Therapeutic perspectives in HBV decompensated cirrhosis
March 28, 2010
| Abstract Title: | Therapeutic perspectives in HBV decompensated cirrhosis |
| Authors: | Carmen Maler, Ioana Haiduc |
| Affiliation: | “Vasile Goldis” Western University Arad, Romania |
| Abstract text: | Approximately 15-20% of hepatitis B virus (HBV) carriers are at increased risk of developing serious complications such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. A high viral load may be predictive of future progression to cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma in HBV infected patients. The oral agents that most effectively suppress HBV replication with the lowest rate of drug resistance during prolonged use (Entecavir, Tenofovir) have emerged as preferred first line agents over the other available drugs (Lamivudine, Adefovir, Telbivudine). Practice guidelines also recommend prescribing an oral nucleoside analogue (but not the interferons) for patients with decompensated HBV cirrhosis independent of the patients’ serum ALT, HBV DNA level, and eAg status. A recent study shows that Entecavir at a dose of 0.5 mg per day is effective in treating naïve decompensated HBV patients with nearly 90% achieving undetectable HBV DNA at month 12. Suppression of HBV DNA was maintained during follow-up with no instances of viral rebound or Entecavir-resistant HBV identified. Other studies confirm the superior antiviral efficacy of Entecavir compared to Adefovir in decompensated HBV patients. The aggregate efficacy and safety data now support the use of Entecavir as a first line treatment option for nucleoside naïve patients with decompensated HBV cirrhosis. Further studies are also needed to identify the optimal agent for patients with decompensated lamivudine-resistant HBV cirrhosis. |
| Keywords: | decompensated cirrhosis, HBV, Entecavir |
| Presentation type: | Poster |
| Correspondence: | no. 7 Vezuviu St. Arad, Romania |
| Email: | maler_sergiu@yahoo.com |
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