A real-world, single-center experience of the utilization of hepatitis C-viremic kidneys for hepatitis C-negative recipients

The advent of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapies has allowed kidney transplantation from hepatitis C (HCV)-viremic donors into negative recipients. We evaluated the safety and feasibility of such practice when utilizing a patient's health plan to cover the cost for DAAs. Materials and methods: This was a prospective, non-randomized, pilot clinical study. 30 HCV-negative participants received kidney transplant from HCV-viremic deceased donors. HCV polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was checked on day 3 post transplant, and a request for pan-genotypic DAA therapy was sent once viremia was confirmed. Primary outcomes were the percentage of patients achieving sustained virologic response defined as undetectable HCV PCR 12 weeks after therapy completion, and the percentage of patients receiving DAAs via patient's health plan. Results: HCV viremia occurred in all 30 recipients. Sustained viral response was achieved in 93% of the patients. Two patients failed first-line DAAs, 1 patient due to non-compliance with the prescribed regimen while the other due to NS5A mutation. DAA therapy was successfully obtained via patient's health plan in 28/30 patients. There was no significant liver-related complication, patient death, or graft loss. Conclusion: Kidney transplantation from HCV-viremic donors appears to be safe. However, challenges with obtaining DAA coverage in the United States persist.