Are nucleot(s)ide analogues a negative factor for HBsAg seroconversion in acute hepatitis B?

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIM: There are several studies comparing patients treated with lamivudine and those not given antiviral therapy in acute hepatitis B. Some of these studies showed that antiviral treatment significantly contributed to survival, whereas one other study suggested that antiviral treatment had no effect. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) therapy and its effect on HBsAg seroconversion in patients with acute viral hepatitis B.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

The files of 126 patients who were under follow-up for acute HBV infection in the Department of Gastroenterology were analyzed retrospectively. Demographic data, molecular, ELISA, and biochemistry tests at the time of diagnosis and in the follow-up, period were evaluated using the hospital automation system.

RESULTS

The rate of chronicity of HBV was found to be higher in the TDF group than in the group without antiviral treatment. The rate of protective anti-HBs acquisition was found to be lower in the TDF group (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Antiviral treatment with TDF in acute HBV infection may increase the rate of chronicity. It may reduce the development of natural immunity. Further studies are warranted.