| 1. |
- Akhoondi, Shahab, et al.
(author)
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FBXW7/hCDC4 is a general tumor suppressor in human cancer
- 2007
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In: Cancer Research. - 0008-5472 .- 1538-7445. ; 67:19, s. 9006-9012
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The ubiquitin-proteasome system is a major regulatory pathway of protein degradation and plays an important role in cellular division. Fbxw7 (or hCdc4), a member of the F-box family of proteins, which are substrate recognition components of the multisubunit ubiquitin ligase SCF (Skpl-Cdc53/ Cullin-F-box-protein), has been shown to mediate the ubiquitin-dependent proteolysis of several oncoproteins including cyclin El, c-Myc, c-Jun, and Notch. The oncogenic potential of Fbxw7 substrates, frequent allelic loss in human cancers, and demonstration that mutation of FBXW7 cooperates with p53 in mouse tumorigenesis have suggested that Fbxw7 could function as a tumor suppressor in human cancer. Here, we carry out an extensive genetic screen of primary tumors to evaluate the role of FBXW7 as a tumor suppressor in human tumorigenesis. Our results indicate that FBXW7 is inactivated by mutation in diverse human cancer types with an overall mutation frequency of ∼ 6%. The highest mutation frequencies were found in tumors of the bile duct (cholangio-carcinomas, 35%), blood (T-cell acute lymphocytic leukemia, 31%), endometrium (9%), colon (9%), and stomach (6%). Approximately 43% of all mutations occur at two mutational "hotspots," which alter Arg residues (Arg465 and Arg479) that are critical for substrate recognition. Furthermore, we show that Fbxw7Arg465 hotspot mutant can abrogate wild-type Fbxw7 function through a dominant negative mechanism. Our study is the first comprehensive screen of FBXW7 mutations in various human malignancies and shows that FBXW7 is a general tumor suppressor in human cancer.
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| 2. |
- Blom, Kristin, et al.
(author)
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Eosinophil associated genes in the inflammatory bowel disease 4 region : Correlation to inflammatory bowel disease revealed
- 2012
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In: World Journal of Gastroenterology. - : Baishideng Publishing Group Inc.. - 1007-9327 .- 2219-2840. ; 18:44, s. 6409-6419
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- AIM: To study the association between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and genetic variations in eosinophil protein X (EPX) and eosinophil cationic protein (ECP). METHODS: DNA was extracted from ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid blood of 587 patients with Crohn's disease (CD), 592 with ulcerative colitis (UC) and 300 healthy subjects. The EPX405 (G > C, rs2013109), ECP434 (G > C, rs2073342) and ECP562 (G > C, rs2233860) gene polymorphisms were analysed, by the 5'-nuclease allelic discrimination assay. For determination of intracellular content of EPX and ECP in granulocytes, 39 blood samples was collected and extracted with a buffer containing cetyltrimethylammonium bromide. The intracellular content of EPX was analysed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The intracellular content of ECP was analysed with the UniCAP (R) system as described by the manufacturer. Statistical tests for calculations of results were chi(2) test, Fisher's exact test, ANOVA, Student-Newman-Keuls test, and Kaplan-Meier survival curve with Log-rank test for trend, the probability values of P < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The genotype frequency for males with UC and with an age of disease onset of >= 45 years (n = 57) was for ECP434 and ECP562, GG = 37%, GC = 60%, CC = 4% and GG = 51%, GC = 49%, CC = 0% respectively. This was significantly different from the healthy subject's genotype frequencies of ECP434 (GG = 57%, GC = 38%, CC = 5%; P = 0.010) and ECP562 (GG = 68%, GC = 29 /0,CC = 3%; P = 0.009). The genotype frequencies for females, with an age of disease onset of >= 45 years with CD (n = 62), was for the ECP434 and ECP562 genotypes GG = 37%, GC = 52%, CC = 11% and GG = 48%, GC = 47% and CC = 5% respectively. This was also statistically different from healthy controls for both ECP434 (P = 0.010) and ECP562 (P = 0.013). The intracellular protein concentration of EPX and ECP was calculated in mu g/10(6) eosinophils and then correlated to the EPX 405 genotypes. The protein content of EPX was highest in the patients with the CC genotype of EPX405 (GG = 4.65, GC = 5.93, and CC = 6.57) and for ECP in the patients with the GG genotype of EPX405 (GG = 2.70, GC = 2.47 and CC = 1.90). ANOVA test demonstrated a difference in intracellular protein content for EPX (P = 0.009) and ECP (P = 0.022). The age of disease onset was linked to haplotypes of the EPX405, ECP434 and ECP562 genotypes. Kaplan Maier curve showed a difference between haplotype distributions for the females with CD (P = 0.003). The highest age of disease onset was seen in females with the EPX405CC, ECP434GC, ECP562CC haplotype (34 years) and the lowest in females with the EPX405GC, ECP434GC, ECP562GG haplotype (21 years). For males with UC there was also a difference between the highest and lowest age of the disease onset (EPX405CC, ECP434CC, ECP562CC, mean 24 years vs EPX405GC, ECP434GC, ECP562GG, mean 34 years, P = 0.0009). The relative risk for UC patients with ECP434 or ECP562-GC/CC genotypes to develop dysplasia/cancer was 2.5 (95%CI: 1.2-5.4, P = 0.01) and 2.5 (95%CI: 1.1-5.4, P = 0.02) respectively, compared to patients carrying the GG-genotypes. CONCLUSION: Polymorphisms of EPX and ECP are associated to IBD in an age and gender dependent manner, suggesting an essential role of eosinophils in the pathophysiology of IBD.
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| 3. |
- Diaz Tartera, Hetzel O., et al.
(author)
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Validation of SmartPill® wireless motility capsule for gastrointestinaltransit time : Intra-subject variability, software accuracy and comparison with video capsule endoscopy
- 2017
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In: Neurogastroenterology and Motility. - : Wiley. - 1350-1925 .- 1365-2982. ; 29:10
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: There is interest in ultimately combining endoscopy and motility assessments. Gastric emptying (GET), small bowel (SBTT), colon (CTT) and whole gut transit (WGTT) times are conveniently obtained by SmartPill® wireless motility capsule (WMC) that records luminal pH, temperature and pressure. Reproducibility within same subjects and accuracy of software derived times (MotiliGI® ) were investigated for diagnostic application. GET and SBTT were separately measured using video capsule endoscopy (VCE). The aim of this investigation was to assess same subject reproducibility of WMC, accuracy of software derived transit times and relate to Pillcam® SB (small bowel) VCE motility data.METHODS: Seventy three healthy adults ingested a 260 kcal mixed meal followed by WMC tests. Food intake was permitted after 6 hours. Regional transit data was obtained for GET, SBTT and CTT, the sum yielding WGTT. Nineteen subjects repeated WMC tests 2 or 4 weeks later; a separate 70 underwent VCE while fasted.KEY RESULTS: Visually derived data from WMC yielded GET 3.46±0.27, SBTT 5.15±0.21, CTT 20.76±1.19 and WGTT 29.53±1.28 hours (mean±SEM). Pearson's correlation coefficients (r) against software derived results were: GET 0.78 (P<.0001), SBTT 0.28 (P<.05), CTT 0.96 (P<.0001), WGTT 0.99 (P<.0001). VCE yielded lower GET (0.71±0.08 hours) and SBTT (4.15±0.13 hours).CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES: GET, SBTT, CTT and WGTT obtained by WMC are commensurate with literature values, including by other methods. Visually and software derived transit times have strongest correlations for CTT and WGTT. WMC yields longer GET and SBTT than VCE, perhaps due to meal related effects on motility.
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| 4. |
- Bjornsson, Einar, et al.
(author)
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Akut leversvikt - viktigt med snabb multidisciplinär handläggning
- 2007
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In: Läkartidningen. - 0023-7205. ; 104:4, s. 210-213
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- A recent study in Sweden on patients with acute liver failure (ALF) 1994-2003 demonstrated that the most common causes were paracetamol toxicity (42%) and idiosyncratic drug reactions (15%). In 11% of cases of ALF no definite etiology could be established. Among patients with paracetamol toxicity, the spontaneous survival without liver transplantation was 82% compared to 49% in patients with reactions to other drugs and 29% among the patients with indeterminate cause. Patients with ALF need a rapid and effective diagnostic work-up to detect the etiology as this often determines the outcome. In ALF it is of major importance to make an early contact with a transplant centre as the search for a suitable donor organ may take time in patients who are candidates for a liver transplantation. Patients with acute liver failure need a multidisciplinary care with co-operation between hepatologists, intensive care unit specialists and transplant surgeons.
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| 5. |
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| 6. |
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| 7. |
- Björnsson, Einar, et al.
(author)
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Akut leversvikt - viktigt med snabb multidisciplinär handläggning : [Acute liver failure--rapid multidisciplinary management]
- 2007
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In: Läkartidningen. - 0023-7205 .- 1652-7518. ; 104:4, s. 210-213
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Journal article (other academic/artistic)abstract
- A recent study in Sweden on patients with acute liver failure (ALF) 1994-2003 demonstrated that the most common causes were paracetamol toxicity (42%) and idiosyncratic drug reactions (15%). In 11% of cases of ALF no definite etiology could be established. Among patients with paracetamol toxicity, the spontaneous survival without liver transplantation was 82% compared to 49% in patients with reactions to other drugs and 29% among the patients with indeterminate cause. Patients with ALF need a rapid and effective diagnostic work-up to detect the etiology as this often determines the outcome. In ALF it is of major importance to make an early contact with a transplant centre as the search for a suitable donor organ may take time in patients who are candidates for a liver transplantation. Patients with acute liver failure need a multidisciplinary care with co-operation between hepatologists, intensive care unit specialists and transplant surgeons.
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| 8. |
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| 9. |
- Danielsson Borssén, Åsa, et al.
(author)
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Hepatocellular and extrahepatic cancer in patients with autoimmune hepatitis : a long-term follow-up study in 634 Swedish patients
- 2015
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In: Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology. - : Informa Healthcare. - 0036-5521 .- 1502-7708. ; 50:2, s. 217-223
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objectives. Cirrhosis is a well-known risk factor for hepatocellular cancer, but the true risk in autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is scarcely studied. Other cancers may arise after prolonged use of immune-modulating drugs. The aim of this study was to investigate the cancer risk in a large cohort of AIH patients.Material and methods. Six hundred and thirty-four Swedish patients in a well-defined cohort were matched to the Cause of Death Registry and the Cancer Registry. Standard incidence ratios were calculated by relating the incidences in the cohort to an age-matched material from the Swedish background population.Results. A higher overall incidence of malignancies than the background population was found, counting from the date of diagnosis (standard incidence ratio (SIR) 2.08, 95% CI 1.68-2.55). The highest risk was found for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We found 10 cases (4.0%) in 248 patients with cirrhosis, which gives an incidence rate of 0.3%. Standard incidence ratio for developing hepatobiliary cancer was 54.55 (95% CI 19.92-99.99). HCC only occurred in cirrhotic patients. There was also an increased risk for non-melanoma skin cancer (SIR 9.87, 95% CI 6.26-14.81).Conclusion. A slightly enhanced risk for malignancies in general compared to the background population was found. The risk of hepatobiliary cancer was increased, but the annual risk over the observational period was well under the postulated 1.5% when surveillance in cirrhotic patients is considered to be cost-effective.
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| 10. |
- Ebeling Barbier, Charlotte, et al.
(author)
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Placement of a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in addition to recanalization of acute and chronic portomesenteric vein occlusions : a retrospective evaluation
- 2020
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In: Acta Radiologica, Supplement. - : SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTD. - 0365-5954 .- 2058-4601. ; 9:10
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Portomesenteric vein thrombosis may be life-threatening due to bowel ischemia caused by venous stasis, or variceal bleeding caused by portal hypertension. Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of recanalization combined with transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in acute and chronic portomesenteric vein thrombosis in patients with and without liver cirrhosis. Material and Methods: 21 consecutive patients (5 women, 16 men; mean 48 years) with portomesenteric vein thrombosis (8 acute, 13 chronic) treated at the Interventional Radiology department between March 2014 and September 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. The main portal vein was completely obliterated and the portomesenteric vein thrombosis extended into the superior mesenteric vein in all patients. The portomesenteric vein thromboses were recanalized transhepatically, a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt was inserted, thrombectomy was performed in acute portomesenteric vein thrombosis, and angioplasty with or without additional stenting was performed in chronic portomesenteric vein thrombosis. Results: Recanalization was successful in 8/8 patients (100%) with acute portomesenteric vein thrombosis, and in 11/13 patients (85%) with chronic portomesenteric vein thrombosis. In 12 patients, blood flow was restored in one session. Several sessions were more frequently needed in patients with acute portomesenteric vein thrombosis compared to those with chronic portomesenteric vein thrombosis (p = 0.003). Re-occlusion occurred and was recanalized in 10/19 patients and was more frequent in patients with chronic (n = 8/11) than on those with acute (n = 2/8) portomesenteric vein thrombosis (p = 0.04). Adverse events occurred in five patients. There was no 30-day mortality. Conclusion: Recanalization and insertion of a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt is safe and effective in patients with acute and chronic portomesenteric vein thrombosis with or without cirrhosis. Recanalization was more likely to stay patent in acute compared with chronic portomesenteric vein thrombosis.
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| 11. |
- Egesten, Arne, et al.
(author)
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The proinflammatory CXC-chemokines GRO-α/CXCL1 and MIG/CXCL9 are concomitantly expressed in ulcerative colitis and decrease during treatment with topical corticosteroids
- 2007
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In: International Journal of Colorectal Disease. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0179-1958 .- 1432-1262. ; 22:12, s. 1421-1427
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background Ulcerative colitis is characterized by relapsing mucosal inflammation where the lesions include tissue-damaging granulocytes. In addition, T cells and natural killer (NK) cells play important pathophysiologic roles. Chemokines are a large family of peptides that play key roles in the regulation of inflammation. The CXC-chemokines, growth-related oncogene (GRO)-α/CXCL1 and interleukin (IL)-8/CXCL8, both recruit neutrophils and possess mitogenic properties, whereas the interferon-dependent CXC-chemokines monokine induced by gamma-interferon (MIG)/CXCL9, interferon-γ inducible protein of 10 kD/CXCL10, and IFN-inducible T cell alpha chemoattractant/CXCL11 recruit and activate T cells and NK cells. Materials and methods The expression of CXC-chemokines was studied in eight controls and in 11 patients suffering from ulcerative colitis in the distal part of the colon, before and during topical treatment with corticosteroids. Perfusates (obtained before, after 7 days, and after 28 days of treatment) and pinch biopsies (obtained before and after 28 days of treatment) were collected by colonoscopy. The rectal release of GRO-α and MIG was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and tissue expression of the chemokines was detected in colonic tissue by immunohistochemistry. Results In perfusates, high levels of GRO-α, IL-8, and MIG were detected compared with controls (p = 0.02, 0.005, and p = 0.03, respectively). During treatment with corticosteroids, both GRO-α and MIG decreased. In clinical nonresponders, characterized by sustained inflammation, the levels of GRO-α and MIG remained elevated. Both epithelial cells and granulocytes, present in the submucosa, expressed GRO-α and MIG as detected by immunohistochemistry. Conclusions CXC-chemokines are likely to be important in the pathophysiology of ulcerative colitis and may become targets for novel treatment strategies. In addition, GRO-α may serve as a marker of disease activity.
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| 12. |
- Giannakopoulos, Georgios, et al.
(author)
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Mycophenolate mofetil treatment in patients with autoimmune hepatitis failing standard therapy with prednisolone and azathioprine
- 2019
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In: Digestive and Liver Disease. - : Elsevier. - 1590-8658 .- 1878-3562. ; 51:2, s. 253-257
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Data on rescue treatment of autoimmune hepatitis in patients that fail standard treatment are sparse.Aims: To report our long-term experience with mycophenolate mofetil.Methods: Retrospective study in 22 patients with autoimmune hepatitis who failed azathioprine and prednisolone due to adverse events (n = 14, 64%), lack of remission (n = 5, 23%) or a combination (n=3, 13%).Results: Mycophenolate mofetil was started at a dose of 20 mg/kg/day and increased to a maximum of 3 g/day. Follow-up was 0-6 months in 7 patients; more than 12 months in 15 (68%) and more than 24 months in 10. Normal aminotransferase levels were obtained (n = 3) or maintained (n = 7) in 10 patients (45%) after three to 30 weeks. 12 patients (55%) were withdrawn during the first 6 months, due to adverse events. Three patients were switched to cyclosporine and one underwent liver transplantation. Successful treatment with mycophenolate mofetil continued in 10 patients (45%) for a median of 71 months (range 20-124). Of these, one stopped prednisolone, five have a prednisolone dose <5 mg daily and four patients 5-10 mg.Conclusion: Approximately one of two patients with autoimmune hepatitis that fail standard treatment benefit from long-term maintenance with mycophenolate mofetil, especially those with previous intolerance to thiopurines, where mycophenolate mofetil is effective in two thirds. (C) 2018 Editrice Gastroenterologica Italiana S.r.l. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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| 13. |
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| 14. |
- Lagging, Martin, 1965, et al.
(author)
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Treatment of hepatitis C virus infection: updated Swedish Consensus recommendations.
- 2009
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In: Scandinavian journal of infectious diseases. - : Informa UK Limited. - 1651-1980 .- 0036-5548. ; 41:6-7, s. 389-402
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In a recent expert meeting, Swedish recommendations for the treatment of HCV infection were upgraded. The panel recommends vaccination against both hepatitis A and B in patients with HCV. Therapy for symptomatic acute HCV infection should be initiated if spontaneous resolution has not occurred within 12 weeks, whereas asymptomatic acute HCV should be treated upon detection. Patients with genotype 2/3 infection should generally be treated for 24 weeks. In patients with a very rapid viral response (vRVR), i.e. HCV RNA below 1000 IU/ml on d 7, treatment can be shortened to 12-16 weeks, provided that no dose reduction has been made. For genotype 1 patients with rapid viral response (RVR), 24 weeks treatment is recommended. For patients with a complete early viral response (cEVR), 48 weeks treatment is recommended, whereas 72 weeks treatment should be considered for patients with partial early viral response (pEVR). For patients with difficult-to-treat disease and with pronounced anaemia, erythropoietin can be used to maintain the ribavirin dose. In HCV-HIV coinfected patients, combination therapy for HCV should, if possible, be initiated before anti-retroviral therapy (ART) is indicated. For liver transplant patients pre-emptive therapy is not recommended; hence, treatment should be deferred until histological recurrence.
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| 15. |
- Lampinen, Maria, 1965-, et al.
(author)
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Accumulation, activation and survival of neutrophils in ulcerative colitis : regulation by locally produced factors in the colon and impact of steroid treatment
- 2008
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In: International Journal of Colorectal Disease. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0179-1958 .- 1432-1262. ; 23:10, s. 939-946
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Neutrophil granulocytes infiltrate the intestinal mucosa in active ulcerative colitis (UC), and may contribute to tissue damage and inflammation. The aim of this investigation was to study the importance of locally produced factors and the impact of steroid treatment on neutrophil functions in UC. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Intestinal perfusion fluids from 11 patients with active distal UC before and after seven and 28 days of treatment with prednisolone and from seven control patients were used in the study. Neutrophil migration towards perfusion fluid was measured in a microchemotaxis chamber. The effect of perfusion fluids on neutrophil activation was assessed as the surface expression of CD66b by flow cytometry. Neutrophil survival was evaluated by staining with propidium iodide, annexin V, and fluorescein di-acetate. We also assessed the viability of freshly isolated tissue neutrophils from rectal biopsy samples. RESULTS: Perfusion fluids from untreated patients caused increased migration, activation, and survival of neutrophils. Perfusion fluids collected after treatment had no effect on neutrophil migration, but some of the activation and anti-apoptotic effects remained after 7 days. Anti-granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) inhibited the anti-apoptotic effect of perfusion fluids. Rectal tissue neutrophils from patients with active proctitis had increased viability compared to patients with inactive proctitis and control subjects. CONCLUSIONS: These data show that mediators in the colon of patients with active UC stimulate the migration, activation, and survival of neutrophils. The activities were partly neutralized by topical steroid treatment. We also identified GM-CSF as an anti-apoptotic factor for neutrophils in inflamed colon.
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| 16. |
- Lampinen, Maria, et al.
(author)
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Different regulation of eosinophil activity in Crohn's disease compared with ulcerative colitis
- 2008
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In: Journal of Leukocyte Biology. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 0741-5400 .- 1938-3673. ; 84:6, s. 1392-1399
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The aim of this investigation was to study the involvement of eosinophil and neutrophil granulocytes in different stages of Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). Biopsy samples were taken from the right flexure of the colon and from the rectum in patients with active (n=12) and inactive colonic CD (n=7), patients with active (n=33) and inactive UC (n=24), and from control subjects (n=11). Cell suspensions from biopsies and blood were analyzed by flow cytometry with regards to activation markers and viability. Immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate cell number and degranulation. Blood eosinophils were cultured with Th1 and Th2 cytokines, and the expression of activity markers was assessed by flow cytometry. Eosinophil number, viability, and activity were increased during active CD and UC compared with controls. The activity, assessed as CD44 expression, tended to diminish during inactive CD but was increased further in quiescent UC. Neutrophil number and activity were increased only during inflammation in both diseases. Culture of blood eosinophils with IL-5 and IL-13 caused increased CD44 expression, whereas IL-5 and IFN-gamma induced elevated CD69 expression. We observed different patterns of eosinophil activation in CD and UC, with the highest CD44 expression during quiescent UC. Our in vitro experiments with recombinant cytokines suggest that the diverse mechanisms of eosinophil activation in CD and UC are a result of different cytokine milieus (Th1 vs. Th2). In contrast, neutrophil activation reflects the disease activity in CD and UC, irrespective of Th cell skewing.
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| 17. |
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| 18. |
- Lindstrom, L., et al.
(author)
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High dose ursodeoxycholic acid in primary sclerosing cholangitis does not prevent colorectal neoplasia
- 2012
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In: Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. - Malden : Wiley. - 0269-2813 .- 1365-2036. ; 35:4, s. 451-457
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background Patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have a high risk of developing colorectal cancer and dysplasia. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) has been suggested to have chemopreventive effects on the development of colorectal cancer and dysplasia but long-term data and larger trials are lacking. Aim To evaluate the effect of high dose (17-23 mg/kg/day) UDCA on colorectal neoplasia in a cohort of patients with PSC and IBD. Methods From our previous 5-year randomised controlled trial of UDCA vs. placebo in PSC, we performed a follow-up of 98 patients with concomitant IBD from entry of the trial 1996-1997 until 2009 for development of colorectal cancer or dysplasia. Results The total follow-up time was 760 person-years. Dysplasia/cancer-free survival was compared between placebo-(n = 50) and UDCA-treated (n = 48) patients. There was a similar frequency of dysplasia or cancer after 5 years between patients originally assigned to UDCA or placebo (13% vs. 16%) and no difference in dysplasia/cancer-free survival (P = 0.46, log rank test). At the end of 2009 no difference in cancer-free survival was detected, 30% of the placebo patients compared with 27% of UDCA patients had developed colorectal cancer or dysplasia. Conclusions Long-term high dose ursodeoxycholic acid does not prevent colorectal cancer or dysplasia in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis-associated inflammatory bowel disease.
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| 19. |
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| 20. |
- Peterson, Christer G. B., et al.
(author)
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Fecal levels of leukocyte markers reflect disease activity in patients with ulcerative colitis
- 2007
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In: Scandinavian Journal of Clinical and Laboratory Investigation. - : Informa UK Limited. - 0036-5513 .- 1502-7686. ; 67:8, s. 810-820
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- OBJECTIVE:A prominent feature of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is the presence of inflammatory cells in the gut mucosa, and which contribute to the ongoing inflammatory process. The aim of the study was to evaluate fecal neutrophil, eosinophil, mast cell and macrophage markers in the assessment of disease activity in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC).METHODS:Twenty-eight patients with active UC; 4 with proctitis, 16 with left-side colitis and 8 with total colitis, were included in the study. Patient history, endoscopy and histopathology were examined and fecal and serum samples were evaluated at inclusion and after 4 and 8 weeks of treatment. Fecal samples were analysed for myeloperoxidase (MPO), eosinophil protein X (EPX), mast cell tryptase, IL-1beta and TNF-alpha using immunoassays. Blood samples were analysed for MPO, EPX, C-reactive protein, orosomucoid and leucocyte counts.RESULTS:Fecal MPO and IL-1beta levels were elevated in all patients at inclusion despite different disease extensions. Striking reductions in fecal levels of MPO, EPX, tryptase and IL-1beta were observed after 4 weeks of treatment in 20/28 patients with complete remission after 8 weeks. No further reductions were seen in 20/27 patients at 8 weeks. Endoscopic score correlated to IL-1beta at all visits (p<0.01), to MPO at visits 2 and 3 (p<0.05, p<0.001), EPX at visit 2 (p<0.05) and tryptase at visit 3 (p<0.01). Levels of fecal markers also related to histological indices of the disease.CONCLUSIONS:Measurements of fecal MPO, EPX and IL-1beta could be objective complements to endoscopical and histopathological evaluations in the daily care of patients with UC.
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| 21. |
- Rajani, Rupesh, et al.
(author)
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Budd-Chiari syndrome in Sweden : epidemiology, clinical characteristics and survival - an 18-year experience
- 2009
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In: Liver international (Print). - Oxford : Blackwell Munksgaard. - 1478-3223 .- 1478-3231. ; 29:2, s. 253-259
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: The exact incidence and prevalence of Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is unknown in the general population. Published reports differ in terms of the clinical characteristics, effects of therapy and survival. AIMS: To investigate the epidemiology, clinical presentation and survival in patients with BCS. METHODS: Retrospective multicentre study in Sweden reviewing the medical records of all patients with BCS 1986-2003, identified from the computerised diagnosis database of 11 hospitals, including all university hospitals and liver transplantation centres. RESULTS: Forty-three patients with BCS were identified, of whom nine (21%) had concomitant portal vein thrombosis. The mean age-standardised incidence and prevalence rates in 1990-2001 were calculated to be 0.8 per million per year and 1.4 per million inhabitants respectively. Myeloproliferative disorders (38%), thrombophilic factors (31%) and oral contraceptives (30%) were common aetiological factors. Two or more risk factors were present in 44%. In 23%, no risk factor was evident. The median follow-up time was 2.7 years. Seventy-two percent were on anticoagulant therapy during follow-up. Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunting, surgical shunting procedures and liver transplantation were performed in 4, 6 and 18 patients respectively. Nineteen patients died. The overall transplantation-free survival at 1, 5 and 10 years was 47, 28 and 17% respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Budd-Chiari syndrome is a rare disorder; the mean age-standardised incidence and prevalence rates in Sweden in 1990-2001 were calculated to be 0.8 per million per year and 1.4 per million inhabitants respectively. The presence of a myeloproliferative disorder was a common aetiological factor in our cohort and about half of the patients had a multifactorial aetiology. The transplantation-free survival was poor.
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| 22. |
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| 23. |
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| 24. |
- Rajani, Rupesh, et al.
(author)
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The epidemiology and clinical features of portal vein thrombosis : a multicentre study
- 2010
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In: ALIMENTARY PHARMACOLOGY and THERAPEUTICS. - : Blackwell Publishing Ltd. - 0269-2813 .- 1365-2036. ; 32:9, s. 1154-1162
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: Reliable epidemiological data for portal vein thrombosis are lacking. AIMS: To investigate the incidence, prevalence and survival rates for patients with portal vein thrombosis. METHODS: Retrospective multicentre study of all patients registered with the diagnosis of portal vein thrombosis between 1995 and 2004. RESULTS: A total of 173 patients (median age 57 years, 93 men) with portal vein thrombosis were identified and followed up for a median of 2.5 years (range 0-9.7). The mean age-standardized incidence and prevalence rates were 0.7 per 100,000 per year and 3.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, respectively. Liver disease was present in 70 patients (40%), malignancy in 27%, thrombophilic factors in 22% and myeloproliferative disorders in 11%. Two or more risk factors were identified in 80 patients (46%). At diagnosis, 65% were put on anticoagulant therapy. Thrombolysis, TIPS, surgical shunting and liver transplantation were performed in 6, 3, 2 and 8 patients, respectively. The overall survival at 1 year and 5 years was 69% and 54%. In the absence of malignancy and cirrhosis, the survival was 92% and 76%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence and prevalence rates of portal vein thrombosis were 0.7 per 100,000 inhabitants per year and 3.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, respectively. Concurrent prothrombotic risk factors are common. The prognosis is variable and highly dependent on underlying disease.
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| 25. |
- Rosenqvist, Kerstin, et al.
(author)
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Endovascular treatment of acute and chronic portal vein thrombosis in patients with cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic liver
- 2016
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In: Acta Radiologica. - : SAGE Publications. - 0284-1851 .- 1600-0455. ; 57:5, s. 572-579
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: Treatment of patients with portal vein thrombosis (PVT) differs due to different etiology and wide range of symptoms but certain patients seems to benefit from endovascular intervention.PURPOSE: To assess the safety and efficiency of endovascular treatment of acute and chronic PVT in patients with cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic liver.MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty-one patients with PVT treated with an endovascular procedure in 2002-2013 were studied retrospectively. Data on etiology, onset and extension of thrombus, presenting symptoms, methods of intervention, portal pressure gradients, complications, recurrence of symptoms, re-interventions, clinical status at latest follow-up, and survival were collected.RESULTS: Four non-cirrhotic patients with acute extensive PVT and bowel ischemia were treated with local thrombolysis, in three combined with placement of a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) placement. Three recovered and have survived more than 6 years. In six non-cirrhotic patients with chronic PVT and acute or threatening variceal bleeding recanalization and TIPS were successful in three and failed in three. Eleven cirrhotic patients with PVT and variceal bleeding or refractory ascites were successfully treated with recanalization and TIPS. Re-intervention was performed in five of these patients and five patients died, three within 12 months of intervention. Four cirrhotic patients had episodes of shunt-related encephalopathy and three had variceal re-bleeding.CONCLUSION: TIPS was found to be effective in reducing portal hypertension in patients with PVT. In patients with extensive PVT and bowel ischemia treatment with TIPS combined with thrombolysis should be considered.
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| 26. |
- Rosenqvist, Kerstin, et al.
(author)
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Endovascular treatment of symptomatic Budd-Chiari syndrome - in favour of early transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt.
- 2016
-
In: European Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepathology. - 0954-691X .- 1473-5687. ; 28:6, s. 656-660
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- INTRODUCTION: Treatment of Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) has shifted from mainly medical treatment, with surgical shunt and orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) as rescue, to medical treatment combined with an early endovascular intervention in the past two decades.PURPOSE: To assess the safety and efficiency of endovascular treatment of symptomatic patients with BCS and to compare mortality with symptomatic BCS patients in the same region treated with only sporadic endovascular techniques.METHODS: This was a retrospective review of clinical data, treatment and survival in 14 patients diagnosed with BCS and treated with endovascular methods from 2003 to 2015. A national epidemiology study of BCS from 1986 to 2003 was used for comparison.RESULTS: Thirteen of the 14 patients eventually had transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS), four after previous liver vein angioplasty. TIPS were performed with polytetrafluoroethylene-covered stents and technical success was 100%. Calculated preinterventional prognostic indices indicated a high risk of TIPS dysfunction, OLT and death. However, only one patient died and one had an OLT, and the 1- and 2-year primary TIPS-patency was 85 and 67%, respectively. Episodes of de-novo hepatic encephalopathy occurred in three patients. Overall 1- and 5-year transplantation-free survival was 100 and 93% compared with 47 and 28%, respectively, in 1986 to 2003.CONCLUSION: TIPS seems to be a safe and effective treatment for symptomatic BCS and there is an obvious improvement in transplantation-free survival compared with conservatory medical treatment. It should, therefore, be considered early, as first-line intervention, in patients with insufficient response to medical treatment.
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| 27. |
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| 28. |
- Rosenqvist, Kerstin, et al.
(author)
-
Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt treatment of variceal bleeding in an unselected patient population
- 2017
-
In: Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology. - : Informa UK Limited. - 0036-5521 .- 1502-7708. ; 53:1, s. 70-75
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective: To evaluate transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) in variceal bleeding in a clinical setting.Materials and methods: Retrospective review of 131 patients (116 with liver cirrhosis) treated with TIPS with covered stent grafts in a single centre from 2002 to 2016.Results: Survival at 1 and 2 years was 70% and 57% in patents with, and 100% at 2 years in patients without liver cirrhosis, respectively. A high Child-Pugh score and severe hepatic encephalopathy (HE) within 12 months post-TIPS were related to increased mortality. Re-bleeding occurred in 8% within 12 months and was related to TIPS dysfunction and a post-TIPS portosystemic gradient (PSG) of 5mmHg. The main cause of TIPS dysfunction was that the stent did not fully reach the inferior vena cava. There was no correlation between the PSG and the occurrence of HE.Conclusions: TIPS was safe and prevented re-bleeding in patients with variceal bleeding, with or without liver cirrhosis, regardless of Child-Pugh class and of how soon after bleeding onset, the TIPS procedure was performed. A post-TIPS PSG of 5mmHg was associated with an increased risk for re-bleeding and there was no correlation between the post-TIPS PSG and the occurrence of HE.
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| 29. |
- Rosenqvist, Kerstin, et al.
(author)
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Treatment of acute portomesenteric venous thrombosis with thrombectomy through a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt : a single-center experience.
- 2018
-
In: Acta Radiologica. - : SAGE Publications. - 0284-1851 .- 1600-0455. ; 59:8, s. 953-958
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Acute portomesenteric venous thrombosis (PMVT) is a potentially life-threatening condition and urgent treatment is required.Purpose: To retrospectively evaluate the efficacy and safety of treating acute PMVT by the creation of a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) followed by thrombectomy.Material and Methods: Six patients (all men, age range = 39-51 years) presenting with acute PMVT were treated with transjugular thrombectomy (TT) through a TIPS created in the same session. The intervention included iterated venography through the TIPS one to three times within the first week after diagnosis and repeated thrombectomy if needed (n = 5).Results: Recanalization was successful with persistent blood flow through the main superior mesenteric vein, portal vein, and TIPS in all six patients. Five patients were treated primarily with thrombectomy through a TIPS with clinical improvement. The final patient was initially treated with surgical thrombectomy and bowel resection. TIPS and TT was performed two days after surgery due to re-thrombosis but the patient deteriorated and died of multi-organ failure. Procedure-related complications were transient hematuria (n = 3) and transient encephalopathy (n = 2). In-hospital time was <14 days in four of the five patients with primary TIPS and TT. No sign of re-thrombosis was noted during follow-up (mean = 18 months, range = 8-28 months).Conclusion: Thrombectomy through a TIPS is feasible and can be effective in recanalization and symptom-relief in acute PMVT.
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| 30. |
- Sangfelt, Per, et al.
(author)
-
A low-dose intradermal hepatitis B vaccine programme in health-care workers and students is highly effective and cost saving : a retrospective follow-up survey in the clinical setting
- 2008
-
In: Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology. - : Informa UK Limited. - 0036-5521 .- 1502-7708. ; 43:4, s. 465-472
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- OBJECTIVE: To evaluate compliance, serologic response and the cost-benefit of a low-dose intradermal hepatitis B vaccination programme, followed by intramuscular boosters in non-responders. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study comprised a retrospective survey of 1521 health-care workers and 968 students. Response was defined as hepatitis B antibody titres > or =10 IU/L. Non-response included vaccinees with undetectable antibodies and a hypo-response if antibodies were detectable. RESULTS: Overall, 2145/2489 (86%) subjects completed the intradermal series, whereof 1840/2489 (74%) complied with the serological check-up. Response was achieved in 1517/1840 (82.5%), whereas 107/1840 (5.8%) had a hypo-response and 216/1840 (11.7%) had an undetectable response. In a logistic regression model, younger age (odds ratio 0.73 (95% CI: 0.65-0.82, p<0.001)) and female gender (odds ratio 2.16 (95% CI: 1.67-2.80; p<0.001)) were predictive of response. In hypo-responders and those with undetectable responses, 43/46 (94%) and 71/136 (52%), respectively, had a response after the first intramuscular booster. Hence, in compliant vaccinees an overall seroprotection rate of 94% was reached after a single intramuscular booster. A cost-benefit analysis indicated a cost reduction exceeding 50% compared to a standard intramuscular vaccine regimen. CONCLUSIONS: In the clinical setting, a low-dose intradermal hepatitis B vaccination programme, followed by intramuscular boosters to non-responders, is effective and cost saving.
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| 31. |
- Sangfelt, Per, et al.
(author)
-
Lamivudine and famciclovir combination therapy with or without addition of interferon-alpha-2b for HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B : a pilot study
- 2002
-
In: Scandinavian Journal of Infectious Diseases. - : Informa UK Limited. - 0036-5548 .- 1651-1980. ; 34:7, s. 505-511
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Lamivudine and famciclovir combination therapy has been used in patients with chronic HBeAg-positive hepatitis B to enhance the antiviral effect and reduce the risk of development of resistance. Interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha) can theoretically be added to the regimen to further improve the antiviral effect. Twenty patients with HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B were given lamivudine and famciclovir combination therapy for 24 weeks. After 12 weeks of treatment, patients were randomized on a 1:1 basis to either the addition of IFN-alpha 2b or no addition for the last 3 months of therapy. The decline in HBV DNA levels, the loss of HBeAg and the HBeAg seroconversion rate were assessed. Patients with loss of HBeAg and/or development of anti-HBe were followed up for at least 1 y after stopping treatment. Four of 19 patients (21%) had lost HBeAg and/or developed anti-HBe 24 weeks after stopping treatment, 1 of whom had received additional IFN-alpha. During long-term follow-up post-treatment, 2/19 patients (10.5%) had a durable HBeAg seroconversion. The mean HBV DNA level declined by 5 logs during the first 12 weeks of treatment. Addition of IFN-alpha during the last 3 months of treatment did not result in any further decline in HBV DNA levels compared with the non-IFN-alpha-treated group, nor in any increase in the HBeAg seroconversion rate. In conclusion, lamivudine and famciclovir combination treatment induced seroconversion from HBeAg to anti-HBe in 4/19 patients, 2 of whom became long-term responders. Addition of IFN-alpha did not improve the seroconversion rate.
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| 32. |
- Sangfelt, Per, et al.
(author)
-
Local release of human neutrophil lipocalin (HNL), IL-8, and TNF-alpha is decreased as response to topical prednisolone treatment in distal ulcerative colitis and proctitis
- 2002
-
In: Digestive Diseases and Sciences. - 0163-2116 .- 1573-2568. ; 47:9, s. 2064-2069
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The local release of human neutrophil lipocalin, considered to be highly specific for neutrophil granulocyte activation, and interleukin-8 and tumor necrosis factor-a were studied in 11 patients with distal ulcerative colitis and proctitis before and during treatment with steroid enemas. A rectal perfusion technique for sampling and specific immunoassays for analysis were used. In responders (N = 8) the concentrations of all proteins decreased during the study. There was a close correlation between human neutrophil lipocalin concentrations and treatment response. Tumor necrosis factor-a showed an initial decline in concentrations irrespective of treatment outcome and preceded the decline of human neutrophil lipocalin and interleukin-8. We conclude that decreased neutrophil degranulation is correlated with treatment outcome. Furthermore, an important role of tumor necrosis factor-a in the process of stimulating neutrophil activation and degranulation in ulcerative colitis is suggested.
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| 33. |
- Sangfelt, Per, et al.
(author)
-
Monitoring dominant strictures in primary sclerosing cholangitis with brush cytology and FDG-PET
- 2014
-
In: Journal of Hepatology. - : Elsevier. - 0168-8278 .- 1600-0641. ; 61:6, s. 1352-1357
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND & AIMS: Despite a high risk of cholangiocellular adenocarcinoma (CCA) it is unclear how surveillance of patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) should be performed. METHODS: We evaluated a follow-up algorithm of brush cytology and positron emission tomography/computed tomography with [(18)F] fluorodeoxyglucose ([(18)F]FDG-PET/CT), measured as maximum standardized uptake values, normalized to the liver background (SUVmax/liver) at 180 min, in PSC patients with dominant bile duct strictures. RESULTS: Brush cytology with high grade dysplasia (HGD) was detected in 12/70 patients (17%), yielding a diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of 56%, 89%, 75%, and 88%, respectively. Preemptive liver transplantations due to repeated HGD before manifest CCA were performed in six patients. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis of [(18)F]FDG uptake showed that a SUVmax/liver quotient of 3.3 was able to discriminate between CCA and non-malignant disease with a sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV for CCA of 89%, 92%, 62%, 98%, respectively. A SUVmax/liver >3.3 detected CCA in 8/9 patients whereas a quotient <2.4 excluded CCA. Combining brush cytology and quantitative [(18)F]FDG-PET/CT yielded a sensitivity for HGD and/or CCA of 100% and a specificity of 88%. CONCLUSION: Early detection of HGD before manifest CCA is feasible with repeated brush cytology and may allow for preemptive liver transplantation. [(18)F]FDG-PET/CT has a high sensitivity for manifest CCA and a negative scan indicates a non-malignant state of the disease. Brush cytology and [(18)F]FDG-PET/CT are complementary in monitoring and managing PSC patients with dominant strictures.
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| 34. |
- Sangfelt, Per, et al.
(author)
-
Monitoring Dominant Strictures in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis with Brush Cytology and FDG-PET
- 2014
-
In: Journal of Hepatology. - : Elsevier BV. - 0168-8278 .- 1600-0641. ; 61:6, s. 1352-1357
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND/AIMS: Despite high risk of cholangiocellular adenocarcinoma (CCA) it is unclear how surveillance of patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) should be performed.METHOD: We evaluated a follow-up algorithm of brush cytology and positron emission tomography/computed tomography with [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose ([18F]FDG-PET/CT), measured as the maximum standardized uptake values normalized to the liver background (SUVmax/liver) at 180 minutes, in PSC patients with dominant bile duct strictures.RESULTS: Brush cytology with high grade dysplasia (HGD) was detected in 12/70 patients (17%), yielding diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of 56%, 89%, 75% and 88%, respectively. Preemptive liver transplantations due to repeated HGD before manifest CCA were performed in six patients. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis of [18F]FDG uptake showed that a SUVmax/liver quotient of 3.3 was able to discriminate between CCA and non-malignant disease with a sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV for CCA of 89%, 92%, 62%, 98%, respectively. A SUVmax/liver >3.3 detected CCA in 8/9 patients whereas a quotient < 2.4 excluded CCA. Combining brush cytology and quantitative [18F]FDG-PET/CT yielded a sensitivity for HGD and/or CCA of 100% and a specificity of 88%.CONCLUSION: Early detection of HGD before manifest CCA is feasible with repeated brush cytology and may allow for preemptive liver transplantation. [18F]FDG-PET/CT has a high sensitivity for manifest CCA and a negative scan indicates a non-malignant state of the disease. Brush cytology and [18F]FDG-PET/CT are complementary in monitoring and managing PSC patients with dominant strictures.
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| 35. |
- Sangfelt, Per
(author)
-
Prevention and treatment of hepatitis B virus infection
- 2005
-
Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Despite 25 years of effective vaccines and availability of treatment options for 15 years, hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections continue to be a major global health problem. In Sweden, selective screening and vaccination programmes are used in defined high-risk groups such as newborns of chronic HBV carrier mothers and health care workers with risk of blood exposure. These preventive strategies need to be evaluated. Treatment of chronic HBV infections aims at inhibiting viral replication and progressive liver disease before long-term complications such as cirrhosis, hepatic failure and hepatocellular carcinoma develop. Particularly difficult to treat are patients with high viral replication. Today, the immunomodulating drug interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha) and the two antiviral drugs lamivudine and adefovir are licensed for treatment. Despite an increasing number of available drugs, more effective treatments with durable response are needed and currently different combination therapies are being evaluated. The aim of this investigation was to study some aspects of prevention and treatment of HBV infection. Study I concerned the prevention of HBV in children born to HBsAg-positive mothers during the years 1983-1989. Two of 212 children in the study became chronic carriers. The first child was born to an HBeAg-positive mother with high HBV DNA levels (probably intrauterine infection), and the other, an unvaccinated child, was infected horizontally. Additionally, eight unvaccinated children had an asymptomatic seroconversion, emphasising the need for vaccination of newborns of anti-HBepositive mothers. Most children attained long-term seroprotective anti-HBs levels. In study II alanine aminotransaminase (ALT) levels were evaluated retrospectively as a surrogate marker for HBV DNA levels in HBeAg-negative carrier mothers. Of 179 sera analysed, eight (4.5%) tested positive for HBeAg, whereas 171 (95.5 %) were HBeAg-negative. Among the HBeAg-negative mothers, nine had H13V DNA levels predefined as high (> 105 copies/mL), of whom seven had normal ALT levels, indicating low sensitivity of ALT for detecting high levels of HBV DNA. In study III the outcome and cost of low-dose intradermal (ID) hepatitis B vaccination followed by intramuscular (IM) boosters in non-responders were retrospectively analysed. Seroprotection was achieved in 1,517/1,840 (82.5%) vaccinees. Among non-responders, two-thirds had no detectable antibodies and one-third had levels of 1-9 IU/L (hypo-responders). In the group of hypo-responders, 43/46 (94%) achieved seroprotection after a single IM booster. Among those without detectable antibodies, the first IM booster induced seroprotection in 71/136 (52%). After a second booster another 31/51 (61%) attained seroprotection. Hence, after the ID series followed by one or two IM boosters a seroprotection rate of 94-97% was reached in compliant vaccinees at a cost reduction of more than 50% compared to a standard IM vaccine series. In study IV, a prospective open pilot study, the efficacy and safety of IFN-alpha treatment in children with highly replicative chronic HBV infections were investigated. Eleven children, six boys and five girls, aged 4-14 years, with genotypes A, B, C and D, participated. They were treated with IFN-alpha 5 MIU/m2 body surface area subcutaneously three times weekly for 20 weeks and followed up over a 2-year period. Response with seroconversion and HBV DNA loss in serum occurred in two children (genotypes A and D, respectively), both with pre-treatment ALT elevation. Study V, a prospective open randomised pilot study, addressed the efficacy and tolerability of lamivudine in combination with famciclovir, with and without addition of IFN-alpha, in patients with highly replicative chronic HBV infection. Four patients (2 1%) out of 19 lost HBeAg and/or developed antiHBe during the first year after treatment cessation. Two of the four responding patients relapsed during continued two-year follow-up. Thus, only 2 of 19 (10.5%) patients had durable seroconversion. The addition of IFN-alpha did not improve the seroconversion rate, and caused the well-known adverse events associated with interferon.
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| 36. |
- Sangfelt, Per, et al.
(author)
-
Serum ALT levels as a surrogate marker for serum HBV DNA levels in HBeAg-negative pregnant women
- 2004
-
In: Scandinavian Journal of Infectious Diseases. - : Informa UK Limited. - 0036-5548 .- 1651-1980. ; 36:3, s. 182-185
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In Stockholm, Sweden, the majority of pregnant women positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) are hepatitis Be antigen (HBeAg) negative. Newborns to HBeAg positive mothers receive vaccination and hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIg). Newborns to HBeAg negative mothers receive vaccine and HBIg only if the mothers have elevated ALT levels. The aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate ALT levels as a surrogate marker for HBV DNA levels in HBeAg negative carrier mothers. Altogether 8947 pregnant women were screened for HBV markers from 1999 to 2001 at the Virology Department, Karolinska Hospital. Among mothers screened 192 tested positive for HBsAg (2.2%). 13 of these samples could not be retrieved. Of the remaining 179 sera, 8 (4%) tested positive for HBeAg and 171 (95.5%) were HBeAg negative. Among the HBeAg negative mothers, 9 had HBV DNA levels > 10(5) copies/ml, and of these 7 had normal ALT levels indicating low sensitivity of an elevated ALT level as a surrogate marker for high HBV DNA level. Furthermore, no correlation was found between ALT and HBV DNA levels. Hence, it is concluded that the use of ALT as a surrogate marker for high viral replication in HBeAg negative mothers could be questioned.
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| 37. |
- Thörn, Mari, et al.
(author)
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Active cytomegalovirus infection diagnosed by real-time PCR in patients with inflammatory bowel disease : a prospective, controlled observational study
- 2016
-
In: Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology. - : Informa UK Limited. - 0036-5521 .- 1502-7708. ; 51:9, s. 1075-1080
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective: It is assumed that cytomegaloviral (CMV) infection in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is caused by reactivation due to the immunosuppressive therapy, but the role of CMV as a pathophysiological factor and prognostic marker in IBD is unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate CMV infection in IBD, with real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemistry, with emphasis on newly diagnosed disease.Materials and methods: In this prospective, controlled study, 67 patients with IBD and 34 control patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or rectal bleeding were included. Serology for CMV was analysed along with CMV DNA in plasma, mucosal biopsies, and faeces. Mucosal biopsies were further analysed with histopathology and CMV immunohistochemistry.Results: Detection of CMV IgM was more common in patients with IBD, compared to controls, 21% versus 3%. CMV DNA was found in 16% of patients with newly diagnosed, untreated IBD and in 38% of steroid-treated patients. Four of the five patients that needed urgent surgery were CMV-DNA positive in at least one of three sample types. None of the controls had detectable CMV DNA.Conclusions: Active CMV infection was found in high proportions of newly diagnosed untreated patients with IBD, in patients on immunosuppression and in patients in the need of surgery. Low CMV-DNA levels in non-immunosuppressed patients were not a risk factor for the development of more severe IBD, while the detection of CMV DNA in patients on immunosuppressive therapy may foresee disease progression.
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| 38. |
- Vidarsdottir, Linda, et al.
(author)
-
PTENP1-AS contributes to BRAF inhibitor resistance and is associated with adverse clinical outcome in stage III melanoma
- 2021
-
In: Scientific Reports. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 2045-2322. ; 11:1
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi) selectively target oncogenic BRAFV600E/K and are effective in 80% of advanced cutaneous malignant melanoma cases carrying the V600 mutation. However, the development of drug resistance limits their clinical efficacy. Better characterization of the underlying molecular processes is needed to further improve treatments. We previously demonstrated that transcription of PTEN is negatively regulated by the PTEN pseudogene antisense RNA, PTENP1-AS, and here we investigated the impact of this transcript on clinical outcome and BRAFi resistance in melanoma. We observed that increased expression levels of PTENP1-AS in BRAFi resistant cells associated with enrichment of EZH2 and H3K27me3 at the PTEN promoter, consequently reducing the expression levels of PTEN. Further, we showed that targeting of the PTENP1-AS transcript sensitized resistant cells to BRAFi treatment and that high expression of PTENP1-AS in stage III melanoma correlated with poor survival. Collectively, the data presented here show that PTENP1-AS is a promising target for re-sensitizing cells to BRAFi and also a possible prognostic marker for clinical outcome in stage III melanoma.
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| 39. |
- Wagner, Michael, 1957-, et al.
(author)
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Budesonide Treatment of Patients With Collagenous Colitis Restores Normal Eosinophil and T-cell Activity in the Colon
- 2010
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In: Inflammatory Bowel Diseases. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 1078-0998 .- 1536-4844. ; 16:7, s. 1118-1126
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the activity of eosinophils, neutrophils and CD4+ as well as CD8+ T-cells in eleven patients with active collagenous colitis (CC) before and after eight weeks of budesonide treatment (9 mg once daily) compared to ten healthy individuals. Methods: Clinical symptoms were recorded and intestinal biopsy samples were taken and analysed by flow cytometry. Eosinophils with a high surface expression of CD44 and low CD9 expression were classified as activated. Neutrophil activity was assessed by their expression of CD66b and CD69 was used as an activation marker for T cells. Results: All patients responded to the treatment. The eosinophils in active CC showed increased activity compared to controls. The activity was back to control levels after treatment. Neutrophils were not activated in CC patients before or after treatment. CD8+ T cells from untreated CC patients had a lower activity than controls, and a tendency of lower activity was observed on CD4+ T cells. After treatment, the activity was increased on both types of T cells and was not different from controls. Conclusions: In the present study we demonstrated that the inflammation in CC is characterized by activated eosinophils but there is no neutrophil activity. CD4+ and CD8+ T cells are increased in numbers in active CC but, surprisingly, they had a lower grade of activity than in control subjects. The major finding in this study is that budesonide treatment restores the normal activation of eosinophils and T-cells, accompanied by clinical remission.
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| 40. |
- Wagner, Michael, 1957-
(author)
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Clinical and Experimental Studies on Inflammatory Bowel Disease with special emphasis on Collagenous Colitis
- 2010
-
Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- This thesis describes studies in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and collagenous colitis (CC). We investigated mucosal eosinophil and neutrophil granulocytes and T-cells involved in the inflammatory processes and aimed at determining whether these processes are reflected in the faecal (F) contents of specific proteins secreted by cells in the intestinal mucosa. Thus, we measured eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) and eosinophil protein X (EPX) and the neutrophil derived myeloperoxidase (MPO) and calprotectin (C); and in addition, chromogranin A (CgA), Chromogranin B (CgB) and secretoneurin (SN), derived from EEC cells and cells in the enteric nervous system. We found that a normalised FC level can serve as a surrogate marker for successful treatment in patients with IBD, but persistently high FC levels need further evaluation (study I). Furthermore, FC and F-MPO appear to relate better than F-EPX to treatment outcome in IBD. We evaluated F-ECP, F-EPX, F-MPO and FC as markers of disease activity and treatment outcome in patients with CC (study III) and concluded that F-ECP was the best discriminator of detecting active CC. Normalised F-ECP and F-EPX could serve as markers of successful treatment. We showed that the inflammation in CC is characterised by activated eosinophils, but that there is no neutrophil activity (study II). T-cells have a lower grade of activity in active CC than in control subjects. During budesonide treatment the normal activation of eosinophils and T-cells is restored, with concomitant clinical remission. The findings in studies II and III indicate that the eosinophils have an essential role in the pathophysiology of CC. Markedly higher values of F-CgA, F-CgB and F-SN were found in patients with CC than in those with IBD and controls (study IV) indicating a crucial role for the intestinal neuro-endocrine system in the pathogenesis of collagenous colitis.
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| 41. |
- Wagner, Michael, 1957-, et al.
(author)
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Fecal eosinophil cationic protein as a marker of active disease and treatment outcome in collagenous colitis : A pilot study
- 2011
-
In: Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology. - : Informa UK Limited. - 0036-5521 .- 1502-7708. ; 46:7-8, s. 849-854
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background and aims. Fecal calprotectin (FC) is used as a marker for intestinal inflammation in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) but there is no reliable marker for collagenous colitis (CC). We have previously demonstrated that the mucosal inflammation in CC is characterized by eosinophil activation, which is restored during budesonide treatment, but there is no enhanced neutrophil activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of fecal eosinophil cationic protein (F-ECP) and eosinophil protein X (F-EPX) compared with the neutrophil-derived myeloperoxidase (F-MPO) and FC in patients treated for active CC. Methods. Patients with active CC (n = 12) were studied before and after 3, 7, 28 and 56 days of budesonide treatment. Clinical symptoms and stool frequency were recorded, fecal samples were collected, and F-ECP, F-EPX, F-MPO and FC were measured at each occasion. Results. All but one patient achieved remission. On inclusion 92%, 67%, 67% and 75% of the patients had elevated F-ECP, F-EPX, F-MPO and FC levels, respectively. All markers decreased during the treatment, particularly F-ECP and F-EPX, which decreased after only 3 days. At the end of the study 100%, 92%, 83% and 75% of the patients had normal F-ECP, F-EPX, F-MPO and FC values, respectively. Conclusion. F-ECP demonstrated the best discriminating capacity in detecting active CC. A normalized F-ECP and F-EPX may further be studied as a marker for successful treatment. During budesonide treatment there is a rapid fall in F-ECP and F-EPX, accompanied by clinical improvement, indicating an essential role for the eosinophil participating in the pathophysiology of CC.
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| 42. |
- Wagner, Michael, 1957-, et al.
(author)
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Fecal markers of inflammation used as surrogate markers for treatment outcome in relapsing inflammatory bowel disease
- 2008
-
In: World Journal of Gastroenterology. - : WJG Press. - 1007-9327 .- 2219-2840. ; 14:36, s. 5584-5589
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Aims: To evaluate fecal calprotectin (FC) as a surrogate marker for treatment outcome of a relapse of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and, secondly, to compare FC to fecal myeloperoxidase (MPO) and fecal eosinophil protein X (EPX). Methods: Thirty-eight patients with IBD, whereof twenty-seven with ulcerative colitis (UC) and 11 with Crohn´s disease (CD) were studied before treatment (inclusion), and after four and eight weeks of treatment. Treatment outcome, based on clinical activity and endoscopy in UC patients, and clinical activity in CD patients, were evaluated together with fecal samples analysed for FC with ELISA and MPO and EPX with RIA. Results: At inclusion 37/38 (97%) patients had elevated FC levels (>94.7 µg/g). At the end of the study 31/38 (82%) patients fulfilled predefined criteria of a complete response [UC 21/27 (78%); CD 10/11 (91%)]. Overall, a normalised FC level at the end of the study predicted a complete response in 100% whereas elevated FC level predicted noncomplete response in 30%. Normalised MPO or EPX levels predicted a complete response in 100% and 90%, respectively. However, elevated MPO or EPX levels predicted noncomplete response in 23% and 22%, respectively. Conclusion: A normalised FC level poses the potential to be used as a surrogate marker for successful treatment outcome in IBD patients, but cases with persistent elevated FC levels needs further evaluation. FC and MPO appears to discriminate better than EPX to treatment outcome in IBD.
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| 43. |
- Wagner, Michael, et al.
(author)
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Increased Fecal Levels of Chromogranin A, Chromogranin B and Secretoneurine in Collagenous Colitis
- 2013
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In: Inflammation. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0360-3997 .- 1573-2576. ; 36:4, s. 855-861
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Interactions between the enteric nervous system and the immune system are suggested to play an important role in the pathophysiology of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This study aims to determine if chromogranin A (CgA), chromogranin B (CgB), and secretoneurin (SN) are detectable in feces (F) from patients with collagenous colitis (CC) and to compare the levels found in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD) before and during treatment. Patients with CC (n = 12) were studied before and after 3, 7, 28, and 56 days of treatment. Patients with IBD (UC, n = 21; CD, n = 11) were studied before and after 28 and 56 days of treatment. Clinical data were recorded, and fecal samples were collected at each occasion. F-CgA, F-CgB, and F-SN were measured by RIA. Eleven patients with CC, 21 with UC, and 10 with CD achieved remission. On inclusion, CC patients had higher levels of F-CgA, F-CgB, and F-SN than patients with IBD and controls. Patients with IBD expressed markedly lower levels of F-SN than controls. During treatment, F-SN in CC patients decreased to control levels but remained low in IBD patients. No change was found in F-CgA or F-CgB in any of the groups. In conclusion, CgA, CgB, and SN are detectable in feces, and CC patients express higher values than patients with IBD and controls. During treatment, F-SN decreased to control levels in CC. These findings suggest that the enteric nervous system is clearly involved in the pathophysiology of CC.
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| 44. |
- Werner, Mårten, et al.
(author)
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Autoimmune hepatitis among fertile women : strategies during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
- 2007
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In: Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology. - : Informa UK Limited. - 0036-5521 .- 1502-7708. ; 42:8, s. 986-991
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective. In published studies there is a lack of data about the risks, management and how women with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) decide on and are advised about pregnancy. The aim of this study was to investigate how women with AIH consider pregnancies, are advised and pharmacologically treated, as well as the outcome. Material and methods. A questionnaire was mailed to 128 women with AIH diagnosed during their fertile period and data from the Swedish National Birth Register was also used for matched controls. Results. There was an 83% response rate to the questionnaires. Sixty-three pregnancies were reported by 35 women. 48% did not consult their doctors before getting pregnant. More than half of the women reduced or stopped the immune suppression during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Some women were advised to abstain from pregnancy or even to have an abortion. Caesarean sections were performed more frequently in the AIH group (16% compared with 6.5% in the control group p<0.01).There were no significant differences in the number of stillborn infants or infants with malformations. However, 30% of the patients experienced flare-up after delivery. Conclusions. In general, the outcome of pregnancy in women with AIH seems to be good. Current pharmacological treatment appears to be safe, including azathioprine during pregnancy and lactation. After delivery an active preparedness to increase pharmacotherapy should be considered.
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| 45. |
- Werner, Marten, et al.
(author)
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Characteristics and long-term outcome of patients with autoimmune hepatitis related to the initial treatment response
- 2010
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In: SCANDINAVIAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY. - : Taylor and Francis. - 0036-5521 .- 1502-7708. ; 45:4, s. 457-467
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objectives. Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a liver disease which, if untreated, may lead to liver cirrhosis and hepatic failure. Limited data exist regarding factors predicting the long-term outcome. The aims of this study were to investigate symptoms at presentation, prognostic features, management and treatment in relation to long-term outcome of AIH. Material and methods. A cohort of 473 Swedish patients with AIH was characterized regarding initial symptoms and signs, factors predicting death and future need for liver transplantation. Survival and causes of death were retrieved from Swedish national registers. Results. At diagnosis, fatigue was a predominant symptom (69%), 47% of the patients were jaundiced and 30% had liver cirrhosis. Another 10% developed cirrhosis during follow-up. Markedly elevated alanine aminotransferase levels at presentation were correlated with a better outcome. A high international normalized ratio (INR) at diagnosis was the only risk factor predicting a need for later liver transplantation. Histological cirrhosis, decompensation and non-response to initial treatment were all factors that correlated with a worse outcome. Overall life expectancy was generally favourable. However, most deaths were liver-related, e.g. liver failure, shock and gastrointestinal bleeding. Conclusions. Cirrhosis at diagnosis, a non-response to initial immune-suppressive treatment or elevated INR values were associated with worse outcome and a need for later liver transplantation. In contrast, an acute hepatitis-like onset with intact synthetic capacity indicated a good response to treatment and favourable long-term prognosis. Lifetime maintenance therapy is most often required.
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| 46. |
- Werner, Mårten, et al.
(author)
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Epidemiology and the initial presentation of autoimmune hepatitis in Sweden: A nationwide study
- 2008
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In: Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology. - : Informa UK Limited. - 1502-7708 .- 0036-5521. ; 43:10, s. 1232-1240
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective. Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic liver disease, which if untreated can lead to cirrhosis and hepatic failure. The aim of the study was to investigate the incidence, prevalence, diagnostic tradition and clinical initial presentation of AIH. Material and methods. Analyses were performed in 473 patients identified as having probable or definite AIH. Results. The incidence of AIH was 0.85/100,000 (95% CI 0.69-1.01) inhabitants, which is somewhat lower than reported previously. The point prevalence amounted to 10.7/100,000 (95% CI 8.8-13.1), and 76% of the cases were females. The age-related incidence curve was bimodal but men were found to have only one incidence peak in the late teens, whereas women had a peak after menopause. AIH was presented as a spectrum of clinical settings from detected en passant to acute liver failure. Almost 30% of patients already had liver cirrhosis at diagnosis. Autoantibodies indicative of AIH type 1 were found in 79% of cases. Other concomitant autoimmune diseases were frequently found (49%). Conclusions. The incidence and prevalence figures confirm that AIH is a fairly uncommon disease in the Swedish population. Symptoms at presentation were unspecific, but almost half of the patients were jaundiced, with around 30% having liver cirrhosis. The majority of Swedish AIH patients had AIH type 1.
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| 47. |
- Werner, Mårten, et al.
(author)
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Hepatic and extrahepatic malignancies in autoimmune hepatitis. A long-term follow-up in 473 Swedish patients
- 2009
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In: Journal of Hepatology. - : Elsevier BV. - 0168-8278 .- 1600-0641. ; 50:2, s. 388-393
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background/Aims: Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH) is a liver disease which may lead to liver cirrhosis. Cirrhosis is a well-known risk factor for hepatocellular cancer. Lymphoma is a disease, where immune modulating drugs as well as the autoimmune disease itself may contribute to the elevated risk. The aim was to investigate the risks of malignancies in a large cohort of AIH patients. Methods: Four hundred and seventy-three patients with AIH were matched to the Swedish national cancer register as well as to the death cause register. Results: We found an overall higher risk of malignancies in the cohort of A I H patients from the date of diagnosis with a SIR of 1.51 (95% CI 1.10-2.03). SIR in the subpopulation of well defined catchment areas and complete case finding was 23.28 (95% CI 7.5-54.34) for HCC. Lymphomas were found a SIR of 13.09 (95% CI 4.22-30.56). Conclusions: There was an overall increased risk of malignancies in a cohort of AIH patients, which manly was caused by hepatobiliary cancers. However, the true risk of HCC in an AIH cirrhotic cohort has yet to be investigated. A significantly higher risk of lymphomas was also found, but no clear cut association to the use of immune modulators.
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