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Seekircher L, Mühlbacher A, Tschiderer L, Wachter GA, Astl M, Schennach H, Siller A, Willeit P. Anti-HBs Seroprevalence in Blood Donors from Tyrol, Austria. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:1156. [PMID: 39460323 PMCID: PMC11512317 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12101156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2024] [Revised: 10/07/2024] [Accepted: 10/09/2024] [Indexed: 10/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Antibodies against the hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs) are a marker of immunity against hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections. There is uncertainty about the anti-HBs seroprevalence in the general population of Austria. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis in blood donors from the Federal State of Tyrol in Austria (August-September 2023) to estimate anti-HBs seroprevalence and median antibody levels. Results: We enrolled 3935 blood donors (median age 47.6 years [25th-75th percentile: 33.3-56.6]; 40.7% female), who were hepatitis B surface antigen negative and had no detectable HBV-DNA. Overall seroprevalence was 51.4% (95% CI: 49.8-52.9%). Anti-HBs seropositivity decreased with higher age (p < 0.001), with 70.3% (66.1-74.3%) being seropositive among participants < 25 years of age and 30.2% (24.2-36.9%) in those aged ≥ 65 years. More females than males were seropositive (54.3% [51.8-56.7%] vs. 49.4% [47.4-51.4%]; p = 0.003). Seroprevalence was significantly higher in urban than in rural areas in participants aged 40 to <55 (p = 0.045) and ≥55 years (p = 0.001). Among 2022 seropositive participants, the overall median anti-HBs antibody level was 539.3 IU/L (25th-75th percentile: 116.3-5417.0). Furthermore, 5% of the participants had an anti-HBs antibody level between 10 and <20 IU/L, 18% between 20 and <100 IU/L, and 77% ≥100 IU/L. Conclusions: Anti-HBs seroprevalence in blood donors from Tyrol, Austria, was 51.4% between August and September 2023 and differed across age, sex, and residence area. Catch-up vaccination programs, especially targeting the elderly living in rural areas, are needed to close HBV immunity gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Seekircher
- Institute of Clinical Epidemiology, Public Health, Health Economics, Medical Statistics and Informatics, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Annelies Mühlbacher
- Central Institute for Blood Transfusion and Immunology, University Hospital Innsbruck, Tirol Kliniken GmbH, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Lena Tschiderer
- Institute of Clinical Epidemiology, Public Health, Health Economics, Medical Statistics and Informatics, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Gregor A. Wachter
- Central Institute for Blood Transfusion and Immunology, University Hospital Innsbruck, Tirol Kliniken GmbH, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Manfred Astl
- Central Institute for Blood Transfusion and Immunology, University Hospital Innsbruck, Tirol Kliniken GmbH, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Harald Schennach
- Central Institute for Blood Transfusion and Immunology, University Hospital Innsbruck, Tirol Kliniken GmbH, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Anita Siller
- Central Institute for Blood Transfusion and Immunology, University Hospital Innsbruck, Tirol Kliniken GmbH, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Peter Willeit
- Institute of Clinical Epidemiology, Public Health, Health Economics, Medical Statistics and Informatics, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
- Ignaz Semmelweis Institute, Interuniversity Institute for Infection Research, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB1 8RN, UK
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Spada E, Marcantonio C, Vescio MF, Marascio N, Villano U, Pisani G, Tritarelli E, Bruni R, Barreca GS, Torti C, Matera G, Liberto MC, Focà A, Pezzotti P, Ciccaglione AR. Changing epidemiology of hepatitis C in Italy: a population-based survey in a historically high endemic area. Minerva Med 2023; 114:191-202. [PMID: 33913660 DOI: 10.23736/s0026-4806.21.07280-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND General population data on hepatitis C virus (HCV) prevalence in Italy come mostly from studies conducted in small towns. The highest rates have consistently been found in southern regions, especially in Calabria. Herein, we aimed to determine HCV prevalence, awareness, and risk factors in the general population of Catanzaro, the capital city of Calabria, Italy. METHODS A stratified probability-based random sample of adult population was drawn from the Census. Anti-HCV and HCV-RNA were assayed. Data on sociodemographycs, risk factors and awareness of infection status were also collected. Crude and age and sex directly standardized rates (DSR), using Catanzaro's general population as standard, were calculated. Log binomial regressions with sampling weights was used to identify independent predictors of infection. RESULTS The final study population consisted of 1003 people. Of them 27 (2.69%; 95% confidence interval, [CI] 1.78-3.89) (DSR: 2.34%; 95% CI: 1.37-3.30) and 9 (0.9%; 95% CI: 0.41-1.70) (DSR: 0.79%; 95% CI: 0.21-1.37) were anti-HCV and HCV RNA positive, respectively. Most HCV-positive participants were older people. Age ≥65 and past use of illicit drugs were both positive independent predictors of anti-HCV positivity, while female sex was an independent protective predictor of infection. Only 9 (33.3%) of anti-HCV positive participants had awareness of their status. CONCLUSIONS We detected a much lower anti-HCV prevalence than those previously found in Calabria, along with a substantial change in HCV transmission modes. Infected people were almost only elderly and mostly unaware of their infection. Improving diagnosis and linkage to care for these infected persons would be needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enea Spada
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy -
| | - Cinzia Marcantonio
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Maria F Vescio
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Nadia Marascio
- Department of Health Sciences, "Magna Graecia" University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Umbertina Villano
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Giulio Pisani
- National Center for the Control and Evaluation of Medicines, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Tritarelli
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Bruni
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgio S Barreca
- Department of Health Sciences, "Magna Graecia" University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Carlo Torti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, "Magna Graecia" University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giovanni Matera
- Department of Health Sciences, "Magna Graecia" University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria C Liberto
- Department of Health Sciences, "Magna Graecia" University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Alfredo Focà
- Department of Health Sciences, "Magna Graecia" University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Patrizio Pezzotti
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
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Collatuzzo G, La Vecchia C, Parazzini F, Alicandro G, Turati F, Di Maso M, Malvezzi M, Pelucchi C, Negri E, Boffetta P. Cancers attributable to infectious agents in Italy. Eur J Cancer 2023; 183:69-78. [PMID: 36801622 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2023.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To provide an evidence-based, comprehensive assessment of the current burden of infection-related cancers in Italy. METHODS We calculated the proportion of cancers attributable to infectious agents (Helicobacter pylori [Hp]; hepatitis B virus [HBV] and hepatitis C virus [HCV]; human papillomavirus [HPV]; human herpesvirus-8 [HHV8]; Epstein-Barr virus [EBV]; and human immunodeficiency virus [HIV]) to estimate the burden of infection-related cancer incidence (2020) and mortality (2017). Data on the prevalence of infections were derived from cross-sectional surveys of the Italian population, and relative risks from meta-analyses and large-scale studies. Attributable fractions were calculated based on the counterfactual scenario of a lack of infection. RESULTS We estimated that 7.6% of total cancer deaths in 2017 were attributable to infections, with a higher proportion in men (8.1%) than in women (6.9%). The corresponding figures for incident cases were 6.5%, 6.9% and 6.1%. Hp was the first cause of infection-related cancer deaths (3.3% of the total), followed by HCV (1.8%), HIV (1.1%), HBV (0.9%), HPV, EBV and HHV8 (each ≤0.7%). Regarding incidence, 2.4% of the new cancer cases were due to Hp, 1.3% due to HCV, 1.2% due to HIV, 1.0% due to HPV, 0.6% due to HBV and <0.5% due to EBV and HHV8. CONCLUSIONS Our estimate of 7.6% of cancer deaths and 6.9% of incident cases that were attributable to infections in Italy is higher than those estimated in other developed countries. Hp is the major cause of infection-related cancer in Italy. Prevention, screening and treatment policies are needed to control these cancers, which are largely avoidable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Collatuzzo
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Carlo La Vecchia
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health (DISCCO), University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Parazzini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health (DISCCO), University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Neonatology, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Commenda 12, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Alicandro
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Cystic Fibrosis Centre, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Turati
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health (DISCCO), University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Di Maso
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health (DISCCO), University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Malvezzi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health (DISCCO), University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Claudio Pelucchi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health (DISCCO), University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Eva Negri
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health (DISCCO), University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Boffetta
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Stony Brook Cancer Center, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA.
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Magrì S, Demurtas M, Onidi MF, Picchio M, Elisei W, Marzo M, Miculan F, Manca R, Dore MP, Quarta Colosso BM, Cicu A, Cugia L, Carta M, Binaghi L, Usai P, Lai M, Chicco F, Fantini MC, Armuzzi A, Mocci G. Clinical and epidemiological features of ulcerative colitis patients in Sardinia, Italy: Results from a multicenter study. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:10921-10930. [PMID: 36338227 PMCID: PMC9631144 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i30.10921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are little data on the epidemiological and clinical features of adult patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) in the different Italian regions, mainly derived from the absence of a national registry. This prevents correct interpretation of the disease burden.
AIM To assess the main clinical and epidemiological features of adult patients diagnosed with UC in Sardinia, Italy.
METHODS We performed a multicenter, observational, cross-sectional study that included adult patients with UC enrolled in seven gastroenterology unit centers in Sardinia. Data were obtained from the patients’ medical records and from a questionnaire administered at the inclusion visit.
RESULTS Four hundred and forty-two patients with UC were included. The median age at diagnosis was 39 years (interquartile range 28-48). After a median disease duration of 10 years, 53 patients experienced proximal extension of proctitis or left-sided colitis. Seventy-five patients developed extraintestinal manifestations. Nineteen patients (4.3%) developed cancer: two with colorectal cancer and seventeen with extracolonic cancers. Mesalazine (5-ASA) remains the mainstay of treatment for UC. Overall, 95 patients (21.5%) were treated with one or more biologic agents, whereas 15 patients (3.4%) underwent surgery, mostly colectomy.
CONCLUSION Our results provide important insights into the clinical and epidemiological features of patients with UC, and while waiting for a national Italian registry, present eligible data on the UC population in Sardinia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Magrì
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Italy
- Endoscopy Unit, Humanitas Istituto Clinico Catanese, Catania 95045, Italy
| | - Mauro Demurtas
- Endoscopy Unit, San Martino Hospital, Oristano 09170, Italy
| | | | - Marcello Picchio
- Division of General Surgery, Ospedale Civile P Colombo, Velletri 00049, Italy
| | - Walter Elisei
- Gastroenterology Unit, San Camillo Forlanini Hospital, Rome 00152, Italy
| | - Manuela Marzo
- Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology Department, Cardinale Panico Hospital, Tricase 73039, Italy
| | - Federica Miculan
- Department of Surgery, San Martino Hospital, Oristano 09170, Italy
| | - Roberto Manca
- Division of Gastroenterology, Santissima Trinità Hospital, Cagliari 09121, Italy
| | - Maria Pina Dore
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, University of Sassari, Sassari 07100, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Cicu
- Unit of Gastroenterology, ASL Sassari, Sassari 07100, Italy
| | - Luigi Cugia
- Gastroenterology Unit, Santissima Annunziata Hospital, Sassari 07100, Italy
| | - Monica Carta
- Gastroenterology Unit, Santissima Annunziata Hospital, Sassari 07100, Italy
| | - Laura Binaghi
- Gastroenterology Unit, Brotzu Hospital, Cagliari 09121, Italy
| | - Paolo Usai
- Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari 09042, Italy
| | - Mariantonia Lai
- Medical Sciences and Public health, Presidio Policlinico of Monserrato, Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Fabio Chicco
- Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari 09042, Italy
| | | | | | - Giammarco Mocci
- Gastroenterology Unit, Brotzu Hospital, Cagliari 09121, Italy
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Detection of occult hepatitis B virus infection among subjects with isolated hepatitis B core antibodies: Results from a 3-year survey in an Italian tertiary-care hospital. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2022; 46:101892. [PMID: 35202845 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2022.101892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection causes hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and death. This study examines the subjects with isolated anti-HBV core antigen antibody (anti-HBcAg), a pattern characterized by the persistent HBV carriage in the absence of HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-HBsAg antibody. METHODS Based on medical orders, from 2017 to 2019, serological and molecular assays were performed on serum/plasma samples of 33,048 subjects (71.4% Italians, 28.6% foreigners), who referred to the Virology Unit of the University-Hospital of Parma (Northern Italy) for the laboratory diagnosis of HBV infection. RESULTS The seroprevalence was 4.6% for HBsAg and 11% for anti-HBcAg. The occurrence of the isolated anti-HBcAg status was 3.1%, with higher frequency in males than in females (66.3% vs. 33.7%, P < 0.0001), in Italians than in foreigners (54.8% vs. 45.2%, P < 0.001), and in outpatients than in inpatients (57.4% vs. 42.6%, P < 0.0001). Foreigners with isolated anti-HBcAg came mostly from Africa (67.9%) and Eastern Europe (26.2%). Among subjects with isolated anti-HBcAg, 14.8% had occult HBV infection, 26.3% hepatitis C virus co-infection, 2% human immunodeficiency virus co-infection, and 3.3% both of these latter co-infections. CONCLUSIONS The anti-HBcAg assay accurately evaluates the HBV exposure; subjects with isolated anti-HBcAg antibody should be further analysed for HBV DNA. The HBV infection prevalence in Italy is increasing, due to growing migratory flows from endemic areas.
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Nevola R, Messina V, Marrone A, Coppola N, Rescigno C, Esposito V, Sangiovanni V, Claar E, Pisaturo M, Fusco FM, Rosario P, Izzi A, Pisapia R, Rosato V, Maggi P, Adinolfi LE. Epidemiology of HCV and HBV in a High Endemic Area of Southern Italy: Opportunities from the COVID-19 Pandemic-Standardized National Screening or One Tailored to Local Epidemiology? BIOLOGY 2022; 11:609. [PMID: 35453808 PMCID: PMC9028790 DOI: 10.3390/biology11040609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic led to the hospitalization of an unselected population with the possibility to evaluate the epidemiology of viral hepatitis. Thus, a retrospective multicenter study was conducted in an area of Southern Italy with the aim of assessing the prevalence of HCV and HBV markers and the ability of current screening program to capture cases. We evaluated 2126 hospitalized patients in seven COVID Centers of Naples and Caserta area in which 70% of the Campania population lives. HBsAg and HCV-Ab prevalence was 1.6% and 5.1%, respectively, with no differences between gender. Decade distribution for birth year shows a bimodal trend of HCV prevalence, with a peak (11.6%) in the decade 1930-1939 and a second peak (5.6%) for those born in 1960-1969. An analysis of the screening period imposed by the Italian government for those born between 1969 and 1989 shows that only 17% of cases of HCV infection could be captured. A small alignment of the screening period, i.e., those born from 1960 to 1984, would capture 40% of cases. The data confirm the high endemicity of our geographical area for hepatitis virus infections and underline the need for a tailored screening program according to the regional epidemiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Nevola
- Internal Medicine Unit, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (L.E.A.)
- Hepatology Unit, Ospedale Evangelico Betania, 80147 Naples, Italy; (E.C.); (V.R.)
| | - Vincenzo Messina
- Infectious Diseases Unit, AORN Sant’Anna e San Sebastiano, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (V.M.); (P.M.)
| | - Aldo Marrone
- Internal Medicine Unit, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (L.E.A.)
| | - Nicola Coppola
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (N.C.); (M.P.)
| | - Carolina Rescigno
- Infectious Diseases and Neurology Unit, Cotugno Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.R.); (A.I.); (R.P.)
| | - Vincenzo Esposito
- IVth Division of Immunodeficiency and Gender Infectious Diseases, Cotugno Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy; (V.E.); (P.R.)
| | - Vincenzo Sangiovanni
- IIIrd Infectious Diseases Unit, Cotugno Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy; (V.S.); (F.M.F.)
| | - Ernesto Claar
- Hepatology Unit, Ospedale Evangelico Betania, 80147 Naples, Italy; (E.C.); (V.R.)
| | - Mariantonietta Pisaturo
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (N.C.); (M.P.)
| | - Francesco Maria Fusco
- IIIrd Infectious Diseases Unit, Cotugno Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy; (V.S.); (F.M.F.)
| | - Pietro Rosario
- IVth Division of Immunodeficiency and Gender Infectious Diseases, Cotugno Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy; (V.E.); (P.R.)
| | - Antonio Izzi
- Infectious Diseases and Neurology Unit, Cotugno Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.R.); (A.I.); (R.P.)
| | - Raffaella Pisapia
- Infectious Diseases and Neurology Unit, Cotugno Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.R.); (A.I.); (R.P.)
| | - Valerio Rosato
- Hepatology Unit, Ospedale Evangelico Betania, 80147 Naples, Italy; (E.C.); (V.R.)
| | - Paolo Maggi
- Infectious Diseases Unit, AORN Sant’Anna e San Sebastiano, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (V.M.); (P.M.)
| | - Luigi Elio Adinolfi
- Internal Medicine Unit, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (L.E.A.)
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Grattagliano I, Rossi A, Marconi E, Lapi F, Cricelli C. Determinants of HCV-related complications in Italian primary care patients. Liver Int 2021; 41:2857-2865. [PMID: 34268863 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS This study aimed to assess the demographic and clinical determinants of liver complications in Hepatitis C virus (HCV)-positive patients in primary care setting. METHODS Using the Health Search database, we selected a cohort of patients aged ≥14 diagnosed with HCV between 2002 and 2017. Patients were followed up until the occurrence of cirrhosis and other disease progressions such as oesophageal varices, hepatocellular carcinoma and/or liver transplantation. The candidate determinants for the risk of HCV-related complications included sex, age, smoking status, liver fibrosis (measured by fibrosis 4 index [FIB-4]), infections by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), other forms of hepatitis, abuse of alcohol or illicit substances or drugs, obesity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus and renal disease. Cox regression was used to test the association between candidate determinants and the outcome. RESULTS The cohort included 8299 HCV-positive patients (50.93% men) with an overall prevalence rate equal to 0.61%. At least one HCV-related complication was found in 12.2% of patients, with a mean time-to-event equal to 8.1 year. Along with male sex and advanced age, a FIB-4 greater than 3.25 and the presence of diabetes were associated with a greater risk of HCV-related complications. CONCLUSION Our study shows that patients with certain demographics and clinical characteristics are more prone to incur in HCV-related complications. The knowledge and early identification of these determinants by GPs may result in reducing disease progression and related healthcare costs through a closer monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessandro Rossi
- Italian College of General Practitioners and Primary Care, Florence, Italy
| | - Ettore Marconi
- Health Search, Italian College of General Practitioners and Primary Care, Florence, Italy
| | - Francesco Lapi
- Health Search, Italian College of General Practitioners and Primary Care, Florence, Italy
| | - Claudio Cricelli
- Italian College of General Practitioners and Primary Care, Florence, Italy
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El-Adly AM, Meshaal AK, Mekky MA, Hetta HF, Wardany AA, El-Shanawany AA. Diagnostic strategy for occult hepatitis B virus infection and its clinical implications among patients at Upper Egypt. JOURNAL OF RADIATION RESEARCH AND APPLIED SCIENCES 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/16878507.2020.1740396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. M. El-Adly
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - A. K. Meshaal
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - M. A. Mekky
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University Hospital, Assiut, Egypt
| | - H. F. Hetta
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - A. A. Wardany
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - A. A. El-Shanawany
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, Egypt
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9
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EFSA Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain (CONTAM), Schrenk D, Bignami M, Bodin L, Chipman JK, del Mazo J, Grasl‐Kraupp B, Hogstrand C, Hoogenboom L(R, Leblanc J, Nebbia CS, Nielsen E, Ntzani E, Petersen A, Sand S, Schwerdtle T, Vleminckx C, Marko D, Oswald IP, Piersma A, Routledge M, Schlatter J, Baert K, Gergelova P, Wallace H. Risk assessment of aflatoxins in food. EFSA J 2020; 18:e06040. [PMID: 32874256 PMCID: PMC7447885 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2020.6040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the risks to public health related to the presence of aflatoxins in food. The risk assessment was confined to aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), AFB2, AFG1, AFG2 and AFM1. More than 200,000 analytical results on the occurrence of aflatoxins were used in the evaluation. Grains and grain-based products made the largest contribution to the mean chronic dietary exposure to AFB1 in all age classes, while 'liquid milk' and 'fermented milk products' were the main contributors to the AFM1 mean exposure. Aflatoxins are genotoxic and AFB1 can cause hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) in humans. The CONTAM Panel selected a benchmark dose lower confidence limit (BMDL) for a benchmark response of 10% of 0.4 μg/kg body weight (bw) per day for the incidence of HCC in male rats following AFB1 exposure to be used in a margin of exposure (MOE) approach. The calculation of a BMDL from the human data was not appropriate; instead, the cancer potencies estimated by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives in 2016 were used. For AFM1, a potency factor of 0.1 relative to AFB1 was used. For AFG1, AFB2 and AFG2, the in vivo data are not sufficient to derive potency factors and equal potency to AFB1 was assumed as in previous assessments. MOE values for AFB1 exposure ranged from 5,000 to 29 and for AFM1 from 100,000 to 508. The calculated MOEs are below 10,000 for AFB1 and also for AFM1 where some surveys, particularly for the younger age groups, have an MOE below 10,000. This raises a health concern. The estimated cancer risks in humans following exposure to AFB1 and AFM1 are in-line with the conclusion drawn from the MOEs. The conclusions also apply to the combined exposure to all five aflatoxins.
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Fedeli U, Avossa F, Ferroni E, De Paoli A, Donato F, Corti MC. Prevalence of chronic liver disease among young/middle-aged adults in Northern Italy: role of hepatitis B and hepatitis C virus infection by age, sex, ethnicity. Heliyon 2019; 5:e02114. [PMID: 31367688 PMCID: PMC6646875 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e02114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Revised: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sparse population-based data are available on the prevalence and etiology of chronic liver disease (CLD) in Italy. The study aims to assess the role of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in CLD according to age, gender and ethnicity. Methods Clinically diagnosed CLD in the general population aged 20–59 years in the Veneto Region (North-Eastern Italy) were identified through the Adjusted Clinical Groups System, by record linkage of the archive of subjects enrolled in the Regional Health System with Hospital Discharge Records, Emergency Room visits, Chronic disease registry for copayment exemptions, and the Home care database. Age-standardized prevalence rates (PR) were computed in Italians and immigrants, based on country of citizenship. Results Overall 22,934 subjects affected by CLD in 2016 were retrieved, 21% related to HBV and 43% to HCV infection. The prevalence of HCV-related CLD was higher in males, peaking at 50–54 years (males = 11/1000; females = 4/1000). The PR of HBV-related CLD was almost negligible in the Italian population (1/1000), and higher among immigrants, especially from East Asia (males = 17/1000; females = 11/1000) and Sub-Saharan Africa (males = 13/1000; females = 10/1000). Conclusion Specific population sub-groups identified by age, gender, and ethnicity, were demonstrated to be at increased risk, and these trends are in line with global epidemiological patterns of viral hepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ugo Fedeli
- Epidemiological Department, Azienda Zero, Passaggio Gaudenzio 1, 35131 Padova, Veneto Region, Italy
| | - Francesco Avossa
- Epidemiological Department, Azienda Zero, Passaggio Gaudenzio 1, 35131 Padova, Veneto Region, Italy
| | - Eliana Ferroni
- Epidemiological Department, Azienda Zero, Passaggio Gaudenzio 1, 35131 Padova, Veneto Region, Italy
| | - Angela De Paoli
- Epidemiological Department, Azienda Zero, Passaggio Gaudenzio 1, 35131 Padova, Veneto Region, Italy
| | - Francesco Donato
- Unit of Hygiene, Epidemiology, and Public Health, University of Brescia, v.le Europa, 11, 25121 Brescia, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Corti
- Epidemiological Department, Azienda Zero, Passaggio Gaudenzio 1, 35131 Padova, Veneto Region, Italy
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Cristina SJL, Marta CM, Mercedes GS, Almudena PM, Álvaro HM, Luis VSJ, Tesifón PC. Characterization and evaluation of liver fibrosis grade in patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection and normal transaminases. Clin Mol Hepatol 2018; 24:384-391. [PMID: 29969885 PMCID: PMC6313027 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2018.0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/Aims The objective of our study was to determine the epidemiological, laboratory, and serological characteristics of patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and normal transaminases. The study also aimed to evaluate liver damage by measuring the liver fibrosis (LF) grade and to identify possible factors associated with the presence of fibrosis.
Methods A retrospective observational study was conducted in patients with chronic HBV infection and classified as inactive carriers or immune-tolerant. Epidemiological variables of age, sex, immigrant, alcohol consumption, and body mass index (BMI), as well as virological variables (HBV DNA) and transaminase level were collected throughout the follow-up. The LF grade was evaluated by transient elastography. The cutoff value for significant fibrosis (SF) was liver stiffness ≥7.9 kPa.
Results A total of 214 patients were included in the analysis, and 62% of them had a BMI ≥25 kg/m2. During follow-up, 4% of patients showed transaminase elevation (<1.5 times normal). Most patients had a viral DNA level <2,000 IU/mL (83%). Data on LF were available in 160 patients; of these, 14% had SF, 9% F3, and 6% F4. The variables associated with the presence of SF were transaminase alteration during follow-up, as 23% of patients with SF had elevated transaminases versus 3% of patients without SF (P<0.005), and BMI, as the vast majority of patients with SF (88%) had a BMI ≥25 kg/m2 versus 56% of patients without SF (P<0.05).
Conclusions In patients with chronic HBV infection and normal transaminases, liver damage does not seem to be related to DNA levels, alcohol consumption, or immigrant status. SF seems to be associated with transaminase alteration during follow-up and elevated BMI. It is therefore recommended to measure LF grade with validated non-invasive methods in such patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- San Juan López Cristina
- Department of Digestive Diseases, Torrecárdenas Hospital, University of Almería, Almería, Spain
| | - Casado Martín Marta
- Department of Digestive Diseases, Torrecárdenas Hospital, University of Almería, Almería, Spain
| | | | - Porcel Martín Almudena
- Department of Digestive Diseases, Torrecárdenas Hospital, University of Almería, Almería, Spain
| | | | - Vega Sáenz Jose Luis
- Department of Digestive Diseases, Torrecárdenas Hospital, University of Almería, Almería, Spain
| | - Parrón Carreño Tesifón
- Department of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Medicine, University of Almería, Almería, Spain
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Andriulli A, Stroffolini T, Mariano A, Valvano MR, Grattagliano I, Ippolito AM, Grossi A, Brancaccio G, Coco C, Russello M, Smedile A, Petrini E, Martini S, Gaeta GB, Rizzetto M. Declining prevalence and increasing awareness of HCV infection in Italy: A population-based survey in five metropolitan areas. Eur J Intern Med 2018; 53:79-84. [PMID: 29475770 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2018.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2017] [Revised: 01/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data on the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in Italy are outdated and usually derived from studying residents in small towns. METHODS To assess prevalence of and risk factors for HCV infection among Italian residents in 5 metropolitan areas, subjects ≥20 years of age were randomly selected from the list of the general practitioners' registers in 2015. Anti-HCV was tested by a salivary test; HCV-RNA, HCV genotypes, and ALT were determined in positive individuals. Logistic regression analysis evaluated independent risk factors for HCV. RESULTS Of the 4907 enrolled subjects, 112 (2.3%) tested anti-HCV positive. The prevalence of HCV increased with age, from 0.2% in subjects born after the year 1984, to 4.2% in those born before the year 1935 (P < 0.01). The birth-cohort prevalence peaked (7.0%) in elderly. Serum HCV-RNA was detected in 1.7% of the whole population. Nearly 80% of anti-HCV subjects were aware of their status. Age > 70 years, low education level, past use of glass syringes, blood transfusion, intravenous drug use, and cohabitation with an anti-HCV positive subject predicted the HCV positivity. INTERPRETATION In metropolitan areas in Italy, HCV is prevalent in elderly, reflecting a cohort effect determined by modalities of viral transmission no longer operative. The impact of the infection will further diminish in the years to come due to the natural depletion of the reservoir of the virus. This age pattern and the high proportion of subjects aware of their status do not warrant a policy of screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Andriulli
- Division of Gastroenterology, Casa Sollievo Sofferenza Hospital, IRCCS, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy.
| | - Tommaso Stroffolini
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Mariano
- Division of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "L. Spallanzani", IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Rosa Valvano
- Division of Gastroenterology, Casa Sollievo Sofferenza Hospital, IRCCS, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Massimo Ippolito
- Division of Gastroenterology, Casa Sollievo Sofferenza Hospital, IRCCS, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Adriano Grossi
- Clinics of Infectious Diseases, 2nd University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Antonina Smedile
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Torino, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliera Città della Salute e della Scienza, Torino, Italy
| | - Elisa Petrini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Torino, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliera Città della Salute e della Scienza, Torino, Italy
| | - Silvia Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Torino, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliera Città della Salute e della Scienza, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Mario Rizzetto
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Torino, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliera Città della Salute e della Scienza, Torino, Italy
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Abstract
So far, only three small outdated studies have investigated hepatitis C virus (HCV) incidence and risk factors among illicit drug users (DUs) in Italy. Thus, during 2007-2010, we conducted a prospective cohort study among DUs attending 17 Italian rehabilitation centers serving urban areas. Two hundred eighty-four HCV-uninfected DUs were prospectively followed by interview and anti-HCV antibody and RNA testing every 6 months. Incidence was calculated using the person-years method. Infection predictors were assessed by time-dependent Cox analysis. Participants were mostly male (83.4%), under opioid substitution therapy (OST) (78.9%), non-injecting DUs (67.9%), and with a mean age of 30.8. Ninety-one of 224 DUs initially under OST interrupted treatment during the follow-up. Overall HCV incidence was 5.83/100 person-years at risk (PYAR) [95% confidence intervals (CI), 3.63-9.38]. The incidence did not significantly differ according the participants' sociodemographic characteristics or the degree of urbanization of the towns involved in the study. The incidence was higher for DUs under than for those not under OST (6.23 vs 4.50/100 PYAR; p = 0.681). Incidence was also higher for those with than for those without OST interruption (7.17 vs 5.04/100 PYAR; p = 0.55). However, all these differences were non-significant. At last follow-up visit, a significant decrease in frequency of sharing equipment for preparation/using drugs (by injection or not) was observed by analyzing either the whole cohort or DUs under OST only. Anti-HCV seroconversion resulted independently associated with sharing drug preparation/use equipment, backloading, having a HCV-positive sexual partner, or household and (marginally) intravenous injection. In this study, HCV incidence was non-negligible and OST seemed to lack effectiveness in reducing it. In Italy, implementation of combined harm reduction interventions and antiviral treatment of chronically infected DUs would be needed.
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Fedeli U, Grande E, Grippo F, Frova L. Mortality associated with hepatitis C and hepatitis B virus infection: A nationwide study on multiple causes of death data. World J Gastroenterol 2017; 23:1866-1871. [PMID: 28348493 PMCID: PMC5352928 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v23.i10.1866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Revised: 01/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To analyze mortality associated with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in Italy.
METHODS Death certificates mentioning either HBV or HCV infection were retrieved from the Italian National Cause of Death Register for the years 2011-2013. Mortality rates and proportional mortality (percentage of deaths with mention of HCV/HBV among all registered deaths) were computed by gender and age class. The geographical variability in HCV-related mortality rates was investigated by directly age-standardized rates (European standard population). Proportional mortality for HCV and HBV among subjects aged 20-59 years was assessed in the native population and in different immigrant groups.
RESULTS HCV infection was mentioned in 1.6% (n = 27730) and HBV infection in 0.2% (n = 3838) of all deaths among subjects aged ≥ 20 years. Mortality rates associated with HCV infection increased exponentially with age in both genders, with a male to female ratio close to unity among the elderly; a further peak was observed in the 50-54 year age group especially among male subjects. HCV-related mortality rates were higher in Southern Italy among elderly people (45/100000 in subjects aged 60-79 and 125/100000 in subjects aged ≥ 80 years), and in North-Western Italy among middle-aged subjects (9/100000 in the 40-59 year age group). Proportional mortality was higher among Italian citizens and North African immigrants for HCV, and among Sub-Saharan African and Asian immigrants for HBV.
CONCLUSION Population ageing, immigration, and new therapeutic approaches are shaping the epidemiology of virus-related chronic liver disease. In spite of limits due to the incomplete reporting and misclassification of the etiology of liver disease, mortality data represent an additional source of information for surveillance.
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Lapi F, Capogrosso Sansone A, Mantarro S, Simonetti M, Tuccori M, Blandizzi C, Rossi A, Corti G, Bartoloni A, Bellia A, Baiocchi L, Cricelli I, Cricelli C. Hepatitis C virus infection: opportunities for an earlier detection in primary care. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2017; 29:271-276. [PMID: 27849644 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000000785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM In the era of direct-acting antiviral medications, which can cure the hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, the actual epidemiology of this condition in the general population is still unclear. We therefore aimed to estimate the prevalence rate of HCV and assess the determinants for incident cases of HCV in primary care in Italy. METHODS We identified outpatients aged at least 15 years registered in the Italian Health Search IMS Health Longitudinal Patient Database from 1 January 2002 to 30 June 2013. The annual trend of HCV prevalence was estimated. The candidate determinants for the risk of incident HCV infection included geographical area of residence, sex, age, infections by the HIV, hepatitis B virus (HBV), or other forms of hepatitis, and abuse of illicit substances or drugs. RESULTS The eligible cohort included 826 300 patients (53.5% women, mean age 48.1±19.1 years). The prevalence rate of HCV increased over the 11-year study period, ranging from 0.24 to 0.50%, with a small increase in men versus women. Patients aged more than 24 years had a higher risk than those aged 14-24 years, with up to a five-fold increase among patients aged 65-74 years. Being resident of Southern/Islands Italy, concurrent diagnosis HBV or HIV, and drug or illicit substance abuse were significant determinants for HCV infection. CONCLUSION Our study shows that the prevalence of HCV in Italy has doubled over the last decade. Patients with certain demographics and clinical characteristics are more prone to be infected by HCV. In this scenario, general practitioners may play a crucial role in screening, early identification, and therapy of high-risk patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Lapi
- aHealth Search, Italian College of General Practitioners and Primary Care bItalian College of General Practitioners and Primary Care cInfectious Disease Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence School of Medicine, Florence dDepartment of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa eUnit of Adverse Drug Reactions Monitoring, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa fDepartment of Systems Medicine gHepatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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Guardiola Arévalo A, Gómez Rodríguez R, Romero Gutiérrez M, Gómez Moreno AZ, García Vela A, Sánchez Simón R, Gómez Hernando C, Andrés Esteban EM. Characteristics and course of chronic hepatitis B e antigen-negative infection. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2016; 40:59-69. [PMID: 28007350 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastrohep.2016.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2016] [Revised: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 11/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the epidemiological, analytical and histological characteristics and clinical course of hepatitis B virus (HBV) carriers with negative HBe antigen. MATERIAL AND METHODS Observational, retrospective cohort study of HBV carriers with negative HBe antigen (2005-2012), with no other causes of liver disease. RESULTS One hundred and thirty-eight patients were included, with mean age 40.5±12.2 years; 54% were women, and 38% were of foreign origin; the number of foreign patients significantly increased (P<.001) over the years. Transaminases were normal in nearly 75% and HBV-DNA was <2,000IU/ml in 56% of patients at diagnosis. There was a gradual decrease in HBV-DNA levels in inactive carriers over the study period. Fibrosis study was performed in 47% of patients by Fibroscan® or liver biopsy: 55.4% normal histology and 6.1% cirrhosis. Just over three quarters of patients (77.77%) were inactive carriers. Treatment was required in 15.5% of patients (20% because of cirrhosis and 80% HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B). Five patients cleared HBsAg (annual rate .94%), all of whom presented HBV-DNA <2,000IU/ml at diagnosis. Five patients developed complications (3.6%), 4 of them hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), of which only 2 had cirrhosis. There was 1 HBV-related death (.72%). CONCLUSION Among HBV carriers with negative HBe antigen, inactive HBs-Ag carriers are predominant. HBV-DNA gradually decreases in the first few years after diagnosis. Morbidity and mortality are low, especially if glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT) is normal and HBV-DNA levels are low at diagnosis. Treatment is needed in a considerable number of patients. HCC is the most frequent complication, even in the absence of cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Guardiola Arévalo
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Virgen de la Salud, Toledo, España; Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario de Fuenlabrada, Fuenlabrada, Madrid, España.
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Lazarus JV, Sperle I, Spina A, Rockstroh JK. Are the testing needs of key European populations affected by hepatitis B and hepatitis C being addressed? A scoping review of testing studies in Europe. Croat Med J 2016; 57:442-456. [PMID: 27815935 PMCID: PMC5141462 DOI: 10.3325/cmj.2016.57.442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2016] [Accepted: 09/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To investigate whether or not key populations affected by hepatitis B and hepatitis C are being tested sufficiently for these diseases throughout the European region. METHODS We searched MEDLINE and EMBASE for studies on HBV and HCV testing in the 53 Member States of the World Health Organization European Region following PRISMA criteria. RESULTS 136 English-language studies from 24 countries published between January 2007 and June 2013 were found. Most studies took place in 6 countries: France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. 37 studies (27%) addressed HBV, 46 (34%) HCV, and 53 (39%) both diseases. The largest categories of study populations were people who use drugs (18%) and health care patient populations (17%). Far fewer studies focused on migrants, prison inmates, or men who have sex with men. CONCLUSIONS The overall evidence base on HBV and HCV testing has considerable gaps in terms of the countries and populations represented and validity of testing uptake data. More research is needed throughout Europe to guide efforts to provide testing to certain key populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey V Lazarus
- Jeffrey V Lazarus, CHIP, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Oster Allé 56, 5th floor, DK-2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark,
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Temporal dynamics of hepatitis C genotypes in a five-year hospital-based surveillance in Northern Italy. Arch Virol 2016; 161:2727-37. [DOI: 10.1007/s00705-016-2975-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 07/06/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Fedeli U, Schievano E. Mortality Waves Related to Hepatitis C Virus Infection: Multiple Causes of Death Data From the United States and Northern Italy Compared. Clin Infect Dis 2016; 63:849-50. [PMID: 27329234 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciw421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ugo Fedeli
- Epidemiological Department, Veneto Region, Padua, Italy
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Hepatitis B and C prevalence in Portugal: disparity between the general population and high-risk groups. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 28:640-4. [PMID: 26866523 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000000608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The prevalence of anti-HCV and HBsAg in Portugal has been shown to be elevated in high-risk groups, such as intravenous drug-users and incarcerated individuals. However, in the general population, prevalence remains largely unknown. The aims of this study were to estimate the prevalence of anti-HCV and HBsAg in the general Portuguese population and identify associated risk factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS We carried out a nationwide, population-based cross-sectional study of adults resident in mainland Portugal. Serology for HBsAg, anti-HBc, anti-HBs, and anti-HCV was performed. Anti-HCV-positive individuals were tested for HCV RNA by PCR. RESULTS Of 1685 participants, 50.6% were men, mean age 50.2±18.3 years. In terms of hepatitis C, the prevalence of anti-HCV was 0.54% [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.2-0.9] and 0.12% (95% CI: 0.0-0.3) were viremic, with peak prevalence among individuals 35-64 years of age (0.8%), men (0.8%), and individuals from Lisbon and Tagus Valley region (1.9%).In terms of hepatitis B, the estimated prevalence of HBsAg was 1.45% (95% CI: 0.9-2.0). A higher prevalence was found in individuals who were 35-64 years old (2.2%), in men (2.5%), and in the Northern region (2.6%).The presence of positive serological markers of hepatitis C virus and hepatitis B virus infection did not correlate with elevated aminotransferases, race, place of birth, and alcohol consumption. CONCLUSION These results suggest a low endemicity for both hepatitis B and hepatitis C in the general population, in contrast to a very high prevalence in risk groups, thus suggesting that targeted screening to high-risk groups may be more cost-effective than general population screening.
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Bertisch B, Giudici F, Negro F, Moradpour D, Müllhaupt B, Moriggia A, Estill J, Keiser O, Swiss Hepatitis C Cohort Study. Characteristics of Foreign-Born Persons in the Swiss Hepatitis C Cohort Study: Implications for Screening Recommendations. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0155464. [PMID: 27227332 PMCID: PMC4882055 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0155464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2015] [Accepted: 04/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Switzerland recommends individuals who originate from high-prevalence countries to be screened for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. However, not all these persons are equally at risk. We thus aimed to describe the number and characteristics of persons with HCV infection born outside of Switzerland. METHODS We compared characteristics of anti-HCV-positive individuals in the Swiss Hepatitis C Cohort Study (SCCS) and of HCV cases reported to the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH), with those of the general population in Switzerland. Persons who inject drugs (PWID) and persons who do not inject drugs (non-PWID) were compared by age groups for different countries of origin (represented by ≥1% of participants in the SCCS or FOPH). RESULTS We included 4,199 persons from the SCCS and 26,610 cases from the FOPH. Both groups had similar characteristics. In both data sources non-PWID were more frequent in foreign-born than in Swiss-born persons (63% versus 34% in the SCCS). The only subgroup with a clearly higher proportion both in the SCCS and FOPH than in the general population were persons over 60 years from Italy and Spain, with a 3.7- and 2.8-fold increase in the SCCS. These persons were non-PWID (99%), less frequently HIV- and anti-HBc positive and more often female than PWID from Italy and Spain; cirrhosis at enrolment was frequent (31%). Their HCV genotypes were consistent with those observed in elderly non-PWID of their birth countries. In the FOPH a higher proportion than in the general population was also seen for cases from Georgia and Russia. CONCLUSION The identification of subgroups in which HCV infection is particularly frequent might allow for better targeting HCV screening among foreign-born persons in Switzerland and elsewhere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Bertisch
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, Bern, Switzerland
- Checkpoint Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Fabio Giudici
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Francesco Negro
- Divisions of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and of Clinical Pathology, University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Darius Moradpour
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Beat Müllhaupt
- Swiss Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Center and Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital, Zürich, Switzerland
| | | | - Janne Estill
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Olivia Keiser
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, Bern, Switzerland
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Salvi M, Macaluso L, Luci C, Mattozzi C, Paolino G, Aprea Y, Calvieri S, Richetta AG. Safety and efficacy of anti-tumor necrosis factors α in patients with psoriasis and chronic hepatitis C. World J Clin Cases 2016; 4:49-55. [PMID: 26881191 PMCID: PMC4733476 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v4.i2.49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2015] [Revised: 09/10/2015] [Accepted: 11/11/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Up to date, in literature, it is still debated the role of anti-tumor necrosis factors (TNF)-α treatments in hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients. TNF-α performs a lot of functions, it is an important pro-inflammatory cytokine and it is involved in the host’s immunity. Since TNF-α is implicated in the apoptotic signaling pathway of hepatocytes infected by HCV, anti TNF-α therapy may increase the risk of viral replication or their reactivation. However the treatment of anti TNF-α could have a healthful role because TNF-α appears to be engaged in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis, inducing apoptotic pathways. We describe the case of a patient with plaque-type psoriasis and concomitant chronic HCV, who was treated successfully with anti-TNF agents simultaneously to cyclosporine without sign of reactivation of HCV and increase of liver enzymes. Our personal experience shows that anti-TNF-α agents are not only effective but also safe. Furthermore the combination therapy of cyclosporine and anti-TNF-α appears to be well-tolerated and able to reduce the amount of liver enzymes as well as HCV-viral-load. However systematic, large-scale studies with long follow-ups will be needed to confirm our results, in association with close liver function monitoring.
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Fedeli U, Avossa F, Goldoni CA, Caranci N, Zambon F, Saugo M. Education level and chronic liver disease by aetiology: A proportional mortality study. Dig Liver Dis 2015; 47:1082-5. [PMID: 26315625 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2015.07.154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2015] [Revised: 07/27/2015] [Accepted: 07/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data are lacking on mortality from chronic liver diseases of different aetiology by education level. AIMS To investigate the association between education level and mortality from alcoholic, viral, and non-viral/non-alcoholic chronic liver disease. METHODS Proportional mortality was investigated in 2011-2013 in the Veneto Region (Italy). Odds ratios were estimated by conditional logistic regression with deaths from liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, and viral hepatitis as cases, and all other deaths as controls. Disease aetiology was determined from all conditions mentioned in the death certificate. RESULTS Overall chronic liver disease proportional mortality was higher in males (OR 1.37, 95% CI 1.18-1.60) and females (OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.29-2.30) with primary education than in subjects with higher educational level. The risk for alcohol-related and non-viral/non-alcohol-related disease significantly increased with lower education in both genders. CONCLUSIONS Proportional mortality analysis of multiple causes of death records showed an association between education and chronic liver diseases with alcoholic and non-viral/non-alcoholic aetiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ugo Fedeli
- SER - Epidemiological Department, Veneto Region, Italy.
| | | | | | - Nicola Caranci
- Regional Health and Social Care Agency of Emilia-Romagna, Italy
| | - Francesco Zambon
- WHO European Office for Investment for Health and Development, Venice, Italy
| | - Mario Saugo
- SER - Epidemiological Department, Veneto Region, Italy
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24
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Costantino A, Spada E, Equestre M, Bruni R, Tritarelli E, Coppola N, Sagnelli C, Sagnelli E, Ciccaglione AR. Naturally occurring mutations associated with resistance to HCV NS5B polymerase and NS3 protease inhibitors in treatment-naïve patients with chronic hepatitis C. Virol J 2015; 12:186. [PMID: 26577836 PMCID: PMC4650141 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-015-0414-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Accepted: 10/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The detection of baseline resistance mutations to new direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) in HCV chronically infected treatment-naïve patients could be important for their management and outcome prevision. In this study, we investigated the presence of mutations, which have been previously reported to be associated with resistance to DAAs in HCV polymerase (NS5B) and HCV protease (NS3) regions, in sera of treatment-naïve patients. FINDINGS HCV RNA from 152 naïve patients (84 % Italian and 16 % immigrants from various countries) infected with different HCV genotypes (21,1a; 21, 1b; 2, 2a; 60, 2c; 22, 3a; 25, 4d and 1, 4k) was evaluated for sequence analysis. Amplification and sequencing of fragments in the NS5B (nt 8256-8640) and NS3 (nt 3420-3960) regions of HCV genome were carried out for 152 and 28 patients, respectively. The polymorphism C316N/H in NS5B region, associated with resistance to sofosbuvir, was detected in 9 of the 21 (43 %) analysed sequences from genotype 1b-infected patients. Naturally occurring mutations V36L, and M175L in the NS3 protease region were observed in 100 % of patients infected with subtype 2c and 4. CONCLUSION A relevant proportion of treatment naïve genotype 1b infected patients evaluated in this study harboured N316 polymorphism and might poorly respond to sofosbuvir treatment. As sofosbuvir has been approved for treatment of HCV chronic infection in USA and Europe including Italy, pre-treatment testing for N316 polymorphism on genotype 1b naïve patients should be considered for this drug.
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Aged
- Aged, 80 and over
- Antiviral Agents/pharmacology
- Drug Resistance, Viral
- Emigrants and Immigrants
- Hepacivirus/drug effects
- Hepacivirus/genetics
- Hepacivirus/isolation & purification
- Hepatitis C, Chronic/epidemiology
- Hepatitis C, Chronic/virology
- Humans
- Italy
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Mutation, Missense
- Polymorphism, Genetic
- Protease Inhibitors/pharmacology
- RNA, Viral/blood
- RNA, Viral/genetics
- RNA, Viral/isolation & purification
- Sequence Analysis, DNA
- Sofosbuvir/pharmacology
- Viral Nonstructural Proteins/genetics
- Young Adult
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Costantino
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immune-Mediated Diseases, Viral Hepatitis Unit, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299-00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Enea Spada
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immune-Mediated Diseases, Viral Hepatitis Unit, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299-00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Michele Equestre
- Department of Cell Biology and Neurosciences, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
| | - Roberto Bruni
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immune-Mediated Diseases, Viral Hepatitis Unit, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299-00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Elena Tritarelli
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immune-Mediated Diseases, Viral Hepatitis Unit, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299-00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Nicola Coppola
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, Section of Infectious diseases, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy.
| | - Caterina Sagnelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery F. Magrassi and A. Lanzara, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy.
| | - Evangelista Sagnelli
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, Section of Infectious diseases, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy.
| | - Anna Rita Ciccaglione
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immune-Mediated Diseases, Viral Hepatitis Unit, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299-00161, Rome, Italy.
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25
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Polilli E, Tontodonati M, Flacco ME, Ursini T, Striani P, Di Giammartino D, Paoloni M, Vallarola L, Pressanti GL, Fragassi G, Accorsi P, Manzoli L, Parruti G. High seroprevalence of HCV in the Abruzzo Region, Italy: results on a large sample from opt-out pre-surgical screening. Infection 2015; 44:85-91. [PMID: 26363567 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-015-0841-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2015] [Accepted: 08/31/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Available estimates of the prevalence of chronic HCV infection in Italy are quite conflicting, varying from 1.5 to 22.5%, with an apparent north to south gradient. As Direct Acting Antivirals are expensive, both National and local governmental Agencies are in urgent need of detailed and reliable estimates of HCV patients to be treated, nationwide and in each district. We investigated the prevalence of anti-HCV antibodies in a large unselected sample of surgical patients providing consent to in-hospital opt-out pre-surgical HCV screening, at two hospitals from the Abruzzo Region, Italy. METHODS Data were retrieved for 55,533 screened patients (4.1% of the total population in the Abruzzo Region), admitted in the Orthopedic and General Surgery wards of Pescara and Teramo Hospitals from 1999 to 2014. RESULTS The prevalence of anti-HCV antibodies was 4.4% in the total sample. HCV-positive patients had a mean age of 63.8 ± 19.9 years; 49.2% were males. From 1999 to 2014, the prevalence of HCV antibodies decreased from 5.4% to 4.1%; at both sites, however, two age-related-peaks were evidenced, the first among patients aged 30-49 years, the second among those older than 70 years. Statistical analyses confirmed a significant trend to decrease over time and a higher prevalence in Pescara and among males (all p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Data retrieved from opt-out pre-surgical screening programs may allow inexpensive and easy-to-perform estimates of HCV seroprevalence from large samples of unselected patients with a well-defined provenience, which may turn useful for future treatment resource allocation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ennio Polilli
- Head, Infectious Disease Unit, Pescara General Hospital, Via Fonte Romana 8, 65124, Pescara, Italy
| | - Monica Tontodonati
- Head, Infectious Disease Unit, Pescara General Hospital, Via Fonte Romana 8, 65124, Pescara, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Flacco
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
- Regional Healthcare Agency of Abruzzo, Pescara, Italy
| | - Tamara Ursini
- Head, Infectious Disease Unit, Pescara General Hospital, Via Fonte Romana 8, 65124, Pescara, Italy
| | - Palmira Striani
- Immunohematology and Transfusion, Apheresis Unit, Pescara General Hospital, Pescara, Italy
| | | | - Maurizio Paoloni
- Infectious Disease Unit, Avezzano General Hospital, Avezzano, Italy
| | - Luigi Vallarola
- Immunohematology and Transfusion Unit, Teramo General Hospital, Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Giorgia Fragassi
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - Patrizia Accorsi
- Immunohematology and Transfusion, Apheresis Unit, Pescara General Hospital, Pescara, Italy
| | - Lamberto Manzoli
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
- Regional Healthcare Agency of Abruzzo, Pescara, Italy
| | - Giustino Parruti
- Head, Infectious Disease Unit, Pescara General Hospital, Via Fonte Romana 8, 65124, Pescara, Italy.
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Vilibic-Cavlek T, Kucinar J, Kaic B, Vilibic M, Pandak N, Barbic L, Stevanovic V, Vranes J. Epidemiology of hepatitis C in Croatia in the European context. World J Gastroenterol 2015; 21:9476-93. [PMID: 26327756 PMCID: PMC4548109 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i32.9476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Revised: 06/03/2015] [Accepted: 07/18/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
We analyzed prevalence, risk factors and hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype distribution in different population groups in Croatia in the context of HCV epidemiology in Europe, with the aim to gather all existing information on HCV infection in Croatia which will be used to advise upon preventive measures. It is estimated that 35000-45000 of the Croatian population is chronically infected with HCV. Like in other European countries, there have been changes in the HCV epidemiology in Croatia over the past few decades. In some risk groups (polytransfused and hemodialysis patients), a significant decrease in the HCV prevalence was observed after the introduction of routine HCV screening of blood/blood products in 1992. Injecting drug users (IDUs) still represent a group with the highest risk for HCV infection with prevalence ranging from 29% to 65%. Compared to the prevalence in the Croatian general population (0.9%), higher prevalence rates were found in prison populations (8.3%-44%), human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients (15%), persons with high-risk sexual behavior (4.6%) and alcohol abusers (2.4%). Low/very low prevalence was reported in children and adolescents (0.3%) as well as in blood donors (0%-0.009%). In addition, distribution of HCV genotypes has changed due to different routes of transmission. In the general population, genotypes 1 and 3 are most widely distributed (60.4%-79.8% and 12.9%-47.9%, respectively). The similar genotype distribution is found in groups with high-risk sexual behavior. Genotype 3 is predominant in Croatian IDUs (60.5%-83.9%) while in the prison population genotypes 3 and 1 are equally distributed (52.4% and 47.6%). Data on HCV prevalence and risk factors for transmission are useful for implementation of preventive measures and HCV screening.
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Khyatti M, Trimbitas RD, Zouheir Y, Benani A, El Messaoudi MD, Hemminki K. Infectious diseases in North Africa and North African immigrants to Europe. Eur J Public Health 2015; 24 Suppl 1:47-56. [PMID: 25107998 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/cku109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The epidemiological transition has reduced infectious diseases mortality in most European countries, yet increased migrant influx risks importing diseases. All reported prevalence rates must be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on the disease in question, respective European Union (EU) country and migratory patterns at work. Tuberculosis has seen a re-emergence in Europe and is concentrated among migrants. Migrants arriving from North Africa (NA) and sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) carry higher rates of hepatitis C and B than the local EU population. The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) impact of NA migrants to Europe is very low but a hallmark of the HIV epidemic is the penetration and circulation of non-B strains, recombinant forms and HIV-drug-resistant profiles through SSA migrants using NA as a transit point into Europe. Leishmaniasis is a re-emerging zoonotic disease prevalent to Southern Europe although not specifically isolated in migrant groups. Although not endemic in NA countries, malaria represent S: a risk in terms of re-emergence in Europe through transitory migrants arriving from SSA with the destination to Europe. Schistosomiasis has been largely eliminated from NA. High migrant flux into European countries has resulted in changing patterns of communicable disease and collectively requires a continuous surveillance. World Health Organization guidelines recommend targeted screening and preventative vaccination, followed by integration of migrants into the local health-care systems allowing for long-term treatment and follow-up. Finally, effective public health campaigns as a form of prevention are essential for the mitigation of disease dissemination in the migrant pool and for second-generation children of migrants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meriem Khyatti
- 1 Laboratory of Onco-Virology, Pasteur Institute of Morocco, Casablanca, Morocco
| | | | - Yassine Zouheir
- 1 Laboratory of Onco-Virology, Pasteur Institute of Morocco, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Abdelouaheb Benani
- 1 Laboratory of Onco-Virology, Pasteur Institute of Morocco, Casablanca, Morocco
| | | | - Kari Hemminki
- 2 Department of Molecular Genetic Epidemiology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
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28
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Niederau C. Chronic hepatitis B in 2014: great therapeutic progress, large diagnostic deficit. World J Gastroenterol 2014; 20:11595-617. [PMID: 25206267 PMCID: PMC4155353 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i33.11595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2013] [Revised: 01/03/2014] [Accepted: 04/27/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
This review analyzes progress and limitations of diagnosis, screening, and therapy of patients with chronic hepatitis B infection. A literature review was carried out by framing the study questions. Vaccination in early childhood has been introduced in most countries and reduces the infection rate. Treatment of chronic hepatitis B can control viral replication in most patients today. It reduces risks for progression and may reverse liver fibrosis. The treatment effect on development of hepatocellular carcinoma is less pronounced when cirrhosis is already present. Despite the success of vaccination and therapy chronic hepatitis B remains a problem since many infected patients do not know of their disease. Although all guidelines recommend screening in high risk groups such as migrants, these suggestions have not been implemented. In addition, the performance of hepatocellular cancer surveillance under real-life conditions is poor. The majority of people with chronic hepatitis B live in resource-constrained settings where effective drugs are not available. Despite the success of vaccination and therapy chronic hepatitis B infection remains a major problem since many patients do not know of their disease. The problems in diagnosis and screening may be overcome by raising awareness, promoting partnerships, and mobilizing resources.
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29
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Fedeli U, Avossa F, Guzzinati S, Bovo E, Saugo M. Trends in mortality from chronic liver disease. Ann Epidemiol 2014; 24:522-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2014.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2014] [Revised: 04/17/2014] [Accepted: 05/06/2014] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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30
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Vilibić-Cavlek T, Kucinar J, Ljubin-Sternak S, Kaić B, Lazarić-Stefanović L, Kolarić B. Prevalence of viral hepatitis in Croatian adult population undergoing routine check-up, 2010-2011. Cent Eur J Public Health 2014; 22:29-33. [PMID: 24844103 DOI: 10.21101/cejph.a3844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Seroprevalence data on viral hepatitis in the general population vary widely. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of hepatitis A (HAV), hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV) viruses in the general Croatian adult population undergoing routine check-ups. The seroprevalence of anti-HAV, anti-HBc and anti-HCV was 40.5%, 7.0% and 0.9%, respectively. HBsAg was found in 0.7% and anti-HBs antibodies in 24.4% of participants. Gender was not associated with HAV, HBV or HCV seropositivity. HAV and HBV seropositivity increased progressively with age (HAV from 11.7% to 90.4%, p < 0.001; HBV from 1.7% to 15.8%, p < 0.001). Participants from rural areas showed a significantly higher HBV seroprevalence rate than those from urban areas (10.7% vs. 6.1%, p = 0.007). Results of univariate and multiple logistic regression showed that older age was a significant predictor for both HAV and HBV seropositivity while rural place of residence was a significant predictor for HBV seropositivity.
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31
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Monti G, Saccardo F, Castelnovo L, Novati P, Sollima S, Riva A, Sarzi-Puttini P, Quartuccio L, De Vita S, Galli M. Prevalence of mixed cryoglobulinaemia syndrome and circulating cryoglobulins in a population-based survey: the Origgio study. Autoimmun Rev 2014; 13:609-14. [PMID: 24418294 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2013.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2013] [Accepted: 11/10/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Mixed cryoglobulinaemia syndrome (MCS) is associated with a number of infectious, autoimmune and lymphoproliferative disorders, particularly chronic hepatitis C infection. Although circulating mixed cryoglobulins (cMCGs) are a frequent finding in HCV-infected patients, only a minority of them develop a frank MCS. The only available data concerning the prevalence of MCS, which is generally considered a rare disease, come from hospital records. The aim of this investigation was to estimate the prevalence of cMCGs and MCS in a population-based study. All of the adult residents in Origgio, a town of about seven thousand inhabitants in northern Italy, were mailed a validated questionnaire, and a randomly selected sample of respondents was invited to undergo a clinical examination and laboratory tests including the determination of cMCGs. The 1594 respondents to the questionnaire (54.3% women, 64.5% aged >49years) accounted for 26.4% of the total adult population. Forty-nine (3.1%) positively responded to at least two questions, including a disproportionately high number of people aged >70years (p=0.001). Of the 266 randomly selected subjects invited to undergo a clinical examination and laboratory tests, 147 accepted, 30 (20.4%) of whom had asymptomatic type III cMCGs and four MCS. The risk of cMCG positivity was independently associated with C4 levels of <16mg/dL (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 4.40, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.07-18.08; p=0.040) and HCV positivity (AOR 6.87, 95% CI 1.16-40.79; p=0.034). No co-morbidities known to be related to cMCG production could be detected in more than 50% of the positive cases. After including the other positive respondents who agreed to undergo a clinical examination, the number of diagnosed MCS increased to seven: five HCV-related, one HBV-related, and one essential MCS. In conclusion, MCS seems to be more frequent than expected for a 'rare' disease, and the unexpectedly high prevalence of cMCGs raises questions about the frequency with which they are triggered, the spectrum of diseases involved in triggering them, and their real role as disease indicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Monti
- Busto Arsizio, Ospedale di Saronno UO Medicina Interna, Pz.le Borella 1, 21047 Saronno, Italy.
| | - Francesco Saccardo
- Busto Arsizio, Ospedale di Saronno UO Medicina Interna, Pz.le Borella 1, 21047 Saronno, Italy.
| | - Laura Castelnovo
- Busto Arsizio, Ospedale di Saronno UO Medicina Interna, Pz.le Borella 1, 21047 Saronno, Italy.
| | - Paola Novati
- Busto Arsizio, Ospedale di Saronno UO Medicina Interna, Pz.le Borella 1, 21047 Saronno, Italy.
| | - Salvatore Sollima
- Institute of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University of Milan, Luigi Sacco Hospital, via GB Grassi 74, 20157 Milan, Italy.
| | - Agostino Riva
- Institute of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University of Milan, Luigi Sacco Hospital, via GB Grassi 74, 20157 Milan, Italy.
| | - Piercarlo Sarzi-Puttini
- Rheumatology Unit, University of Milan, Luigi Sacco Hospital, via GB Grassi 74, 20157 Milan, Italy.
| | - Luca Quartuccio
- Clinic of Rheumatology, Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, University of Udine, P.za Misericordia, 33100 Udine, Italy.
| | - Salvatore De Vita
- Clinic of Rheumatology, Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, University of Udine, P.za Misericordia, 33100 Udine, Italy.
| | - Massimo Galli
- Institute of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University of Milan, Luigi Sacco Hospital, via GB Grassi 74, 20157 Milan, Italy.
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Fedeli U, Schievano E, Lisiero M, Avossa F, Mastrangelo G, Saugo M. Descriptive epidemiology of chronic liver disease in northeastern Italy: an analysis of multiple causes of death. Popul Health Metr 2013; 11:20. [PMID: 24112320 PMCID: PMC3852117 DOI: 10.1186/1478-7954-11-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2013] [Accepted: 10/08/2013] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The analysis of multiple causes of death data has been applied in the United States to examine the population burden of chronic liver disease (CLD) and to assess time trends of alcohol-related and hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related CLD mortality. The aim of this study was to assess the mortality for CLD by etiology in the Veneto Region (northeastern Italy). Methods Using the 2008–2010 regional archive of mortality, all causes registered on death certificates were extracted and different descriptive epidemiological measures were computed for HCV-related, alcohol-related, and overall CLD-related mortality. Results The crude mortality rate of all CLD was close to 40 per 100,000 residents. In middle ages (35 to 74 years) CLD was mentioned in about 10% and 6% of all deaths in males and females, respectively. Etiology was unspecified in about half of CLD deaths. In females and males, respectively, HCV was mentioned in 44% and 21% and alcohol in 11% and 26% of overall CLD deaths. A bimodal distribution with age was observed for HCV-related proportional mortality among females, reflecting the available seroprevalence data. Conclusions Multiple causes of death analyses can provide useful insights into the burden of CLD mortality according to etiology among different population subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ugo Fedeli
- SER - Epidemiological Department, Veneto Region, Passaggio Gaudenzio 1-35131 Padova (PD), Italy.
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33
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Costa L, Caso F, Atteno M, Giannitti C, Spadaro A, Ramonda R, Vezzù M, Del Puente A, Morisco F, Fiocco U, Galeazzi M, Punzi L, Scarpa R. Long-term safety of anti-TNF-α in PsA patients with concomitant HCV infection: a retrospective observational multicenter study on 15 patients. Clin Rheumatol 2013; 33:273-6. [DOI: 10.1007/s10067-013-2378-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2013] [Accepted: 08/19/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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34
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Hahné SJM, Veldhuijzen IK, Wiessing L, Lim TA, Salminen M, Laar MVD. Infection with hepatitis B and C virus in Europe: a systematic review of prevalence and cost-effectiveness of screening. BMC Infect Dis 2013; 13:181. [PMID: 23597411 PMCID: PMC3716892 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2334-13-181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2012] [Accepted: 03/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment for chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is improving but not benefiting individuals unaware to be infected. To inform screening policies we assessed (1) the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-hepatitis C virus antibody (anti-HCV-Ab) prevalence for 34 European countries; and (2) the cost-effectiveness of screening for chronic HBV and HCV infection. METHODS We searched peer-reviewed literature for data on HBsAg and anti-HCV-Ab prevalence and cost-effectiveness of screening of the general population and five subgroups, and used data for people who inject drugs (PWID) and blood donors from two European organizations. Of 1759 and 468 papers found in the prevalence and cost-effectiveness searches respectively, we included 124 and 29 papers after assessing their quality. We used decision rules to calculate weighted prevalence estimates by country. RESULTS The HBsAg and anti-HCV-Ab prevalence in the general population ranged from 0.1%-5.6% and 0.4%-5.2% respectively, by country. For PWID, men who have sex with men and migrants, the prevalence of HBsAg and anti-HCV-Ab was higher than the prevalence in the general population in all but 3 countries. There is evidence that HCV screening of PWID and HBsAg screening of pregnant women and migrants is cost-effective. CONCLUSION The prevalence of chronic HBV and HCV infection varies widely between European countries. Anti-HCV-Ab screening of PWID and HBsAg screening of pregnant women and migrants have European public health priority. Cost-effectiveness analyses may need to take effect of antiviral treatment on preventing HBV and HCV transmission into account.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan J M Hahné
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), PO Box 1, Bilthoven, 3720 BA, The Netherlands.
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35
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Papa A, Felice C, Marzo M, Andrisani G, Armuzzi A, Covino M, Mocci G, Pugliese D, De Vitis I, Gasbarrini A, Rapaccini GL, Guidi L. Prevalence and natural history of hepatitis B and C infections in a large population of IBD patients treated with anti-tumor necrosis factor-α agents. J Crohns Colitis 2013; 7:113-9. [PMID: 22464811 DOI: 10.1016/j.crohns.2012.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2012] [Revised: 03/02/2012] [Accepted: 03/04/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence rates of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have been reported to be higher than rates of infection among the general population. Although several cases of HBV infection reactivation in IBD patients treated with anti-TNF-α agents have been described, no evidence exists that anti-TNF-α therapy exacerbates the course of HCV. The aims of this study were to assess the prevalence of HBV and HCV and the rate of HBV vaccination in a population of IBD patients; and to investigate the long-term effects of anti-TNF-α therapy in the subgroup with HBV or HCV infections. METHODS 301 patients were studied. Prior to the initiation of anti-TNF-α therapy, serum samples were tested for HBsAg and anti-HBc, anti-HBs and anti-HCV antibodies. During the follow-up, HBsAg and anti-HBc positive patients underwent periodic blood testing for viral markers, HBV-DNA and liver function; anti-HCV positive patients were assessed for liver function and HCV-RNA. RESULTS One patient was HBsAg positive (0.3%), and 22 (7.3%) tested positive for anti-HBc. Seventy-two patients (23.9%) had been vaccinated for HBV. Four patients tested positive for anti-HCV (1.3%). During anti-TNF-α therapy, none of the patients experienced HBV or HCV reactivation. CONCLUSIONS HBV and HCV infection rates were similar to infection rates among the general population. Less than one quarter of the patients had been vaccinated against HBV. Anti-TNF-α agents appear to be safe for patients with HBV infection; more data are needed for patients with HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Papa
- Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Catholic University of Rome, Italy.
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Blachier M, Leleu H, Peck-Radosavljevic M, Valla DC, Roudot-Thoraval F. The burden of liver disease in Europe: a review of available epidemiological data. J Hepatol 2013; 58:593-608. [PMID: 23419824 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2012.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 903] [Impact Index Per Article: 75.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2012] [Accepted: 12/05/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
To survey the burden of liver disease in Europe and its causes 260 epidemiological studies published in the last five years were reviewed. The incidence and prevalence of cirrhosis and primary liver cancer are key to understand the burden of liver disease. They represent the end-stage of liver pathology and thus are indicative of the associated mortality. About 0.1% of Hungarian males will die of cirrhosis every year compared with 0.001% of Greek females. WHO estimate that liver cancer is responsible for around 47,000 deaths per year in the EU. Harmful alcohol consumption, viral hepatitis B and C and metabolic syndromes related to overweight and obesity are the leading causes of cirrhosis and primary liver cancer in Europe. Chronic hepatitis B affects 0.5-0.7% of the European population. In the last decade the prevalence of chronic hepatitis C was 0.13-3.26%. It is of great concern that about 90% of people in Europe infected by viral hepatitis are unaware of their status. Available data suggest the prevalence rate of NAFLD is 2-44% in the general European population (including obese children) and 42.6-69.5% in people with type 2 diabetes. Each of these four major causes of liver disease is amenable to prevention and treatment, reducing the burden of liver disease in Europe and saving lives. Further surveys are urgently needed to implement cost-effective prevention programmes and novel treatments to tackle this problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Blachier
- Department of Public Health, Hôpital Henri Mondor, Université Paris-Est Créteil, France
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Turhanoğlu M, Onur A, Bilman FB, Ayaydın Z, Aktar GS. Eight-year seroprevalence of HBV, HCV and HIV in Diyarbakir training and research hospital. Int J Med Sci 2013; 10:1595-601. [PMID: 24046538 PMCID: PMC3775121 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.6506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2013] [Accepted: 08/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Distribution of HBV, HCV and HIV results of the inpatients or outpatients, who had been treated for various diagnoses in Diyarbakır Training and Research Hospital between 2005 and 2012, among years was investigated. Files of the patients, who had been treated as inpatient or outpatient 992. to any diagnosis between 01/01/2005 and 31/12/2012 in the clinics or policlinics of Diyarbakır 581 due Training and Research Hospital, were retrospectively reviewed using patient file database. Serum samples (235.534 for HBsAg, 196.727 for Anti-HBs antibody, 98.497 for HBeAg, 97.417 for Anti-HBe antibody, 225.483 for HCV and 138.923 for HIV) of these patients, which had been processed in microbiology laboratory, were studied by chemiluminescence technique using Roche E-170 (Modular Analytics System) device. Prevalence rates between 2005 and 2012 were as follows: 15.9%-9% for HBsAg, 32.9%-52.3% for Anti-HBs, 2.5%-1.8% for HBeAg, 30.4%-25.2% for Anti-HBe, 1%-0.7% for Anti-HCV, and 0.1%-1% for Anti-HIV. Increase in Anti-HBs prevalence is the successful outcome of routine immunization in population. This suggests that, governmental policies focused on this subject have resulted in successful outcomes and that people also take care about this. A prevalence rate decreasing to 9% from 15.9% for HBsAg and prevalence rate increasing to 52.3% from 32.9% for Anti-HBs antibody positivity in 8-year period in our region is quite meaningful. Such favorable developments in our region are of great valuable in terms of indicating to what extent could struggle against HBV is controlled by education and awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mine Turhanoğlu
- Diyarbakır Training and Research Hospital, Department of Microbiology, Diyarbakır, Turkey
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38
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Spada E, Mele A, Mariano A, Zuccaro O, Tosti ME. Risk factors for and incidence of acute hepatitis C after the achievement of blood supply safety in Italy: results from the national surveillance system. J Med Virol 2012; 85:433-40. [PMID: 23280786 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.23485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/30/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Surveillance systems for acute hepatitis C allow monitoring of disease incidence trends and transmission patterns. This study aimed to describe the epidemiological profile of reported cases of symptomatic acute hepatitis C in Italy after the achievement of blood supply safety. The incidence of symptomatic acute hepatitis C since 1991 was estimated. Risk factors for acute hepatitis C were analyzed for the period 2003-2010 through a case-control study within a population-based surveillance for acute viral hepatitis. From 1991 to 2010, the incidence decreased from 2 to 0.2 per 100,000, with a more evident decrease among persons aged 15-24 years. During 2003-2010, 1,053 cases were reported. Intravenous drug use (adjusted odds ratio [(adj) OR], 30.5; 95% confidence interval [CI], 18.9-49.1), cohabitation or sexual partnership with an hepatitis C virus (HCV) carrier ((adj) OR, 11.2; 95% CI, 6.6-19.2), nosocomial exposure ((adj) OR, 6.6; 95% CI, 4.6-9.4); unsafe sexual practices ((adj) OR, 3.1; 95% CI, 1.9-5.2), and cosmetic treatments with percutaneous exposure ((adj) OR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.2-2.4) were independently associated with acute hepatitis C. Population attributable risk estimates indicated nosocomial exposure (39.6%) and intravenous drug use (30.5%) as responsible for most cases. In conclusion, the incidence of symptomatic acute hepatitis C is declining in Italy. Currently, the most important risk factors are: having an HCV-positive household or sexual partner, unsafe sexual practices, cosmetic percutaneous treatments, intravenous drug use, and nosocomial exposure; the latter two factors are responsible for most cases. Effective prevention programs for intravenous drug users and strict adherence to universal precautions in healthcare settings are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enea Spada
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, National Centre of Epidemiology, Surveillance and Health Promotion, Rome, Italy.
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Tramuto F, Mazzucco W, Maida CM, Affronti A, Affronti M, Montalto G, Vitale F. Serological pattern of Hepatitis B, C, and HIV infections among immigrants in Sicily: epidemiological aspects and implication on public health. J Community Health 2012; 37:547-53. [PMID: 21922163 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-011-9477-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to describe the prevalence of Hepatitis B virus (HBV), Hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections in a cohort of immigrants living in Palermo, Sicily. The study was carried out in the period May 2006-June 2010 and recruited a total of 393 patients (59.8% males-median age of 32.6 years). All patients were tested for serological markers of HBV, HCV, and HIV infection. One-hundred thirty-eight (35.1%) individuals did not show any HBV/HCV/HIV serological marker, while 186 (47.3%) were indicative of past or current HBV infection. A total of 42 (10.7%) subjects were HBsAg positive, 59 (15.0%) showed the serological profile "anti-HBc alone", and only 40 (10.1%) were anti-HBs alone. Overall, 22/393 (5.6%) immigrants were anti-HCV positive and 13/327 (4.0%) were infected with HIV. Findings from this study suggest that a suitable screening protocol for the viral blood/sexually transmissible diseases is recommended on entering Italy, and the adoption of health control strategies should also be considered to safeguard the health of the local population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Tramuto
- Department of Sciences for the Health Promotion "G. D'Alessandro"-Hygiene Section, University of Palermo, 133, via del Vespro, 90127, Palermo, Italy.
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Passos AM, Strazer Neto M, Treitinger A, Spada C. Seroprevalence of HBV and HCV markers among young adult males in the Air Force in Florianópolis, South Brazil. BRAZ J PHARM SCI 2012. [DOI: 10.1590/s1984-82502012000200009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
We investigated the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) serological markers of infection in young adults from the metropolitan region of Florianópolis who were conscripts of the Air Base of Florianópolis in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil. A population-based cross-sectional seroprevalence study was conducted with 371 young males during a one year period starting in June 2009. Demographic characteristics, socio-economic characteristics and possible risk factors to HBV and HCV were assessed. Blood samples were analyzed for HBsAg, anti-HBc, anti-HCV and anti-HBs through automated microparticle enzymatic immunoassays (Abbott®, AxSYM System, Wiesbaden, Germany). None of the participants showed positivity to HBsAg or anti-HCV. The prevalence of anti-HBc was 1.6% (95% CI 0.6 - 3.5), and the prevalence of anti-HBs was 40.7% (95% CI 35.7 - 45.9). Unsafe sex was associated with positive anti-HBc in a bivariate analysis. There was a very low prevalence of past HBV infection and no cases of past HCV infection in a young adult population in the metropolitan region of Florianópolis. The very low prevalence of markers of infection and risk factors indicates a very optimistic future with respect to HBV and HCV infection in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Celso Spada
- Federal University of Santa Catarina, Brazil
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Pellicano R, Fagoonee S. The Evolving Incidence of Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Italy. HEPATITIS MONTHLY 2012; 12:124-125. [DOI: 10.5812/hepatmon.4873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2025]
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Brazzelli V, Carugno A, Alborghetti A, Cananzi R, Sangiovanni L, Barbarini G, De Silvestri A, Borroni RG. Hepatitis C infection in Italian psoriatic patients: prevalence and correlation with patient age and psoriasis severity. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2011; 26:1581-2. [PMID: 22142565 DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-3083.2011.04360.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Soverini V, Persico M, Bugianesi E, Forlani G, Salamone F, Masarone M, La Mura V, Mazzotti A, Bruno A, Marchesini G. HBV and HCV infection in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a survey in three diabetes units in different Italian areas. Acta Diabetol 2011; 48:337-343. [PMID: 21574001 DOI: 10.1007/s00592-011-0293-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2011] [Accepted: 04/28/2011] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Viral infections and the metabolic syndrome may coexist in several individuals, due to the large prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Antiviral therapy has changed the natural history of chronic viral hepatitis, but viral infection may remain undiagnosed in the absence of systematic screening. We determined the prevalence of HBV and/or HCV infection in an Italian cohort with T2DM (859 consecutive patients, 413 females) in three Italian centers: Turin, Bologna, and Naples. Screening for viral disease was coupled with the determination of parameters of metabolic syndrome. Fourteen patients were HBsAg-positive, 51 anti-HCV with a prevalence of genotype-1 infection in 58% of cases. Thirty cases had newly diagnosed viral markers, only one-third had already-diagnosed liver disease, 16 were being followed-up by a Liver Unit, and 9 cases had received antiviral treatment. Patients with viral markers had higher liver enzyme levels in comparison with virus-negative patients (P < 0.0001), whereas the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome was similar in the 2 groups. A positive correlation between BMI and alanine aminostransferase levels was only present in virus-negative cases, where the probability of enzyme levels above the upper limit of normal increased by 5% for unit of increase in BMI (OR: 1.05; 95% CI: 1.003-1.100, P = 0.037). In conclusion, the prevalence of HBV and HCV is non-negligible in patients with T2DM, but these cases may long remain undiagnosed. Elevated liver enzymes might be frequently disregarded in diabetes Units and ascribed to metabolic syndrome, thus excluding T2DM patients from specific disease-modifying antiviral treatment for hepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Soverini
- Unit of Metabolic Diseases and Clinical Dietetics, "Alma Mater Studiorum" University of Bologna, Policlinico S. Orsola, Via Massarenti, 9, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marcello Persico
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, II° University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Gabriele Forlani
- Unit of Metabolic Diseases and Clinical Dietetics, "Alma Mater Studiorum" University of Bologna, Policlinico S. Orsola, Via Massarenti, 9, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Federico Salamone
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Mario Masarone
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, II° University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo La Mura
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, II° University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Arianna Mazzotti
- Unit of Metabolic Diseases and Clinical Dietetics, "Alma Mater Studiorum" University of Bologna, Policlinico S. Orsola, Via Massarenti, 9, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alberto Bruno
- Division of Diabetology and Metabolic Diseases, S. Giovanni Battista Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Giulio Marchesini
- Unit of Metabolic Diseases and Clinical Dietetics, "Alma Mater Studiorum" University of Bologna, Policlinico S. Orsola, Via Massarenti, 9, 40138, Bologna, Italy.
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Hepatitis C Virus infections trends in Italy, 1996-2006. HEPATITIS MONTHLY 2011. [DOI: 10.5812/kowsar.1735143x.3751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
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Zani C, Pasquale L, Bressanelli M, Puoti M, Paris B, Coccaglio R, Lascioli I, Pieriacci G, Donato F. The epidemiological pattern of chronic liver diseases in a community undergoing voluntary screening for hepatitis B and C. Dig Liver Dis 2011; 43:653-8. [PMID: 21530428 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2011.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2010] [Revised: 02/25/2011] [Accepted: 03/22/2011] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vallecamonica-Sebino is a community in Northern Italy (99,776 inhabitants) with one of the highest mortality rates for primary liver cancer and cirrhosis in Italy, and voluntary screening for HCV and HBV is widespread. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of chronic liver diseases and their aetiology in the area. METHODS We used the following sources of data, linked at an individual level: (1) hospital discharge data; (2) local Viral Hepatitis Services; (3) tests for anti-HCV antibodies and HBsAg from local laboratories; (4) Local Health Authority registry of chronic liver disease patients; (5) drug prescriptions for HBV and HCV treatment; (6) archives of Alcohol Units. RESULTS 3.5% of the residents had chronic liver disease, mainly chronic hepatitis (61.6%), followed by cirrhosis (14.0%) and alcoholic liver disease (11.2%). HCV was the main cause of chronic liver disease in females (46.3%) and males (29.8%), followed by alcohol abuse in males (22.9%) and HBV (10.9% males and 9.2% females). Prevalence of anti-HCV positivity was 3.2%, and increased with age to 8.8% in subjects aged 65 years and over. CONCLUSION This study shows that an epidemiologic pattern of the prevalence of chronic liver diseases and their aetiology can be obtained using routinely collected data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Zani
- Department of Experimental and Applied Medicine, Institute of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Brescia, Italy
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Tonial GC, Passos AM, Livramento AD, Scaraveli NG, Batschauer APDB, Bueno EC, Largura Á, Spada C, Treitinger A. Hepatitis B marker seroprevalence and vaccination coverage in adolescents in the City of Itajaí, State of Santa Catarina, Southern Brazil, in 2008. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2011; 44:416-9. [DOI: 10.1590/s0037-86822011000400003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2010] [Accepted: 03/15/2011] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Hepatitis B infection constitutes an important cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In Brazil, however, the current epidemiological situation is not clear. Considering the importance of establishing this prevalence, the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of HBV markers in voluntary adolescents, junior high (secondary school) students, in the City of Itajaí, State of Santa Catarina, Brazil. METHODS: A seroepidemiological, transverse study was conducted with 353 randomly chosen adolescents from elementary school in 2008. Blood samples were analyzed for HBsAg, anti-HBc and anti-HBs. All analyses were conducted by automated microparticle enzyme immunosorbent assay (Abbott®, AxSYM system, Deerfield, IL, USA), according to the manufacturer's instructions. RESULTS: The prevalence of HBsAg was 0.6% (CI 95% 0.1 - 2.0), that of anti-HBc was 1.1% (CI 95% 0.3 - 2.9) and that of detectable anti-HBs was 83.6% (CI 95% 79.3 - 87.3). Hepatitis B vaccination coverage was 97.5% (CI 95% 95.2 - 98.8). CONCLUSIONS: These results demonstrate the success of the vaccination program against hepatitis B in the region studied and indicate that prevention strategies must be maintained and, if possible, expanded to contribute to the establishment of positive prevalence rates in all age groups.
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Obienu O, Nwokediuko S, Malu A, Lesi OA. Risk factors for hepatitis C virus transmission obscure in nigerian patients. Gastroenterol Res Pract 2011; 2011:939673. [PMID: 21785583 PMCID: PMC3139196 DOI: 10.1155/2011/939673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2011] [Accepted: 05/23/2011] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim. To determine the prevalence of anti-HCV and risk factors associated with HCV infection in Nigerians. Materials and Method. Patients attending a general outpatient clinic were administered a structured questionnaire on the risk factors for HCV infection. They were also tested for anti-HCV using a third generation enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Result. The seroprevalence of anti-HCV was 4.7%. Among the risk factors evaluated, none was found to be significantly associated with anti-HCV seropositivity. Conclusion. The risk factors associated with HCV infection in Nigerian patients are obscure. This warrants further studies on the epidemiology of this important cause of liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olive Obienu
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku/Ozalla, PMB 01129 Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Sylvester Nwokediuko
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku/Ozalla, PMB 01129 Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Abraham Malu
- Department of Medicine, Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria
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48
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Pérez-Molina JA, Herrero-Martínez JM, Norman F, Pérez-Ayala A, Monge-Mahillo B, Navarro-Beltrá M, López-Vélez R. Clinical, epidemiological characteristics and indications for liver biopsy and treatment in immigrants with chronic hepatitis B at a referral hospital in Madrid. J Viral Hepat 2011; 18:294-9. [PMID: 20367791 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2893.2010.01306.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The increase in immigration from less developed countries to Europe has led to an increase in the incidence of hepatitis B infection. The objective of this study was to describe the clinical, epidemiological characteristics and indications for treatment of chronic hepatitis B in a cohort of immigrants, given the relative lack of current evidence. We performed a noninterventional retrospective chart review; different characteristics depending on geographical origin were compared. A case-control study was also performed to describe factors potentially associated with chronic or past hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. We selected a random sample of 436 patients out of the 2989 immigrants attending during the study period (1989-2008). Hepatitis B serology was performed in 74% (322/436): 10.6% had chronic HBV infection (95% CI: 7.4-13.7%), and 46.9% had evidence of past infection (95% CI: 41.7-52.0%). The average age was 31 years, 60% were men, and 70% were sub-Saharan Africans. Chronic infection was related to being men (OR 2.03; 95%CI: 1.29-3.18), younger (OR 0.98; 0.96-0.99) and sub-Saharan African (OR 5.41; 2.71-10.83). Past or current infection was related to male sex (OR 2.80; 1.81-4.30), longer time elapsed until first seen at the unit (OR 0.998; 0.997-1.000), HIV infection (OR 4.99; 1.15-21.60) and being sub-Saharan African (OR 15.46; 8.97-27.18). These associations were not confirmed after adjustment for geographical origin. In 27% and 29.5% of patients, liver biopsy and treatment, respectively, would have been indicated. Prevalence of chronic HBV infection amongst immigrants is high, especially in sub-Saharan Africans. Almost a third could be considered for liver biopsy or antiviral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Pérez-Molina
- Tropical Medicine and Clinical Parasitology Unit, Infectious Diseases Department, Ramón y Cajal Hospital, Madrid, Spain.
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Evaluation of the compliance with the protocol for preventing perinatal hepatitis B infection in Italy. J Infect 2010; 62:165-71. [PMID: 21129400 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2010.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2010] [Revised: 10/05/2010] [Accepted: 11/24/2010] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the compliance with the protocol for preventing perinatal hepatitis B infection in Italy, including HBsAg screening of pregnant women and immunization of newborns to infected mothers. METHODS Women consecutively delivering, over 6 months in 2008-2009, in public and private hospitals of 13 Italian regions were recruited. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, HBsAg prenatal screening and newborns immunization were collected. RESULTS 17,260 pregnant women were enrolled. Of them 16,858 (97.7%) attended prenatal screening. Delivering in a public hospital and in hospitals located in South Italy were both independent predictors of non-adherence to HBsAg screening. Foreign pregnant women were also less likely to be screened. Overall, HBsAg prevalence was 0.86%; it was 0.4% for Italian women and 2.5% for foreign women. Differences in prevalence by country of origin and education were statistically significant. Of 138 newborns from HBsAg positive mothers 131 received passive/active immunization; 7 newborns received just vaccine. CONCLUSION In this study compliance with the protocol for preventing perinatal hepatitis B was very good. Further efforts are needed to improve adherence to prenatal screening in public hospitals, in hospital located in southern Italy and among foreign women. HBV spread in Italy is progressively declining, also involving immigrant population.
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50
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Milionis C. Serological markers of Hepatitis B and C among juvenile immigrants from Albania settled in Greece. Eur J Gen Pract 2010; 16:236-40. [PMID: 20954813 DOI: 10.3109/13814788.2010.525631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Greece is a place of settlement for a large number of immigrants, particularly from Albania, which constitute special community groups for public health policies. OBJECTIVES This study was designed to assess the seroprevalence of serological markers for Hepatitis B and C among juvenile immigrants from Albania settled in Greece. METHODS The study population included 504 subjects, 418 males and 86 females, aged 10-23 years old who have emigrated from Albania to Pogoniani-Greece and participated voluntarily in vaccination programmes against Hepatitis B. The serum samples were examined with enzyme immune assays for the immunological markers HBsAg, anti-HBc, anti-HBs and anti-HCV. HBsAg positive samples were further tested for IgM anti-HBc, HBeAg and anti-HBe. RESULTS Among the examined subjects, 40.5% were found positive for anti-HBc, indicating an HBV contamination. Specifically, 11.7% were carriers of HBsAg, whereas 28.8% were negative for HBsAg but positive for anti-HBc. Only 6.5% was positive exclusively for anti-HBs. The rest (53.0%) presented no positive serological markers. Among the HBsAg positive patients, 8.5% were found positive for HBeAg, while 5.1% was positive for IgM anti-HBc. Finally, only 0.6% of the sample presented antibodies against HCV. CONCLUSION The examined migratory population is described by a high prevalence of Hepatitis B. Therefore, specific public health measures are necessary. However, no data was found that indicate potential public health dangers regarding hepatitis C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charalampos Milionis
- Health Centre of Delvinaki-Regional Medical Department of Pogoniani, National School of Public Health, Greece.
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