Telbivudin as prophylaxis for hepatitis B virus recurrence after liver transplantation: a case series in single-center experience.

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) recurrence after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) represents a severe condition that requires prophylaxis with specific immunoglobulin and lamivudine. Few studies have addressed the efficiency of other effective antiviral drugs posttransplantation or their impact on early renal function after transplantation. Herein, we have reported experience among seven transplanted patients prescribed Telbivudin (600 mg/d) while on the waiting list followed by treatment for 3 months after OLT.

METHODS

Our series consisted of men with HBV-related end-stage liver disease. Once the patient started antiviral treatment, the viral load decreased rapidly while on the waiting list. All patients were evaluated for liver and renal functions immunosuppressive drug trough levels, CPK before (T0), as well as at 1 month (T1), and 3 months after liver transplant (T3).

RESULTS

All patients received a CNI-based regimen. Their mean creatinine clearance (MDRD) was 72.5 mL/min at T0, 69.2 mL/min at T1, and 71.0 mL/min at T3. Neither CPK or serum transaminase levels increased throughout the study. Once HBV-DNA was cleared while on the waiting list, it remained negative throughout the follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

Telbivudin prophylaxis for HBV was safe and effective without any significant deleterious effect on liver or renal function tests after liver transplantation.