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6 reports on improving HCV control through investment, screening

Both in the U.S. and internationally, researchers continue to invest time and money toward the eradication of hepatitis C through clinical programs, awareness campaigns, and ongoing efficacy studies.

Healio presents the following reports that highlight a successful eradication program among patients on dialysis, improved outcomes among pregnant patients with early viral detection, a review focused on the need for an HCV vaccine, and a recent investment of $8.5 million by the Canadian government toward harm reduction for HCV and HIV.

HCV eradication program achieves 97% cure among patients on dialysis

Fresenius Kidney Care developed a hepatitis C eradication program that resulted in a 97% cure rate among patients on dialysis who received direct-acting antiviral therapy.

Healio Gastroenterology and Liver Disease spoke with Jeffrey L. Hymes, MD, chief medical officer of Fresenius Kidney Care, about the center’s partnership with the Scripps Clinic Liver Research Consortium to develop a protocol of screening, testing and appropriate treatment application. Read more

Early liver disease detection during pregnancy key for improved outcomes

Early detection of liver-related complications and hepatic diseases in patients who are pregnant leads to reduced risks and improved outcomes for both mother and child, according to a presentation at the American College of Gastroenterology Annual Meeting.

“The first thing is recognition. Recognition is most important because early recognition allows us to take better care of our patients,” Nancy S. Reau, MD, FACG, from the Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, said during her presentation. “Liver diseases can be unique to pregnancy, but there are a lot of things that can happen to a woman with [pre-existing] liver disease who becomes pregnant, so you need to manage both directions.” Read more

HCV vaccine critical for global virus control

Experts in a recent review stated that an effective hepatitis C vaccine is critical for significant global control of the infection in combination with increased screening and treatment.

However, there are several barriers to HCV vaccine development, including virus diversity, limited models for testing vaccines, and incomplete understanding of protective immune responses. Read more

Daklinza-Sovaldi produces similar SVR as Epclusa for HCV genotypes 2, 3

Daklinza with Sovaldi and ribavirin produced similar rates of sustained virologic response among patients with hepatitis C genotypes 2 and 3 as those treated with Epclusa, according to a recently published study.

“Genotype 2 accounts for 11% of chronic HCV infections both worldwide and in the United States, while genotype 3 accounts for 18% of HCV infections worldwide and 9% in the United States,” Pamela S. Belperio, PharmD, BCPS, from the Department of Veterans Affairs in California, and colleagues wrote. “In difficult-to-treat populations where less evidence-based guidance may be available, real-world providers may make empiric decisions to extend treatment, add [ribavirin], or both.” Read more

HCV-positive liver use increasing, discard rate steady

Researchers found that both donation and use of hepatitis C-positive livers has steadily increased over the last couple years due to a significant number of livers from younger individuals related to the rise of drug overdose-related deaths, according to a recently published study.

“With the option to use DAA-based therapy immediately following LT, HCV infection can be treated preemptively without significant hepatic dysfunction,” George Cholankeril, MD, from the Stanford University School of Medicine in California, and colleagues wrote. “In addition, donor liver biopsies at the time of organ procurement can help evaluate for underlying liver fibrosis and steatosis which can aid in the decision to utilize these procured donor livers.” Read more

Canada to invest $8.5 million in harm reduction projects for HCV, HIV

The Canadian Minister of Health announced that the Government of Canada will fund 28 projects across the country designed to reduce the risk for bloodborne infections, such as hepatitis C and HIV, among people who use injection drugs, according to a press release.

“Community organizations do important work to reduce hepatitis C and HIV infections among people who share drug-use equipment,” Ginette Petitpas Taylor, PC, MP, Minister of Health in Canada, said in the release. “This funding will help communities prevent these infections and support the health and well-being of those at risk.” Read more