Global trends and insights in interferon therapy for chronic hepatitis B: a bibliometric analysis

BACKGROUND: Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is a major global health issue, with interferon (IFN)-based therapy playing a key role in achieving sustained virological response and immune-mediated viral clearance. This study analyzed global research trends, collaborative networks, and emerging priorities in interferon therapy for CHB. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the Web of Science Core Collection database. Bibliometric tools, including VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and R-bibliometrix, were employed. RESULTS: A total of 2,035 studies were analyzed, showing a steady increase in publication activity. China led in research output (891 publications), followed by the USA (172) and Japan (128). Leading institutions included Capital Medical University (211 publications), Fudan University (208), and National Taiwan University (200). Influential journals included Hepatology (h-index = 43), Journal of Hepatology (h-index = 42), and Journal of Viral Hepatitis (h-index = 26). The most prominent authors were Harry L. A. Janssen (TP = 66), Bettina E. Hansen (TP = 39), and Patrick Marcellin (TP = 44). The top three keywords were “therapy” (489 occurrences, total link strength: 2045), “lamivudine” (409 occurrences, total link strength: 2013), and “combination” (243 occurrences, total link strength: 1249). Keywords burst analysis highlighted emerging trends, including “functional cure” (2021–2024), “hbsag loss” (2021–2024), “entecavir” (2019–2024), and “guidelines” (2017–2024). CONCLUSIONS: This bibliometric analysis identifies critical research areas in interferon therapy for CHB, emphasizing advancements in immune mechanisms, therapeutic optimization, and pharmacological innovation. Future research should focus on functional cures, refining treatment guidelines, and integrating innovative strategies to improve clinical outcomes. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: not applicable.