AIMTo investigate peg-interferon (peg-IFN) and ribavirin (RBV) therapy in Myanmar and to predict sustained virologic response (SVR).METHODSThis single-center, open-label, study was conducted in Myanmar between 2009 and 2014. A total of 288 patients infected with HCV genotypes 1, 2, 3 and 6 were treated with peg-IFN alpha-2a (180 μg/wk) or alpha-2b (50 to 100 μg as a weight-based dose) and RBV as a weight-based dose (15 mg/kg/d). Treatment duration was 48 wk for genotypes 1 and 6, 24 wk for genotype 2, and 24 or 48 wk for genotype 3 based on rapid virologic response (RVR). Those co-infected with hepatitis B received 48 wk of therapy.RESULTSOverall, SVR was achieved for 82% of patients and the therapy was well tolerated. All patients achieved SVR at equivalent rates regardless of HCV genotype (P = 0.314). Low fibrosis scores (P < 0.001), high baseline albumin levels (P = 0.028) and low baseline viral loads (P = 0.029) all independently predicted SVR. On the other hand, IL-28B TT and CC genotypes were not found to significantly predict SVR (P = 0.634; P = 0.618). Among those who completed treatment, the occurrence of RVR showed a > 96% positive predictive value for achieving SVR. Treatment duration did not significantly impact the likelihood of achieving SVR for patients infected with genotype 3 HCV (P = 0.371). The most common adverse events were fatigue (71%) and poor appetite (60%). Among patients with genotype 3 HCV, more patients in the 48-wk treatment group required erythropoietin than in the 24-wk treatment group (61.1% vs 49.2%).CONCLUSIONSVR rates were high with peg-IFN and RBV therapy in Myanmar. Fibrosis scores, baseline albumin, HCV RNA levels and RVR independently predicted SVR.

Esophageal leukoplakia or epidermoid metaplasia is a rare lesion resembling the commonly found oral leukoplakia. When found, it is typically seen incidentally on endoscopy as a white plaque but rarely it may present as a globus sensation. Histologically, it is seen as epidermal metaplasia with orthokeratosis, closely resembling the skin. Although rare, esophageal leukoplakia is precancerous and may pose a serious threat. We present a unique case of a 61-year-old male with a history of COPD, tobacco, and alcohol dependence presenting with a six-month history of nausea and emesis resulting in poor oral intake despite having an appetite. The patient also reported weight loss. Considering his risk factors for esophageal carcinoma and alarm symptoms, an upper endoscopy was performed that revealed localized white, plaque-like mucosal changes characterized by altered texture in the lower third of the esophagus at 40cm. Biopsy results showed squamous epithelium with orthokeratosis and a prominent granular cell layer. These findings were consistent with esophageal epidermoid metaplasia. The lesion was ablated using argon plasma coagulation and radiofrequency ablation on subsequent endoscopy. The patient reported continued resolution of symptoms with each treatment session. Esophageal leukoplakia may increase the risk for squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus and should be followed closely. Guidelines on surveillance are yet to be established given the rarity of the disease.

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