Filomena Morisco

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This study looked at the relationship between epicardial fat tissue (EFT) and obesity by evaluating 56 adults with visceral obesity. It found that people with metabolically unhealthy obesity (MUO) had a significantly thicker layer of epicardial fat—averaging 9.5 mm in men and 7.5 mm in women—compared to those with metabolically healthy obesity (MHO). Specifically, 82.1% of MUO patients showed high EFT values, and even 42.9% of MHO patients had EFT levels above what is considered healthy, indicating that the current definitions of MHO might not accurately reflect cardiovascular risks. Who this helps: This research helps doctors better assess the cardiovascular risks of patients with different types of obesity.

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This study looked at patients who received liver transplants due to chronic liver disease caused by hepatitis B virus (HBV), comparing those infected only with HBV to those also infected with hepatitis D virus (HDV). Out of 257 patients, 31 died during long-term follow-up, and the ones with only HBV had more deaths related to liver issues compared to those with both HBV and HDV (7.4% versus 1.2%). The researchers found that a history of chronic kidney disease significantly increased the risk of death and health complications after the transplant. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and patients by identifying key risk factors in post-transplant outcomes.

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This study looked at the ongoing challenges faced by patients with liver diseases in Italy, focusing on issues like stigma, age-related concerns, economic barriers, gender differences, and quality of life. The researchers found that despite progress in treating conditions like hepatitis C, many patients still struggle to get diagnosed and manage their illnesses effectively. They proposed actionable solutions to improve care by addressing these unmet needs, recognizing that a collaborative approach involving various disciplines is essential. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver diseases and healthcare providers working to improve their care.

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This study looked at how the tumor burden score (TBS) can predict the likelihood of cancer spreading beyond the liver in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who received a specific treatment called transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). Among 890 patients, 7.2% had cancer spread shortly after treatment, but this rose to 26.1% during follow-up; those with a higher TBS (above 3.66) were more likely to see cancer spread, with 10.4% facing it first compared to just 3.6% for those with a lower score. Understanding TBS can help doctors identify which patients are at higher risk for the cancer spreading, allowing for better monitoring and treatment plans. Who this helps: This helps doctors in assessing and managing the risk for patients with liver cancer.

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This study looked at a new non-invasive test called HVPG-3P to see how well it can predict serious liver problems in patients with advanced liver disease. Researchers found that higher HVPG-3P scores were strongly linked to signs of severe portal hypertension and potential liver-related events. Specifically, HVPG-3P had a 73% chance of accurately predicting complications related to liver issues and performed similarly to other tests like ANTICIPATE and FIB-4. Who this helps: This benefits patients with advanced chronic liver disease by allowing for earlier intervention and better management of their condition.

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This study looked at how well noninvasive tests can identify significant portal hypertension and high-risk varices in patients with primary biliary cholangitis and advanced liver disease. Researchers found that the RESIST criteria had a low rate of missed high-risk varices at 2.5%, compared to 9.8% for the Baveno VI criteria and 8.9% for the Expanded Baveno VI criteria. This matters because finding and accurately assessing these risks can help manage patient care more effectively, especially since the severity of liver damage influences test performance. Who this helps: Patients with primary biliary cholangitis and liver disease, as well as their doctors.

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This study analyzed the health outcomes of 3,123 patients with liver cancer who also had a hepatitis C infection. The researchers found that patients who had successfully cleared the hepatitis C virus (achieving a sustained virological response, or SVR) lived longer—an average of 61 months—compared to those with active hepatitis C, who lived about 51 months. This matters because it highlights that treating hepatitis C can significantly improve survival rates for patients undergoing treatment for liver cancer. Who this helps: This benefits patients with liver cancer who also have hepatitis C, as well as their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at sexual dysfunction in 207 patients with chronic liver disease, finding that 75.8% had sexual issues. Notably, 89% of those with a specific type of liver disease called MASLD experienced sexual dysfunction, compared to 64% in those without it. The research highlights that factors like quality of life and certain health issues impact sexual health in these patients, which is crucial for ensuring they receive appropriate care. Who this helps: Patients with chronic liver disease, especially those with MASLD.

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This study looked at patients in Italy who have both Hepatitis C (HCV) and Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) to see how their health and treatment patterns compared to those with only HCV. Researchers found that patients who had both conditions were older (average age 1277 patients was significantly higher than 6576 patients with only HCV) and generally had more health issues. These dual-diagnosis patients also had more hospital visits and medications prescribed to them compared to those with HCV alone, which highlights the added health challenges they face. Who this helps: This information benefits patients with both HCV and Type 2 Diabetes, as well as their healthcare providers in managing their care.

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Researchers studied patients with liver cancer (HCC) who also have autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) to better understand their characteristics and outcomes. Out of 10,026 patients with HCC, only 23 (0.2%) had AIH, and most were older men with cirrhosis. Those under regular check-ups had better chances of early diagnosis and treatment, leading to a median survival time of 68.2 months compared to 27.4 months for those diagnosed without surveillance, highlighting the importance of monitoring these patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with autoimmune hepatitis and their doctors by emphasizing the need for regular check-ups to improve treatment outcomes.

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This study looked at how men and women in Italy experience differences in access to liver transplants from 2017 to 2021. Researchers found that men were more likely to receive a liver transplant than women, even though survival rates after the transplant were similar; for example, men had a 1.13 to 1.20 times higher chance of undergoing a transplant compared to women for liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. It's important because it highlights that women face barriers in getting liver transplants in Italy, calling for better health policies to ensure fair treatment for everyone. Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly women needing liver transplants.

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This study looked at how effective the cancer drug lenvatinib is for patients with liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma or HCC) caused by two different conditions: metabolic dysfunction-associated liver disease and alcohol use. The researchers found that the average survival time for patients with liver cancer due to metabolic dysfunction was about 21 months, while it was about 19 months for those with alcohol-related cancer. Importantly, both groups experienced similar outcomes with lenvatinib, and the rate of side effects was the same. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with liver cancer and their doctors by showing lenvatinib's effectiveness regardless of the cancer's cause.

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This study looked at patients with liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) who received either surgery (resection) or other treatments (ablation) to see how often their cancer came back and how long they lived afterward. The researchers found that patients at high risk who had surgery saw their cancer return after about 29 months, compared to 43 months for those at lower risk. However, for those who had ablation, the return rates were very close between high and low-risk patients (27 vs. 30 months). Overall, patient survival rates were similar for those who had surgery but shorter for high-risk patients who had ablation (79 months versus 98 months). These findings help confirm that the IMbrave050 criteria for assessing cancer recurrence risk are useful for patients who had surgery but not for those who had ablation. Who this helps: This helps doctors determine the best treatment approach for liver cancer patients and identify those at greater risk of recurrence.

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This study looked at two treatment options for patients with small single liver tumors called hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) that are 3 cm or smaller. Researchers compared surgical removal of the tumor (laparoscopic resection) to a less invasive method using heat to destroy the tumor (thermoablation) in 1,465 patients. They found that patients who had the tumor surgically removed lived longer (median of 93 months) and had a longer time without the cancer returning (39 months) compared to those who had thermoablation (median overall survival of 60 months and recurrence-free survival of 26 months). Who this helps: This research benefits patients with small liver tumors by highlighting the importance of surgical options for better long-term outcomes.

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This study looked at how well obeticholic acid (OCA) works and its safety over the long term for patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). Researchers followed 747 patients for about 2 years and found that the drug improved liver function in 57% of patients while 17% stopped taking the medication mainly due to itching. The research is important because it shows that OCA can help manage PBC effectively over time, especially for patients who respond well to the treatment. Who this helps: This benefits patients with PBC and their doctors.

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This study looked at the outcomes of liver surgery for patients with liver cancer, comparing those considered "ideal candidates" (who had a single tumor and no major complications) to those who were not ideal candidates. Researchers analyzed data from over 1,000 patients and found that ideal candidates lived longer after surgery (about 105 months) than non-ideal candidates (about 75 months). However, those with certain complications had poor outcomes, highlighting that surgery remains a viable option for some patients with mild issues, but those with more serious problems may need different treatments. Who this helps: This research helps doctors and patients with liver cancer understand the best treatment options based on their specific health conditions.

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This study looked at the impact of the hepatitis D virus (HDV) on both native Italians and immigrants in Italy, examining 515 patients who were positive for hepatitis B. They found that 83.9% of these patients had detectable levels of the virus, with native Italians generally being older and more likely to suffer from severe liver conditions like cirrhosis (70.3% vs. 50.5% in migrants) and liver cancer (14.8% vs. 0.5% in migrants). The findings are important because they show that while severe liver disease is frequent in both groups, many patients actually have milder cases, which suggests that the treatment and care for chronic HDV infections may need to be tailored differently for these populations. Who this helps: This information benefits patients and doctors by providing insights for better management of hepatitis D infections.

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This study looked at the number of people in Italy with chronic Hepatitis B (CHB) and Delta virus (CHD) in 2024, using information from healthcare records and surveys. They found that about 112,000 adults have chronic Hepatitis B and around 9,360 have chronic Delta virus. This information is important for health officials as it helps them make informed decisions about healthcare policies and resources to manage these infections. Who this helps: Patients with Hepatitis B and Delta virus, as well as healthcare providers and policymakers.

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This study looked at how well a type of immunotherapy called atezolizumab plus bevacizumab (AB) works for treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a type of liver cancer, compared to another treatment called lenvatinib (LENV). Researchers found that while 16% of patients treated with AB showed potential for curative conversion (signs of improvement), only 3% actually underwent a curative treatment, which is the same rate seen with LENV. This matters because patients who did achieve a curative conversion after AB had a high 3-year survival rate of 93%, but the low actual conversion rates raise concerns about how effective these treatments really are in practice. Who this helps: This research helps doctors and patients by providing insights into treatment effectiveness and survival outcomes in liver cancer.

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This research paper focused on the relationship between gut bacteria and how they can affect the treatment of liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma or HCC) using immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). It found that certain gut microbes could improve the effectiveness of these cancer treatments by boosting the immune response and improving how the body fights tumors. This is important because if we can harness these gut bacteria, we may have a new way to enhance cancer therapies, although further studies are needed to confirm this potential. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver cancer who are undergoing immunotherapy treatments.

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This study looked at the differences between men and women who have hepatitis delta virus (HDV) infections, which can cause severe liver issues. Researchers analyzed data from 513 patients and found that 73.4% of men and 77.8% of women had cirrhosis, a serious liver condition. However, younger women, especially those from non-Italian backgrounds, were more likely to develop cirrhosis compared to younger men; 80.9% of younger females had cirrhosis, compared to only 16.1% of younger males. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and healthcare providers by providing insights for better treatment for both men and women with HDV.

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This research paper looks at how sex influences the occurrence of liver tumors and the outcomes of treatments for these conditions. The review found that men and women may experience liver diseases differently, with studies indicating that factors like sex hormones and lifestyle choices (such as obesity, alcohol use, and smoking) play significant roles. For example, certain treatments may work better for one sex than the other, leading to different survival rates and disease progression. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by providing insights into more personalized treatment approaches based on sex.

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This study looked at how implementing routine testing for HDV (Hepatitis D virus) among people already positive for Hepatitis B (HBsAg) affected diagnosis rates. Before this new testing approach, only 16.4% of these patients were tested for HDV, but after the change, it was 100%. While the percentage of patients found to have HDV decreased slightly from 16.6% to 10.7%, the total number of diagnosed cases rose significantly from 14 to 52. Who this helps: This benefits patients with Hepatitis B by allowing for earlier identification of those who also have Hepatitis D.

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This study looked at patients with liver issues caused by hepatitis C virus (HCV) who were treated and cleared the virus. Out of 1,609 patients, 32 (2%) developed new blood clots in the portal vein after treatment, with certain factors like low platelet counts and previous liver complications increasing this risk. Understanding these risks is important because it helps doctors monitor and manage patients more effectively after HCV treatment. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients with liver disease post-HCV treatment.

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This study looked at how hepatitis viruses contribute to liver cancer, specifically hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It found that hepatitis B virus (HBV) accounts for about 40% of liver cancer cases globally, while hepatitis C virus (HCV) is responsible for 28-30%, with differences based on geographic location. Understanding this connection is important as it highlights the need for targeted prevention and treatment strategies for liver cancer, especially for those with hepatitis infections. Who this helps: This helps patients with hepatitis B and C, as well as healthcare providers in managing their care.

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This study looked at how effective different treatments are for patients with early-stage multinodular liver cancer, specifically comparing surgery (liver resection) to nonsurgical methods like radiofrequency ablation and chemoembolization. Among 720 patients, surgery showed better survival rates: 89% survived one year, 71% survived three years, and 56% survived five years, compared to 94%, 65%, and 40% for radiofrequency ablation and 91%, 49%, and 29% for chemoembolization. This matters because it suggests that surgery should be the first option for treating these patients, which can lead to better outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with early-stage liver cancer who cannot receive a transplant.

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This study looked at the impact of treating hepatitis C with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) on the risk of developing liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma, or HCC) in patients with severe liver disease (cirrhosis). It found that patients who were treated and cured of hepatitis C had a lower risk of developing HCC compared to those who remained untreated—specifically, the untreated group had a 64% higher risk of developing liver cancer. This is important because it shows that successfully treating hepatitis C not only eliminates the virus but significantly reduces the likelihood of a serious cancer developing. Who this helps: Patients with hepatitis C and liver cirrhosis.

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This study examined patients with chronic Hepatitis D virus (HDV) infection in Italy, focusing on their health profiles and whether they could qualify for certain treatments. Out of 5,492 patients tested, 422 (10.2%) were found to be positive for HDV, with many of these patients being younger and having existing liver conditions like cirrhosis or cancer. The findings highlight that a significant number of patients have other health issues that could limit their treatment options, particularly affecting 53% of them. Who this helps: This helps patients with chronic Hepatitis D and their doctors by providing insights into treatment eligibility and the prevalence of other health problems.

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This study looked at Alagille syndrome (ALGS), a rare genetic disorder that affects various organs, by analyzing nearly 230 patients with liver-related issues. Researchers found 11 very rare genetic variants in 10 patients, with two of these variants potentially linked to the disease. Understanding these variants is crucial because it enhances the ability to diagnose ALGS and better understand its symptoms. Who this helps: This helps patients with Alagille syndrome and their doctors in making more accurate diagnoses and treatment decisions.

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This research looks at how to safely use a new gene therapy called valoctocogene roxaparvovec to treat hemophilia A, particularly focusing on liver health. The experts found that patients should not get this treatment if they have serious liver issues like high liver stiffness or liver infections. Monitoring liver function is crucial both before and after the therapy, with specific tests recommended regularly to track liver enzyme levels and ensure any problems are addressed quickly. Who this helps: This benefits patients with hemophilia A and their doctors by providing clear guidelines for safely administering the treatment.

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This study looked at patients with advanced liver disease caused by hepatitis C after they had successful treatment. Out of 575 patients, 98 (17%) experienced serious liver-related issues within five years, most commonly liver cancer. The research found that those with stiffer livers before treatment (over 20 kPa) were more likely to experience these complications, emphasizing the importance of regularly measuring liver stiffness to better predict risks for patients. Who this helps: This information is useful for doctors managing hepatitis C patients to tailor monitoring and treatment plans.

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This study looked at how sex differences affect various vascular liver diseases, including conditions like vein thrombosis and hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia. The review highlighted that these diseases often impact young people, particularly women of childbearing age, and discussed specific considerations for managing pregnancy in these patients. Understanding these differences is important for improving care and treatment options for affected individuals. Who this helps: Patients with vascular liver diseases and their healthcare providers.

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This research looked at how antiplatelet therapy (APT) affects the risk of developing liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma, HCC) and the chances of dying after treatment for it. The study found that patients who received APT had a 37% lower risk of getting HCC and a 46% lower risk of dying after treatment compared to those who did not receive APT. These findings are important because they suggest that APT can significantly improve outcomes for patients at risk of or treated for liver cancer. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk of liver cancer and healthcare providers treating them.

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This study looked at the eating habits and physical activity levels of patients with Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC) compared to people without the condition. Researchers found that PBC patients followed a less healthy diet and had lower intake of healthy fats than the healthy controls. For instance, they scored significantly lower on adherence to the Mediterranean diet. This is important because unhealthy lifestyles may increase the risk of worsening liver disease in these patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients with PBC by highlighting the need for lifestyle changes to better manage their health.

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This study looked at the risk of developing liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma, or HCC) in patients who had successfully treated hepatitis C (HCV) and had liver cirrhosis. Among 2,064 patients followed for about 28 months after treatment, 119 (about 5.8%) developed HCC, with incidence rates increasing at 12, 24, and 36 months post-treatment. The research found that older age, having diabetes, and specific blood test results (like low platelet or albumin levels) were key factors that contributed to the risk of developing cancer, helping to create a tool that could predict which patients might be at higher risk. Who this helps: This helps patients who have undergone HCV treatment, doctors managing their care, and specialists monitoring for liver cancer.

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This study looked at trends in chronic hepatitis B virus infection among patients in Italy over a 10-year period by comparing two groups of patients. It found that between 2012-2015 and 2019-2021, the number of patients with a specific marker of viral activity decreased from 12.3% to 7.2%, indicating better management of the disease, while about 25% of patients still had cirrhosis, with a notable decrease in the likelihood of cirrhosis by 40% in the newer group. The results highlight improvements in hepatitis B management in Italy, yet emphasize that hepatitis D virus remains a significant issue, particularly for patients with cirrhosis and migrants. Who this helps: This benefits patients with chronic hepatitis B and healthcare providers managing their treatment.

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This study focused on how well a booster shot for COVID-19 works in patients with chronic liver disease (CLD), including those with cirrhosis. Out of 340 patients, 60 (about 17.6%) did not have antibodies after the initial vaccination, but most—88.3%—developed antibodies after receiving the booster. Notably, having certain types of vascular issues and using the mRNA-1273 vaccine improved the chances of a good immune response. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with chronic liver disease and their healthcare providers by showing that booster shots are effective for them.

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This study focused on finding a way to predict portal vein tumor thrombosis (PVTT) in patients with liver cancer, specifically hepatocellular carcinoma. Researchers analyzed data from 2,243 patients and found that 14.4% had PVTT, which is linked to shorter survival. They developed a risk score using eight factors, revealing that patients with a score over 8 had more than 11 times higher odds of having PVTT, indicating a need for more aggressive treatment. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and healthcare teams treating liver cancer patients by helping them identify those at higher risk for complications.

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Researchers studied the impact of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) on patients with severe liver disease (cirrhosis) after they were hospitalized. They found that after one year, 30.4% of patients with HE died, compared to 23.4% of those without HE, indicating that HE significantly raises the risk of death. Additionally, HE was linked to more hospital readmissions, making it a critical factor for treatment decisions, including liver transplants. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with liver disease and their doctors by highlighting the importance of monitoring and treating HE.

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This study looked at a 45-year-old woman with metastatic breast cancer who also tested positive for hepatitis B. Despite the potential risks, she was treated with Ribociclib, and her liver function remained stable throughout the treatment, which is important because hepatitis B can complicate cancer therapy. After 13 months, her cancer showed a partial response to the treatment and then stabilized, demonstrating that Ribociclib can be safely used in patients with hepatitis B. Who this helps: This helps breast cancer patients who also have hepatitis B.

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This study looked at cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), a difficult-to-treat liver cancer with a very low survival rate of less than 20% over five years. Researchers found that bile acids, which are important in bodily functions, play a role in how CCA develops and progresses. Understanding how bile acids influence this cancer could lead to new treatment options. Who this helps: Patients diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma.

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This study looked at how COVID-19 affects people with fatty liver disorders, particularly since both issues have been growing in prevalence. It found that individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease are more likely to experience severe symptoms from COVID-19. Understanding this connection is important because it highlights the need for better healthcare approaches for these patients, especially during health crises. Who this helps: This benefits patients with fatty liver disorders and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how two specific markers (Cytokeratin-18 M30 and M65) in the blood relate to liver damage in people with visceral obesity. Among 48 participants, nearly half had metabolic syndrome, about 94% had fatty liver, and 60% had high liver stiffness. The study found that higher levels of these markers were linked to greater waist size and poorer liver function, making them useful for spotting early signs of liver damage in obese patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients with visceral obesity and their doctors by providing tools to detect liver issues early.

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This study looked at the changes in alcohol-related liver cancer (HCC) in Italy over the past 15 years. Researchers analyzed data from 1,391 patients and found that less than half of these cancers were discovered through regular check-ups, and there was only a slight improvement in survival rates, with around 12% seeing better outcomes after one year. The study highlights that patients with alcohol-related HCC often have other health issues, making it harder for them to receive effective treatment, showing the need for better screening programs. Who this helps: This helps patients with alcohol-related liver cancer and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how to better involve patients with severe congenital hemophilia A in decisions about a new liver-directed gene therapy that could cure their condition. The researchers found that many patients are not fully aware of their personal goals and preferences, which influences their acceptance of this treatment. They recommend creating educational programs to help both patients and doctors communicate effectively about the therapy, emphasizing what matters most to each patient. Who this helps: This helps patients with severe congenital hemophilia A and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at whether a combination treatment of atezolizumab and bevacizumab is feasible for patients with liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) who are already receiving another type of treatment called tyrosine-kinase inhibitors. Out of 1,447 patients, only 422 (about 29%) were found to be eligible for the combination therapy based on strict trial criteria, although relaxing these criteria would increase the number to 535. The research showed that eligible patients had a median survival of 14.9 months, which is longer than those who did not qualify for the therapy. Who this helps: This benefits patients with liver cancer by potentially increasing access to more effective treatments.

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In this study, researchers looked at how well two noninvasive methods—transient elastography (TE) and the enhanced liver fibrosis (ELF) score—can measure liver damage in patients with chronic hepatitis C who were treated with antiviral drugs. Among 119 patients, 94.1% achieved a favorable treatment outcome, but 90% still had advanced liver fibrosis. The correlation between the two testing methods was low, but both showed improvement in liver health over time. Who this helps: This helps patients with hepatitis C and their doctors find safer ways to monitor liver health without needing invasive procedures.

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This study looked at how certain genetic variations might affect the skin side effects experienced by patients with liver cancer who are treated with sorafenib, a type of cancer medication. Researchers focused on a specific gene variation called AGT2 (rs4762) and found that patients with this variation had more than five times the risk of skin issues compared to those without it (HR = 5.97). Understanding this link is important because it could help doctors identify patients at higher risk for skin problems, potentially leading to better monitoring and treatment strategies. Who this helps: Patients undergoing treatment for liver cancer.