Sofosbuvir and simeprevir is effective for recurrent hepatitis C in liver transplant recipients

Background & AimsHepatitis C is the most common indication for liver transplantation (LT). Recurrent infection is universal and can lead to progressive liver disease. Widespread use of interferon-based therapy has been limited by intolerability and adverse effects. MethodsWe retrospectively evaluated the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of sofosbuvir and simeprevir in the treatment of recurrent hepatitis C in adult (age >18) LT recipients. ResultsSeventy-six percent of the recipients were male and the mean age [standard deviation (SD)] was 61 (6.0) years. The mean time (+/- SD) from LT to treatment initiation was 71.8 (+/- 77.1) months. Of the 26 patients with viral levels measured 4weeks after starting antiviral therapy, 58% were undetectable. At the end of therapy, viral load was undetectable in all transplant recipients. The 12week sustained viral response (SVR) was 93%. All recipients were able to complete therapy and no patients required growth factors of blood product transfusion during treatment. No patient required drug interruption of their immunosuppressant therapy. ConclusionThe use of sofosbuvir and simeprevir is efficacious, safe, and tolerable and should be considered in LT recipients with recurrent HCV who are candidates for antiviral therapy. See Editorial on Page 2354