Hepatitis C Virus Sustained Virologic Response Research Articles

Non-acquired immunodeficiency syndrome defining malignancies in people living with haemophilia and human immunodeficiency virus after direct-acting antiviral era.

Non-acquired immunodeficiency syndrome-defining malignancies (NADMs) are the crucial cause of mortality in people living with haemophilia and human immunodeficiency virus (PLWHH). We aimed to analyse the types and characters of NADMs in PLWHH after approval of direct-acting antivirals (DAA), considering that most PLWHH are infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). We conducted a nationwide questionnaire mail survey across 395 HIV core facilities in Japan between May 2022 and February 2023. Eight-year data from 64 respondent hospitals (n = 328 PLWHH; 2015-2022) were collected; 35 NADM cases were identified and analysed. Standardised cancer incidence ratios (SCIRs) were calculated. The median age of PLWHH with NADMs was 51 years (interquartile range: 47-62 years); the SCIR was 2.08 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.48-2.90) for all malignancies (including carcinoma in situ). Liver cancer accounted for most NADMs (43% [15/35]). The SCIRs of liver cancer (23.09 [95% CI: 13.92- 38.30]) and papillary thyroid cancer (9.38 [2.35-37.50]) significantly increased after adjusting for general Japanese male sex and age. Among PLWHH with liver cancers, 73% (11/15) achieved HCV-sustained virological response. Notably, for patients aged ≤ 50 years, 47% (7/15) were affected by liver cancers, and 27% (4/15) succumbed to NADMs. This study presents the largest survey of NADMs in PLWHH after DAA approval. Our findings emphasised the elevated risk of malignancies in PLWHH, underscoring the need for early cancer screening and preventive measures, particularly against liver cancers, even in younger PLWHH.

B cells expressing mutated IGHV1-69-encoded antigen receptors related to virus neutralization show lymphoma-like transcriptomes in patients with chronic HCV infection.

Chronic HCV infection leads to a complex interplay with adaptive immune cells that may result in B cell dyscrasias like cryoglobulinemia or lymphoma. While direct-acting antiviral therapy has decreased the incidence of severe liver damage, its effect on extrahepatic HCV manifestations such as B cell dyscrasias is still unclear. We sequenced B cell receptor (BCR) repertoires in patients with chronic HCV mono-infection and patients with HCV with a sustained virological response (SVR) after direct-acting antiviral therapy. This data set was mined for highly neutralizing HCV antibodies and compared to a diffuse large B cell lymphoma data set. The TKO model was used to test the signaling strength of selected B-BCRs in vitro. Single-cell RNA sequencing of chronic HCV and HCV SVR samples was performed to analyze the transcriptome of B cells with HCV-neutralizing antigen receptors. We identified a B cell fingerprint with high richness and somatic hypermutation in patients with chronic HCV and SVR. Convergence to specific immunoglobulin genes produced high-connectivity complementarity-determining region 3 networks. In addition, we observed that IGHV1-69 CDR1 and FR3 mutations characterizing highly neutralizing HCV antibodies corresponded to recurrent point mutations found in clonotypic BCRs of high-grade lymphomas. These BCRs did not show autonomous signaling but a lower activation threshold in an in vitro cell model for the assessment of BCR signaling strength. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that B cells carrying these point mutations showed a persisting oncogenic transcriptome signature with dysregulation in signaling nodes such as CARD11, MALT1, RelB, MAPK, and NFAT. We provide evidence that lymphoma-like cells derive from the anti-HCV immune response. In many patients, these cells persist for years after SVR and can be interpreted as a mechanistic basis for HCV-related B cell dyscrasias and increased lymphoma risk even beyond viral elimination.

Project CHARIOT: study protocol for a hybrid type 1 effectiveness-implementation study of comprehensive tele-harm reduction for engagement of people who inject drugs in HIV prevention services

BackgroundPeople who inject drugs (PWID) remain a high priority population under the federal Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative with 11% of new HIV infections attributable to injection drug use. There is a critical need for innovative, efficacious, scalable, and community-driven models of healthcare in non-stigmatizing settings for PWID. We seek to test a Comprehensive-TeleHarm Reduction (C-THR) intervention for HIV prevention services delivered via a syringe services program (SSP).MethodsThe CHARIOT trial is a hybrid type I effectiveness-implementation study using a parallel two-arm randomized controlled trial design. Participants (i.e., PWID; n = 350) will be recruited from a syringe services program (SSP) in Miami, Florida. Participants will be randomized to receive either C-THR or non-SSP clinic referral and patient navigation. The objectives are: (1) to determine if the C-THR intervention increases engagement in HIV prevention (i.e., HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis; PrEP or medications for opioid use disorder; MOUD) compared to non-SSP clinic referral and patient navigation, (2) to examine the long-term effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the C-THR intervention, and (3) to assess the barriers and facilitators to implementation and sustainment of the C-THR intervention. The co-primary outcomes are PrEP or MOUD engagement across follow-up at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. For PrEP, engagement is confirmed by tenofovir on dried blood spot or cabotegravir injection within the previous 8 weeks. For MOUD, engagement is defined as screening positive for norbuprenorphine or methadone on urine drug screen; or naltrexone or buprenorphine injection within the previous 4 weeks. Secondary outcomes include PrEP adherence, engagement in HCV treatment and sustained virologic response, and treatment of sexually transmitted infections. The short and long term cost-effectiveness analyses and mixed-methods implementation evaluation will provide compelling data on the sustainability and possible impact of C-THR on comprehensive HIV prevention delivered via SSPs.DiscussionThe CHARIOT trial will be the first to our knowledge to test the efficacy of an innovative, peer-led telehealth intervention with PWID at risk for HIV delivered via an SSP. This innovative healthcare model seeks to transform the way PWID access care by bypassing the traditional healthcare system, reducing multi-level barriers to care, and meeting PWID where they are.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05897099. Trial registry name: Comprehensive HIV and Harm Prevention Via Telehealth (CHARIOT). Registration date: 06/12/2023.

Liver Stiffness Measurement and Risk Prediction of Hepatocellular Carcinoma After HCV Eradication in Veterans With Cirrhosis

Background & AimsPatients with cirrhosis secondary to chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) are at risk for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) despite a sustained virological response (SVR). We examined whether post-SVR liver stiffness measurement (LSM) could be used to stratify HCC risk. MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort study of 1850 participants identified from the Veterans Health Administration, with HCV cirrhosis and SVR, followed up over 5099 person-years, from the time of post-SVR elastography until death, HCC, or the end of the study. ResultsThe risk of HCC increased by 3% with every 1-kPa increase in LSM (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.03, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01–1.04; P < .001) and decreased with the number of years from SVR (aHR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.70–0.90; P = .0003). The adjusted annual risk of HCC was 2.03% among participants with post-SVR LSM <10 kPa, 2.48% in LSM 10–14.9 kPa (aHR, 1.71; 95% CI, 1.01–2.88; P = .046), 3.22% for LSM 15–19.9 kPa (aHR, 1.59; 95% CI, 0.78–3.20; P = .20), 5.07% among LSM 20–24.9 kPa (aHR, 2.55; 95% CI, 1.30–5.01; P = .01), and 5.44% in LSM ≥25 kPa (aHR, 3.03; 95% CI, 1.74–5.26; P < .0001). The adjusted annual risk of HCC was < 0.4% in participants with LSM <5 kPa and without diabetes mellitus. ConclusionsLSM predicts rates of HCC in patients with HCV cirrhosis after SVR at multiple cutoff levels and offers a single test to predict portal hypertension–related complications and HCC. Patients with LSM <5 kPa in the absence of diabetes mellitus had a low risk of HCC in which surveillance could be discontinued.

Patient-centered and integrated outreach care for chronic hepatitis C patients with serious mental illness in Taiwan.

Patients with serious mental illness have a higher risk of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection but suboptimal HCV care. The current study aimed to facilitate HCV treatment uptake by implementing an integrated outreach care model. Multidisciplinary outreach screening followed by HCV reflex testing and onsite treatment for schizophrenia patients was accomplished through the coordination of nongovernmental organizations, remote specialists, and local care providers. The objective was microelimination effectiveness, defined as the multiplication of the rates of anti-HCV antibodies screening, accurate HCV RNA diagnosis, treatment allocation, treatment completion, and sustained virological response (SVR12; no detectable HCV RNA throughout 12 weeks in the post-treatment follow-up period). A total of 1478 of the 2300 (64.3%) psychiatric patients received HCV mass screening. Seventy-three (4.9%) individuals were seropositive for anti-HCV antibodies. Of the 73 anti-HCV seropositive patients, all (100%) received HCV reflex testing, and 29 (37.7%) patients had HCV viremia. Eight patients (34.8%) had advanced liver disease, including 3 with liver cirrhosis and 2 with newly diagnosed hepatocellular carcinoma. Twenty-three of the 24 (95.8%) patients who stayed in the healthcare system received and completed 8 weeks of glecaprevir/pibrentasvir treatment and post-treatment follow-up without significant DDIs or adverse events. The SVR12 rate was 100%. The microelimination effectiveness in the current study was 61.6%. Individuals with serious mental illness are underserved and suffer from diagnostic delays. This patient-centered and integrated outreach program facilitated HCV care in this marginalized population.

Assessing feasibility of a modified same-day test-and-treat model for hepatitis C among rural people who inject drugs

BackgroundDespite advancements in hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment, low uptake among hard-to-reach populations remains a global issue. The current study aimed to assess the feasibility of a modified same-day test-and-treat model in improving HCV care for people who inject drugs (PWID) living in resource-constrained rural areas.MethodsA pilot study was conducted in four primary healthcare (PHC) centers in Malaysia. The model's key features included on-site HCV ribonucleic acid (RNA) testing using a shared GeneXpert® system; noninvasive biomarkers for cirrhosis diagnosis; and extended care to PWID referred from nearby PHC centers and outreach programs. The feasibility assessment focused on three aspects of the model: demand (i.e., uptake of HCV RNA testing and treatment), implementation (i.e., achievement of each step in the HCV care cascade), and practicality (i.e., ability to identify PWID with HCV and expedite treatment initiation despite resource constraints).ResultsA total of 199 anti-HCV-positive PWID were recruited. They demonstrated high demand for HCV care, with a 100% uptake of HCV RNA testing and 97.4% uptake of direct-acting antiviral treatment. The rates of HCV RNA positivity (78.4%) and sustained virologic response (92.2%) were comparable to standard practice, indicating the successful implementation of the model. The model was also practical, as it covered non-opioid-substitution-therapy-receiving individuals and enabled same-day treatment in 71.1% of the participants.ConclusionsThe modified same-day test-and-treat model is feasible in improving HCV care for rural PWID. The study finding suggests its potential for wider adoption in HCV care for hard-to-reach populations.

Delays in fibrosis staging reduce the likelihood of achieving hepatitis C treatment and cure

Background Updated 2021 hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment guidelines no longer recommend fibrosis staging for treatment-naïve patients without cirrhosis; however, numerous US state Medicaid plans continue to restrict initiation of HCV therapy by fibrosis stage. The study objective was to determine whether delays from HCV diagnosis to fibrosis staging impact the likelihood of initiating/completing HCV treatment and achieving sustained virologic response (SVR). Methods A retrospective cohort study was performed among patients diagnosed with chronic HCV by an urban US emergency department who subsequently underwent fibrosis staging. Time elapsed from HCV diagnosis to hepatic fibrosis staging was evaluated on the likelihood of treatment initiation, treatment completion and SVR. Results Among fibrosis staging modalities, hepatic ultrasounds occurred more quickly following HCV diagnosis (3.5 months, IQR = 12.4 months), compared to FibroSure (8.5 months, IQR = 20.4 months) and FibroScan (9.9 months, IQR = 18.0 months) (p<.001). Each six-month delay in fibrosis staging decreased the likelihood of initiating treatment by 5% (adjusted relative risk (aRR)=0.95; 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.91–0.998; p=.04) and the likelihood of SVR by 7% (aRR = 0.93; 95% CI = 0.87–0.995; p=.04) after adjusting for insurance, race/ethnicity and history of HIV testing. Conclusions Delays in hepatitis fibrosis staging were significantly associated with decreased likelihood of HCV treatment initiation and SVR.

Normalization of circulating plasma levels of miRNAs in HIV-1/HCV co-infected patients following direct-acting antiviral–induced sustained virologic response

In a previous recent work, we recognized three plasma circulating microRNAs (miRNAs)—miR-100-5p_iso3p:-2, miR-122-5p, and miR-192-5p—that correlate largely with liver fibrosis evolution in human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1)/hepatitis C virus (HCV) co-infected patients. Here, we investigated whether levels of these three circulating miRNAs can be associated to liver disease evolution in HIV-1/HCV co-infected patients which have achieved HCV sustained virologic response (SVR) 12 weeks after finishing treatment. Eighty-one chronic HIV-1/HCV co-infected patients were longitudinally recruited at baseline (T0) of DAA therapy and 12 weeks (T12) after finishing therapy. At T0 most of the study patients displayed transient elastography values linked to an advanced stage of liver fibrosis (F0-1 9%, F2 11%, F3 32%, F4 48%). Significant reductions in the levels of circulating miR-100-5p_iso3p:-2, miR-122-5p, and miR-192-5p were detected at T12 in SVR patients, in the overall cohort (P < 0.0001, P < 0.0001, and P = 0.0008, respectively) and in patients with advanced (F3-4) liver fibrosis (p < 0.0001, p < 0.0001, and P = 0.0011, respectively). Of note, no significant reduction in the study miRNA levels was found at T12 in patients who did not achieve SVR (P = 0.8750, P = 0.1250, and P = 0.1260, respectively). HCV-cured patients, in contrast to non-responders, significantly reduced their liver stiffness after two years of achieving SVR (p < 0.0001). DAA-induced SVR is linked with a significant reduction in circulating levels of miR-100-5p_iso3p:-2, miR-122-5p, and miR-192-5p. Our results indicate that miRNA plasma levels may be a useful biomarker of liver damage progression in HIV-1/HCV co-infected individuals that reach DAA-induced SVR.

Patient Navigation Increases Linkage to Care and Receipt of Direct-acting Antiviral Therapy in Patients with Hepatitis C

Patient navigation interventions can improve health outcomes in underserved, low-income, and racial and ethnic minority groups, who often experience health disparities. We examined the effectiveness of patient navigation to improve linkage to hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment receipt in a socioeconomically disadvantaged, racially diverse patient population. We performed a pre-post analysis evaluating the effectiveness of a patient navigation program among baby boomers who tested positive for HCV in a safety-net health system. The usual care group (June 2013 to May 2015) and patient navigation group (January 2016 to December 2017) were balanced using a stabilized inverse probability of treatment weighting approach. We used logistic regression analyses to evaluate associations between patient navigation and linkage to care for HCV treatment evaluation, treatment initiation, and sustained virologic response. Among 1353 patients (62% black, 61% uninsured, 16% homeless), 769 were in the usual care group, and 584 were in the patient navigation group. The patient navigation group had significantly higher odds of linkage to care (odds ratio [OR], 3.7; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.9-4.8) and treatment initiation (OR, 3.2; 95% CI, 2.3-4.2) within 6 months. The patient navigation group continued to have increased linkage to care (OR, 3.4; 95% CI, 2.7-4.3) and treatment initiation (OR 2.3; 95% CI, 1.7-3.0) at 12 months. However, there was no significant difference in sustained virologic response between the groups (86.9% vs 86.1%; P= .78). Patient navigation was associated with significantly increased linkage to care and treatment initiation among patients with HCV infection. Patient navigation programs can be used to promote HCV elimination among traditionally difficult-to-reach patient populations.

M2HepPrEP: study protocol for a multi-site multi-setting randomized controlled trial of integrated HIV prevention and HCV care for PWID

BackgroundOpioid use is escalating in North America and comes with a multitude of health consequences, including HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) outbreaks among persons who inject drugs (PWID). HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and HCV treatment regimens have transformative potential to address these co-occurring epidemics. Evaluation of innovative multi-modal approaches, integrating harm reduction, opioid agonist therapy (OAT), PrEP, and HCV treatment is required. The aim of this study is to assess the effectiveness of an on-site integrated care model where delivery of PrEP and HCV treatment for PWID takes places at syringe service programs (SSP) and OAT programs compared with referring PWID to clinical services in the community through a patient navigation model and to examine how structural factors interact with HIV prevention adherence and HCV treatment outcomes.MethodsThe Miami-Montreal Hepatitis C and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis trial (M2HepPrEP) is an open-label, multi-site, multi-center, randomized, controlled, superiority trial with two parallel treatment arms. A total of 500 persons who injected drugs in the prior 6 months and are eligible for PrEP will be recruited in OAT clinics and SSP in Miami, FL, and Montréal, Québec. Participants will be randomized to either on-site care, with adherence counseling, or referral to off-site clinics assisted by a patient navigator. PrEP will be offered to all participants and HCV treatment to those HCV-infected. Co-primary endpoints will be (1) adherence to pre-exposure prophylaxis medication at 6 months post-randomization and (2) HCV sustained virological response (SVR) 12 weeks post-treatment completion among participants who were randomized within the HCV stratum. Up to 100 participants will be invited to participate in a semi-structured interview regarding perceptions of adherence barriers and facilitators, after their 6-month assessment. A simulation model-based cost-effectiveness analysis will be performed to determine the comparative value of the strategies being evaluated.DiscussionThe results of this study have the potential to demonstrate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of offering PrEP and HCV treatment in healthcare venues frequently attended by PWID. Testing the intervention in two urban centers with high disease burden among PWID, but with different healthcare system dynamics, will increase generalizability of findings.Trial registrationClinicaltrials.gov NCT03981445. Trial registry name: Integrated HIV Prevention and HCV Care for PWID (M2HepPrEP). Registration date: June 10, 201.

Evolution of HCV associated porphyria cutanea tarda after HCV sustained virologic response by direct acting antivirals

Porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT) is common and usually associated with HCV chronic infection and HFE polymorphisms. Since DAA IFN-free regimens availability, SVR for HCV is nearly a constant and we wonder whether HCV SVR determine PCT evolution. Retrospective observational study including patients with HCV associated PCT from the Gastroenterology and Infectious Diseases Departments at our Hospital, treated with DAA (Apr/2015–Apr/2017). Clinical variables of PCT were collected at PCT diagnosis, after PCT treatment, before DAA use and after SVR achievement. UROD activity and C282Y/H63D polymorphisms were registered. SPSS 22.0. 13 HCV-PCT patients included: median age 52.5 years; 4 females; 8 HCV/HIV co-infected (all on undetectable viral load). Classical PCT factors: 12 smoked, 9 alcohol abuse, 6 former IDU. 10 type I PCT and 1 type II PCT. HFE polymorphism: 2 cases with C282Y/H63D; H63D polymorphism in 8. PCT manifestations resolved with PCT treatment in 4 patients, almost completely in 7 patients, 1 patient referred stabilization and one worsened. After DAA treatment all the residual lesions resolved, what always led to specific treatment interruption. Our series of cases of HCV-associated PCT shows that SVR after DAA treatment leads to PCT resolution. Porphyrin levels are not needed after ending PCT specific treatment interruption when there are no residual skin lesions in HCV-associated PCT. La porfiria cutánea tarda (PCT) es un trastorno frecuentemente asociado con la infección por VHC y los polimorfismos HFE. Desde la aparición de los AAD en regímenes libres de IFN, la RVS para el VHC es casi universal. Nos preguntamos si la RVS del VHC determina la evolución de la PCT asociada al VHC. Estudio observacional retrospectivo con pacientes con PCT asociada al VHC atendidos en Gastroenterología y Enfermedades Infecciosas en nuestro centro, tratados con AAD (abril 2015 - abril 2017). Se registra información relacionada con la PCT en el momento del diagnóstico, tras iniciar tratamiento para la PCT, antes de AAD y tras RVS. Analizamos la actividad UROD y los polimorfismos C282Y/H63D. SPSS 22.0. Se incluyen 13 pacientes con PCT asociada al VHC: edad mediana 52,5 años; 4 mujeres; 8 coinfectados VHC/VIH (todos con VIH indetectable). Factores asociados a PCT: 12 fumadores, 9 alcohol, 6 ADVP. Hubo 10 PCT clasificadas como tipo I y una PCT tipo II. HFE: 2 casos C282Y/H63D; H63D presente en 8. Tras iniciar tratamiento clásico para PCT los síntomas se resolvieron completamente en 4 casos, casi completamente en 7, se estabilizaron en un paciente y empeoraron en un paciente. Tras la RVS con AAD desaparecieron las lesiones residuales en los pacientes que las presentaban, lo que llevó a interrumpir todos los tratamientos para la PCT. Nuestra serie de casos de PCT asociada al VHC muestra que la RVS para el VHC tras AAD conduce siempre a la curación de la PCT. Según esto no sería necesaria la determinación de porfirinas tras finalizar la terapia específica para la PCT cuando no haya lesiones cutáneas residuales en la PCT asociada al VHC.

The impact of background liver disease on the long-term prognosis of very-early-stage HCC after ablation therapy

The long-term prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treated at a very-early-stage (the Barcelona Clinical Liver Cancer (BCLC) classification stage 0) was unclear, especially in terms of background liver disease. This single-center, retrospective study included 302 patients with BCLC stage 0 HCC treated with radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and followed for at least six months. We examined the impact of background liver disease on overall survival and recurrence. The median age was 72 (range; 36-91) years; the median tumor diameter was 15 (range; 8-20) mm. The etiologies of background liver disease were hepatitis B virus infection (HBV) in 24 cases, hepatitis C virus infection (HCV) in 195 cases, and non-viral (NBNC) in 83 cases. Among the patients with HCV, 63 had achieved sustained virological response (SVR) by antiviral therapy (HCV SVR) before developing HCC (n = 37) or after HCC treatment (n = 26), and 132 had active HCV infection (HCV non-SVR). The median overall survival was 85 (95% CI; 72-98) months, and the median recurrence-free survival was 26 (95% CI; 20-30) months. Active infection with hepatitis C virus negatively contributed to overall survival (HR 2.91, 95% CI 1.31-3.60, p = 0.003) and recurrence-free survival (HR 1.47, 95% CI 1.06-2.05, p = 0.011). The prognosis of RFA treatment for very early-stage HCC was favorable. Achieving SVR in hepatitis C was important for further prognosis improvement.

Occult HCV infection in liver transplanted patients: frequency and consequences.

Aim of the studyOccult hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection (OCI) is a potential source of relapse after liver transplantation with subsequent graft damage. The aim of the study was to detect OCI in patients with living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) who achieved sustained virological response (SVR) after sofosbuvir-based antiviral treatment, and to detect risk factors associated with the development of OCI as well as to determine the effect of direct acting antiviral (DAA) therapy after liver transplantation.Material and methods41 patients with living donor liver transplantation who did not receive DAAs before with recurrent HCV infection who achieved a SVR with sofosbuvir-based therapy for 12-24 weeks were recruited. These patients were tested for OCI by HCV-RNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNCs). Those patients with OCI were followed up every 6 months with alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and serum HCV-RNA by PCR for 2 years.Results92.7% of treated patients achieved HCV SVR 12 weeks. OCI was detected in 4 patients. After follow-up for 18 months, 3 patients continued to have OCI, but one patient presented with progressive elevation of liver enzymes and developed overt HCV infection with positive HCV-RNA PCR in the serum. This patient was retreated with sofosbuvir 400 mg + ledipasvir 90 mg for 12 weeks with resultant negative HCV-RNA PCR in both serum and PBMNCs in addition to normalization of liver enzymes.ConclusionsOccult HCV infection is a potential source of HCV relapse after liver transplantation which should be investigated for in PBMNCs or liver biopsy.

Shelter-Based Integrated Model Is Effective in Scaling Up Hepatitis C Testing and Treatment in Persons Experiencing Homelessness.

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) prevalence is high among people experiencing homelessness, but barriers to scaling up HCV testing and treatment persist. We aimed to implement onsite HCV testing and education and evaluate the effectiveness of low‐barrier linkage to HCV therapy among individuals accessing homeless shelters. HCV rapid testing was performed at four large shelters in San Francisco (SF) and Minneapolis (MN). Sociodemographic status, HCV risk, barriers to testing, and interest in therapy were captured. Participants received information about HCV. Those testing positive underwent formal HCV education and onsite therapy. Multivariable modeling assessed predictors of receipt of HCV therapy and sustained virologic response (SVR). A total of 766 clients were tested. Median age was 53.7 years, 68.2% were male participants, 46.3% were Black, 27.5% were White, 13.2% were Hispanic, and 57.7% had high school education or less; 162 (21.1%) were HCV antibody positive, 107 (66.0%) had detectable HCV RNA (82.1% with active drug use, 53.8% history of psychiatric illness), 66 (61.7%) received HCV therapy, and 81.8% achieved SVR. On multivariate analysis, shelter location (MN vs. SF, odds ratio [OR], 0.3; P = 0.01) and having a health care provider (OR, 4.1; P = 0.02) were associated with receipt of therapy. On intention to treat analysis, the only predictor of SVR when adjusted for age, sex, and race was HCV medication adherence (OR, 14.5; P = 0.01). Conclusion: Leveraging existing homeless shelter infrastructure was successful in enhancing HCV testing and treatment uptake. Despite high rates of active substance use, psychiatric illness, and suboptimal adherence, over 80% achieved HCV cure. This highlights the critical importance of integrated models in HCV elimination efforts in people experiencing homelessness that can be applied to other shelter settings.

Evolution of HCV associated porphyria cutanea tarda after HCV sustained virologic response by direct acting antivirals

ObjectivesPorphyria cutanea tarda (PCT) is common and usually associated with HCV chronic infection and HFE polymorphisms. Since DAA IFN-free regimens availability, SVR for HCV is nearly a constant and we wonder whether HCV SVR determine PCT evolution. MethodsRetrospective observational study including patients with HCV associated PCT from the Gastroenterology and Infectious Diseases Departments at our Hospital, treated with DAA (Apr/2015–Apr/2017). Clinical variables of PCT were collected at PCT diagnosis, after PCT treatment, before DAA use and after SVR achievement. UROD activity and C282Y/H63D polymorphisms were registered. SPSS 22.0. Results13 HCV-PCT patients included: median age 52.5 years; 4 females; 8 HCV/HIV co-infected (all on undetectable viral load). Classical PCT factors: 12 smoked, 9 alcohol abuse, 6 former IDU. 10 type I PCT and 1 type II PCT. HFE polymorphism: 2 cases with C282Y/H63D; H63D polymorphism in 8. PCT manifestations resolved with PCT treatment in 4 patients, almost completely in 7 patients, 1 patient referred stabilization and one worsened. After DAA treatment all the residual lesions resolved, what always led to specific treatment interruption. ConclusionsOur series of cases of HCV-associated PCT shows that SVR after DAA treatment leads to PCT resolution. Porphyrin levels are not needed after ending PCT specific treatment interruption when there are no residual skin lesions in HCV-associated PCT.

The Impact of Treatment Delay on Hepatitis C Liver Transplant Outcomes

Background: Direct-acting antivirals for the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) have improved outcomes in liver transplant recipients (LTRs). However, the timing of HCV treatment and approach to treating rejection have not been well described. Additionally, pharmacists’ roles in these comprehensive areas have not been investigated. Methods: This single-center, retrospective, cohort review compared 1-year graft and patient survival between HCV-positive and HCV-negative LTRs. Secondary endpoints included 1-year rejection rates, HCV sustained virologic response and time to HCV treatment. Results: Ninety-two HCV Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAT)-positive LTRs were matched 1:1 to HCV-seronegative LTRs. One-year graft and patient survival were similar between groups. HCV-positive LTRs were more likely to experience biopsy-proven acute rejection (BPAR), and despite treatment with pulse steroids, there was no impact on graft survival or occurrence of fibrosing cholestatic hepatitis (FCH). Time to HCV treatment was 5.4–6.4 months post-transplant, with no treatment failures or impact on graft or patient survival. Conclusions: No difference was seen in graft survival at 1 year between HCV-positive and HCV-seronegative LTRs. Delayed time to treatment of HCV and treatment of rejections in the HCV-positive cohort did not impact outcomes. However, pharmacist-driven protocols could ensure more efficient initiation of HCV treatment in the future.

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Studies Evaluating the Effect of Medication Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder on Infectious Disease Outcomes.

The opioid epidemic has fueled infectious disease epidemics. We determined the impact of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) on treatment outcomes of opioid use disorder (OUD)-associated infectious diseases: antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) viral suppression, hepatitis C virus (HCV) sustained virologic response, HCV reinfection, new hepatitis B virus infections, and infectious endocarditis-related outcomes. Manuscripts reporting on these infectious disease outcomes in adults with OUD receiving MOUD compared with those with OUD “not” receiving MOUD were included. Initial search yielded 8169 papers; 9 were included in the final review. The meta-analysis revealed that MOUD was associated with greater ART adherence (odds ratio [OR] = 1.55; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.12–2.15) and HIV viral suppression (OR = 2.19; 95% CI = 1.88–2.56). One study suggested a positive association between MOUD and HCV sustained virologic response. There is significant support for integrating MOUD with HIV treatment to improve viral suppression among persons with HIV (PWH) and OUD. Treatment of OUD among PWH should be a priority to combat the opioid and HIV epidemics.

Hematological and Genetic Markers in the Rational Approach to Patients With HCV Sustained Virological Response With or Without Persisting Cryoglobulinemic Vasculitis.

Background and AimsDirect‐acting antivirals (DAAs) usually lead to improvement/remission of cryoglobulinemic vasculitis (CV), although symptoms may persist/recur after a sustained virological response (SVR). We evaluated hematological and genetic markers in patients with HCV‐SVR vasculitis with and without persisting/recurring symptoms to early predict the CV outcome.Approach and ResultsNinety‐eight patients with HCV‐CV were prospectively enrolled after a DAA‐induced SVR: Group A: 52 with complete clinical response; Group B: 46 with symptom maintenance/recurrence. Monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis, t(14;18) translocation, and abnormal free light chains κ/λ ratios were detected by flow cytometry or nested‐PCR or nephelometry in 4% Group A versus 17% Group B (P = 0.04) patients, 17% Group A versus 40% Group B patients (P = 0.02), and 17% Group A versus 47% Group B (P = 0.003) patients, respectively. At least 1 out of 3 clonality markers was altered/positive in 29% of Group A versus 70% of Group B patients (P < 0.0001). When available, pretherapy samples were also tested for t(14;18) translocation (detected in 12/37 [32%] Group A and 21/38 [55%] Group B) and κ/λ ratios (abnormal in 5/35 [14%] Group A and 20/38 [53%] Group B) (P = 0.0006), whereas at least one clonality marker was detected/altered in 16/37 (43%) Group A and 30/38 (79%) Group B (P = 0.002). CV‐associated single‐nucleotide polymorphisms were tested by real‐time PCR. Among them, notch4 rs2071286 T minor allele and TT genotype showed a higher frequency in Group B versus Group A (46% vs. 29%, P = 0.01, and 17% vs. 2%, P = 0.006, respectively).ConclusionsHematological or genetic analyses could be used to foresee the CV clinical response after DAA therapy and could be valuable to assess a rational flowchart to manage CV during follow‐up.

Transmitted Donor Immunology Not Infection: Common Persistence of Donor Hepatitis C Antibody Production in Aviremic Lung Transplant Recipients

Since 2018 The American Society of Transplant has recommended that Hepatitis C Virus seropositive positive, non-viremic donors (HCVAb+/NAT-) be considered non-infectious and safe for transplantation. This report describes clinical outcomes and HCV serological and virological outcomes following lung transplantation (LTx) utilizing such donors. This retrospective cohort study describes seven HCVAb+/NAT- donors used for bilateral LTx. Donor information was sourced from the national organ donation service and recipient information from the institutional LTx database. Seven deceased donors (three female, median age 53, range 37-63 years) acquired HCV from injecting drug use (n=4), blood products (n=1), unknown (n=1). Four donors had been previously treated and cleared of HCV (sustained virological response at 24 weeks) before death. Seven recipients (2 female, median age 56, range 51-71 years), with pulmonary fibrosis (n=4), re-do LTx (n=3), were waitlisted a median of 87 days (range 8-362). At post-LTx follow up, six of seven are alive with excellent graft function at a median 1625 days (range 779-2582). No patient developed clinical, biochemical or virological evidence of HCV infection, however five recipients demonstrated persistent HCVAb+ (all consistently NAT-) for a median 414 days (range 332-872) post-LTx. Two patients HCVAb sero-reverted at d731 and d1461. Two other recipients remained HCVAb- at d1621 and d1398 on repeat testing. There was no evidence of HCV transmission to seven LTx recipients from HCVAb+/NAT- life-saving lung donors, however persistent HCV Ab positivity was seen in 5 LTx recipients with two demonstrating remote sero-reversion. We postulate this may be a form of Passenger Lymphocyte Syndrome.

Barriers to linkage to care in hepatitis C patients with substance use disorders and dual diagnoses, despite centralized management.

Background:Hepatitis C virus (HCV) management is a challenge in patients with substance use disorder (SUD). This study aimed to describe an HCV screening and linkage to care program in SUD patients, and analyze the characteristics of this population in relation to HCV infection, particularly the impact of psychiatric comorbidities (dual diagnosis).Methods:This study was a prospective clinical cohort study using a collaborative, multidisciplinary model to offer HCV care (screening, diagnosis, and therapy) to individuals with SUD attending a dedicated hospital clinic. The characteristics of the participants, prevalence of HCV infection, percentage who started therapy, and adherence to treatment were compared according to the patients’ consumption characteristics and presence of dual diagnosis. HCV screening, diagnosis, treatment initiation, and sustained virologic response were analyzed.Results:528 individuals attended the center (November 2018–June 2019) and 401 (76%) accepted screening. In total, 112 (28%) were anti-HCV-positive and 42 (10%) had detectable HCV RNA, but only 20 of the latter started HCV therapy. Among the 253 (63%) patients with a dual diagnosis, there were no differences in HCV infection prevalence versus patients with SUD alone (p = 0.28). Dual diagnosis did not lead to a higher risk of HCV infection or interfere with linkage to care or treatment.Conclusion:This study found a high prevalence of dual diagnosis and HCV infection in SUD patients, but dual diagnosis was not associated with an increased risk of acquiring HCV or more complex access to care. Despite use of a multidisciplinary management approach, considerable barriers to HCV care remain in this population that would need more specific focus.