Termination of Antiviral Administration in Chronic Hepatitis B

Abstract

Virus Hepatitis B (VHB) eradication still cannot be achieved under current clinical guidelines due to the typical virus life cycle. Four phases of disease in chronic hepatitis B infection have been used as guidance in preparing therapy indications. Virus suppression with a nucleoside analog (NA) is an important part of chronic hepatitis B therapy, but the high post-termination recurrence rate of NA results in an unlimited duration of therapy. Long-term NA therapy results in various problems such as resistance, reduced adherence, side-effects, and economic burden for patients. The latest findings add to the possibility of larger HBsAg seroconversion after the termination of NA therapy. Various guidelines provide guidance on the termination of NA therapy. It is stated that the termination of NA therapy can be performed using strict surveillance methods for individuals who have undergone antiretroviral therapy after which follows HBeAg seroconversion, minimal amount of VHB DNA, non-cirrhosis status, and normal ALT levels.