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Monotherapy found effective against hepatitis B virus after liver transplantation

Entecavir monotherapy has been found effective in a study of 80 consecutive patients who underwent liver transplantation for hepatitis B-related complications.

Researchers reported that the rate of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) seroclearance was 86% after 1 year and 91% after 2 years. At the time of liver transplantation, seroclearance was associated with lower HBV DNA and HBsAg levels.

None of the patients received hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG).

“When used together, [lamivudine] and HBIG were shown to have a synergistic effect,” the study authors said. “However, the use of HBIG on a long-term basis is expensive and requires regular parenteral administration and monitoring.”

The study found that although only 26% of patients had complete viral suppression at time of transplantation, 91% lost HBsAg, and 98.8% achieved undetectable levels of HBV DNA at last follow-up.

“These new agents can be used in combination with [lamivudine] or alone after liver transplant, thus potentially eliminating the need for regular HBIG injections,” the researchers said.

Disclosures: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.