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In a retrospective study, researchers found that hepatitis C virus reinfection is common among HIV-positive men who have sex with men after successful treatment and spontaneous clearance.
“A subsequent high incidence of HCV reinfection has been reported regionally in men who both clear the infection spontaneously or who respond to treatment. … An accurate description of the HCV epidemic including a concise observation of reinfections in specific populations will be crucial to achieve the goal of HCV eradication and to reduce costs of repeated [direct-acting antiviral] treatment,” Patrick Ingiliz, MD, consultant at the Center for Infectiology, Berlin, Germany, and colleagues wrote.
The researchers also found that men who had spontaneously cleared their incident infection had a lower incidence rate for reinfection (4.9 per 100 person-years) compared with men who were treated and then experienced reinfection (7.8 per 100 person-years; P = .06). Spontaneous clearance of reinfection was associated with ALT levels greater than 1,000 IU/mL and spontaneous clearance of a prior infection.
“Prevention strategies are needed for high-risk groups to reduce morbidity and treatment costs,” the researchers recommended. “HIV-positive MSM with a prior HCV infection should be tested every 3 to 6 months for reinfection, those who had achieved a reinfection every 3 months.” – by Melinda Stevens