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A Competent Hepatocyte Model Examining Hepatitis B Virus Entry through Sodium Taurocholate Cotransporting Polypeptide as a Therapeutic Target
Published on: May 10, 2022
[Initial experience with treatment of chronic hepatitis C in HIV-positive patients]
P Husa1, S Snopková, P Chalupa
1Klinika infekcních chorob Lékarské fakulty MU a FN Brno, pracovistĕ Bohunice.
Insights
This study shows that while combined therapy can suppress Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) in HIV patients, relapse is common after treatment cessation. Further research is needed for sustained HCV clearance.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Hepatology
Background:
- A 30-year-old male with chronic Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) genotype 3 and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection presented for treatment.
- The patient had a history of intravenous drug abuse, leading to his co-infection.
Observation:
- HIV was stabilized with a three-drug antiretroviral therapy.
- A 12-month course of combined alpha-interferon and ribavirin was initiated for chronic HCV genotype 3.
Findings:
- HCV RNA and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) normalized during therapy.
- Two months post-therapy, HCV RNA reappeared, and ALT levels increased, indicating relapse.
- Therapy was generally well-tolerated, with ribavirin dose reduction managing a drop in hemoglobin.
Implications:
- Combined therapy shows initial efficacy but limited long-term success for HCV genotype 3 in HIV co-infected patients.
- Relapse necessitates exploring alternative or extended treatment strategies for sustained virologic response.
- Managing treatment-related side effects, like anemia, is crucial for adherence and successful outcomes.
Abstract:
A 30 years old man originating from Ukraine was infected by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and virus of hepatitis C (HCV) due to injection administration of drugs of abuse in his own country before coming to Czech Republic. He was infected by genotype 3 of HCV and the infection became chronic. Under the influence of a three-combination anti-retrovirus therapy his conditions related to HIV infection became stable and it proved to be possible to apply a combined treatment by alpha-interferon and ribavirin at commonly used doses for the period of 12 months. In the course of therapy the HCV nucleic acid (HCV RNA) disappeared from serum and serum activity of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) became normal. However, two months after the therapy ended a relapse of the disease occurred--HCV RNA reappeared in serum and ALT activity increased. The therapy was well tolerated. A rapid decrease of hemoglobin level during the first four weeks of therapy was stopped by reduction of ribavirin dose.
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Assessment:
