 studies with an overall total of 3037 patients enrolled. Isavuconazole was comparable with the control group in mortality and IFI rate in the treatment and prophylaxis of IFIs, respectively (mortality, odds rate (OR) 1.11, 95% confidential interval (CI) 0.82-1.51; IFI rate, OR 1.02, 95% CI 0.49-2.12). Isavuconazole significantly reduced the discontinuation rate in the treatment (OR 1.96, 95% CI 1.26-3.07) and incidence of hepatic function abnormalities in the treatment and prophylaxis, compared with the control group (treatment, OR 2.31, 95% CI 1.41-3.78; prophylaxis, OR 3.63, 95% CI 1.31-10.05). Our meta-analysis revealed that isavuconazole was not inferior to other antifungal agents for the treatment and prophylaxis of IFIs, with substantially fewer drug-associated adverse events and discontinuations. Our findings support the use of isavuconazole as the primary treatment and prophylaxis for IFIs.

The safety profile of nivolumab plus ipilimumab combination therapy in Japanese patients with renal cell carcinoma: results from post-marketing surveillance.

Nivolumab and ipilimumab combination therapy is approved in Japan for unresectable or metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Because the clinical trials supporting the approval of nivolumab and ipilimumab combination therapy included relatively few Japanese patients, post-marketing surveillance was implemented to collate further safety data for nivolumab and ipilimumab combination therapy. Patients with unresectable or metastatic renal cell carcinoma who started nivolumab and ipilimumab combination therapy between September 2018 and December 2019 were registered in this post-marketing surveillance. The observation period was 13weeks. Safety data included treatment-related adverse events with a particular emphasis on the gastrointestinal-related (colitis, enteritis, diarrhoea and gastrointestinal perforation) and liver-related (hepatic failure, hepatic function abnormal, hepatitis and cholangitis sclerosing) treatment-related adverse events that are listed in the risk management plan for nivolumab and ipilimumab combination therapy. Of the 203 patients registered, safety data were available for 159 (119 males/40 females) with a median age of 67years (range 22-88). Seventy-one patients received nivolumab and ipilimumab combination therapy four times per usual clinical therapy, and 33 continued nivolumab monotherapy thereafter. Any-grade treatment-related adverse events were reported in 102 (64.2%) patients and grade≥3 in 63 (39.6%). Hepatic function abnormalities (13.2%), rash (8.8%) and interstitial lung disease (7.5%) were the most common treatment-related adverse events. Five patients died following treatment-related adverse events. Gastrointestinal-related and liver-related treatment-related adverse events occurred in 10 (6.3%; four with grade≥3 treatment-related adverse events) and 27 (17.0%; 19 with grade≥3 treatment-related adverse events) patients, respectively. This post-marketing surveillance in patients with unresectable or metastatic renal cell carcinoma revealed a safety profile for nivolumab and ipilimumab combination therapy consistent with CheckMate 214. Furthermore, no new safety concerns were identified including gastrointestinal-related and liver-related treatment-related adverse events.

Exposure to a static magnetic field attenuates hepatic damage and function abnormality in obese and diabetic mice

Static magnetic fields (SMFs) exhibit significant effect on health care. However, the effect of SMF on hepatic metabolism and function in obesity and diabetes are still unknown. Liver is not only the main site for glucolipid metabolism but also the core part for iron metabolism regulation. Dysregulations of iron metabolism and redox status are risk factors for the development of hepatic injury and affect glucolipid metabolism in obesity and diabetes. Mice of HFD-induced obesity and HFD/streptozocin-induced diabetes were exposed to a moderate-intensity SMF (0.4–0.7 T, direction: upward, 4 h/day, 8 weeks). Results showed that SMF attenuated hepatic damage by decreasing inflammation and fibrosis in obese and diabetic mice. SMF had no effects on improving glucose/insulin tolerance but regulated proteins (GLUT1 and GLUT4) and genes (G6pc, Pdk4, Gys2 and Pkl) participating in glucose metabolism with phosphorylation of Akt/AMPK/GSK3β. SMF also reduced lipid droplets accumulation through decreasing Plin2 and Plin5 and regulated lipid metabolism with elevated hepatic expressions of PPARγ and C/EBPα in obese mice. In addition, SMF decreased hepatic iron deposition with lower FTH1 expression and modulated systematic iron homeostasis via BMP6-mediated regulation of hepcidin. Moreover, SMF balanced hepatic redox status with regulation on mitochondrial function and MAPKs/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. Finally, we found that SMF activated hepatic autophagy and enhanced lipophagy by upregulating PNPLA2 expression in obese and diabetic mice. Our results demonstrated that SMF significantly ameliorated the development of hepatic injury in obese and diabetic mice by inhibiting inflammatory level, improving glycolipid metabolism, regulating iron metabolism, balancing redox level and activating autophagy.

Abstract CT193: Final results from a phase I study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a telomerase-specific oncolytic adenovirus (OBP-301) with pembrolizumab in patients with advanced solid tumors (EPOC1505)

Abstract Background: PD-1 blockade showed promising efficacy for broad type of cancer patients (pts), though objective response rates are very limited. In addition to the specific killing of cancer cells via oncolytic adenovirus, these agents prompt the immune system to stimulate an antitumor immune response. OBP-301 is an oncolytic adenovirus in which gene is modified to be able to selectively replicate in cancer cells by introducing hTERT promotor. Further antitumor effect might be expected with an active activation of two different antitumor immunity by OBP-301 in combination with pembrolizumab. Therefore, we conducted phase I study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of OBP-301 with pembrolizumab. Methods: The major eligibility criteria are pts with advanced or metastatic solid tumor not responded to or intolerant of standard chemotherapies, and with possibility of intratumoral injection. Phase Ia part was designed to determine the recommended dose in a “3+3” cohort-based dose escalation design of OBP-301 (1 × 1010VP on cohort 1, 1 × 1011VP on cohort 2 and 1 × 1012VP on cohort 3) with pembrolizumab (200mg/body q3w). OBP-301 is administered at day1, 15, and 29 by intratumoral injection and pembrolizumab is administered at day 8 and thereafter every 3 weeks. Primary endpoint is DLT. Secondary endpoints are response rate, progression free survival, and incidence of adverse event. Phase Ib part was designated to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the recommended dose OBP-301 selected in phase Ia part in combination with pembrolizumab. Biomarker study was planned to use paired samples of both tumor biopsy and blood. Clinical trial information: NCT03172819. Results: A total 22 pts (phase Ia part: 11 pts, phase Ib part: 11 pts) were enrolled in the study from Dec 2017 to Feb 2021. Median age was 65. Among the pts, 18 had esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, 2 had gastric cancer, one EGJ cancer, and one had colon cancer. No DLT was observed and the recommended dose for phase Ib part was 1 × 1012VP (cohort 3). Eighteen pts was injected to primary site, and 5 pts injected to metastatic site (Lymph node:1, Liver:3). Common grade 3 or 4 adverse events were fever (4.5%), and abnormal hepatic function (4.5%). Objective tumour responses were documented in 2(9.1%) of 22 pts. Tumor samples were subjected to multiplex immunohistochemistry (17 pts) and showed that tumor-infiltrating PD-1+CD8+ T cells prior to the treatment were significantly higher in 5 responders who experienced PR or >6 months SD, compared with 12 non-responders (P=0.0365). Conclusion: The combination of OBP-301 with pembrolizumab was well tolerated and showed limited response. The result of biomarker analyses using paired samples of both tumor biopsy and blood will be presented. Tumor-infiltrating PD-1+CD8+ T cells could be a biomarker for this combinatory therapy. Citation Format: Takashi Kojima, Toshiyoshi Fujiwara, Shunsuke Tanabe, Tomoyuki Kadota, Hiromi Ono, Kazuko Tsukamoto, Takashi Ikeno, Masashi Wakabayashi, Akihiro Sato, Masanori Kondo, Shogo Kumagai, Shohei Koyama, Hiroyoshi Nishikawa, Toshihiko Doi. Final results from a phase I study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a telomerase-specific oncolytic adenovirus (OBP-301) with pembrolizumab in patients with advanced solid tumors (EPOC1505) [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2023; Part 2 (Clinical Trials and Late-Breaking Research); 2023 Apr 14-19; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(8_Suppl):Abstract nr CT193.

Protocol for a feasibility randomized controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy, safety and tolerability of N-acetylcysteine in reducing adverse drug reactions among adults treated for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis in Tanzania

BackgroundAdverse drug reactions (ADRs) frequently occur in patients using second-line anti-tuberculosis medicine for treatment of multidrug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB). ADRs contribute to treatment interruptions which can compromise treatment response and risk acquired drug resistance to critical newer drugs such as bedaquiline, while severe ADRs carry considerable morbidity and mortality. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has shown promise in reducing ADRs for medications related to TB in case series or randomized controlled trials in other medical conditions, yet evidence is lacking in MDR-TB patients. TB endemic settings have limited capacity to conduct clinical trials. We designed a proof-of-concept clinical trial primarily to explore the preliminary evidence on the protective effect of NAC among people treated for MDR-TB with second-line anti-TB medications.MethodsThis is a proof-of-concept randomized open label clinical trial with 3 treatment arms including a control arm, an interventional arm of NAC 900 mg daily, and an interventional arm of NAC 900 mg twice-daily administered during the intensive phase of MDR-TB treatment. Patients initiating MDR-TB treatment will be enrolled at Kibong’oto National Center of Excellence for MDR-TB in the Kilimanjaro region of Tanzania. The minimum anticipated sample size is 66; with 22 participants in each arm. ADR monitoring will be performed at baseline and daily follow-up over 24 weeks including blood and urine specimen collection for hepatic and renal function and electrolyte abnormalities, and electrocardiogram. Sputum will be collected at baseline and monthly thereafter and cultured for mycobacteria as well as assayed for other molecular targets of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Adverse drug events will be analysed over time using mixed effect models. Mean differences between arms in change of the ADRs from baseline (with 95% confidence intervals) will be derived from the fitted model.DiscussionGiven that NAC promotes synthesis of glutathione, an intracellular antioxidant that combats the impact of oxidative stress, it may protect against medication induced oxidative damage in organs such as liver, pancreas, kidney, and cells of the immune system. This randomized controlled trial will determine if NAC leads to fewer ADRs, and if this protection is dose dependent. Fewer ADRs among patients treated with MDR-TB may significantly improve treatment outcomes for multidrug regimens that necessitate prolonged treatment durations. Conduct of this trial will set the needed infrastructure for clinical trials.Trial registrationPACTR202007736854169 Registered 03 July 2020

Preclinical safety evaluation of calcineurin inhibitors delivered through an intraductal route to prevent post-ERCP pancreatitis demonstrates endocrine and systemic safety

ObjectiveThere is an urgent need for safe and targeted interventions to mitigate post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP). Calcineurin inhibitors (CnIs) offer therapeutic promise as calcineurin signaling within acinar cells is a key initiating event in PEP. In previous proof-of-concept studies using experimental models, we showed that concurrent intra-pancreatic ductal administration of the CnIs, tacrolimus (Tac) or cyclosporine A (CsA) with the ERCP radiocontrast agent (RC) prevented PEP. To translate this finding clinically, we investigated potential toxic effects of intraductal delivery of a single-dose RC-CnI formulation on endocrine pancreas function and systemic toxicities in a preclinical PEP model. MethodsC57BL/6J mice underwent ductal cannulation and received a single, intra-pancreatic ductal infusion of RC or RC with Tac or CsA (treatment groups) or underwent ductal cannulation without infusion (‘sham’ group). To assess endocrine function, intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (IPGTT) was performed at two days before infusion and on day 2 and 14 post-surgery. To evaluate off-target tissue toxicities, renal and hepatic function-related parameters including blood urea nitrogen, plasma creatinine, potassium, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and total bilirubin were measured at the same time-points as IPGTT. Histological and biochemical indicators of pancreas injury and inflammation were also evaluated. ResultsNo abnormalities in glucose metabolism, hepatic or renal function were observed on day 2 or 14 in mice administered with intraductal RC or RC with Tac or CsA. ConclusionIntraductal delivery of RC-CnI formulation was safe and well-tolerated with no significant acute or subacute endocrine or systemic toxicities, underscoring its clinical utility to prevent PEP.

Outcome comparison of pyrotinib with current standard of care in the second/third line setting in advanced non-small cell lung cancer patients with HER2 mutation.

Outcome comparison of pyrotinib with current standard of care in the second/third line setting in advanced non-small cell lung cancer patients with HER2 mutation.

Deucravacitinib in plaque psoriasis: 2-year laboratory results from the phase 3 POETYK PSO program

Introduction: Deucravacitinib, an oral, selective, allosteric tyrosine kinase 2 inhibitor, is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of adults with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy. In the phase 3 POETYK PSO-1 and PSO-2 trials, deucravacitinib was significantly more efficacious than placebo and apremilast and was well tolerated in moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. PSO-1 and PSO-2 completers could enroll in the ongoing open-label POETYK long-term extension (LTE) trial. Changes in blood laboratory parameters with deucravacitinib in the PSO-1, PSO-2, and LTE trials were compared with signature changes seen with JAK 1/2/3 inhibitors.
 Methods: The 52-week, double-blind PSO-1 (NCT03624127) and PSO-2 (NCT03611751) trials randomized adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis 2:1:1 to deucravacitinib 6 mg once daily, placebo, or apremilast 30 mg twice daily. At Week 52, eligible patients enrolled in POETYK LTE (NCT04036435) and received deucravacitinib. Changes from baseline in hematologic parameters (lymphocytes, neutrophils, platelets, hemoglobin) and lipid and chemistry parameters (cholesterol, creatinine, CPK, ALT) were assessed through Week 100 (LTE Week 48). CTCAE grade ≥3 laboratory abnormalities and treatment discontinuations due to laboratory abnormalities were evaluated.
 Results: 1519 patients received ≥1 dose of deucravacitinib in all 3 trials. In total, 1179 (77.6%) and 584 (38.4%) patients had ≥52 and ≥104 weeks, respectively, of continuous deucravacitinib exposure; median duration of exposure was 682.0 days (97 weeks). No trends in clinically meaningful changes from baseline were observed in these parameters from Weeks 0–52 or in the LTE. Grade 3 or 4 abnormalities over 100 weeks of deucravacitinib treatment were rare, with incidence rates comparable to placebo and apremilast through Week 52; no increases were seen in the LTE. Two patients discontinued deucravacitinib due to lymphopenia and abnormal hepatic function.
 Conclusion: No trends in clinically meaningful changes from baseline were observed with deucravacitinib in laboratory parameters, including signature changes associated with JAK 1/2/3 inhibitors. Treatment discontinuations and grade 3 or 4 laboratory abnormalities were rare and comparable to incidence rates seen with placebo and apremilast. These results suggest laboratory monitoring is not warranted with deucravacitinib.

A UK real-world observational study of avelumab + axitinib (A + Ax) in advanced renal cell carcinoma (aRCC): 24-month interim results.

631 Background: Combination therapy with A + Ax in patients with previously untreated aRCC has shown superior progression-free survival (PFS) and objective response rate (ORR) vs sunitinib across all International Metastatic RCC Database Consortium (IMDC) risk groups. This study reports 24-month real-world outcomes in patients with aRCC receiving A + Ax in the UK. Methods: Patients were recruited from 9 UK sites. Inclusion criteria were diagnosis of aRCC, initiation of A + Ax on or after August 1, 2019, via the Early Access to Medicines Scheme, and age ≥18 years. The primary endpoints were overall survival (OS), PFS, ORR, and best response at 24 months post-A + Ax initiation. Data were analyzed descriptively. Total recruitment was 130 patients. Follow-up will continue until July 2023. Results: This analysis includes 78 patients with a minimum follow-up of 24 months. Median age at baseline was 66.6 years (range, 39.8-84.1 years); 76% (n=59) of patients were male, 63% (n=49) were White, 5% (n=4) were Asian/Asian British, and ethnicity was not recorded in 32% (n=25); 91% (n=71) had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group score of 0 or 1. IMDC risk status was favorable in 42% (n=33) of patients, intermediate in 41% (n=32), and poor in 17% (n=13). Median time between aRCC diagnosis and A + Ax initiation was 2.5 months (range, 0.03-90.4 months; n=77). Clear cell histology was the most prevalent (81% [n=63]); 68% (n=53) of patients had undergone nephrectomy, and 74% (n=58) had 1 or 2 metastatic sites at the index date. The OS rate at 24 months was 60% (95% CI, 49.4%-71.1%). The OS rates by IMDC risk status were: favorable, 76% (95% CI, 61.1%-90.4%); intermediate, 63% (95% CI, 45.7%-79.3%); and poor, 15% (95% CI, 0%-35.0%). The PFS rate at 24 months was 31% (95% CI, 20.5%-41.0%); median PFS was 9.1 months (95% CI, 7.9-13.4 months). ORR (n=76) at 24 months was 59% (95% CI, 48.2%-70.3%), with 4% (n=3) achieving complete response (CR) and 55% (n=42) partial response (PR). Best responses observed within 24 months were CR in 4% (n=3), PR in 54% (n=42), stable disease in 29% (n=23), and progressive disease in 10% (n=8) (2 not recorded). Median duration of response was 11.9 months (range, 0.4-23.7 months). Median time to discontinuation (TTD) of either A or Ax was 5.5 months (range, 0.5-20.5 months; n=50). Median TTD of A + Ax combined was 5.6 months (range, 0.8-20.5 months; n=43). Of 78 patients, 62 experienced an adverse event (AE) due to A + Ax treatment, 8 of whom had 14 serious AEs in total. The most common AEs were diarrhea (n=31), fatigue (n=22), and rash or oral mucositis (n=18 each); 3 patients discontinued Ax due to AEs including diarrhea (n=2), abnormal hepatic function (n=1), and abdominal pain (n=1). Conclusions: This UK-based real-world study of A + Ax treatment reports 24-month clinical outcomes in patients with aRCC. OS, PFS, ORR, and best response were in line with findings from prior clinical trials, with no new emerging AEs.

Differences in Clinical and Imaging Features between Asymptomatic and Symptomatic COVID-19 Patients.

The clinical and imaging features of asymptomatic carriers of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 and symptomatic COVID-19 patients. The clinical and chest computed tomography imaging data of 47 asymptomatic carriers and 36 symptomatic COVID-19 patients were derived. All patients underwent 4-6 CT scans over a period of 2-5 days. The bulk of asymptomatic carriers who developed symptoms and most of the COVID-19 patients were older than 18 years of age with a decreased lymphocyte count, abnormal hepatic and renal function, and increased D-dimer and C-reactive protein. In the early stage, the pulmonary lesion involved mostly 1-2 lobes at the peripheral area in asymptomatic carriers but more than three lobes at both the central and peripheral areas in COVID-19 patients. In the progression stage, the lesion of asymptomatic carriers extended from the peripheral to the central area, and no significant difference was found in the lesion range compared with the symptomatic control group. In early improvement stage, the lesion was rapidly absorbed, and lesions were located primarily at the peripheral area in asymptomatic carriers; contrastingly, lesions were primarily located at both the central and peripheral areas in symptomatic patients. Asymptomatic carriers reflected a significantly shorter duration from disease onset to peak progression stage compared with the symptomatic. Asymptomatic carriers are a potential source of transmission and may become symptomatic COVID-19 patients despite indicating less severe pulmonary damage, earlier improvement, and better prognosis. Early isolation and intervention can eliminate such carriers as potential sources of transmission and improve their prognosis.

Abstract 10914: Acute Heart Failure Due to Rupture of an Aortic Pseudoaneurysm Into the Right Atrium

Introduction: Rupture of an aortic aneurysm into the right atrium (RA) is extremely rare, while rupture into the thoracic cavity or pericardial sac is a common fatal complication. We describe a case of acute heart failure due to rupture of an aortic pseudoaneurysm with aorta-right atrial fistula. Case Summary: A 73-year-old man presented to the emergency department with dyspnea and abdominal distention. He had a history of ascending aortic replacement for type A aortic dissection 18 years ago. On arrival, physical examination revealed diminished breath sounds, leg edema but no cardiac murmurs. Investigations demonstrated abnormality of hepatic and kidney function, elevated BNP (490.9 pg/ml) in blood exam, and enlargement of ascending aortic aneurysm at the proximal anastomotic site with ascites/pleural effusion on computed tomography (CT), while left ventricular function was normal on transthoracic echocardiogram. We diagnosed acute heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and started to reduce fluid using diuretics. However, the response to diuretics was not good and the progression of lactic acidosis was observed regardless of using cardiotonic agent. Since it was becoming difficult to maintain systemic circulation, we performed further investigations before introducing mechanical support. The pulmonary artery catheterization revealed elevated RA pressure with wide pulse pressure (38/12 mmHg) and Oxygen step up in RA. An aortic root angiogram, contrast-enhanced CT and transesophageal echocardiogram showed a rupture of aortic pseudoaneurysm complicated with aorta-right atrial fistula (Figure). Although emergent surgery was performed, he unfortunately died the following day. Conclusions: This is a rare case of intracardiac perforation of aortic aneurysm diagnosed by various modalities. We should consider the possibility of developing shunt disease when we meet patients with rapidly progressive circulatory failure unresponsive to drugs.

Feasibility, safety and tolerability of the CREB-binding protein/β-catenin inhibitor OP-724 in patients with advanced primary biliary cholangitis: an investigator-initiated, open-label, non-randomised, two-centre, phase 1 study

ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate the safety and tolerability of OP-724, a CREB-binding protein/β-catenin inhibitor, in patients with advanced primary biliary cholangitis (PBC).DesignAn open-label, non-randomised, phase 1 trial was conducted...

Association between the cumulative dose of cyclosporine and liver enzyme abnormalities in dermatology patients managed with a low‐dose regimen

Cyclosporine (CsA) is an immunosuppressive agent that specifically inhibits T cell-related immune responses. There is little evidence regarding the association between low-dose CsA administration and abnormal hepatic function in dermatology patients. This study aimed to examine the association between the cumulative dose of CsA and liver enzyme abnormalities obtained from peripheral blood tests in patients with skin diseases. A retrospective single-center study of 697 patients who were prescribed CsA for skin disease in the outpatient dermatology clinic between 2015 and 2019 were performed. Multiple logistic regression with confounder adjustment was performed to assess the association between the cumulative dose of CsA and liver enzyme abnormalities. Compared to patients with the lowest cumulative dose of CsA (˂7.0 g), patients with the highest cumulative dose of CsA (≥30.6 g) were significantly associated with an increased likelihood of developing liver enzyme abnormalities (odds ratio [OR]=1.96; 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.02-3.79). In the stratified analysis, patients with the highest cumulative dose of CsA (≥30.6 g) were significantly associated with a 1.5-or higher alanine aminotransferase elevation from baseline (OR=2.26, CI=1.08-4.73). Patients prescribed long-term, low-dose CsA up to a high cumulative dose (≥30.6 g) may be associated with an increased risk of developing liver enzyme abnormalities. However, these liver enzyme elevations were not severe in magnitude and were reversible.

P9.37: Liver Transplantation for Abernathy Malformation (Congenital Absence of Portal Vein): A Case Report

Introduction: Congenital absence of portal vein (CAPV) is very rare congenital anomaly caused by dysplasia in the portal vein (PV) system leading to diversion of blood from gut directly to IVC without passing liver. Clinically after being asymptomatic it can present with encephalopathy from hyperammonemia and hypoglycemia. Case report: A 8-year old female child who was diagnosed with CAPV was referred to our centre for further evaluation. She was a full-term baby and doing well till 4years of age when she had near fainting. During evaluation she had elevated liver function test, splenomegaly and imaging revealed CAPV with shunting. Her family reported decline in her academic performance over past few years. On index visit her total bilirubin was 1.4 mg/dL, AST 40 IU/L, ALT 29 IU/L and serum ammonia 122 ug/dL with no evidence of hepatopulmonary syndrome. The CECT abdomen revealed common trunk of splenic vein and SMV, directly draining into IVC with prominent hepatic artery (Figure 1). She received deceased donor liver transplant from brain dead donor (Figure 2) and postoperative course was uneventful. Liver function has remained stable with patent PV and hepatic artery. Histology of the native liver showed absent PV with nodular liver parenchyma without cirrhosis. Discussion: CAPV can lead to encephalopathy and mental retardation; hence careful observation of their symptoms, hepatic function, and metabolic abnormalities is required. LT might be indicated for symptomatic CAPV or prophylactic LT is indicated before the development of pulmonary hypertension or HPS.

Phase II study of BKM120 in patients with advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (EPOC1303)

BackgroundPI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway is frequently overactive in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), making it an attractive treatment target. BKM120 is an oral pan-class I PI3K inhibitor with promising activity in several cancers. We prospectively investigated efficacy, safety, and biomarkers of BKM120 in advanced ESCC. We conducted a multicenter phase II study of BKM120 monotherapy in patients with pretreated advanced ESCC.MethodsBKM120 (100 mg/day) was administered orally in a 28-day cycle. The primary end point was disease control rate (DCR). Tumor samples for all patients were collected for gene alteration analysis in a comprehensive genomic profiling assay.ResultsOf 42 patients enrolled, 20 had stable disease and two had confirmed partial response. One ineligible patient was excluded from the primary analysis, which met the primary end point (DCR 51.2%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 35.1–67.1). In the 42 patients, median progression-free survival and overall survival were 2.3 (95% CI 1.8–3.2) and 9.0 (95% CI 6.5–11.4) months, respectively. Common grade 3 or 4 adverse events were rash, anorexia, hyponatremia, and abnormal hepatic function; profiles of these events in this study were similar to those in previous studies of BKM120 monotherapy. No treatment-related deaths occurred. PI3K pathway activation was observed in patients with good clinical response.ConclusionsBKM120 monotherapy showed promising efficacy and a manageable toxicity profile even in patients with pretreated advanced ESCC. This study showed the potential target PI3K for ESCC, and further confirmatory trial will be necessary to confirm it. Unique ID issued by UMIN: UMIN 000011217.

A phase 1b study of andecaliximab in combination with S-1 plus platinum in Japanese patients with gastric adenocarcinoma

Andecaliximab (ADX) is a monoclonal antibody that inhibits matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9), an extracellular enzyme involved in matrix remodeling, tumor growth, and metastasis. In preclinical models, MMP9 inhibitors have been shown to enhance the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapeutic agents and to suppress distant metastasis. In this phase Ib, multicenter study, the safety and efficacy of ADX combined with S-1 plus cisplatin (SP) or S-1 plus oxaliplatin (SOX) as a first-line treatment were evaluated in Japanese patients with advanced gastric or gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma. ADX was administrated at a dose of 800 mg every 2 weeks for the SP cohort and 1200 mg every three weeks for the SOX cohort. As of December 2019, 16 patients were enrolled (six patients in the SP cohort and 10 patients in the SOX cohort). Peripheral sensory neuropathy (69%), anorexia (63%), nausea (56%), and decreased neutrophil counts (44%) were the most common adverse events (AEs). The grade 3 or higher AEs attributed to ADX were stomatitis and abnormal hepatic function (each one patient) in the SP cohort and decreased neutrophil counts (two patients) in the SOX cohort. The objective response rate in 11 patients with measurable target lesions was 73% (8/11), based on the investigator’s evaluation. Median progression-free survival was11.9 months (90% confidence interval, 5.6–16.6), and median overall survival was not reached. In conclusion, ADX combined with S-1 plus platinum demonstrated a manageable safety profile and promising clinical activity in the first-line treatment of patients with advanced gastric or GEJ adenocarcinoma.Clinical Trial Registration information: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02862535 (11/08/2016) and protocol ID: GS-US-296-1884.

A phase II study evaluating KN026 monotherapy in patients (pts) with previously treated, advanced HER2-expressing gastric or gastroesophageal junction cancers (GC/GEJC).

4040 Background: Outcomes of second or later-line treatment for pts with advanced GC/GEJC remain inferior. KN026 is a novel HER2-targeted bispecific antibody composed of VH regions of trastuzumab and pertuzumab, targeting the HER2 juxtamembrane domain (IV) and the dimerization domain (II) simultaneously. KN026 has shown promising antitumor efficacy in preclinical and phase I studies. Here we present the results of KN026 monotherapy in previously treated, advanced HER2-expressing GC/GEJC. Methods: In this multi-center, single-arm, open-label, 2-cohort phase II study, adult pts with previously treated, advanced GC/GEJC were assigned into a HER2 high-level cohort (Cohort 1: IHC3+ or IHC 2+ ISH+) or a HER2 low-level cohort (Cohort 2: IHC 1+/2+ ISH- or IHC 0/1+ISH+). KN026 was given intravenously in 10 mg/kg QW, 20 mg/kg Q2W, or 30 mg/kg Q3W. Primary endpoints were objective response rate (ORR) and duration of response (DoR) assessed by investigators per RECIST 1.1. Secondary endpoints included progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and safety outcomes. This trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03925974). Results: At data cut-off (Oct. 29, 2021), 45 pts were enrolled and treated with KN026; 39 were eligible for response evaluation (25 pts in Cohort 1 and 14 pts in Cohort 2). In Cohort 1, ORR was 56% (95%CI 35%-76%) with 14 PR; the median DoR was 9.7 months (mo) (95%CI 4.2-not evaluable (NE)). At a median follow-up of 14.7 mo (95%CI 9.4-16.5), the median PFS was 8.3 mo (95%CI 4.2-11.4), and median OS was 16.3 mo (95% CI 11.0- NE). In Cohort 2, ORR was 14% (95%CI 2%-43%), with median DoR being 6.2 mo (95%CI 3.2-NE). At a median follow-up of 27.5 mo (95%CI 4.1-NE), the median PFS was 1.4 mo (95%CI 1.4-4.1), and median OS was 9.6 mo (95% CI 3.5-14.9). The table shows efficacy in Cohort 1 pts who have progressed on the prior trastuzumab treatment. KN026-related adverse events (TRAEs) were observed in 37 (82%) pts; the most common TRAEs (any grade) were increased aspartate aminotransferase (12, 27%), increased alanine aminotransferase (9, 20%), rash (7,16%), anemia (7,16%), and infusion-related reaction (7,16%). Four pts reported 5 grade 3 TRAEs, including infusion-related reaction, renal hydrocele, ureteral stenosis, increased blood pressure, and abnormal hepatic function (1 each). No grade 4 or 5 TRAEs occurred. Conclusions: KN026 monotherapy yielded promising efficacy with mild to moderate toxicities in pts with previously treated, advanced GC/GEJC. Further investigation is warranted. Clinical trial information: NCT03925974. [Table: see text]

A phase I dose-escalation and expansion study of HBM4003, an anti-CTLA-4 heavy chain only monoclonal antibody, in patients with advanced solid tumors.

2641 Background: HBM4003 is a fully human heavy chain only monoclonal antibody (HCAb) to CTLA-4, which has been engineered to deplete Treg cells by enhanced antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) activity. In the Phase 1 dose escalation part, HBM4003 showed favorable safety and efficacy profile in patients (pts) with advanced solid tumors. Here, we present the updated data from the dose escalation part and most recent safety and clinical activity data from three expansion cohorts of pts with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), melanoma, and renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Methods: In the dose-escalation part, pts were enrolled into 3 dose levels (DL): 0.3mg/kg QW (28-day cycle), 0.45mg/kg Q3W (21-day cycle), and 0.6mg/kg Q3W (21-day cycle). In the dose-expansion part, pts with advanced HCC, melanoma, and RCC received 0.45 mg/kg Q3W (21-day cycle). Tumor measurements were performed every 6 weeks for up to 12 months and subsequently every 12 weeks per RECIST v1.1. Results: In total 60 pts were included for this analysis, including 24 pts with advanced solid tumors in the dose escalation part and 36 pts in the dose expansion part: 18 pts with HCC, 4 pts with melanoma, and 14 pts with RCC, from 12 sites in mainland China, 5 sites in Australia, and 1 site in Hong Kong. 46 pts (77%) received ≥ 2 lines of previous systemic therapies and 37 pts (62%) received previous PD-1/PD-L1 treatment. For the HCC cohort, 19 pts were treated in dose-escalation (1 pt, 0.45 mg/kg Q3W) and dose-expansion parts. All 19 pts received previous PD-1/PD-L1 therapy. 12 pts were evaluable for efficacy. Two had stable disease (SD), 2 pts had partial response (PR) as best response. For 12 evaluable pts, ORR was 16.7% and disease control rate (DCR) was 33.3%. For the RCC cohort, 19 pts were treated in dose-escalation and dose-expansion parts; 18 pts were evaluable for efficacy. Eight had SD as best response; the DCR was 44.4%. Overall, the most common treatment-related adverse event (TRAE) (incidence ≥ 10%) of all grades was rash (16 [26.7%] pts). At the 0.45 mg/kg Q3W DL, the most common TRAE of all grades was hepatic function abnormalities (12 [27.9%] pts) and rash (12 [27.9%] pts). 30 (69.8%) pts reported Gr 1 or 2 TRAEs. Gr ≥3 TRAEs occurred in 4 (9.3%) pts. 1 pt reported Gr 4 TRAE: blood creatine phosphokinase increased. No Gr 5 TRAE was reported. TRAE leading to discontinuation occurred in 4 pts. In mouse model, only tumor infiltrating lymphocytes Treg was depleted upon HBM4003 treatment while no Treg change in blood and spleen. In pts, Treg depletion was observed only in tumor tissue on day 21 post dosing. Overall, HBM4003 demonstrated dose proportional pharmacokinetics and low immunogenicity. Conclusions: HBM4003 showed a favorable safety profile, promising antitumor activity and intratumoral Treg depletion in pts with advanced solid tumors at the 0.45 mg/kg Q3W DL. Clinical trial information: NCT04135261.

A phase 1, multicenter, open-label, first-in-human study of DS-6157a in patients (pts) with advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST).

11512 Background: GPR20 is selectively and abundantly expressed in GISTs, the most common sarcoma of digestive tract. DS-6157a is an anti-GPR20 antibody-drug conjugate with a novel tetrapeptide-based linker and DNA topoisomerase I inhibitor exatecan derivative (DXd). The target drug-to-antibody ratio is ̃8. The DXd payload, when released, inhibits topoisomerase I and induces cell apoptosis. Methods: This study conducted in the US and Japan was designed to include a dose-escalation (Part 1) and a dose-expansion (Part 2) in adult pts with advanced GIST (NCT04276415). Part 1 evaluated safety, tolerability, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics (PK) to determine the maximum-tolerated dose (MTD) and/or recommended dose for expansion. Key eligibility criteria included ECOG PS of 0 or 1, measurable disease per RECIST v1.1, and adequate bone marrow, hepatic, and renal function. DS-6157a was administered every 3 weeks as monotherapy. Pts had tumor assessments per RECIST 1.1 every 6 weeks (wks) for 36 wks, then every 9 wks thereafter. Results: At data cutoff, 34 pts were available for full analysis: median treatment duration was 9.9 wks (range, 3-56 wks) and 5 pts (14.7%) were ongoing; median age 60.5 years (y) (range, 29-81 y); 19 pts (56%) were male; 47% of pts were Asian and 47% were white. Baseline GPR20 expression was highly prevalent, and dose-dependent PK exposure was confirmed within the range of dose levels. The MTD was 6.4 mg/kg. One pt with SDH-deficient GIST with both SDH B and NF1 mutations, had a confirmed PR with shrinkage of -75%; 18 pts (53%) experienced stable disease and 10 pts (29%) experienced progressive disease as best response. Median progression-free survival across all dose levels was 3.6 months (95% CI, 1.6, 6.9). Treatment-emergent AEs (TEAEs) occurred in all pts and treatment-related TEAEs (TRAEs) in 32 pts (94%). The most common (≥25%) all-grade (Gr) TEAEs were nausea (82%), decreased appetite (59%), fatigue (47%), anemia (44%), constipation (38%), decreased platelets (35%), and vomiting (32%). Gr ≥3 TRAEs occurred in 14 pts (41%); the most common were decreased platelets (21%) and anemia (18%). Serious TEAEs (SAEs) occurred in 9 pts (27%) and related SAEs in 4 pts (12%). Related Gr 4 SAEs in 2 pts included abnormal hepatic function, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia and leukopenia. There was 1 treatment related death (hepatic failure). Further investigations are on-going to understand the modest clinical efficacy observed. The study did not proceed to Part 2, because the data from Part 1 did not meet efficacy targets. Conclusions: DS-6157a was generally well tolerated with early signs of moderate clinical activity. While there were no objective responses in pts with KIT-mutant GIST, tumor shrinkage was observed in all 4 pts with KIT wild-type GIST treated at different doses, including a confirmed PR at the MTD in a pt with SDH-deficient GIST with both SDH B and NF1 mutations. Clinical trial information: NCT04276415.

Global prevalence of occult hepatitis C virus: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUNDOccult hepatitis C infection (OCI) is characterized by the presence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA in the liver, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and/or ultracentrifuged serum in the absence of detectable HCV-RNA in serum. OCI has been described in several categories of populations including hemodialysis patients, patients with a sustained virological response, immunocompromised individuals, patients with abnormal hepatic function, and apparently healthy subjects.AIMTo highlight the global prevalence of OCI.METHODSWe performed a systematic and comprehensive literature search in the following 4 electronic databases PubMed, EMBASE, Global Index Medicus, and Web of Science up to 6th May 2021 to retrieve relevant studies published in the field. Included studies were unrestricted population categories with known RNA status in serum, PBMC, liver tissue and/or ultracentrifuged serum. Data were extracted independently by each author and the Hoy et al tool was used to assess the quality of the included studies. We used the random-effect meta-analysis model to estimate the proportions of OCI and their 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). The Cochran's Q-test and the I2 test statistics were used to assess heterogeneity between studies. Funnel plot and Egger test were used to examine publication bias. R software version 4.1.0 was used for all analyses.RESULTSThe electronic search resulted in 3950 articles. We obtained 102 prevalence data from 85 included studies. The pooled prevalence of seronegative OCI was estimated to be 9.61% (95%CI: 6.84-12.73) with substantial heterogeneity [I² = 94.7% (95%CI: 93.8%-95.4%), P < 0.0001]. Seropositive OCI prevalence was estimated to be 13.39% (95%CI: 7.85-19.99) with substantial heterogeneity [I2 = 93.0% (90.8%-94.7%)]. Higher seronegative OCI prevalence was found in Southern Europe and Northern Africa, and in patients with abnormal liver function, hematological disorders, and kidney diseases. Higher seropositive OCI prevalence was found in Southern Europe, Northern America, and Northern Africa.CONCLUSIONIn conclusion, in the present study, it appears that the burden of OCI is high and variable across the different regions and population categories. Further studies on OCI are needed to assess the transmissibility, clinical significance, long-term outcome, and need for treatment.