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ELIMINATE: a PCR record-based macroelimination project for systematic recall of HCV-RNA-positive persons in Austria.

Authors :
Schwarz, Caroline
Bauer, David
Dorn, Livia
Jachs, Mathias
Hartl, Lukas
Chromy, David
Weseslindtner, Lukas
Pfisterer, Nikolaus
Hennlich, Barbara
Stückler, Annika
Strassl, Robert
Voill-Glaninger, Astrid
Hübl, Wolfgang
Willheim, Martin
Köhrer, Karin
Jansen-Skoupy, Sonja
Tomez, Sabine
Krugluger, Walter
Madl, Christian
Schwarz, Michael
Source :
Wiener Klinische Wochenschrift; May2024, Vol. 136 Issue 9/10, p278-288, 11p
Publication Year :
2024

Abstract

Summary: Background and aims: Micro-elimination projects targeted to specific hepatitis C virus (HCV) risk populations have been successful. Systematic identification of persons with HCV viremia, regardless of risk group, based on already available laboratory records may represent an effective macroelimination approach to achieve global HCV elimination. Methods: Persons with a last positive HCV-RNA PCR result between 2008–2020 in the reference virology laboratories in eastern Austria were identified. First, (i) we described their demographic characteristics, (ii) we systematically recalled persons to the respective centers and (iii) started antiviral treatment if HCV-RNA viremia was confirmed, and (iv) recorded sustained virologic response (SVR). This interim report includes the preliminary results from 8 participating centers. Results: During the study period 22,682 persons underwent HCV-RNA PCR testing, 11,216 (49.4%) were positive at any point in time, and 6006 (26.5%) showed detectable HCV-RNA at the last PCR test, suggesting ongoing HCV viremia. At the time of this interim report, 2546/6006 HCV-RNA PCR(+) persons were evaluated: 443/2546 (17.4%) had died, 852/2546 (33.5%) had invalid contact data, and 547/2546 (21.5%) had achieved SVR between data retrieval and recall. Contact could be established in 236/704 (33.5%) of the remaining target population with 97/236 (41.1%) presenting at the clinic for treatment evaluation. Ultimately, 71/236 (30.1%) started antiviral treatment and SVR was documented in 47/71 (66.2%). Conclusion: This ELIMINATE project based on systematic assessment of HCV-RNA PCR-records, identified 6006 persons with potential persisting HCV viremia. Invalid contact data and missed visits for treatment evaluation were the main barriers towards HCV elimination within this project. Importantly, many subjects with HCV viremia lost to follow-up were successfully linked to care and started antiviral treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
00435325
Volume :
136
Issue :
9/10
Database :
Complementary Index
Journal :
Wiener Klinische Wochenschrift
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
177112177
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00508-023-02275-4