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Cost-benefit analysis of interferon therapy in children with chronic active hepatitis B

O Louis-Jacques1, A D Olson

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, USA.

Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition
|January 1, 1997
PubMed

Insights

Alpha-interferon therapy for chronic hepatitis B is cost-effective in children, offering significant life-years saved. Treatment is more cost-effective in younger children due to smaller doses and increased life expectancy.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Health Economics

Background:

  • Chronic hepatitis B affects children, with limited alpha-interferon use due to cost-effectiveness concerns.
  • Evaluating alpha-interferon cost-effectiveness in pediatric chronic active hepatitis B is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the cost-effectiveness of alpha-interferon for treating chronic active hepatitis B in children.
  • To compare cost-effectiveness across different pediatric age groups.

Main Methods:

  • Cost-effectiveness analysis using cost per year of life saved.
  • Modeled three cohorts: 2, 12, and 25 years old.
  • Assumed treatment for active viral replication, preventing cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma; applied a 5% discount rate.

Main Results:

  • At a 30% response rate, alpha-interferon showed net savings and more life-years saved in children compared to adults.
  • Cost per year of life saved was minimal for adolescents ($510) and adults ($934).
  • At a 6% response rate, pediatric costs were one-fourth of adult costs ($5,700 vs. $22,100).

Conclusions:

  • Alpha-interferon therapy is a cost-effective treatment for chronic active hepatitis B in children.
  • Cost-effectiveness is greater in younger children due to lower dosage requirements and higher life expectancy gains.
  • Supports wider consideration of alpha-interferon for pediatric chronic hepatitis B management.
Abstract

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