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Long-term follow-up of hepatitis B e antigen-negative patients treated with peginterferon α-2a: progressive decrease
Vincent Rijckborst1, Peter Ferenci, Meral Akdogan
1Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology
|June 7, 2012
Summary
Long-term follow-up of peginterferon (PEG-IFN) treatment for HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B showed that while some patients relapse, responders experience significant HBsAg reduction and clearance.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Immunology
Background:
- Peginterferon (PEG-IFN) is a standard first-line therapy for hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-negative chronic hepatitis B.
- Evaluating the sustained efficacy and long-term outcomes of PEG-IFN treatment is crucial for managing this condition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the long-term response and outcomes in HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B patients treated with PEG-IFN.
- To determine the rate of sustained response and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) clearance after PEG-IFN therapy.
Main Methods:
- A long-term follow-up (LTFU) study was conducted on patients from the PARC study who completed PEG-IFN α-2a treatment (± ribavirin) for 48 weeks.
- Patients had at least one LTFU visit, with a mean follow-up duration of 2.1 years.
- Retreated patients were classified as non-responders.
Main Results:
- Of 79 patients included in the LTFU study, 19 initially responded (defined by HBV DNA and ALT levels).
- Of these initial responders, 63% sustained their response, and 3 additional patients achieved a combined response at LTFU, totaling 19% responders.
- Initial responders showed a significant decrease in HBsAg levels, with 26% achieving HBsAg clearance.
Conclusions:
- Approximately one-third of HBeAg-negative patients who initially responded to PEG-IFN experienced relapse within 2 years.
- Despite relapses, PEG-IFN responders demonstrated substantial HBsAg reduction and a high rate of HBsAg clearance.
- Identifying predictors for PEG-IFN response in HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B is essential for optimizing treatment strategies.
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