HCV recurrence in HIV-infected patients after liver transplant

J Int Assoc Physicians AIDS Care (Chic). 2010 Mar-Apr;9(2):87-93. doi: 10.1177/1545109710362592. Epub 2010 Mar 31.

Abstract

Patients coinfected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and HIV undergoing liver transplantation (LT) are at risk of early, aggressive HCV recurrence. This study investigates the use of frequent protocol-driven biopsies to identify HCV recurrence post LT in coinfected patients. Five consecutive HIV/HCV-coinfected patients underwent LT. Liver biopsies were obtained post LT at 1 hour; days 7, 120, and 365; then annually; and as clinically indicated. Stage 2 (Ishak) or higher fibrosis occurred in 4 of the 5 patients by 60, 120, 270, and 365 days. Two patients died of HCV recurrence and liver failure at 6 and 35 months post LT. Three patients survived more than 4 years after LT, 2 having sustained virologic responses to anti-HCV treatment. Another has histologic recurrence not responding to treatment. Hepatitis C virus recurrence can be rapid and aggressive after LT in HIV-coinfected patients. Serial biopsies identify recurrence early, allowing for prompt initiation of treatment.

MeSH terms

  • AIDS-Related Opportunistic Infections / drug therapy
  • AIDS-Related Opportunistic Infections / epidemiology
  • AIDS-Related Opportunistic Infections / virology
  • Adult
  • Antiviral Agents / administration & dosage
  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use
  • Biopsy
  • HIV Infections / complications*
  • HIV Infections / drug therapy
  • HIV Infections / epidemiology
  • HIV Infections / virology
  • Hepacivirus / drug effects
  • Hepatitis C* / complications
  • Hepatitis C* / drug therapy
  • Hepatitis C* / epidemiology
  • Hepatitis C* / virology
  • Humans
  • Liver / pathology
  • Liver / virology
  • Liver Failure* / drug therapy
  • Liver Failure* / mortality
  • Liver Failure* / pathology
  • Liver Failure* / virology
  • Liver Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Middle Aged
  • Recurrence
  • Risk Factors
  • Survival Analysis

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents