Hepatitis B genotypes and the response to interferon therapy
Journal
Journal of Hepatology
Journal Volume
33
Journal Issue
6
Pages
998-1002
Date Issued
2000
Author(s)
Abstract
Background/Aims: Possible pathogenic differences among hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotypes have been observed; however, the response to interferon therapy among HBV genotypes remains unknown. We therefore analyzed the efficacy of interferon alfa in the treatment of chronic hepatitis B patients with different HBV genotypes. Methods: Fifty-eight genotype B or C infected chronic hepatitis B patients who had been treated with interferon alfa-2b were retrospectively studied. The response to interferon was defined as normalization of serum aminotransferase level, loss of hepatitis B e antigen and HBV DNA 48 weeks post-treatment. Results: Baseline data of both groups of patients were comparable; however, genotype C patients had a higher serum aminotransferase level and a higher frequency of core promoter mutation. The response rate was 41% and 15% in genotype B and C patients, respectively (p=0.045). In those with higher serum aminotransferase levels, the response rate was 50% and 17%, respectively (p=0.025). Additionally, younger age and genotype B infection may predict a better response to interferon alfa. Conclusions: HBV genotype C, compared to genotype B, is associated with a higher frequency of core promoter mutation, and a lower response rate to interferon alfa therapy.
SDGs
Other Subjects
alpha interferon; alpha2b interferon; aminotransferase; hepatitis B(e) antigen; virus DNA; adult; aminotransferase blood level; article; chronic disease; controlled study; disease association; drug efficacy; female; genotype; hepatitis B; Hepatitis B virus; human; human tissue; major clinical study; male; priority journal; treatment outcome; virus mutation
Publisher
Blackwell Munksgaard
Type
journal article