1) The study evaluated a 12-week treatment with daclatasvir, asunaprevir, and beclabuvir with or without ribavirin for patients with hepatitis C virus genotype 1 infection and compensated cirrhosis who were either treatment-naive or treatment-experienced.
2) Sustained virologic response at posttreatment week 12 was achieved by 98% of treatment-naive patients and 93% of treatment-experienced patients when ribavirin was included, and by 93% and 87% respectively when only the fixed-dose combination was used.
3) The treatment was generally well-tolerated though there were 4 treatment discontinuations due to adverse events
This study assessed the efficacy and safety of the all-oral combination of daclatasvir plus asunaprevir for chronic hepatitis C virus genotype 1b infection. It included 307 treatment-naive patients, 205 previous non-responders to interferon-based therapy, and 235 patients ineligible or intolerant to interferon-based therapy. Treatment with daclatasvir plus asunaprevir for 12-24 weeks provided sustained virologic response in 90% of treatment-naive patients, 82% of previous non-responders, and 82% of ineligible/intolerant patients. The regimen was well tolerated with few serious adverse events or discontinuations across the cohorts. This study supports the use
This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of the combination of daclatasvir and sofosbuvir for 12 weeks or 8 weeks in previously untreated patients with HIV-HCV coinfection, and for 12 weeks in previously treated patients. Among previously untreated patients with HCV genotype 1, the rate of sustained virologic response was 96.4% for those treated for 12 weeks and 75.6% for those treated for 8 weeks. Rates of sustained virologic response across all genotypes were 97.0% for 12 weeks of treatment and 76.0% for 8 weeks. The most common side effects were fatigue, nausea, and headache, and there were no treatment discontinuations due to side effects. HIV viral suppression
This study evaluated a 12-week, all-oral, fixed-dose combination of daclatasvir, asunaprevir, and beclabuvir (DCV-TRIO regimen) in 415 noncirrhotic patients with chronic HCV genotype 1 infection. The primary outcome was sustained virologic response 12 weeks after treatment (SVR12) in treatment-naive patients (n=312). A key secondary outcome was SVR12 in treatment-experienced patients (n=103). Overall SVR12 was observed in 379 patients (91.3%), including 287 treatment-naive patients (92.0%) and 92 treatment-experienced patients (89.3%). The DCV-TRIO
1. This document provides guidelines for the diagnosis, management, and treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection based on a formal review of recent literature and expert consensus.
2. It recommends screening high-risk groups for HCV infection, including current and former injection drug users, those with HIV, and prior blood transfusion recipients.
3. It also provides guidance on counseling HCV-infected individuals, including advising them to avoid behaviors that may spread the virus and informing them that properly performed tattooing and piercing pose a very low risk of transmission.
This study analyzed serious non-AIDS events (SNAs) among HIV-infected adults in Latin America. The researchers identified 130 patients with SNA events out of 6007 patients in the cohort, representing an incidence rate of 0.86 events per 100 person-years. Risk factors like hepatitis B/C coinfection, diabetes, and alcohol abuse were associated with SNA events. Lower CD4 cell counts prior to and at the index date were significantly associated with SNA events occurring, even in patients receiving antiretroviral treatment. The study found HIV-associated immune deficiency increased the risk of SNA events.
Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid that has shown promise in improving outcomes for patients with bacterial meningitis. However, previous studies have found conflicting results on whether it benefits all patients or only certain subgroups. This study conducted a meta-analysis of individual patient data from 5 randomized controlled trials involving 2029 patients to identify which patients are most likely to benefit from dexamethasone treatment. The analysis found that dexamethasone did not significantly reduce death rates or neurological disability overall. It also did not provide significant benefits within any prespecified subgroups based on factors like causative organism, pre-treatment with antibiotics, HIV status, or age. The only benefit seen was a reduction in hearing loss among survivors.
This document summarizes a clinical trial that evaluated the efficacy and safety of a 12-week treatment with sofosbuvir and velpatasvir (a fixed-dose combination tablet) in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1, 2, 4, 5, or 6 infection, including those with cirrhosis. The trial found that the treatment provided high rates (99%) of sustained virologic response at 12 weeks after treatment in both previously treated and untreated patients with HCV genotypes 1, 2, 4, 5, or 6 infection, including those with cirrhosis. Serious adverse events occurred in 2% of patients receiving sofosbuvir-velpatasvir and none in the placebo group
This study evaluated the efficacy and toxicity of the Hyper-CVAD regimen in treating adult acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL). 204 adult patients with newly diagnosed ALL received alternating cycles of Hyper-CVAD (fractionated cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, and dexamethasone) and high-dose methotrexate and cytarabine, along with central nervous system prophylaxis and supportive care. Results showed that 91% of patients achieved complete remission and the 5-year survival and complete remission rates were 39% and 38% respectively, demonstrating superior outcomes compared to previous regimens. The Hyper-CVAD regimen was found to be an effective therapy for adult ALL that
This study assessed the efficacy and safety of the all-oral combination of daclatasvir plus asunaprevir for chronic hepatitis C virus genotype 1b infection. It included 307 treatment-naive patients, 205 previous non-responders to interferon-based therapy, and 235 patients ineligible or intolerant to interferon-based therapy. Treatment with daclatasvir plus asunaprevir for 12-24 weeks provided sustained virologic response in 90% of treatment-naive patients, 82% of previous non-responders, and 82% of ineligible/intolerant patients. The regimen was well tolerated with few serious adverse events or discontinuations across the cohorts. This study supports the use
This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of the combination of daclatasvir and sofosbuvir for 12 weeks or 8 weeks in previously untreated patients with HIV-HCV coinfection, and for 12 weeks in previously treated patients. Among previously untreated patients with HCV genotype 1, the rate of sustained virologic response was 96.4% for those treated for 12 weeks and 75.6% for those treated for 8 weeks. Rates of sustained virologic response across all genotypes were 97.0% for 12 weeks of treatment and 76.0% for 8 weeks. The most common side effects were fatigue, nausea, and headache, and there were no treatment discontinuations due to side effects. HIV viral suppression
This study evaluated a 12-week, all-oral, fixed-dose combination of daclatasvir, asunaprevir, and beclabuvir (DCV-TRIO regimen) in 415 noncirrhotic patients with chronic HCV genotype 1 infection. The primary outcome was sustained virologic response 12 weeks after treatment (SVR12) in treatment-naive patients (n=312). A key secondary outcome was SVR12 in treatment-experienced patients (n=103). Overall SVR12 was observed in 379 patients (91.3%), including 287 treatment-naive patients (92.0%) and 92 treatment-experienced patients (89.3%). The DCV-TRIO
1. This document provides guidelines for the diagnosis, management, and treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection based on a formal review of recent literature and expert consensus.
2. It recommends screening high-risk groups for HCV infection, including current and former injection drug users, those with HIV, and prior blood transfusion recipients.
3. It also provides guidance on counseling HCV-infected individuals, including advising them to avoid behaviors that may spread the virus and informing them that properly performed tattooing and piercing pose a very low risk of transmission.
This study analyzed serious non-AIDS events (SNAs) among HIV-infected adults in Latin America. The researchers identified 130 patients with SNA events out of 6007 patients in the cohort, representing an incidence rate of 0.86 events per 100 person-years. Risk factors like hepatitis B/C coinfection, diabetes, and alcohol abuse were associated with SNA events. Lower CD4 cell counts prior to and at the index date were significantly associated with SNA events occurring, even in patients receiving antiretroviral treatment. The study found HIV-associated immune deficiency increased the risk of SNA events.
Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid that has shown promise in improving outcomes for patients with bacterial meningitis. However, previous studies have found conflicting results on whether it benefits all patients or only certain subgroups. This study conducted a meta-analysis of individual patient data from 5 randomized controlled trials involving 2029 patients to identify which patients are most likely to benefit from dexamethasone treatment. The analysis found that dexamethasone did not significantly reduce death rates or neurological disability overall. It also did not provide significant benefits within any prespecified subgroups based on factors like causative organism, pre-treatment with antibiotics, HIV status, or age. The only benefit seen was a reduction in hearing loss among survivors.
This document summarizes a clinical trial that evaluated the efficacy and safety of a 12-week treatment with sofosbuvir and velpatasvir (a fixed-dose combination tablet) in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1, 2, 4, 5, or 6 infection, including those with cirrhosis. The trial found that the treatment provided high rates (99%) of sustained virologic response at 12 weeks after treatment in both previously treated and untreated patients with HCV genotypes 1, 2, 4, 5, or 6 infection, including those with cirrhosis. Serious adverse events occurred in 2% of patients receiving sofosbuvir-velpatasvir and none in the placebo group
This study evaluated the efficacy and toxicity of the Hyper-CVAD regimen in treating adult acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL). 204 adult patients with newly diagnosed ALL received alternating cycles of Hyper-CVAD (fractionated cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, and dexamethasone) and high-dose methotrexate and cytarabine, along with central nervous system prophylaxis and supportive care. Results showed that 91% of patients achieved complete remission and the 5-year survival and complete remission rates were 39% and 38% respectively, demonstrating superior outcomes compared to previous regimens. The Hyper-CVAD regimen was found to be an effective therapy for adult ALL that
This document summarizes updates to the 2009 American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) Practice Guidelines for the management of chronic hepatitis B. Key changes include:
1) Tenofovir is now recommended as a first-line oral antiviral treatment based on its superior efficacy compared to adefovir in clinical trials. Adefovir is now recommended as a second-line treatment.
2) Entecavir is no longer recommended for patients co-infected with HBV and HIV due to data on its anti-HIV activity.
3) Screening recommendations were expanded to include persons born in intermediate endemic areas and those receiving cancer chemotherapy or long-term immunosuppression based on
Pegintron and decompensated cirrhosis due to hcv final with glutathioneShendy Sherif
This study assessed the effect of combination therapy with pegylated interferon alfa-2b and ribavirin in 29 Egyptian patients with advanced cirrhosis due to HCV genotype 4. One patient died during treatment and 4 withdrew due to side effects. Of the remaining 24 patients, 16 showed an initial virological response and continued treatment. 12 patients (41.4% of the original group) achieved a sustained virological response. Liver biopsies found reduced glutathione levels and histological activity were significantly reduced in patients with a sustained response. The study concluded that patients with advanced cirrhosis but without contraindications can be treated similarly to earlier cases, with nearly similar responses and tolerability.
This phase 2 clinical trial evaluated the safety and efficacy of bepirovirsen, an antisense oligonucleotide, for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B. The trial involved 31 participants with chronic hepatitis B who received subcutaneous injections of bepirovirsen or placebo. Treatment with bepirovirsen was found to be generally safe and well tolerated, with mostly mild to moderate adverse events. Bepirovirsen treatment resulted in transient increases in liver enzymes in some participants. Additionally, reductions in hepatitis B surface antigen levels were observed in participants receiving bepirovirsen compared to placebo, suggesting antiviral activity. This trial provides initial evidence supporting further evaluation of bepirovirsen for the treatment of chronic hepatitis
Risk factors of chronic liver disease amongst patients receiving care in a Ga...iosrjce
IOSR Journal of Dental and Medical Sciences is one of the speciality Journal in Dental Science and Medical Science published by International Organization of Scientific Research (IOSR). The Journal publishes papers of the highest scientific merit and widest possible scope work in all areas related to medical and dental science. The Journal welcome review articles, leading medical and clinical research articles, technical notes, case reports and others.
This document discusses various difficult-to-treat groups for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, including:
1. Acute HCV cases can often clear spontaneously, so treatment can be delayed up to 24 weeks to allow for this. Treatment of acute HCV achieves success rates over 80%.
2. Patients with thalassemia or sickle cell disease require careful monitoring and management by hematology and hepatology specialists during HCV treatment due to risks of anemia and other complications.
3. Morbidly obese HCV patients and those with psychiatric comorbidities present challenges for treatment and require multidisciplinary care and monitoring to successfully complete therapy.
Antinuclear antibody positivity in chronic hepatitis c patientsRashed Hassen
This study aimed to evaluate the significance of antinuclear antibody (ANA) positivity in chronic hepatitis C patients and its impact on histopathology and early virological response to antiviral therapy. The study found that ANA positivity was associated with more advanced liver fibrosis but did not affect treatment response rates. While ANA levels increased in most ANA-positive patients during therapy, this increase correlated with achieving early virological response. Overall, ANA positivity alone did not predict treatment outcome, and independent predictors of response were body mass index, fibrosis stage, ALT levels, and viral load.
This presentation discusses the graft versus tumour effect (GVT) in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). It provides laboratory and clinical evidence that the immune cells from the donor (graft) can induce remissions in hematological malignancies (tumour) after transplant. However, these same graft cells can also cause graft-versus-host disease (GvHD). Recent research aims to separate these effects by using regulatory T-cells to suppress GvHD while preserving the GVT effect.
This document summarizes Dr. Chenhua Yan's work establishing and utilizing a modified donor lymphocyte infusion (mDLI) approach for the treatment of relapse after haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for hematologic malignancies. The mDLI approach uses G-CSF mobilized peripheral blood stem cells and immunosuppressive agents after infusion to reduce graft-versus-host disease while preserving graft-versus-leukemia effects. Studies showed mDLI improved response rates and survival compared to chemotherapy or standard DLI alone for relapsed disease. Risk-stratified mDLI based on minimal residual disease also reduced relapse rates after transplantation.
Donor Lymphocyte Infusion in Patients with Hematological Malignancies after T...spa718
1. Donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI) is an effective method for treating relapse after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Modified DLI (mDLI) using G-CSF mobilized peripheral blood and short-term immunosuppression can reduce acute GVHD rates while maintaining the graft-versus-leukemia effect.
2. Prophylactic mDLI can significantly decrease relapse rates and increase survival in patients with advanced acute leukemia after HLA-identical or haploidentical transplantation.
3. Risk-stratified mDLI based on minimal residual disease monitoring may further reduce relapse and improve outcomes by targeting high-risk MRD-positive patients.
This study analyzed clinical outcomes of treated and untreated patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in two cohorts. It found that HCV patients who did not respond to interferon-alpha based treatment had a significantly increased risk of developing cirrhosis compared to untreated patients, even after adjusting for factors like fibrosis stage and psychosocial risks. Specifically, treatment nonresponders had a 2.35 times higher hazard of cirrhosis in the Veterans Affairs cohort and a 5.9 times higher hazard in the University Hospital cohort compared to untreated patients. However, the overall survival of nonresponders was not significantly different than untreated patients. This suggests that while interferon-alpha treatment failure may accelerate liver fibrosis, it does not necessarily impact overall
This randomized clinical trial assessed the use of the anti-inflammatory agent Taurolidine in attenuating peri-operative inflammation in 60 patients with non-metastatic colon cancer undergoing surgery. Patients received either Taurolidine or placebo intravenously for 4 days beginning at anesthesia induction. The primary outcome was difference in mean IL-6 levels on postoperative day 1, with secondary outcomes including differences in other inflammatory markers over 7 days and clinical outcomes. IL-6 levels were equivalent on day 1 but were significantly attenuated over 7 days in the Taurolidine group. Surgical site infections were reduced in the Taurolidine group, though tumor recurrence was similar between groups. Perioperative Taurolidine significantly reduced circulating IL-6 levels in
Hepatitis C virus infection and type 2 diabetes mellitus in Mexican patients. Erwin Chiquete, MD, PhD
34. Chiquete E, Ochoa-Guzmán A, García-Lamas L, Anaya-Gómez F, Gutiérrez-Manjarrez JI, Sánchez-Orozco LV, Godínez-Gutiérrez SA, Maldonado M, Román S, Panduro A. Hepatitis C virus infection and type 2 diabetes mellitus in Mexican patients. Rev Med Inst Mex Seguro Soc. 2012;50(5):481-6. [PMID: 23282259]
Update on Systemic Therapy for Metastatic Pancreas AdenocarcinomaOSUCCC - James
The document discusses treatment options for metastatic pancreatic cancer. For first-line therapy, FOLFIRINOX is an option but is reserved for younger, healthier patients due to toxicity. Gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel is a preferred first-line option. For second-line therapy after progression on gemcitabine, nanoliposomal irinotecan plus 5-FU/LV has shown a survival benefit compared to 5-FU/LV alone. Molecular profiling of pancreatic tumors has identified subtypes that could help guide targeted therapies, and immune-based approaches also offer promise. The James Cancer Hospital is conducting clinical trials evaluating novel combinations for both first-line and second-line metastatic pancreatic cancer
Just released to the public domain: Results from use of HepQuant technology in a study of Ledipasvir/Sofosbuvir HCV antivirals.. “Early Improvement in the HepQuant®(HQ)-SHUNT Function Test during Treatment with Ledipasvir/Sofosbuvir in Liver Transplant Recipients with Allograft Fibrosis or Cirrhosis and Patients with Decompensated Cirrhosis who have not undergone Transplantation. O’Leary JG, Burton JR, Helmke SM, Herman A, Cookson MW, Lauriski S, Trotter JF, Denning JM, Pang PS, McHutchison JG, Everson GT. Hepatology 2014;60:1134A.”
Current Controversies in Managing HIV-Infected Patients.2014Hivlife Info
This document discusses controversies in managing HIV-infected patients. It begins with a discussion on whether all naive patients should be started on an integrase inhibitor regimen. It reviews key trials demonstrating the efficacy of integrase inhibitors in treatment-naive patients. Expert panel discussion notes some integrase inhibitors have advantages like high barriers to resistance but others have drawbacks like twice-daily dosing. The next section examines the controversy around performing anal Pap smears routinely on all HIV+ MSM, reviewing guidelines and suggested screening paradigms. The final section discusses the controversy around evaluating all HIV+ patients over 50 with DXA scans. It reviews data on bone disease prevalence and recommendations, including evaluating risk factors before obtaining scans.
Sydney Sexual Health Centre Journal Club presentation by Cherie Desreaux on the British Medical Journal and the Medical Journal of Australia editions published between November 2015 and March 2016.
The Sydney Sexual Health Centre Journal Club allows our team to stay up-to-date with what is being published in the field of sexual health. Staff members take turns to read, review and share the contents of an allocated journal. Journal Club encourages knowledge sharing and discussion about topics raised.
Factors associated with developing esophageal adenocarcinoma in Barett's esop...Dr Sayan Das
Based on the study “Rates and predictors of progression to esophageal carcinoma in a large population-based Barrett’s esophagus cohort” by Krishnamoorthi R et al published in “HHS Public Access” on 2016 July
Risk Factors for Short Term Virologic Outcomes Among HIV Infected Patients Un...HMO Research Network
This study investigated risk factors for virologic outcomes among HIV patients who switched combination antiretroviral therapy regimens. The study found that about 24% of patients failed to achieve maximal viral suppression 6 months after switching regimens. Younger age, lower CD4 counts, heterosexual transmission risk, NRTI-only regimens, and previous virologic failure were associated with increased risk of advanced virologic failure. New class-based regimens were protective against low-level viremia. Rates of treatment failure decreased in more recent calendar years.
This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of a 12-week, all-oral, fixed-dose combination of daclatasvir, asunaprevir, and beclabuvir for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus genotype 1 infection in noncirrhotic patients. The study found high rates of sustained virologic response at 12 weeks post-treatment (SVR12) in both treatment-naive (92.0%) and treatment-experienced (89.3%) patients. Adverse events were generally mild and few led to treatment discontinuation. The results demonstrate that this ribavirin-free, direct-acting antiviral regimen achieved high SVR12 rates in noncirrhotic patients with
Современное лечение ВИЧ: лечение многократно леченных пациентов с резистентно...hivlifeinfo
This document discusses management of HIV in heavily treatment-experienced patients with multiclass resistance and limited treatment options. It provides an overview of the problem, including that some older patients were treated early in the HIV epidemic with less potent regimens, resulting in resistance. Younger patients may have congenital HIV and been treated long-term. Assessment of virologic failure and resistance testing are important to select an effective new regimen. Current options for active drugs in these patients include maraviroc, ibalizumab, fostemsavir, and enfuvirtide, which have novel mechanisms of action. Adherence assessment is also critical to determine if the current regimen may still be effective if taken as prescribed.
This document summarizes updates to the 2009 American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) Practice Guidelines for the management of chronic hepatitis B. Key changes include:
1) Tenofovir is now recommended as a first-line oral antiviral treatment based on its superior efficacy compared to adefovir in clinical trials. Adefovir is now recommended as a second-line treatment.
2) Entecavir is no longer recommended for patients co-infected with HBV and HIV due to data on its anti-HIV activity.
3) Screening recommendations were expanded to include persons born in intermediate endemic areas and those receiving cancer chemotherapy or long-term immunosuppression based on
Pegintron and decompensated cirrhosis due to hcv final with glutathioneShendy Sherif
This study assessed the effect of combination therapy with pegylated interferon alfa-2b and ribavirin in 29 Egyptian patients with advanced cirrhosis due to HCV genotype 4. One patient died during treatment and 4 withdrew due to side effects. Of the remaining 24 patients, 16 showed an initial virological response and continued treatment. 12 patients (41.4% of the original group) achieved a sustained virological response. Liver biopsies found reduced glutathione levels and histological activity were significantly reduced in patients with a sustained response. The study concluded that patients with advanced cirrhosis but without contraindications can be treated similarly to earlier cases, with nearly similar responses and tolerability.
This phase 2 clinical trial evaluated the safety and efficacy of bepirovirsen, an antisense oligonucleotide, for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B. The trial involved 31 participants with chronic hepatitis B who received subcutaneous injections of bepirovirsen or placebo. Treatment with bepirovirsen was found to be generally safe and well tolerated, with mostly mild to moderate adverse events. Bepirovirsen treatment resulted in transient increases in liver enzymes in some participants. Additionally, reductions in hepatitis B surface antigen levels were observed in participants receiving bepirovirsen compared to placebo, suggesting antiviral activity. This trial provides initial evidence supporting further evaluation of bepirovirsen for the treatment of chronic hepatitis
Risk factors of chronic liver disease amongst patients receiving care in a Ga...iosrjce
IOSR Journal of Dental and Medical Sciences is one of the speciality Journal in Dental Science and Medical Science published by International Organization of Scientific Research (IOSR). The Journal publishes papers of the highest scientific merit and widest possible scope work in all areas related to medical and dental science. The Journal welcome review articles, leading medical and clinical research articles, technical notes, case reports and others.
This document discusses various difficult-to-treat groups for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, including:
1. Acute HCV cases can often clear spontaneously, so treatment can be delayed up to 24 weeks to allow for this. Treatment of acute HCV achieves success rates over 80%.
2. Patients with thalassemia or sickle cell disease require careful monitoring and management by hematology and hepatology specialists during HCV treatment due to risks of anemia and other complications.
3. Morbidly obese HCV patients and those with psychiatric comorbidities present challenges for treatment and require multidisciplinary care and monitoring to successfully complete therapy.
Antinuclear antibody positivity in chronic hepatitis c patientsRashed Hassen
This study aimed to evaluate the significance of antinuclear antibody (ANA) positivity in chronic hepatitis C patients and its impact on histopathology and early virological response to antiviral therapy. The study found that ANA positivity was associated with more advanced liver fibrosis but did not affect treatment response rates. While ANA levels increased in most ANA-positive patients during therapy, this increase correlated with achieving early virological response. Overall, ANA positivity alone did not predict treatment outcome, and independent predictors of response were body mass index, fibrosis stage, ALT levels, and viral load.
This presentation discusses the graft versus tumour effect (GVT) in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). It provides laboratory and clinical evidence that the immune cells from the donor (graft) can induce remissions in hematological malignancies (tumour) after transplant. However, these same graft cells can also cause graft-versus-host disease (GvHD). Recent research aims to separate these effects by using regulatory T-cells to suppress GvHD while preserving the GVT effect.
This document summarizes Dr. Chenhua Yan's work establishing and utilizing a modified donor lymphocyte infusion (mDLI) approach for the treatment of relapse after haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for hematologic malignancies. The mDLI approach uses G-CSF mobilized peripheral blood stem cells and immunosuppressive agents after infusion to reduce graft-versus-host disease while preserving graft-versus-leukemia effects. Studies showed mDLI improved response rates and survival compared to chemotherapy or standard DLI alone for relapsed disease. Risk-stratified mDLI based on minimal residual disease also reduced relapse rates after transplantation.
Donor Lymphocyte Infusion in Patients with Hematological Malignancies after T...spa718
1. Donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI) is an effective method for treating relapse after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Modified DLI (mDLI) using G-CSF mobilized peripheral blood and short-term immunosuppression can reduce acute GVHD rates while maintaining the graft-versus-leukemia effect.
2. Prophylactic mDLI can significantly decrease relapse rates and increase survival in patients with advanced acute leukemia after HLA-identical or haploidentical transplantation.
3. Risk-stratified mDLI based on minimal residual disease monitoring may further reduce relapse and improve outcomes by targeting high-risk MRD-positive patients.
This study analyzed clinical outcomes of treated and untreated patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in two cohorts. It found that HCV patients who did not respond to interferon-alpha based treatment had a significantly increased risk of developing cirrhosis compared to untreated patients, even after adjusting for factors like fibrosis stage and psychosocial risks. Specifically, treatment nonresponders had a 2.35 times higher hazard of cirrhosis in the Veterans Affairs cohort and a 5.9 times higher hazard in the University Hospital cohort compared to untreated patients. However, the overall survival of nonresponders was not significantly different than untreated patients. This suggests that while interferon-alpha treatment failure may accelerate liver fibrosis, it does not necessarily impact overall
This randomized clinical trial assessed the use of the anti-inflammatory agent Taurolidine in attenuating peri-operative inflammation in 60 patients with non-metastatic colon cancer undergoing surgery. Patients received either Taurolidine or placebo intravenously for 4 days beginning at anesthesia induction. The primary outcome was difference in mean IL-6 levels on postoperative day 1, with secondary outcomes including differences in other inflammatory markers over 7 days and clinical outcomes. IL-6 levels were equivalent on day 1 but were significantly attenuated over 7 days in the Taurolidine group. Surgical site infections were reduced in the Taurolidine group, though tumor recurrence was similar between groups. Perioperative Taurolidine significantly reduced circulating IL-6 levels in
Hepatitis C virus infection and type 2 diabetes mellitus in Mexican patients. Erwin Chiquete, MD, PhD
34. Chiquete E, Ochoa-Guzmán A, García-Lamas L, Anaya-Gómez F, Gutiérrez-Manjarrez JI, Sánchez-Orozco LV, Godínez-Gutiérrez SA, Maldonado M, Román S, Panduro A. Hepatitis C virus infection and type 2 diabetes mellitus in Mexican patients. Rev Med Inst Mex Seguro Soc. 2012;50(5):481-6. [PMID: 23282259]
Update on Systemic Therapy for Metastatic Pancreas AdenocarcinomaOSUCCC - James
The document discusses treatment options for metastatic pancreatic cancer. For first-line therapy, FOLFIRINOX is an option but is reserved for younger, healthier patients due to toxicity. Gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel is a preferred first-line option. For second-line therapy after progression on gemcitabine, nanoliposomal irinotecan plus 5-FU/LV has shown a survival benefit compared to 5-FU/LV alone. Molecular profiling of pancreatic tumors has identified subtypes that could help guide targeted therapies, and immune-based approaches also offer promise. The James Cancer Hospital is conducting clinical trials evaluating novel combinations for both first-line and second-line metastatic pancreatic cancer
Just released to the public domain: Results from use of HepQuant technology in a study of Ledipasvir/Sofosbuvir HCV antivirals.. “Early Improvement in the HepQuant®(HQ)-SHUNT Function Test during Treatment with Ledipasvir/Sofosbuvir in Liver Transplant Recipients with Allograft Fibrosis or Cirrhosis and Patients with Decompensated Cirrhosis who have not undergone Transplantation. O’Leary JG, Burton JR, Helmke SM, Herman A, Cookson MW, Lauriski S, Trotter JF, Denning JM, Pang PS, McHutchison JG, Everson GT. Hepatology 2014;60:1134A.”
Current Controversies in Managing HIV-Infected Patients.2014Hivlife Info
This document discusses controversies in managing HIV-infected patients. It begins with a discussion on whether all naive patients should be started on an integrase inhibitor regimen. It reviews key trials demonstrating the efficacy of integrase inhibitors in treatment-naive patients. Expert panel discussion notes some integrase inhibitors have advantages like high barriers to resistance but others have drawbacks like twice-daily dosing. The next section examines the controversy around performing anal Pap smears routinely on all HIV+ MSM, reviewing guidelines and suggested screening paradigms. The final section discusses the controversy around evaluating all HIV+ patients over 50 with DXA scans. It reviews data on bone disease prevalence and recommendations, including evaluating risk factors before obtaining scans.
Sydney Sexual Health Centre Journal Club presentation by Cherie Desreaux on the British Medical Journal and the Medical Journal of Australia editions published between November 2015 and March 2016.
The Sydney Sexual Health Centre Journal Club allows our team to stay up-to-date with what is being published in the field of sexual health. Staff members take turns to read, review and share the contents of an allocated journal. Journal Club encourages knowledge sharing and discussion about topics raised.
Factors associated with developing esophageal adenocarcinoma in Barett's esop...Dr Sayan Das
Based on the study “Rates and predictors of progression to esophageal carcinoma in a large population-based Barrett’s esophagus cohort” by Krishnamoorthi R et al published in “HHS Public Access” on 2016 July
Risk Factors for Short Term Virologic Outcomes Among HIV Infected Patients Un...HMO Research Network
This study investigated risk factors for virologic outcomes among HIV patients who switched combination antiretroviral therapy regimens. The study found that about 24% of patients failed to achieve maximal viral suppression 6 months after switching regimens. Younger age, lower CD4 counts, heterosexual transmission risk, NRTI-only regimens, and previous virologic failure were associated with increased risk of advanced virologic failure. New class-based regimens were protective against low-level viremia. Rates of treatment failure decreased in more recent calendar years.
This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of a 12-week, all-oral, fixed-dose combination of daclatasvir, asunaprevir, and beclabuvir for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus genotype 1 infection in noncirrhotic patients. The study found high rates of sustained virologic response at 12 weeks post-treatment (SVR12) in both treatment-naive (92.0%) and treatment-experienced (89.3%) patients. Adverse events were generally mild and few led to treatment discontinuation. The results demonstrate that this ribavirin-free, direct-acting antiviral regimen achieved high SVR12 rates in noncirrhotic patients with
Современное лечение ВИЧ: лечение многократно леченных пациентов с резистентно...hivlifeinfo
This document discusses management of HIV in heavily treatment-experienced patients with multiclass resistance and limited treatment options. It provides an overview of the problem, including that some older patients were treated early in the HIV epidemic with less potent regimens, resulting in resistance. Younger patients may have congenital HIV and been treated long-term. Assessment of virologic failure and resistance testing are important to select an effective new regimen. Current options for active drugs in these patients include maraviroc, ibalizumab, fostemsavir, and enfuvirtide, which have novel mechanisms of action. Adherence assessment is also critical to determine if the current regimen may still be effective if taken as prescribed.
This document discusses hepatitis C virus (HCV) and current treatment options. It provides the following key points:
- HCV is the most common blood-borne pathogen in the US, with around 3.2 million people chronically infected. Chronic infections often progress to cirrhosis over 20-30 years.
- New all-oral treatment regimens that do not require interferon are highly effective. Sofosbuvir-based combinations can achieve over 90% sustained virologic response rates.
- Treatment is now recommended for most patients with chronic HCV to prevent long-term complications like cirrhosis and liver cancer. However, costs remain very high, with prices over $80,000 for a
C5 Case Study Session of Three Long-Term Survivors with HIV Disease JayaweeraDSHS
This case study describes a 35-year-old man who presented with end-stage AIDS and liver disease requiring possible liver transplantation. He had HIV for over 10 years, as well as hepatitis B and C. His CD4 count was 69 and viral load was over 100,000. He had severe ascites, high bilirubin, low albumin, and elevated INR. After starting antiretroviral therapy, his viral load decreased and CD4 increased, allowing him to undergo liver transplantation. He had an uneventful recovery and suppression of both HIV and HBV.
1) Filgrastim treatment, either daily or intermittent dosing, significantly reduced the incidence of severe neutropenia or death in patients with advanced HIV compared to controls.
2) Filgrastim-treated patients developed fewer bacterial infections, required less hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics than control patients.
3) Filgrastim was found to be safe and well-tolerated, with no increase in HIV viral load or unexpected adverse events.
outh Africa has one of the highest incidences of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in Africa. The rollout of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in South Africa has been tremendously successful in extending the lives of HIV-infected persons. Consequently, more patients who would have died before the availability of ART are now receiving a diagnosis of HIV-associated nephropathy.1
The rates of disease progression and death in the population of HIV-positive patients with chronic kidney disease can be modified by ART, which reduces the risk of advanced chronic kidney disease among patients with HIV-associated nephropathy by approximately 60%.2,3 It has been estimated that the prevalence of chronic kidney disease among HIV-infected patients receiving treatment is between 8% and 22%4-7; among untreated patients, it is estimated to be between 20% and 27%.8,9 Confronted with a high burden of HIV disease and limited resources, South Africa faces considerable challenges in providing renal-replacement therapy for the large numbers of HIV-infected persons in whom chronic kidney disease will develop during their lifetime.
This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of sofosbuvir/velpatasvir (SOF/VEL) for 12 weeks in 59 hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing dialysis. The study found SOF/VEL to be safe and well tolerated, with 95% of patients achieving a sustained virologic response at 12 weeks post treatment. Plasma levels of HCV RNA declined rapidly in all patients, with 100% having undetectable viral loads by 4 weeks. This demonstrates SOF/VEL as an effective treatment option for HCV in patients with ESRD on dialysis.
This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of sofosbuvir/velpatasvir (SOF/VEL) for 12 weeks in 59 patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing dialysis. The overall sustained virologic response rate at 12 weeks post-treatment (SVR12) was 95%. Adverse events were mostly mild to moderate and consistent with ESRD. Plasma exposures of SOF and its metabolites were higher than in patients with normal renal function but were well tolerated. SOF/VEL for 12 weeks was safe and effective for HCV in patients with ESRD on dialysis.
A 45-year-old woman presents with fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite, and abnormal liver function tests. Laboratory results show elevated AST, ALT, bilirubin levels and positive tests for HCV antibody and RNA. A liver biopsy revealed severe inflammation and bridging fibrosis. The patient is diagnosed with chronic hepatitis C virus infection based on her history of blood transfusion, symptoms, laboratory abnormalities and biopsy findings. The best course of action is to treat her HCV infection with antiviral therapy to reduce liver damage and prevent progression to cirrhosis.
Crimson Publishers: Interferon-Free Therapy for Hepatits C in Brazil and Sust...CrimsonGastroenterology
Introduction: Hepatitis C has been treated with interferon and ribavirin for over a decade with described global sustained virological response rates of 33% to 56%. Direct acting antiviral drugs available since 2013 in USA and 2015 in Brazil are changing this reality.
Purpose: Analyze the real-life efficacy and safety of interferon-free therapy.
Methods: Repot six cases of different treatments guided by north-american and european guildelines.
Results: Every reported patient achieved sustained virological response. The only adverse event was anemia in one patient.
Conclusion: Direct-acting antiviral drugs will dramatically change the population which can be treated and increase sustained virological response rates.
Adherence to treatment and quality of life during hepatitis C therapy:a prosp...Michel Rotily
Adherence to treatment and quality of life during hepatitis C therapy:a prospective, real-life, observational study by Patrick Marcellin, Michel Chousterman, Thierry Fontanges, Denis Ouzan, Michel Rotily, Marina Varastet,Jean-Philippe Lang, Pascal Melin and Patrice Cacoub, for the CheObs Study Group published in Liver Int 2011
Hepatitis C virus infection is the focus of a talk that would combine elements of mystery, drama, and triumph over adversity. The document discusses the history of hepatitis C virus discovery and treatment options that have advanced in recent decades. These treatment guidelines aim to assist healthcare providers and patients by describing optimal management strategies for hepatitis C infections. Treatment recommendations include regimens involving pegylated interferon, ribavirin, sofosbuvir, simeprevir, and daclatasvir.
A trial of Lopinavir-Ritonavir in Adults Hospitalized with Sever COVID-19Valentina Corona
This randomized controlled trial studied 199 hospitalized adult patients with severe Covid-19 in Wuhan, China to evaluate if the drug combination lopinavir-ritonavir provided benefits beyond standard care. Patients received either lopinavir-ritonavir plus standard care or standard care alone. Treatment with lopinavir-ritonavir did not significantly reduce time to clinical improvement or mortality at 28 days compared to standard care. Gastrointestinal side effects were more common with lopinavir-ritonavir. The study found no clinical benefit to using lopinavir-ritonavir for severe Covid-19.
This lecture is about Treatment of HCV Genotype 4 presented by Dr. Tamer Elbaz, Assistant professor of Hepatology & Gastroenterology, Cairo University.
The lecture was presented in the scientific meeting of Internal and Tropical Medicine departments, Ahmed Maher Teaching Hospital titled (Towards Eradication of HCV in Egypt) in celebration of World Hepatitis Day on July 28, 2016.
https://www.facebook.com/AMTH.IM
https://www.facebook.com/events/1072758396145209/
http://www.no4c.com
This study assessed the safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity of a polyvalent WT1 peptide vaccine in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Sixteen patients received at least one vaccination of four WT1 peptides designed to stimulate both CD4 and CD8 T-cell responses. Vaccinations were well-tolerated with no discontinuations due to toxicity. Two AML patients experienced relapse-free survival over 1 year, exceeding the duration of their first remission, suggesting potential clinical benefit from the vaccine. The vaccine engaged protective immune responses against WT1, warranting further clinical trials.
This document provides information on managing hepatitis C in primary care. It discusses gaps in the hepatitis C care continuum, with up to 90-95% of individuals living with hepatitis C being unaware of their infection. Screening for hepatitis C is important for improving detection and treatment. The natural history of hepatitis C infection is described, showing how timely treatment can arrest disease progression and prevent death. Groups at risk for hepatitis C infection are identified. Guidelines for pre-treatment assessment and approved direct-acting antiviral treatment regimens are presented, along with considerations for special patient groups such as those with HIV, hepatitis B, or kidney disease coinfection. Monitoring during and after treatment is also covered.
This randomized trial compared quality of life (QOL) outcomes between inpatient and outpatient intravenous antibiotic management of pediatric oncology patients with low risk febrile neutropenia (LRFN). 81 patients presented with 159 fever episodes, of which 37 presentations involving 27 patients were randomized to inpatient (18) or outpatient (19) groups. Patients received intravenous cefepime for at least 48 hours until fever resolution for 24 hours. QOL questionnaires completed daily by parents and patients showed higher combined and domain-specific scores for outpatients, indicating benefits to parents and patients across several QOL measures. Length of fever and adverse events were equivalent between groups, demonstrating outpatient management was both feasible and safe.
Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) involves using a combination of at least three antiretroviral drugs to suppress the HIV virus and stop the progression of HIV disease. HAART decreases the viral load, improves immune function, and prevents opportunistic infections. The goals of HAART are to prolong life, improve quality of life, achieve maximal viral suppression, restore immune function, reduce HIV transmission, and rationally sequence drugs to limit toxicity while maintaining treatment options. Current guidelines recommend starting ART for all individuals regardless of CD4 count. Second line regimens are recommended when clinical or immunological failure occurs on first line therapy. Managing adverse events and comorbidities like hepatitis co-infection is also
Sydney Sexual Health Centre Journal Club presentation by Gwamaka E.M. on The Journal of Infectious Diseases Volume 214 Issue 10, published in November 2016.
The Journal of Infectious Diseases has been published continuously since 1904 and describes itself as "the premier global journal for original research on infectious diseases". Research published in the JID includes studies in microbiology, immunology, epidemiology, and related disciplines, on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of infectious diseases; on the microbes that cause them; and on disorders of host immune responses. JID is an official publication of the Infectious Diseases Society of America.
The Sydney Sexual Health Centre Journal Club allows our team to stay up-to-date with what is being published in the field of sexual health. Staff members take turns to read, review and share the contents of an allocated journal. Journal Club encourages knowledge sharing and discussion about topics raised.
SSHC Journal Club presentation on the The Journal of Infectious Disease Volu...
Muir 2015 JAMA UNITY1
1. Copyright 2015 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
Daclatasvir in Combination With Asunaprevir
and Beclabuvir for Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 1 Infection
With Compensated Cirrhosis
Andrew J. Muir, MD; Fred Poordad, MD; Jacob Lalezari, MD; Gregory Everson, MD; Gregory J. Dore, MBBS, MPH, PhD; Robert Herring, MD;
Aasim Sheikh, MD; Paul Kwo, MD; Christophe Hézode, MD, PhD; Paul J. Pockros, MD; Albert Tran, MD, PhD; Joseph Yozviak, DO; Nancy Reau, MD;
Alnoor Ramji, MD; Katherine Stuart, MBBS, PhD; Alexander J. Thompson, MBBS, PhD; John Vierling, MD; Bradley Freilich, MD; James Cooper, MD;
Wayne Ghesquiere, MD; Rong Yang, PhD; Fiona McPhee, PhD; Eric A. Hughes, MD, PhD; E. Scott Swenson, MD, PhD; Philip D. Yin, MD, PhD
IMPORTANCE Effective and well-tolerated, interferon-free regimens are needed for treatment
of patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and cirrhosis.
OBJECTIVE All-oral therapy with daclatasvir (nonstructural protein 5A [NS5A] inhibitor),
asunaprevir (NS3 protease inhibitor), and beclabuvir (nonnucleoside NS5B inhibitor), with or
without ribavirin, was evaluated in patients with HCV genotype 1 infection and
compensated cirrhosis.
DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS The UNITY-2 study was conducted between December
2013 and October 2014 at 49 outpatient sites in the United States, Canada, France, and
Australia. Patients were treated for 12 weeks, with 24 weeks of follow-up after completion of
treatment. Adult patients with cirrhosis were enrolled in 2 cohorts: HCV treatment-naive or
HCV treatment-experienced. Statistical analyses were based on historical controls; there
were no internal controls.
INTERVENTIONS All patients received twice-daily treatment with the fixed-dose combination
of daclatasvir (30 mg), asunaprevir (200 mg), and beclabuvir (75 mg). In addition, patients
within each cohort were stratified according to HCV genotype 1 subtype (1a or 1b) and
randomly assigned (1:1) to receive double-blinded weight-based ribavirin (1000-1200 mg/d)
or matching placebo.
MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Sustained virologic response at posttreatment
week 12 (SVR12).
RESULTS One hundred twelve patients in the treatment-naive group and 90 patients in the
treatment-experienced group were treated and included in the analysis. Enrolled patients
were 88% white with a median age of 58 years (treatment-naive group) or 60 years
(treatment-experienced group); 74% had genotype 1a infection. SVR12 rates were 98%
(97.5% CI, 88.9%-100%) for patients in the treatment-naive group and 93% (97.5% CI,
85.0%-100.0%) for those in the treatment-experienced group when ribavirin was included in
the regimen. With the fixed-dose combination alone, response rates were 93% (97.5% CI,
85.4%-100.0%) for patients in the treatment-naive group and 87% (97.5% CI, 75.3%-98.0%)
for those in the treatment-experienced group. Three serious adverse events were considered
to be treatment related and there were 4 adverse event–related discontinuations.
Treatment-emergent grade 3 or 4 alanine aminotransferase elevations were observed
in 4 patients, of which 1 had concomitant total bilirubin elevation.
CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE In this open-label uncontrolled study, patients with
chronic HCV genotype 1 infection and cirrhosis who received a 12-week oral fixed-dose
regimen of daclatasvir, asunaprevir, and beclabuvir, with or without ribavirin, achieved high
rates of SVR12.
JAMA. 2015;313(17):1736-1744. doi:10.1001/jama.2015.3868
Editorial page 1716
Author Audio Interview at
jama.com
Related article page 1728
Supplemental content at
jama.com
Author Affiliations: Author
affiliations are listed at the end of this
article.
Corresponding Author: Andrew J.
Muir, MD, Duke Clinical Research
Institute, Duke University Medical
Center 3913, Durham, NC 27710
(andrew.muir@duke.edu).
Research
Original Investigation
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C
hronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection remains a
substantial cause of chronic liver disease, affecting
approximately 130 to 150 million individuals
worldwide.1
An estimated 20% of patients with chronic HCV
infection will develop cirrhosis.2
The prevalence of cirrhosis
is increasing, primarily from continuing disease progression
in an aging population that acquired HCV infection prior to
widespread HCV testing and blood screening.3
Patients with
cirrhosis have increased risk of severe sequelae, such as
hepatic decompensation, hepatocellular carcinoma, and
death.2
Conversely, clearance of HCV infection with effective
treatment reduces the risk of disease progression and the
need for liver transplantation, and can lead to cirrhosis
regression and improved survival.4-6
Treatment regimens containing peginterferon are prob-
lematic for patients with cirrhosis because of reduced re-
sponse rates and more frequent and severe adverse events.7-10
Furthermore,patientswithcirrhosismorefrequentlyhavecon-
traindications for peginterferon such as anemia, renal insuf-
ficiency, or thrombocytopenia. Consequently, interferon-
free regimens comprising combinations of direct-acting
antivirals are being developed to increase response rates and
provide viable treatment options for patients with all stages
of liver disease.
The all-oral combination of daclatasvir (a potent, pange-
notypic nonstructural protein 5A [NS5A] inhibitor), asuna-
previr (an NS3 protease inhibitor), and beclabuvir (BMS
[Bristol-Myers Squibb]-791325; a nonnucleoside NS5B
thumb-1 polymerase inhibitor) was explored in a preliminary
study. After 12 weeks of therapy, sustained virologic
response at posttreatment week 12 (SVR12) was achieved by
92% of patients with HCV genotype 1 infection in the
treatment-naive group, including 13 of the 15 enrolled
patients with cirrhosis.11
The present study evaluated this
regimen, administered as a twice-daily fixed-dose combina-
tion tablet with or without ribavirin, in patients who were
treatment-naive and treatment-experienced with chronic
HCV genotype 1 infection and compensated cirrhosis.
Methods
Study Design
The study was conducted between December 2013 and Octo-
ber 2014 at 49 outpatient sites in the United States, Canada,
France,andAustralia.Twopatientcohortswereenrolled:treat-
ment-naive patients with no prior exposure to any interferon
formulation or direct-acting antivirals, and treatment-
experienced patients who had prior treatment with inter-
feron and/or host-targeted antivirals or direct-acting antivi-
rals other than NS3 or NS5A inhibitors or NS5B thumb-1
inhibitors, which were exclusionary (study protocol appears
in Supplement 1).
All patients received open-label daclatasvir (30 mg), asu-
naprevir (200 mg), and beclabuvir (75 mg) in a fixed-dose com-
binationtwicedaily(DCV-TRIO).Inaddition,withineachstudy
group,patientswererandomlyassigned(1:1)toreceiveblinded
weight-based ribavirin (1000-1200 mg/d) or matching pla-
cebo twice daily. Patients were treated for 12 weeks with 24
weeks of posttreatment follow-up. Treatment adherence was
assessedbypatients’diariesandanaccountingofpills.Thepro-
tocol was approved by the institutional review board or inde-
pendent ethics committee at each site and all patients pro-
vided written informed consent.
Patients
Patients were adults aged 18 years and older with HCV RNA
(≥104
IU/mL) and compensated cirrhosis, as defined by liver
biopsydemonstratingaMETAVIRscoreofF4,aFibroScanscore
of greater than 14.6 kPa within the previous year, or a Fibro-
Test score of 0.75 or greater coupled with an aspartate amino-
transferase (AST)-to-platelet ratio index of greater than 2 dur-
ing screening.
Key exclusions included a history of hepatocellular carci-
noma, hepatic decompensation events (ascites, hepatic en-
cephalopathy, variceal hemorrhage), active or recent alcohol
abuse, coinfection with HIV or hepatitis B virus, body mass in-
dex greater than 35 (calculated as weight in kilograms di-
vided by height in meters squared), or other significant medi-
cal conditions.
Keylaboratoryexclusionsincludedanalanineaminotrans-
ferase (ALT) or AST level of at least 5 × the upper limit of nor-
mal (ULN), total bilirubin of at least 34 μmol/L, international
normalized ratio of at least 1.7, an albumin level lower than
3.5 g/dL, or a platelet level of less than 50 × 109
cells/L.
Patient race was self-described as white, black/African
American, Asian, American Indian/Alaska native, or other to
support assessments of the effect of race on SVR12.
Treatment Assignment and Blinding
After screening and confirmation of eligibility, patients within
each cohort were stratified according to genotype 1 subtype
(1a vs 1b) and randomly assigned to a study treatment group
via an interactive voice-response system using a computer-
generated random allocation sequence (Figure 1). Patients, in-
vestigators, and the sponsor were blinded to ribavirin treat-
ment assignment and HCV RNA results through posttreatment
week12,withtheexceptionofdesignatedindividualswhoana-
lyzed pharmacokinetics and drug resistance (statistical analy-
sis plan appears in Supplement 2).
Assessments and End Points
Plasma HCV RNA levels were assayed centrally using the HCV
COBAS TaqMan Test version 2.0 (Roche Molecular Systems),
with a lower limit of quantitation of 25 IU/mL and a lower limit
of detection of approximately 10 IU/mL. HCV RNA levels were
determined at baseline; on-treatment weeks 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, and
12; and posttreatment weeks 4, 8, and 12.
HCV genotypes and subtypes were assessed using the Re-
alTime HCV Genotype II assay (Abbott) and the VERSANT HCV
genotype 2.0 line probe (LiPA) assay. IL28B genotype
(rs12979860 single-nucleotide polymorphism, which pre-
dicts treatment response with interferon-based regimens) was
determined by polymerase chain reaction amplification and
sequencing to assess possible relationships between IL28B
genotype and SVR12. NS5A, NS3, and NS5B variants were as-
DCV/ASV/BCV for HCV Infection With Cirrhosis Original Investigation Research
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sessed in all patients with virologic failure and HCV RNA of at
least 1000 IU/mL. Virologic failure included on-treatment
breakthrough (confirmed HCV RNA increase ≥1 log10 IU/mL
from nadir, or HCV RNA increase to ≥25 IU/mL if previously
below this level), HCV RNA of at least 25 IU/mL at the end of
treatment, or posttreatment relapse (confirmed HCV RNA
≥25IU/mLwhenHCVRNAwasundetectableattheendoftreat-
ment). NS5A polymorphisms were assessed in all patients at
baseline by population-based sequencing (sensitivity 20% of
the viral population); and NS3 and NS5B polymorphisms were
assessed at baseline in a proportion of patients matched by
genotype 1 subtype and representing patients with or with-
out subsequent SVR12 in a 2:1 ratio.
Adverseevents,clinicallaboratoryassessments,vitalsigns,
and physical examinations were monitored at all study visits.
Patients were also monitored for a protocol-defined end point
of ALT (≥3 × ULN) and total bilirubin (≥2 × ULN).
The primary outcome measure was SVR12, defined as HCV
RNA less than the lower level of quantitation (25 IU/mL; tar-
get detected or not detected) at posttreatment week 12. Key
secondary end points included HCV RNA response at each on-
treatment and posttreatment study visit; SVR12 by genotype 1
subtype, SVR12 by IL28B genotype; on-treatment frequencies
of serious adverse events, adverse event–related discontinu-
ations; and hematologic- or liver-related grade 3 or 4 labora-
tory abnormalities.
Statistical Analyses
TheprimaryobjectivewastodeterminewhethertheSVR12 rate
in at least 1 treatment-naive group (with ribavirin or without
ribavirin)wassignificantlyhigherthana69%historicalthresh-
old (eAppendix in Supplement 3). This threshold is a compos-
ite of response rates achieved in this population with ap-
proved direct-acting antivirals combined with peginterferon
and ribavirin. A 97.5% CI was applied. The type I error rate was
.025 (0.05/2; overall α level .05) for each group within a co-
hort using Bonferroni multiplicity adjustment for each group
and comparing with the historical threshold. The primary ob-
jectivewasachievedifthelowerboundofthe97.5%CIsofSVR12
for at least 1 group exceeded the historical threshold. CIs were
based on the normal approximation to the binomial distribu-
tion unless the sample size was small for a subgroup (<30 pa-
tients) or proportions were close to 0% or 100% when exact
binomial CIs were used. The target sample size of 50 patients
pergroupofthetreatment-naivecohorthadagreaterthan90%
probabilitytodemonstratethattheSVR12 rateinatleast1group
Figure 1. Patient Disposition for UNITY-2 From Screening Through Final Data Analysis
300 Patients screened for eligibility
202 Met eligibility criteria
98 Excluded
48 Laboratory values outside of protocol-defined limits
3 Cardiac disease
21 Absence of cirrhosis
5 Uncontrolled diabetes
2 Exclusionary age or reproductive status
3 Evidence of hepatic decompensation
2 Hepatocellular carcinoma
1 Hepatitis B co-infection
1 Non-genotype 1 infection
1 HCV RNA below minimum
1 BMI outside study limits
1 Poor venous access
7 Unknown
1 Prior exposure to protease inhibitors
1 Unwilling to follow study procedures
112 Randomized 90 Randomized
112 Treatment-naive group 90 Treatment-experienced group
57 Completed treatment period
57 Included in the analysis
55 Completed treatment period
55 Included in the analysis
44 Completed treatment period
1 Did not complete treatment
period (virologic breakthrough)
45 Included in the analysis
43 Completed treatment period
2 Did not complete treatment period
1 Virologic breakthrough
1 Adverse event
45 Included in the analysis
57 Randomized to receive daclatasvir/
asunaprevir/beclabuvira
55 Randomized to receive daclatasvir/
asunaprevir/beclabuvir plus ribavirina
45 Randomized to receive daclatasvir/
asunaprevir/beclabuvira
45 Randomized to receive daclatasvir/
asunaprevir/beclabuvir plus ribavirina
Research Original Investigation DCV/ASV/BCV for HCV Infection With Cirrhosis
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wouldbehigherthanthehistoricalthreshold,assuming2-sided
97.5%CIsandtrueSVR12 ratesforbothgroupsweregreaterthan
84%. Data were analyzed using SAS version 9. The primary end
point assessment (SVR12) was based on all treated patients.
Results
Patient Disposition and Characteristics
Of 300 patients who were screened, 202 were enrolled and ini-
tiated treatment and 98 were not enrolled (of whom 92 were
not enrolled because of not meeting study entry criteria)
(Figure 1).
Baseline characteristics were similar among treatment
groups in each cohort. Overall, patients were 86% white, 74%
had genotype 1a infection, 85% had baseline viral loads
greater than 800 000 IU/mL, and 73% had IL28B non-CC
genotypes (Table 1). The median age was relatively high
(58-60 years) compared with other studies in cirrhotic
populations.12,13
Cirrhosis was diagnosed by liver biopsy in
108 patients (53%), by meeting FibroScan criteria (>14.6 kPa)
in 79 patients (39%), and by meeting FibroTest/AST-to-ratio
index criteria in 15 patients (7%). Overall, 53 patients (26%)
had baseline platelet counts greater than 100 000 cells/mm3
,
suggestive of more advanced disease associated with portal
hypertension.
Table 1. Patient Demographic and Baseline Disease Characteristics
Parameter
No. (%)
Treatment-Naive Groups Treatment-Experienced Groups
Daclatasvir, Asunaprevir,
Beclabuvir
(n = 57)
Daclatasvir, Asunaprevir,
Beclabuvir + Ribavirin
(n = 55)
Daclatasvir, Asunaprevir,
Beclabuvir
(n = 45)
Daclatasvir, Asunaprevir,
Beclabuvir + Ribavirin
(n = 45)
Age, median (range), y 58 (25-75) 59 (35-73) 59 (19-76) 60 (48-73)
Male 39 (68.4) 35 (63.6) 32 (71.1) 27 (60.0)
Race
White 49 (86.0) 46 (83.6) 41 (91.1) 37 (82.2)
Black/African American 6 (10.5) 6 (10.9) 2 (4.4) 6 (13.3)
Asian 0 1 (1.8) 2 (4.4) 1 (2.2)
American Indian/Alaska native 2 (3.5) 1 (1.8) 0 0
Other 0 1 (1.8) 0 1 (2.2)
HCV RNA, mean log10 IU/mL, mean (SD) 6.48 (0.62) 6.36 (0.84) 6.75 (0.36) 6.65 (0.49)
HCV RNA ≥800 000 IU/mL 47 (82) 41 (75) 43 (96) 41 (91)
HCV genotype 1 subtype
1a 40 (70.2) 39 (70.9) 35 (77.8) 35 (77.8)
1b 17 (29.8) 15 (27.3) 10 (22.2) 10 (22.2)
HCV genotype 6 0 1 (1.8)a
0 0
Platelets × 103
/μLb
≥125 35 (62.5) 28 (50.9) 19 (42.2) 29 (64.4)
100 - <125 13 (23.2) 10 (18.2) 8 (17.8) 6 (13.3)
50 - <100 8 (14.3) 16 (29.1) 17 (37.8) 10 (22.2)
25 - <50 0 1 (1.8) 1 (2.2) 0
IL28B genotype
CC 13 (22.8) 18 (32.7) 15 (33.3) 9 (20.0)
CT 30 (52.6) 35 (63.6) 20 (44.4) 27 (60.0)
TT 13 (22.8) 2 (3.6) 10 (22.2) 9 (20.0)
Not reported 1 (1.8) 0 0 0
Prior interferon-based treatment 44 (97.8) 41 (91.1)
Prior treatment outcome
Virologic breakthrough 2 (4.4) 0
Indeterminate or otherc
3 (6.7) 5 (11.1)
Interferon intolerant 6 (13.3) 10 (22.2)
Null response 19 (42.2) 16 (35.6)
Partial response 6 (13.3) 2 (4.4)
Posttreatment relapse 8 (17.8) 8 (17.8)
Other prior anti-HCV treatmentd
1 (2.2) 4 (8.9)
Abbreviation: HCV, hepatitis C virus.
a
One patient had HCV genotype 1 of indeterminate subtype identified at
screening and initiated study treatment; subsequent analysis determined that
this patient had genotype 6 infection.
b
Subcategories do not sum because of missing data.
c
Prior treatment response missing or could not be categorized.
d
Other treatments included peginterferon and ribavirin in combination with
amantadine, alisporivir, mericitabine, GS9450, thymosin, and milk thistle.
DCV/ASV/BCV for HCV Infection With Cirrhosis Original Investigation Research
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In the treatment-experienced cohort, 69 of 90 patients
(77%)hadpreviouslyfailedtorespondtointerferon-basedregi-
mens, including 35 (39%) with prior null response; and 16 of
90 patients (18%) were previously intolerant of interferon-
based therapy. Five patients had been treated unsuccessfully
with regimens containing peginterferon/ribavirin in combi-
nationwithamantadine,alisporivir,mericitabine,GS9450,thy-
mosin, or milk thistle.
Virologic Response
In the treatment-naive cohort, SVR12 was achieved by 93%
(97.5%CI,85.4%-100.0%)ofpatientsreceivingDCV-TRIOalone
and by 98.2% (97.5% CI, 88.9%-100.0%) of patients with riba-
virin added; and corresponding SVR12 rates for the treatment-
experienced cohort were 86.7% (97.5% CI, 75.3%-98.0%) for
patients receiving DCV-TRIO alone and 93% (97.5% CI, 85.0%-
100.0%) for patients with ribavirin added (Table 2). SVR12 was
achieved by 51 of 52 patients (98%) with genotype 1b infec-
tion overall; and SVR12 rates in patients with genotype 1a were
86% to 97% across all treatment groups.
SVR12 was achieved by 50 of 53 patients (94%) with base-
line thrombocytopenia (platelets <100 000/mm3
), including 23
of 26 patients receiving DCV-TRIO alone and all 27 patients re-
ceiving DCV-TRIO with ribavirin. Among patients with base-
line platelet levels of less than 75 000/mm3
, 10 of 10 patients
receiving DCV-TRIO with ribavirin and 8 of 9 patients receiv-
ing DCV-TRIO alone achieved SVR12. Among the 35 prior null
respondersintheexperiencedcohort,34(97%)achievedSVR12,
including 18 of 19 patients receiving DCV-TRIO alone and 16
of 16 receiving DCV-TRIO with ribavirin.
SVR12 rates were comparable according to age, sex, base-
line HCV RNA level, and IL28B genotype (Figure 2). Early vi-
rologicresponsewasnotpredictiveoftreatmentfailure;among
the62patientsinwhomHCVRNAremaineddetectableatweek
4, SVR12 was subsequently achieved in 56 (90%).
Two patients in the treatment-experienced group had on-
treatment virologic breakthrough and 1 patient in the
treatment-experienced group had HCV RNA detectable at the
end of treatment (Table 2). Treatment adherence in these in-
dividuals was confirmed by dosing logs. There were no viro-
logic breakthroughs in the treatment-naive cohort. Ten of
202 patients (5%) overall relapsed posttreatment; 9 of these 10
patients received regimens without ribavirin. Two of 13 pa-
tients with documented virologic failure had NS5A resistance
variants detectable at baseline; 1 patient had a combination of
NS5A-Q30K and -Y93H that confers high-level daclatasvir re-
sistance in vitro. Overall, 31 of 33 patients (94%) with baseline
NS5A resistance polymorphisms achieved SVR12.
The 12-week course of treatment was completed by 199 of
202 patients (Figure 1). Three patients, all in the treatment-
experienced cohort, discontinued participation before week
12 (2 because of virologic breakthroughs at weeks 6 and 11 and
1 at week 6 because of concomitant elevations of ALT and total
bilirubin). Based on study medication records, more than 90%
of patients were 95% adherent for both dose and duration.
Resistance Analyses
NS5A polymorphisms at amino acid positions 28, 30, 31, or 93
were detected at baseline in 15 of 149 patients (10%) with geno-
type 1a infection and 13 of 52 patients (25%) with genotype 1b
infection. Among these 28 patients, 13 of 15 (87%) with geno-
type 1a and 13 of 13 with genotype 1b subsequently achieved
SVR12. Of the 2 patients in the treatment-experienced group
with baseline NS5A variants who relapsed, one had M28V at
baseline and the other had Q30H and Y93H at baseline.
NS5A-M28V confers no loss in daclatasvir anti-HCV activity in
Table 2. Virologic Response
Parameter
Treatment-Naive Groups Treatment-Experienced Groups
Daclatasvir, Asunaprevir,
Beclabuvir
(n = 57)
Daclatasvir, Asunaprevir,
Beclabuvir + Ribavirin
(n = 55)
Daclatasvir, Asunaprevir,
Beclabuvir
(n = 45)
Daclatasvir, Asunaprevir,
Beclabuvir + Ribavirin
(n = 45)
HCV RNA<LLOQ at end of treatment,
No. (%) [95% CI]a
57 (100.0)
[93.7-100.0]b
54 (98.2)
[90.3-100.0]b
44 (97.8)
[88.2-99.9]b
41 (91.1)
[82.8-99.4]
SVR12, No. (%) [97.5% CI] 53 (93.0)
[85.4-100.0]
54 (98.2)
[88.9-100.0]b
39 (86.7)
[75.3-98.0]
42 (93.3)
[85.0-100.0]
Genotype 1a, No./total No. (%) [95% CI] 36/40 (90.0)
[80.7-99.3]
38/39 (97.4)
[86.5-99.9]b
30/35 (85.7)
[74.1-97.3]
32/35 (91.4)
[82.2-100.0]
Genotype 1b, No./total No. (%) [95% CI]b
17/17 (100.0)
[80.5-100.0]
15/15 (100.0)
[78.2-100.0]
9/10 (90.0)
[55.5-99.7]
10/10 (100.0)
[69.2-100.0]
Patients without SVR12, No. (%) 4 (7.0) 1 (1.8) 6 (13.3) 3 (6.7)
Virologic breakthrough, No. (%) 0 0 1 (2.2) 1 (2.2)
HCV RNA >LLOQ at end of treatment, No. (%) 0 0 0 1 (2.2)
Posttreatment relapse, No./total No. (%)c
4/57 (7.0) 0 5/44 (11.4) 1/41 (2.4)
Missing data, No./total No. (%)c,d
0 1/54 (1.9) 0 0
Abbreviations: HCV, hepatitis C virus; LLOQ, lower limit of quantitation;
SVR12, sustained virologic response at posttreatment week 12.
a
Week 12 was the end of treatment for all patients except 3 (2 discontinued at
weeks 6 and 1 discontinued at week 11). Target was not detected at the end of
treatment for patients in this category.
b
Exact binomial CI.
c
Determined as the proportion of patients with HCV RNA less than the LLOQ.
Target was not detected at the end of treatment.
d
Data missing at posttreatment week 12 in patients with HCV RNA less than the
LLOQ. Target was not detected at the end of treatment.
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vitro,whereasQ30H-Y93Hconfersagreaterthan1000-foldloss
in daclatasvir activity. NS3-Q80L and NS5B-A421V were also
detected at baseline in the patient with high-level daclatasvir-
resistant variants; however, these polymorphisms confer less
than or equal to a 2-fold resistance to asunaprevir or less than
or equal to a 3-fold resistance to beclabuvir.14,15
There was no
apparent association between detection of NS3-Q80K or
NS5B-A421V and virologic outcome; the prevalence at base-
line in the overall genotype 1a population of NS3-Q80K (19 of
49 patients tested) and NS5B-421V (10 of 49 patients tested)
was similar to the prevalence in genotype 1a patients with vi-
rologic failure (6 of 12 patients tested for NS3-Q80K and 4 of
12 patients tested for NS5B-421V).
Emergentresistancevariantsinpatientswithvirologicfail-
ure were similar to those described previously.11
NS5A resis-
tance variants emerged at virologic failure in 11 of 12 patients
with genotype 1a; NS5A-Q30 variants were observed fre-
quently (7 of 12 patients). NS3 resistance variants emerged in
10 of 12 patients with genotype 1a; NS3-R155K was detected in
all 10 patients. Previously reported NS5B resistance variants
emerged in 2 of 12 patients with genotype 1a. NS5B-P495 vari-
ants were detected only in 2 patients in the treatment-
experienced group with on-treatment failure; these patients
also had NS5A and NS3 resistance variants at virologic fail-
ure. For the single patient with genotype 1b who relapsed, only
NS5A-Y93H was detected at virologic failure, with no signa-
ture NS3 or NS5B resistance variants detected.
Adverse Events and Laboratory Abnormalities
Nine patients experienced on-treatment serious adverse
events; 3 events were considered treatment related: anemia,
aminotransferase and bilirubin elevations, and ribavirin over-
dose (Table 3). Three patients discontinued ribavirin because
of adverse events that included anemia (week 4), hemoglo-
Figure 2. SVR12 by Baseline Factors
Treatment-naive groupA
50 80 10070 90
Percentage With SVR12 (95% CI)
60
Daclatasvir/Asunaprevir/Beclabuvir
No. of
Patients
With SVR12
Total
No.Source
Percentage
With SVR12,
% (95% CI)
53 57Overall 93 (85-100)
Sex
37 39Men 95 (88-100)
16 18Women 89 (65-99)
Age, y
39 43<65 91 (82-99)
14 14≥65 100 (77-100)
HCV RNA level
10 10<800000 100 (69-100)
43 47≥800000 92 (84-100)
Genotype
11 13IL28B CC 85 (55-98)
41 43IL28B Non CC 95 (84-99)
50 80 10070 90
Percentage With SVR12 (95% CI)
60
Daclatasvir/Asunaprevir/Beclabuvir + Ribavirin
No. of
Patients
With SVR12
Total
No.
Percentage
With SVR12,
% (95% CI)
54 55 98 (89-100)
34 35 97 (85-100)
20 20 100 (83-100)
45 46 98 (89-100)
9 9 100 (66-100)
14 14 100 (77-100)
40 41 98 (87-100)
18 18 100 (82-100)
36 37 97 (86-100)
Experienced cohortB
50 80 10070 90
Percentage With SVR12 (95% CI)
60
Daclatasvir/Asunaprevir/Beclabuvir
No. of
Patients
With SVR12
Total
No.Source
Percentage
With SVR12,
% (95% CI)
39 45Overall 87 (75-98)
Sex
26 32Men 81 (68-95)
13 13Women 100 (75-100)
Age, y
36 42<65 86 (75-96)
3 3≥65 100 (29-100)
HCV RNA level
2 2<800000 100 (16-100)
37 43≥800000 86 (76-96)
Genotype
13 15IL28B CC 87 (60-98)
26 30IL28B Non CC 87 (75-99)
50 80 10070 90
Percentage With SVR12 (95% CI)
60
Daclatasvir/Asunaprevir/Beclabuvir + Ribavirin
No. of
Patients
With SVR12
Total
No.
Percentage
With SVR12,
% (95% CI)
42 45 93 (85-100)
25 27 93 (76-99)
17 18 94 (73-100)
31 34 91 (82-100)
11 11 100 (72-100)
4 4 100 (40-100)
38 41 93 (85-100)
9 9 100 (66-100)
33 36 92 (83-100)
Data indicate SVR12 rates according to baseline demographic and disease parameters within each cohort by treatment regimen.
DCV/ASV/BCV for HCV Infection With Cirrhosis Original Investigation Research
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bin reduction (week 3), and cough (week 6). One patient dis-
continued ribavirin at week 2 because of anemia and discon-
tinued DCV-TRIO at week 6 because of ALT and bilirubin
elevations. All 4 patients who discontinued subsequently
achieved SVR12. Adverse events commonly associated with
ribavirin, primarily fatigue, insomnia, and pruritus, were more
frequent in ribavirin-containing groups. Similarly, grade 3 or
4 hemoglobin abnormalities occurred in 5% of patients
in ribavirin-containing groups, compared with none in the
ribavirin-free groups.
Treatment-emergent ALT elevations of greater than
5 × ULN occurred in 4 patients (2%). In 3 patients, the maxi-
mum elevations were less than 10 × ULN; none were associ-
atedwithbilirubinelevations.All3patientscompletedtherapy
and the ALT elevations resolved posttreatment. One patient
with cirrhosis discontinued ribavirin only at week 2 because
of anemia, then discontinued all study medication at week 6
because of a protocol-defined event of concomitant eleva-
tions of ALT and total bilirubin. These elevations were maxi-
mal at week 6 (ALT, 992 U/L; total bilirubin, 2.4 mg/dL [SI con-
versions: ALT to μkat/L, multiply by 0.0167; total bilirubin to
μmol/L,multiplyby17.104]).ALTnormalized6weeksafterdis-
continuation and total bilirubin normalized 6 weeks after dis-
continuation; the patient subsequently achieved SVR12. Six pa-
tients had treatment-emergent grade 3 or 4 lipase elevations
of which none were associated with abdominal pain or symp-
tomatic pancreatitis.
Discussion
Twelve weeks of treatment with the fixed-dose combination
of daclatasvir, asunaprevir, and beclabuvir, with or without
ribavirin, achieved an overall SVR12 rate of 93% in patients with
genotype 1 infection and compensated cirrhosis. Among pa-
tients with genotype 1a infection, SVR12 was achieved by 88%
ofthosereceivingthefixed-dosecombinationaloneandby95%
ofthosewithribavirinaddedtotheregimen.However,thecon-
tribution of ribavirin to SVR12 remains uncertain because of the
small sample sizes; results suggest that inclusion of ribavirin
with the regimen may be considered for patients with geno-
type 1a infection. Thrombocytopenia may be associated with
portal hypertension in patients with cirrhosis; in this study,
SVR12 was achieved by 94% of patients with baseline throm-
bocytopenia, suggesting that SVR remains robust in this dif-
ficult-to-treatpopulationwithcirrhosis.Sex,age,baselineHCV
RNA levels, and IL28B genotype had no significant associa-
tion with SVR12 rates, consistent with previous results sug-
gesting a reduced effect of baseline factors with high-
potency regimens.12,16-18
An overall 98% SVR12 rate was achieved after 12 weeks of
treatment in patients with genotype 1b infection and cirrho-
sis. Factors contributing to the single virologic failure (re-
lapse) with genotype 1b are uncertain; the only resistance vari-
ant detected at virologic failure (NS5A-Y93H) conferred only
low-level resistance to daclatasvir. Previously, the combina-
tion of daclatasvir and asunaprevir, without beclabuvir or riba-
virin, achieved SVR12 rate in 83% of a similar genotype 1b popu-
lation following 24 weeks of treatment.19
A direct comparison
of these regimens could confirm whether the addition of be-
clabuvir reduces virologic failure and increases SVR12 in pa-
tients with genotype 1b infection and cirrhosis.
Emergentresistancevariantsinpatientswithvirologicfail-
ure were similar to those reported previously.11
Variants at
NS5A-Q30, NS3-R155K, and NS5B-P495 were observed al-
though NS5B variants were not detected in patients experi-
encing relapse. Overall, resistance variants at baseline were in-
frequent in this study and did not appear to have an adverse
effect on SVR12 rates, in contrast with previous results for the
combination of daclatasvir and asunaprevir (without beclabu-
vir or ribavirin), in which the presence of NS5A-L31, NS5A -Y93,
and/or NS3-D168 polymorphisms at baseline reduced SVR12 in
genotype 1b-infected patients.19
The regimen was well-tolerated with or without ribavi-
rin, with low rates of treatment-related serious adverse events,
adverse event–related discontinuations, or grade 3 or 4 labo-
ratoryabnormalities.Asinglepatientmetprotocol-defineddis-
Table 3. Adverse Events and Laboratory Abnormalities
Parameter
No. (%)
Daclatasvir, Asunaprevir,
Beclabuvir
(n = 102)
Daclatasvir, Asunaprevir,
Beclabuvir + Ribavirin
(n = 100)
Serious AEa
2 (2.0) 7 (7.0)
AE leading to
discontinuationb
0 4 (4.0)
AE (any grade) in ≥10%
of patients
Headache 17 (16.7) 23 (23.0)
Nausea 14 (13.7) 17 (17.0)
Diarrhea 13 (12.7) 9 (9.0)
Fatigue 12 (11.8) 28 (28.0)
Insomnia 6 (5.9) 15 (15.0)
Pruritus 6 (5.9) 15 (15.0)
Emergent grade 3 or 4
laboratory abnormalities
Hemoglobin <9.0 g/dL 0 5 (5.0)
Platelets
<50 × 103
/μL
2 (2.0) 2 (2.0)
White blood cells
<1500/μL
0 1 (1.0)
Lymphocytes <500/μL 1 (1.0) 3 (3.0)
Neutrophils <750/μL 1 (1.0) 1 (1.0)
ALT >5.0 × ULN 3 (2.9) 1 (1.0)
AST >5.0 × ULN 2 (2.0) 1 (1.0)
Bilirubin, total
>2.5 × ULN
0 3 (3.0)
Lipase, total
>3.0 × ULN
5 (4.9) 1 (1.0)
Abbreviations: AE, adverse event; ALT, alanine aminotransferase; AST, aspartate
aminotransferase; DCV-TRIO, regimen of open-label daclatasvir (30 mg),
asunaprevir (200 mg), and beclabuvir (75 mg) in a fixed-dose combination
twice daily; ULN, upper limit of normal.
a
AEs considered as treatment-related: anemia, ALT and total bilirubin
elevations, overdose.
b
Three patients discontinued ribavirin only because of anemia, hemoglobin
level decreased, or cough; 1 patient discontinued ribavirin because of anemia
(week 2), then discontinued the DCV-TRIO because of elevations in ALT and
total bilirubin levels at week 6.
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continuation criteria of concomitant ALT and bilirubin eleva-
tions; the elevations resolved after discontinuation. ALT
elevationshavebeenassociatedwithasunaprevirinothercom-
bination regimens but are only rarely associated with changes
in other liver function test results.19-21
In trials of other all-oral regimens in patients with cirrho-
sis, high SVR rates have been achieved, although maximizing
SVR rates in this population often requires extended (24
weeks) therapy and/or the inclusion of ribavirin. SVR12 rates
comparable with those of the present study were reported for
a population of patients with cirrhosis treated with ritonavir-
boosted paritaprevir combined with ombitasvir, dasabuvir,
and ribavirin.12
In that study, treatment extended to 24
weeks provided a modest increase in SVR12 rates, primarily
among patients with prior null response to peginterferon/
ribavirin. In contrast, 34 of the 35 prior null responders in our
study achieved SVR12 after 12 weeks of treatment, suggesting
that more extended therapy would have little benefit. In
another study that included a limited population of patients
with cirrhosis, the combination of sofosbuvir and ledipasvir
achieved SVR12 rates of 97% (without ribavirin) and 100%
(with ribavirin) in patients with cirrhosis who were treatment
naive after 12 or 24 weeks of therapy.17
However, in a parallel
study of patients with cirrhosis who were treatment experi-
enced, SVR12 rates were 100% after 24 weeks of therapy but
substantially lower (82%-86%) after 12 weeks, leading to the
recommendation that patients with cirrhosis receive 24
weeks of therapy.16
Limitations of this study include the absence of a pla-
cebo group to support assessment of treatment-related
adverse events. The study was not powered to statistically
distinguish the contribution of ribavirin to SVR12 rates and
the relatively low proportion of black patients limits the
extent to which these results can be extrapolated a black
population.
Conclusions
In this open-label, uncontrolled study, patients with chronic
HCV genotype 1 infection and cirrhosis who received a
12-week oral fixed-dose regimen of daclatasvir, asunaprevir,
and beclabuvir, with or without ribavirin, achieved high rates
of SVR12.
ARTICLE INFORMATION
Trial Registration: clinicaltrials.gov Identifier:
NCT01973049.
Author Affiliations: Duke Clinical Research
Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
(Muir); Texas Liver Institute-University of Texas
Health Science Center, San Antonio (Poordad);
Quest Clinical Research, San Francisco, California
(Lalezari); University of Colorado School of
Medicine, Denver (Everson); Kirby Institute,
University of New South Wales, Kensington,
New South Wales, Australia (Dore); St Vincent’s
Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
(Dore); Quality Medical Research, Nashville,
Tennessee (Herring); Gastrointestinal Specialists Of
Georgia, Marietta (Sheikh); Indiana University
School of Medicine, Indianapolis (Kwo); Hôpital
Henri Mondor, AP-HP, INSERM U955, Université
Paris-Est, Créteil, France (Hézode); Scripps Clinic,
La Jolla, California (Pockros); INSERM U1065, Team
8, Hepatic Complications in Obesity, Nice, France
(Tran); Centre Hospitalier Universitaire of Nice,
Digestive Center, Nice, France (Tran); Lehigh Valley
Health Network, Allentown, Pennsylvania
(Yozviak); University of Chicago Medical Center,
Chicago, Illinois (Reau); University of British
Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
(Ramji); Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation,
Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
(Stuart); St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria,
Australia (Thompson); University of Melbourne,
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia (Thompson); Baylor
College of Medicine, Houston, Texas (Vierling);
Kansas City Research Institute, Kansas City,
Missouri (Freilich); Inova Fairfax Hospital, Falls
Church, Virginia (Cooper); University of British
Columbia, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
(Ghesquiere); Bristol-Myers Squibb, Princeton,
New Jersey (Yang, Hughes); Bristol-Myers Squibb,
Wallingford, Connecticut (McPhee, Swenson, Yin).
Author Contributions: Dr. Muir had full access to
all of the data in the study and takes responsibility
for the integrity of the data and the accuracy of the
data analysis.
Study concept and design: Yozviak, Hughes,
Swenson, Yin.
Acquisition, analysis, or interpretation of data: Muir,
Poordad, Lalezari, Everson, Dore, Herring, Sheikh,
Kwo, Hézode, Pockros, Tran, Yozviak, Reau, Ramji,
Stuart, Thompson, Vierling, Freilich, Cooper,
Ghesquiere, Yang, McPhee, Hughes, Swenson, Yin.
Drafting of the manuscript: Yozviak, Yang, McPhee,
Swenson, Yin.
Critical revision of the manuscript for important
intellectual content: Muir, Poordad, Lalezari,
Everson, Dore, Herring, Sheikh, Kwo, Hézode,
Pockros, Tran, Yozviak, Reau, Ramji, Stuart,
Thompson, Vierling, Freilich, Cooper, Ghesquiere,
Yang, McPhee, Hughes, Swenson, Yin.
Statistical analysis: Muir, Stuart, Ghesquiere, Yang,
Swenson, Yin.
Obtained funding: Hughes, Yin.
Administrative, technical, or material support:
Everson, Pockros, Tran, Vierling, Cooper, McPhee,
Hughes, Swenson, Yin.
Study supervision: Muir, Everson, Hézode, Stuart,
Thompson, Cooper, Hughes, Swenson, Yin.
Conflict of Interest Disclosures: All authors have
completed and submitted the ICMJE Form for
Disclosure of Potential Conflicts of Interest. Dr Muir,
principal investigator, reports receiving grant
funding from Bristol-Myers Squibb during the
conduct of the study, grant funding and personal
fees from AbbVie, Achillion, Bristol-Myers Squibb,
Gilead, and Merck; personal fees from Theravance;
and grant funding from Roche outside of the
submitted work. Dr Poordad reports receiving grant
funding and personal fees from Bristol-Myers
Squibb, Gilead, Merck, Salix, Novartis, AbbVie, and
Janssen; and grant funding from Theravance and
Idenix outside of the submitted work. Dr Everson
reports receiving grant funding and personal fees
from AbbVie, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Gilead, and
Janssen; grants from Eisai and Merck; personal
fees from Galectin, BioTest, and HepC Connection;
a patent pending, issued, and licensed from
HepQuant LLC for liver function tests; and serving
as a board member and having a management
position at HepQuant LLC and PSC Partners outside
of the submitted work. Dr Dore reports receiving
grant funding and personal fees from Bristol-Myers
Squibb, Roche, Gilead, Merck, AbbVie, and Janssen;
and research support from Vertex outside of the
submitted work. Dr Sheikh reports receiving grant
funding and nonfinancial support from Bristol-Myers
Squibb during the conduct of the study and from
Indenix; personal fees and nonfinancial support
from Genentech; grant funding, personal fees, and
nonfinancial support from Vertex, Gilead, and
Johnson and Johnson; and grant funding from
Achillion, Merck, and Hologic outside of the
submitted work. Dr Kwo reports receiving grant
funding and personal fees from Bristol-Myers
Squibb during the conduct of the study; grant
funding and personal fees from AbbVie, Gilead,
Merck, Vertex, Janssen, GlaxoSmithKline, and
Novartis; personal fees from Boehringer Ingelheim;
and grant funding from Conatus and Roche outside
of the submitted work. Dr Hézode reports receiving
personal fees from AbbVie, Bristol-Myers Squibb,
Gilead, Janssen, Merck, and Roche outside of the
submitted work. Dr Pockros reports receiving grant
funding and personal fees from Bristol-Myers
Squibb during the conduct of the study; grant
funding and personal fees from Bristol-Myers
Squibb, Gilead, Janssen, and AbbVie; and grant
funding from Merck outside of the submitted work.
Dr Tran reports receiving personal fees from
Bristol-Myers Squibb and Gilead. Dr Yozviak reports
receiving personal fees and other fees from Gilead
Sciences; and other fees from AbbVie, Janssen,
Bristol-Myers Squibb, Viiv, and Merck outside of the
submitted work. Dr Reau reports receiving grant
funding from Bristol-Myers Squibb and Merck; and
grant funding and personal fees from AbbVie and
Gilead outside of the submitted work. Dr Ramji
DCV/ASV/BCV for HCV Infection With Cirrhosis Original Investigation Research
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reports receiving grant funding and personal fees
from AbbVie, Boehringer Ingelheim, Bristol-Myers
Squibb, Gilead, Idenix, Merck, Roche, Vertex, and
Janssen; and grant funding from Novartis. Dr Stuart
reports receiving personal fees and nonfinancial
support from Gilead; nonfinancial support from
Bayer; and personal fees from Roche outside of the
submitted work. Dr Thompson reports receiving
other fees from Bristol-Myers Squibb during the
conduct of the study; grant funding and personal
fees from Bristol-Myers Squibb, Gilead, Merck, and
Roche; personal fees from AbbVie and Janssen; and
nonfinancial support from Springbank outside of
the submitted work. Dr Vierling reports receiving
grant funding and personal fees from AbbVie,
Bristol-Myers-Squibb, Gilead, Hyperion, Intercept,
Janssen, Merck, Novartis, and Sundise; grant
funding from Eisai, Ocera, Conatus, Roche, and
Mochida; and personal fees from Intercept,
HepQuant, Salix, GALA, Chronic Liver Disease
Foundation, and ViralEd. Dr Freilich reports
receiving grant funding from Abbott, Takeda, and
Onyx; and grant funding and personal fees from
Gilead. Dr Ghesquiere reports clinical trial
participation with AbbVie, Boehringer Ingelheim,
GlaxoSmithKline, Merck, and Roche. Drs Yang,
Hughes, Swenson, McPhee, and Yin are employees
of Bristol-Myers Squibb. No other disclosures were
reported.
Funding/Support: This study was funded by
Bristol-Myers Squibb.
Role of the Funder/Sponsor: Bristol-Myers Squibb
designed the study in collaboration with the
principal investigator (Dr Muir), conducted the
study, collected study data, and performed
statistical analyses. Bristol-Myers Squibb, together
with all authors, interpreted the data and drafted
the manuscript with the assistance of a medical
writer funded by the sponsor. Authors employed by
the sponsor (Drs Yang, McPhee, Hughes, Swenson,
and Yin), in concert with all other authors,
approved the final manuscript and made the
decision to submit the manuscript for publication.
Additional Contributions: The authors thank
Peggy Hagens, MPT, for her contributions to study
execution, and Vincent Vellucci, BS, Joseph Ueland,
BA, and Dennis Hernandez, PhD, for resistance
analyses. These individuals are employees of
Bristol-Myers Squibb and received no
compensation for their contributions apart from
their normal salaries. Writing assistance and
editorial support were provided by Richard
Boehme, PhD, of Articulate Science and was funded
by Bristol-Myers Squibb.
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Research Original Investigation DCV/ASV/BCV for HCV Infection With Cirrhosis
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