Change in alanine aminotransferase may serve as an alternative for sustained virologic response (SVR) in low- and middle-income countries

Abstract:Background and Aim: Confirmatory PCR testing to determine sustained virologic response (SVR) after antiviral treatment for HCV can be costly in low- middle-income countries (LMIC). Our aim was if change ALT act as a surrogate SVR reduce costs at the population level. Methods: A retrospective cohort of 149 patients who had received with different regimen DAA 12-24 weeks were studied. repeat LFT done 12 weeks. Results: 128 achieved (86%) 21(14%) did not. The mean age both groups similar (51 vs 56, p = 0.06) male/female distribution (p 0.36). most common genotype 3 (48% 62%). In group, only 29% previously exposed prior while 52% no group 0.04) which not significant on multivariate regression analysis (OR 1.1 (0.41,2.9). Patients advanced liver disease lower rates 0.04). between initiation completion therapy significantly based status (46.7 vs. 11.5, < 0.01). Additionally, > 10 more likely achieve (62.5 33.3, Stratifying absolute value also showed significance; <20 PPV 97.7 SVR. Conclusion: Change may negative viral load confirmation LMIC. marker