Negative Hepatitis Research Articles

HBcrAg is associated with prognosis of hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma in patients after hepatectomy undergoing antiviral therapy.

Serum hepatitis B core-related antigen (HBcrAg) is considered a surrogate marker of the amount and activity of intrahepatic covalently closed circular DNA. This study aimed to explore the prognostic value of HBcrAg on patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after curative hepatectomy undergoing antiviral therapy (AVT). Data of 949 consecutive patients with HBV-related HCC undergoing curative resection between 2010 and 2013 were reviewed. Serum HBcrAg levels were measured at surgery (baseline) for all patients and at the time of 2 years postoperatively (on-treatment) for those without recurrence. Primary endpoint was tumor recurrence. High HBcrAg levels are associated with malignant phenotypes. HBcrAg independently affected both recurrence and overall survival (OS) in patients with negative hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg-, p = .007 and p = .042, respectively) but not in their positive HBeAg (HBeAg+) counterparts (p = .100 and p = .075, respectively). Patients with high baseline HBcrAg had higher late, but not early recurrence rates than those with low baseline HBcrAg levels, regardless of HBeAg status (HBeAg+: p = .307 for early, p = .001 for late; HBeAg-: p = .937 for early, p < .001 for late). On-treatment HBcrAg independently affected late recurrence in patients stratified by both cirrhosis and HBeAg (p < .001 for all). The predictive power of HBcrAg kinetics for late recurrence was better than that of the baseline and on-treatment HBcrAg. High HBcrAg levels during long-term AVT are associated with late recurrence of HCC after hepatectomy. Combining baseline and on-treatment HBcrAg might be valuable in identifying patients at a high risk of relapse and stratifying surveillance strategies postoperatively.

A case of complete response to radiotherapy combined with durvalumab and tremelimumab in a patient with unknown primary hepatocellular carcinoma arising in the lumbar spine.

A 58-year-old man visited an orthopedic clinic complaining of pain in his right lower back and numbness in his lower limbs for one month. Imaging tests revealed a tumorous lesion from the left side of the second lumbar vertebra to the paraspinal muscles. CT-guided biopsy of the tumor was performed, and immunostaining results diagnosed hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Although the liver showed signs of chronic liver damage, no primary tumor was found within the liver or in other organs. Blood tests showed negative hepatitis virus markers for both HBV and HCV. The tumor markers AFP, AFP-L3, and DCP were high. Because he developed spinal cord compression syndrome due to a lumbar tumor, radiation therapy and denosumab administration were performed. Subsequently, systemic therapy with durvalumab plus tremelimumab was started. In the year following the start of treatment, the tumor has shrunk, and no new lesions have been observed. Tumor markers have also decreased. We have experienced a case of HCC in the lumbar spine without a primary tumor in the liver. This is a very rare case, and the combination therapy with durvalumab and tremelimumab resulted in a complete response, which we consider to be a valuable case.

Incidence of Occult Hepatitis B Infection (OBI) and hepatitis B genotype characterization among blood donors in Cameroon.

Occult hepatitis B infection (OBI) is characterized by the presence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA at low levels in serum (<200 IU/mL) with a negative hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) test. OBI remains a major challenge to blood safety, particularly in HBV-endemic regions like Cameroon, where HBV detection relies solely on HBsAg testing. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the actual incidence and genotype characteristics of OBI in Cameroonian blood donors. Between March and June 2023, samples were collected from 288 HBsAg-negative blood donors aged 18 to 55 years and analysed for antibodies against the HBV core (anti-HBc) and surface antigens (anti-HBs). Following DNA extraction from the serum samples, qualitative nested PCR and quantitative real-time PCR were used to detect HBV viral DNA and viral load respectively. For positive samples, sequencing of a fragment of the S gene was performed to identify the circulating HBV genotypes. The findings revealed that 58% (n = 167/288) of blood donors tested positive for anti-HBc, 29% (n = 83/288) tested positive for anti-HBs, and 26% (n = 75/288) being positive for both anti-HBc and anti-HBs. Occult hepatitis was confirmed in 4.5% of the blood donors, all of whom belonged to either HBV genotypes A or E, which are predominant in Cameroon. The amino acid substitution sA184V associated with HBsAg detection failure in genotype E was observed in 70% of OBI sequences, and the HBsAg immune escape variants (sT131N and sS143L) implicated in OBI were also observed. The mutation rtN139K in the reverse transcriptase (RT) domain of the overlapping HBV polymerase (P) gene was present in 17% of OBI-positive sequences of genotype E, likely contributing to masking HBsAg secretion. The results suggest a considerable risk of transfusion-transmitted HBV in this region. Therefore, to ensure blood safety, nucleic acid testing (NAT) is recommended, as relying solely on HBsAg assays is insufficient to eliminate this risk.

6980 A Case Report Of Severe Hypercalcemia In Acute Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis

Abstract Disclosure: M.M. Eid: None. R.M. Sargis: None. Introduction: Hypercalcemia in advanced liver disease in the absence of malignancy is a rare condition. Case: A 26 year old female with history of liver cirrhosis secondary to alcohol use disorder, presented with hematemesis and ascites. She was diagnosed with acute decompensated liver cell failure and transferred to our facility for liver transplantation. On Day 10 of her hospital course, she had an acute rise in serum calcium (Ca) to 10.8 mg/dl (N 8.7-10.5),albumin (Alb) 2.6 g/dl, corrected calcium (CCa) 11.9mg/dl. On day 13 Ca peaked to 13.5 mg/dl, CCa 14 mg/dl, ionized Ca 6.5mg/dl (N 4.2-5.4 mg/dl). Serum Ca was normal on day 9, Ca 8.7mg/dl, Alb 2.5 g/dl and CCa 9.9 mg/dl. She was not taking lithium, vitamin A or antacid. No personal or family history of bone disorder, fracture or kidney stone. On exam, blood pressure 85/45, heart rate 110 bpm, jaundiced with abdominal distension and respiratory distress. Labs: hemoglobin 8.1 g/dl, WBC 32.5K/Ul, platelet 136 K/Ul, serum creatinine 1.82 mg/dl, Na 133 mmol/l, K 3.5 mmol/l, Total/Direct bilirubin 29.9/18.1 mg/dl, alkaline phosphatase 166 U/L, AST/ALT 60/42U/l, Mag 2.3 mg/dl, Phos 5 mg/dl, INR 3, PTT 50 sec, parathyroid hormone (PTH) 12 pg/ml (N12-88), TSH 1.02 mciu/ml (N 0.34-4), 25 hydroxy vitamin D 17 ng/ml (N 20-80), parathyroid related peptide (PTHrP) 3.9 pmol/l (N&amp;lt;3.4), 1,25 di-hydroxy vitamin D 9.8 pg/ml (N 19.9-79.3), alpha fetoprotein 9.1 ng/ml (N &amp;lt;9). Normal anti smooth muscle and anti mitochondrial antibodies. Negative viral hepatitis serology. CT abdomen did not reveal hepatobiliary mass or tumor nor kidney stone. She was intubated and mechanically ventilated. Vasopressor support was initiated. One dose of calcitonin 4 units/kg and zoledronic acid 4 mg were given. Serum Ca decreased to 12 mg/dl, CCa 12.6 mg/dL then to 10.2 mg/dl, CCa 11mg/dl within hrs. Calcium normalized to 8.4mg/dl, CCa 9.2 mg/dl, ionized Ca 4.3 mg/dl within 24 hrs. Her condition deteriorated and withdrawal of care was decided. Conclusion: Our case demonstrates non PTH and non vitamin D mediated severe hypercalcemia in setting of acute decompensated cirrhosis and absence of malignancy. Previous literature has noted poor prognosis of hypercalcemia with acute decompensated cirrhosis. While hypercalcemia in cirrhosis may arise from paraneoplastic processes, in absence of malignancy it is speculated that acute hypercalcemia may arise from the inflammatory mediators inducing osteoclastic bone resorption as osteoclast activating factor, prostaglandin and immobilization. Some reports found an association between hypercalcemia and elevations in bilirubin and creatinine(1). Further research is needed to understand the pathophysiology and the management of hypercalcemia in acute decompensated cirrhosis.

Potential Association between Shift Work and Serologic Response to Hepatitis B Vaccination among Manufacturing Workers in Republic of Korea.

(1) Background: Shift work can affect physical health and the immune system by altering the body's circadian rhythms. This study investigated the factors associated with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination response in manufacturing workers, classified by whether they engaged in shift work or not. (2) Methods: This retrospective observational study was conducted among adults employed at two manufacturing companies. Those with negative initial hepatitis B surface antibody (HBsAb) levels before vaccination and who subsequently received a three-dose series of HBV vaccine were enrolled. Hepatitis B surface antibodies were examined for 3 years after the first dose. The endpoint of this study was the failure of a seroprotective anti-HB response after vaccination (HBsAb < 10 mIU/mL). Binary logistic regression models were used to analyze factors associated with response failures. (3) Results: Of the 1103 eligible subjects, 337 (30.6%) were shift workers. The failure rate was numerically higher in the shift workers (9.2%) than in the non-shift workers (7.9%), without statistical significance (p = 0.405). However, after adjustment with the binary logistic regression models, the shift workers had a statistically significantly higher rate of response failures than the non-shift workers (odds ratio 2.87; 95% confidence interval 1.64-5.05, p < 0.001), as did males, older workers, those with a low initial anti-HB titer, those with a vitamin D deficiency, and current smokers. (4) Conclusions: Our findings suggest a possible association between shift work and the serologic responses to HBV vaccination. Novel strategies for vaccination should be considered for shift workers.

De novo hepatitis B in a patient with negative hepatitis B core antibody and high normal range hepatitis B surface antibody treated with R-CHOP therapy for Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

De novo hepatitis B in a patient with negative hepatitis B core antibody and high normal range hepatitis B surface antibody treated with R-CHOP therapy for Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

Association between Vitamin D Deficiency and Serologic Response to Hepatitis B Virus Vaccination among Heavy Industry Workers.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination has decreased the overall incidence of HBV infection; however, approximately 5 to 10% of people are non-responders to the vaccination. This study investigated the factors associated with non-response to HBV vaccination, with an emphasis on vitamin D deficiency (VDD). This retrospective observational study focused on adult workers in a single heavy industry. Individuals with negative initial hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs) levels prior to vaccination and who then received a two- or three-dose series of HBV vaccinations were enrolled. The study endpoint was failure to achieve a seroprotective antibody response, defined as an anti-HBs titer less than 10 mIU/mL. Propensity score matching (PSM) and binary logistic regression models were used to adjust the outcomes for other clinical characteristics. Among 760 workers, 566 (74.5%) exhibited VDD. The non-response rates to HBV vaccination were 13.4% (76/566) and 5.7% (11/194) among workers with and without VDD, respectively (p = 0.005). Even after adjustment using PSM, VDD was still associated with a higher rate of response failure (adjusted odds ratio 2.74; 95% confidence interval 1.40-5.38, p = 0.003). The binary logistic regression model showed that VDD, older age, omission of the third vaccine dose, lower initial anti-HBs titer, and current smoking were associated with response failure. Our study suggests that VDD may impair the serologic response following HBV vaccination. Further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of vitamin D supplementation in increasing the response to HBV vaccination.

Functional Outcomes of Subtrochanteric Femur Fracture Fixed with Dynamic Condylar Screw

Abstract: Background: Orthopedic surgeons find it most difficult to manage subtrochanteric femur fractures because of its notorious location, where difficulties might arise. Various techniques, including intramedullary and extramedullary implant stabilization have been tried with varying level of success. Objective: Our study aimed to assess the functional results of dynamic condylar screws in sub trochanteric femur fractures in order to aid the underprivileged masses in our area. Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted in Akbar Medical Center Dabgari Garden Peshawar, Pakistan from September, 2018 to August, 2022. All patients of either gender having age above 20 years with proximal femoral fracture without concomitant fracture, with negative hepatitis profile and no diabetes were managed using a dynamic condylar screw. Functional outcome of the surgery was evaluated using Harris Hip Score. Result: There were total 88 patients in the study with male to female ratio of 3:1 having mean age of 33.96±9.63. Postoperative functional outcome in terms of Harris hips score range from 64 to 94 with a mean of 83.87 ±7.27 SD. Excellent functional outcome were observed in 14.8% patients, good results in 64.8% patients, fair outcomes in 11.4% and poor outcome were observed in 9.1% patients. Conclusion: DCS results are excellent and good functional outcome in majority of patients. Therefore, it can be used as a good alternative to other intra and extramedullary implants fixation. Keywords: Dynamic condylar screw, Femur, Fractures, Harris hip scores, Subtrochanteric, Medullary devices.

Prevalence of occult hepatitis B infection among treatment-naive persons living with HIV in Ghana.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) constitutes a significant global health challenge, with more than 2 billion people infected globally and almost 291 million chronic cases. In Africa, coinfection of HBV with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is high, yet the condition remains overlooked in many countries. While antiretroviral therapy (ART) has improved HIV survival, viral hepatitis continues to contribute to morbidity and mortality. Occult Hepatitis B infection (OBI), characterized by a low-level of HBV DNA in individuals with negative hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), is an emerging concern among HIV seropositive individuals due to the risk of HBV reactivation and associated complications, especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Ghana has an estimated HBV/HIV coinfection prevalence of 13.6% making it important to also determine potential cases of OBI. This study aims to assess OBI prevalence in persons living with HIV (PLHIV). A cross-sectional study was conducted in five health facilities in the Cape Coast Metropolis. HBV-related serological markers were determined among 116 PLHIV using the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) method. HBV DNA was extracted from 30 participants found to be HBsAg negative but positive for hepatitis B core antibody (HBcAb+). Nested PCR was employed in detecting HBV DNA and HBV viral load was performed using qPCR. The median age of the participants was 37 years (IQR 22-65). Serologically, 7.8% (n = 9, 95% CI: 3.5-22.7), 12.1% (n = 14), and 25.9% (n = 30) tested positive for solely HBsAg, HBsAb, and HBcAb respectively. OBI prevalence among HBsAg-/HBcAb+ participants was 16.7% (n = 5, 95% CI: 6.5-23.7) with a median HBV DNA level of 139.2 IU/ml (IQR, 96.7-142.0). The prevalence of OBI among HIV-positive participants in the Cape Coast Metropolis highlights the need to consider screening for HBV among HIV patients using nucleic acid amplification tests. This can inform medical management and reduce the risk of liver complications, including HCC.

LBP-005 Efficacy, safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity of JNJ-0535 following a reduction of viral antigen levels through administration of siRNA JNJ-3989 in patients with chronic HBeAg negative hepatitis B-interim data of the OSPREY study

LBP-005 Efficacy, safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity of JNJ-0535 following a reduction of viral antigen levels through administration of siRNA JNJ-3989 in patients with chronic HBeAg negative hepatitis B-interim data of the OSPREY study

The significance of detecting HBV pgRNA and HBcrAg in HBV patients treated with NAs.

The value of detecting hepatitis B virus (HBV), pregenomic RNA (pgRNA), and hepatitis B core-related antigen (HBcrAg), both separately and jointly, in the management of HBV patients undergoing treatment with Nucleotide Analog was investigated. A total of 149 HBV patients who were being treated with Nucleotide Analog were enrolled in this study. The quantitative levels of HBV pgRNA and HBcrAg in the sera of these patients were determined, aiming to comprehend their replication levels and expression during the course of antiviral therapy. The patients were separated into 3 groups based on treatment duration: treatment time ≤ 12 months, treatment time ranging from 12 months to <60 months, and treatment time ≥ 60 months. Significantly different levels of HBcrAg and HBV pgRNA were observed among 3 groups (P < .05). In the group of patients with positive hepatitis B e antigen, both HBcrAg and pgRNA levels were higher compared to the group with negative hepatitis B e antigen, and this difference between the 2 groups was found to be statistically significant. Stratified analysis based on levels of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) revealed that the group with HBsAg levels < 100 IU/mL had lower levels of both HBcrAg and pgRNA compared to the group with HBsAg levels ≥ 100 IU/mL (P < .001). Following antiviral therapy, various degrees of transcription of covalently closed circular DNA continue to exist within the liver of HBV patients. The levels of serum HBcrAg and HBV pgRNA vary among patients with different treatment durations, indicating their efficacy in evaluating disease conditions during antiviral therapy.

Metastatic gastric cancer in a 23- year-old female Zambian diagnosed posthumously: A case report

Introduction: Gastric cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer mortality globally and in Zambia, its exact burden is unknown. Here, we present a case of gastric cancer in a young adult that was diagnosed posthumously.&#x0D; Clinical details: A 23-year-old female patient was referred to the largest tertiary care institution in Zambia, the University Teaching Hospital (UTH). She had been followed up at a district hospital. The patient had a three months’ history of ill-health with symptoms of anaemia, abdominal pain and distension. Upon arrival at UTH, she was noted to be very frail, with pallor, tachycardia and gross abdominal distension and a nodular irregular liver, measuring 10cm below the costal margin. A digital rectal examination revealed the presence of melena. She had no jaundice, lymphadenopathy or finger clubbing but had bilateral pedal oedema. A provisional diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma complicated by upper gastrointestinal bleeding was made. Subsequent investigations revealed normal alpha fetoprotein, a Transient Elastography value of 75kPa and negative hepatitis B and C serology. Computerised tomography scan showed multiple liver masses with ascites. The patient continued to deteriorate despite supportive management and died on day 10 of admission. A post mortem was done which revealed a primary gastric adenocarcinoma with metastasis to the liver, lungs and pancreas.&#x0D; Conclusion: This is an example of a case of gastric cancer that was not detected while the patient was alive. It illustrates how cases of gastric cancer would be missed by the Zambia National Cancer Registry recording system.

Comparison of Glecaprevir/Pibrentasvir and Sofosbuvir/Ledipasvir in Patients with Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 1 and 2 in South Korea.

This study compared the effectiveness and safety of glecaprevir/pibrentasvir (GLE/PIB) and sofosbuvir/ledipasvir (SOF/LDV) in real-life clinical practice. The data from genotype 1 or 2 chronic hepatitis C patients treated with GLE/PIB or sofosbuvir + ribavirin or SOF/LDV in South Korea were collected retrospectively. The analysis included the treatment completion rate, sustained virologic response at 12 weeks (SVR12) test rate, treatment effectiveness, and adverse events. Seven hundred and eighty-two patients with genotype 1 or 2 chronic hepatitis C who were treated with GLE/PIB (n=575) or SOF/LDV (n=207) were included in this retrospective study. The baseline demographic and clinical characteristics revealed significant statistical differences in age, genotype, ascites, liver cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma between the GLE/PIB and SOF/LDV groups. Twenty-two patients did not complete the treatment protocol. The treatment completion rate was high for both regimens without statistical significance (97.7% vs. 95.7%, p=0.08). The overall SVR12 of intention-to-treat analysis was 81.2% vs. 80.7% without statistical significance (p=0.87). The overall SVR12 of per protocol analysis was 98.7% vs. 100% without statistical significance (p=0.14). Six patients treated with GLE/PIB experienced treatment failure. They were all male, genotype 2, and showed a negative hepatitis C virus RNA level at the end of treatment. Two patients treated with GLE/PIB stopped medication because of fever and abdominal discomfort. Both regimens had similar treatment completion rates, effectiveness, and safety profiles. Therefore, the SOF/LDV regimen can also be considered a viable DAA for the treatment of patients with genotype 1 or 2 chronic hepatitis C.

Impact of preoperative antiviral therapy on the prognosis of hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma

BackgroundFor chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection patients, increasing evidence has demonstrated the effectiveness of expanding the indications and applicable population for antiviral therapy. However, the expanded indication of antiviral therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains to be further explored.Methods196 HBV-related HCC patients who received radical hepatectomy and nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs) therapy at Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital were enrolled in this study. HCC recurrence, overall survival (OS), early virological (VR) and biochemical responses (BR) of patients were compared between different NAs therapy and the use of anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) therapy.ResultsNAs therapy at different timing of surgery was a strong independent risk factor for postoperative recurrence and overall mortality of HBV-related HCC patients. Furthermore, in HCC patients who received postoperative anti-PD-1 therapy, patients with HBV DNA < 1000 copy/mL had significantly better recurrence-free survival (RFS) and OS than those with HBV DNA ≥ 1000 copy/mL (HR: 7.783; P = 0.002; HR: 6.699; P < 0.001). However, the differences of RFS and OS rates between entecavir group and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate group were not statistically significant. Similar results were also observed in the rates of early VR, BR and combined VR and BR.ConclusionTimely and reasonable preoperative NAs therapy showed clinical benefit in improving the prognosis of patients with HBV-related HCC, even in the case of normal alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level and negative hepatitis e antigen (HBeAg). Furthermore, a possible synergistic effect between antiviral therapy and anti-PD-1 therapy was founded and need further verification.

Seroprevalence and risk factor relationship of hepatitis B core antibody among blood donors in Cañete, Peru

Abstract BACKGROUND: Hepatitis B virus is a global public health problem. There has been a growing interest in blood donors with a hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc) reactive and negative hepatitis B surface antigen as a marker for occult hepatitis B infection. The aim was to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors related to anti-HBc in blood donors at the Rezola Hospital in Cañete in 2019. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study and sample size were 186 blood donors’ formats. The dependent variable was reactive anti-HBc, and the independent was sex, marital status, and age categories. Bivariate analysis included the Chi-square test, considered statistically significant at P&lt;0.05. In addition, a general linear model was used to estimate prevalence ratios in crude analysis to assess factors associated with the outcome. RESULTS: A total of 202 blood donors were included in the study, and seroprevalence of anti-HBc in our study was 13.37% (n = 27), where 25 (92.59%) were male. A relationship was found between the variable’s age categories, marital status, and anti-HBc (P &lt; 0.05). Seroprevalence of anti-HBc in men is 3.48 times compared to women (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.85–14.13; P = 0.081) and people older than 50 years was 4.45 times concerning the group of 18–29 years (95% CI, 1.17–16.87; P = 0.028) adjusted by sex and marital status. CONCLUSIONS: Seroprevalence in the Rezola Hospital is relatively low and is related to people over 50 years of age and married/cohabiting marital status.

High immunocompetence in chronic hepatitis patients with normal alanine transaminase levels and and negative hepatitis B e-antigen for the progression of liver fibrosis.

This study aimed to investigate the role of immunocompetence in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients with normal alanine transaminase (ALT) levels and negative hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) in the risk assessments of the progression of liver fibrosis. We collected the clinical data of 57 patients with CHB, with normal ALT levels and negative HBeAg from December 2020 to December 2022. With hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA > 20 IU/mL and ALT ≤ 40 U/L, these patients had never undergone antiviral therapy. The levels of CD4+ , CD4+ CD25+ , CD8+ , and CD4+ CD25+ CD127LOW regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the patients were detected using flow cytometry; the liver stiffness measurement (LSM) values of the patients were detected using Fibroscan. There was a statistically significant difference between the levels of fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) when the cutoff point was HBsAg ≥ 1500 (p < .001). FIB-4 was negatively correlated with HBsAg (R = -0.291, p = .028) and positively correlated with age (R = 0.787, p < .001). LSM was negatively correlated with Treg but this correlation was not statistically significant (p > .05). Findings based on the analysis using logistic regression were as follows: (i) age was the independent risk factor when FIB-4 was used as the indicator for assessing liver fibrosis; (ii) Treg was the independent risk factor when LSM was used as the indicator for assessing liver fibrosis. When Treg was used to predict liver fibrosis, the cutoff value, diagnostic efficacy, area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, and p value of the ROC curve were 6.875, 0.641, 0.84, and .027, respectively. Age and Treg are independent risk factors for progressive liver fibrosis. The cutoff value of Treg > 6.81 indicates the need for timely antiviral treatment and can serve as an indicator for evaluating liver fibrosis.

Nonviral Liver Disease Burden in People Living With HIV and Elevated Transaminases: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Because of improved life expectancy in people living with HIV (PLWH), liver disease is increasingly being recognized. We assessed nonviral chronic liver disease burden in PLWH. The HIV non-virAL liver disease study (2014-2021) prospectively recruited PLWH with elevated serum alanine aminotransferase levels and negative hepatitis serology. Clinically significant hepatic fibrosis (CSHF) was defined as liver stiffness measurement of >7.1 kPa and hazardous alcohol use as Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test score ≥ 8. Primary outcome was prevalence/predictors of CSHF. Total recruited were n = 274, 92% male, median age 52 (45-59) years, and 96% having undetectable HIV viral load. Overall, n = 97 (35%) had hazardous alcohol use, n = 72 (26%) had metabolic syndrome, and 17%-27% had exposure to hepatotoxic antiretrovirals. Prevalence of CSHF was 20% (n = 54), prevalence of cirrhosis (liver stiffness measurement > 12.5 kPa) being 7% (19/274). Risk factors for CSHF were hazardous alcohol use in 44% (n = 24), metabolic syndrome in 46% (n = 25), and hepatotoxic antiretrovirals in 56% (n = 30), most having more than one risk factor. Independent predictors of CSHF were serum high-density lipoprotein (odds ratio [OR] 0.220; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.061 to 0.790, P = 0.020) (inverse relationship); serum aspartate aminotransferase (OR 1.033, 95% CI: 1.001 to 1.067, P = 0.045), and didanosine use (OR 2.878, 95% CI: 1.228 to 6.774, P = 0.015). Moderate-severe hepatic steatosis was identified in 52% (n = 142). FIB-4 and aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index performed poorly in predicting CSHF (positive predictive value 27.3% and 30.6%, respectively) and advanced fibrosis (≥F3) (positive predictive value 17.6% and 5.9%, respectively). In this study, 20% of PLWH had CSHF associated with high prevalence of hazardous alcohol use/metabolic syndrome/potentially hepatotoxic antiretrovirals. These potentially modifiable risk factors need addressing.

Double fatal consequences of distance metastasis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma after a completed chemoradiation in pregnancy: A case report.

Distant metastasis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients is one of the reasons for the decreased life expectancy with the most common metastasis spreads are to the bone, liver, and lung. Hepatoma is the most frequent liver malignancy and is one of the highest causes of cancer death worldwide and this can be as a result of NPC metastasis. The aim of this case report was to present a patient with hepatoma in pregnancy as a result of NPC metastasis. A 34-year-old pregnant female at 24-25 weeks of gestation presented with a chief complaint of heartburn and unbearable pain radiating to the back. Previous medical history reported that the patient had a liver enlargement. The patient was G4P2A1 with a single living intrauterine fetus and active fetal movements. The patient has a history of NPC and received a completed chemoradiation one month prior to hospital admission. Physical examination showed bilateral rales and palpable diffuse multiple nodule masses in the upper right abdominal quadrant. Laboratory examination revealed anemia, thrombocytopenia, negative hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), and elevated liver markers. Abdominal ultrasonography results showed multiple diffuse nodules in the liver. The patient was diagnosed with a metastatic hepatoma based on the clinical and imaging findings. During hospitalization, the patient repeatedly experienced pleural effusion with suspicion metastases. A few days later, the fetal movements stopped and the ultrasonography indicated negative fetal heart rate. After experiencing respiratory distress for hours, the patient expired the day after. This case highlights that due to the potential adverse effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, the initiation of these therapies should be carefully decided to avoid adverse effects to mother and fetus.

Evaluation of a person-centred, nurse-led model of care delivering hepatitis C testing and treatment in priority settings: a mixed-methods evaluation of the Tasmanian Eliminate Hepatitis C Australia Outreach Project, 2020–2022

IntroductionAustralia has experienced sustained reductions in hepatitis C testing and treatment and may miss its 2030 elimination targets. Addressing gaps in community-based hepatitis C prescribing in priority settings that did not have, or did not prioritise, hepatitis C testing and treatment care pathways is critical.MethodsThe Tasmanian Eliminate Hepatitis C Australia Outreach Project delivered a nurse-led outreach model of care servicing hepatitis C priority populations in the community through the Tasmanian Statewide Sexual Health Service, supported by the Eliminating Hepatitis C Australia partnership. Settings included alcohol and other drug services, needle and syringe programs and mental health services. The project provided clients with clinical care across the hepatitis C cascade of care, including testing, treatment, and post-treatment support and hepatitis C education for staff.ResultsBetween July 2020 and July 2022, a total of 43 sites were visited by one Clinical Nurse Consultant. There was a total of 695 interactions with clients across 219 days of service delivery by the Clinical Nurse Consultant. A total of 383 clients were tested for hepatitis C (antibody, RNA, or both). A total of 75 clients were diagnosed with hepatitis C RNA, of which 95% (71/75) commenced treatment, 83% (62/75) completed treatment and 52% (39/75) received a negative hepatitis C RNA test at least 12 weeks after treatment completion.ConclusionsProviding outreach hepatitis C services in community-based services was effective in engaging people living with and at-risk of hepatitis C, in education, testing, and care. Nurse-led, person-centred care was critical to the success of the project. Our evaluation underscores the importance of employing a partnership approach when delivering hepatitis C models of care in community settings, and incorporating workforce education and capacity-building activities when working with non-specialist healthcare professionals.

THU384 Too Sweet To Digest; A Case Of Persistent Lactic Acidosis Secondary To Glycogenic Hepatopathy

Abstract Disclosure: T. Ayub: None. L.A. Robles: None. F. Sami: None. S. Saleem: None. S. Guntupalli: None. Glycogenic hepatopathy (GH) is an under-recognized cause of persistent lactic acidosis and hepatomegaly in patients with uncontrolled DM and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). A 19-year-old female with history of type 1 DM with recurrent DKA presented with complaints of nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain for 1 week. Physical exam showed normal vitals and lower abdominal tenderness. Her initial labs showed glucose 250 mg/dl, high anion gap metabolic acidosis with beta hydroxy butyrate of 11.3 mmol/l, lactic acid 3.2mm/l, and mild transaminitis. She was diagnosed with DKA and started on insulin drip. Anion gap responded to IV insulin and fluid therapy and was transitioned to SQ insulin. However, she had increase in her lactic acid (8.2mm/l), without hemodynamic compromise, despite fluid resuscitation. Secondary work up including blood, urine, sputum cultures were non diagnostic for an infectious etiology. Abdominal imaging showed a liver span of 26 cm. There were no signs of end organ hypoperfusion, medication or toxin mediated insult as evident by normal transthoracic echo, iron studies, urine drug screen, alcohol level and negative hepatitis panel. Review of prior hospitalizations showed recurrent episodes of DKA with similar uptrend in lactic acid levels with negative secondary work up. Prior imaging revealed hepatomegaly during DKA episodes with resolution after strict glycemic control. Given uncontrolled DM type 1 with reversible and recurrent hepatomegaly, transaminitis, hyperlipidemia and elevated lactic acid, a clinical diagnosis of glycogenic hepatopathy was made. Patient declined liver biopsy due to concerns for complications. She was discharged on home insulin regimen with outpatient follow up. GH or hepatic glycogenosis is a reversible cause of lactic acidosis and hepatomegaly seen in uncontrolled DM type 1. Pathogenesis involves presence of fluctuating levels of hyperglycemia and insulin, concomitantly, that leads to glycogen storage. Insulin inhibits gluconeogenesis resulting in decreased conversion of pyruvate to glucose and high lactic acid levels, in the absence of any infectious, metabolic and hypoxic etiology. Lactic acidosis can be worsened when treated with high dose Insulin. Definite diagnosis of GH requires liver biopsy or gradient dual-echo MRI but can be made clinically in the setting of uncontrolled DM1, hepatomegaly, transaminitis and elevated lactic acid levels. Prompt recognition of GH can prevent unnecessary diagnostic testing and can decrease the duration of hospital stay. Treatment is strict glycemic control with resolution of condition and no long-term complications. Presentation: Thursday, June 15, 2023