The Influence of Antiretroviral Therapy on Hepatitis C Virus Viral Load and Liver Fibrosis in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Coinfected Patients: An Observational Study

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2020

Authors

Soares, J (Author) Other; Ferreira, A (Author) Other; Silva Pinto, A (Author) FMUP; Almeida, F (Author) Other; Pineiro, C (Author) Other; Serrao, R (Author) Other; Sarmento A (Author) FMUP

Journal

The Journal is awaiting validation by the Administrative Services.

Title: INTERVIROLOGY

Vol. 62

Pages: 182-190

ISSN: 0300-5526

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 1 Citation

Scopus - 1 Citation

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00R-EHQ

DOI: 10.1159/000503631

Abstract (EN): Background:The role of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for Hepatitis C viral load (HCV-VL) and liver fibrosis is poorly understood. This study aimed at evaluating the influence of ART on HCV-VL and liver fibrosis in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/HCV-coinfected patients.Methods:We conducted a retrospective cohort study of HIV/HCV-coinfected patients followed at a tertiary university hospital.Results:In total, 143 patients were included. In 61 patients, ART initiation was accompanied by an increase in HCV-VL and a decrease in HIV viral load (HIV-VL), whereas ART suspension led to a decrease in HCV-VL and an increase in HIV-VL. Among the 55 HIV-suppressed patients who switched to a raltegravir (RAL)-containing regimen, median HCV-VL levels decreased significantly, while switching to a rilpivirine-containing regimen did not yield a significant reduction.Discussion:If the -treatment of chronic hepatitis starts before ART, ART initiation should be delayed as much as possible. If ART has been started, it is advisable to wait 1 year before initiating chronic hepatitis treatment. RAL as the third agent in an ART regimen could be beneficial in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients, in comparison to other antiretroviral drugs.Conclusion:The start and the suspension of ART significantly interferes with HCV-VL in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 9