Antiviral therapy helps reduce the risk of cirrhosis in HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B patients

New research takes an in-depth look at a traditionally overlooked category of patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). Although those who are HBeAg negative but have normal ALT levels are considered low risk and are often excluded from immediate treatment, this study challenges this view by demonstrating the substantial benefit of continued antiviral therapy.

This study conducted a retrospective analysis of 194 patients diagnosed with HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B over a median period of 54 months. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA was detected in these patients and they were classified according to treatment regimen: continuous, intermittent, or no nucleos

Patients who adhered to continuous NA therapy demonstrated 100% virological response and significantly reduced the risk of developing liver nodules and cirrhosis. This was particularly noteworthy in patients with HBV DNA levels ≥2000 IU/mL, where continued treatment reduced the risk of cirrhosis by 92% compared with patients who stopped or received no treatment.

This study shows that early antiviral treatment can prevent liver disease progression in HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B patients with normal ALT and HBV DNA positivity, even if ALT levels do not rise. It advocates a proactive treatment strategy to prevent liver disease progression in patients with HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B.

This comprehensive study highlights the importance of early intervention and regular monitoring of this patient population and the need for further research to optimize treatment strategies and improve outcomes in patients with chronic hepatitis B. It may set new courses for clinical practice and management of chronic hepatitis B strategies.