Correlation of HCV Core Antigen with CD4+ T Cell Counts in HCV/HIV-1 Coinfected Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Shen Tao, Chen Xiangmei, Zhang Weidong, Xi Yuanlin, Cao Guanghua, Zhi Yuhong, Wang Shuiwang, Xu Chunhui, Wei Lai, Lu Fengmin, Zhuang Hui
Primary Institution: Peking University Health Science Center
Hypothesis
How does HCV core antigen correlate with CD4+ T cell counts compared to HCV RNA in HCV/HIV-1 coinfected patients?
Conclusion
HCV core antigen concentration is a better indicator of HCV replication and immune status than HCV RNA in coinfected patients.
Supporting Evidence
- HCV core antigen levels were negatively correlated with CD4+ T cell counts.
- HCV RNA levels did not correlate with CD4+ T cell counts.
- The study included 354 participants, primarily former blood donors.
Takeaway
This study found that measuring HCV core antigen can help doctors understand how the virus affects the immune system in people who have both HCV and HIV.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study analyzing serum samples from 354 anti-HCV and/or anti-HIV positive individuals.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the study's reliance on self-reported blood donation history.
Limitations
The study is limited to a specific population in central China and may not be generalizable.
Participant Demographics
Participants were primarily former blood donors from a village in central China.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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