Treatment of Chronic Viral Hepatitis B and Drug Resistant Variants

Abstract

Chronic hepatitis B (HBV) infection represents a global health problem, with an estimated 400 million people affected worldwide. Potential long-term sequelae include cirrhosis, hepatic decompensation, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The paradigm for treatment of chronic HBV is continually evolving with the advent of newer medications, an increased understanding of the natural history of chronic infection, and improved laboratory assay sensitivity. The decision to initiate therapy is dependent on multiple factors including serum ALT, HBV viral load, liver histology, and other patient variables. Antiviral drug resistance is becoming a major clinical challenge in patients with chronic hepatitis B..