Addressing Hepatitis B in the Context of Hepatitis C

AbstractPurpose of ReviewThere are worldwide efforts focused on targeting the screening and treatment of viral hepatitis B and C. This review highlights liver and treatment-related impacts of hepatitis B and C dual infection.Recent FindingsIt is important to identify the subset of individuals who may have been coinfected with both hepatitis B and C who are at increased risk for liver fibrosis, hepatocellular carcinoma as well as clinically significant hepatitis B reactivation when hepatitis C is treated. Those with hepatitis B surface antigen positivity are at greatest risk for hepatitis B reactivation. Treatment with newer direct-acting antivirals (DAA) has been associated with earlier onset hepatitis B reactivation and more severe hepatitis than prior interferon-based hepatitis C treatments.SummarySeveral practice guidelines have been published that recommend close monitoring with hepatitis B serologies and laboratory screening during hepatitis C treatment as well as preemptive antiviral treatment of hepatitis B in the highest risk groups to optimize clinical outcomes.
Source: Current Hepatitis Reports - Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research