Researchers of this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the reduction in liver stiffness in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients who achieved a sustained virologic response (SVR) following antiviral therapy. The analysis involved adults with HCV who underwent liver stiffness measurement using vibration-controlled transient elastography before and after antiviral therapy. In patients achieving SVR, there was a significant reduction in liver stiffness, varying at different time points post-therapy. Among patients with baseline liver stiffness >9.5 kPa, indicating advanced fibrosis, 47% achieved posttreatment liver stiffness levels <9.5 kPa.
The researchers found that eradication of HCV infection (achieving SVR) is associated with significant decreases in liver stiffness, particularly in patients with high baseline inflammation or those receiving direct-acting antiviral agents.
Reference: Singh S, Facciorusso A, Loomba R, Falck-Ytter YT. Magnitude and Kinetics of Decrease in Liver Stiffness After Antiviral Therapy in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2018 Jan;16(1):27-38.e4. doi: 10.1016/j.cgh.2017.04.038. Epub 2017 May 4. PMID: 28479504; PMCID: PMC5671365.
