[The partial cure represents an intermediate endpoint on the path to a functional cure, not an ideal endpoint].

A partial cure, defined as HBsAg <100 IU/mL and HBV DNA below the lower limit of quantification (i.e., <10 IU/mL) at 24 weeks off-treatment, is an intermediate endpoint on the pathway to a functional cure, not a realistic goal. Patient with chronic hepatitis B achieved a partial cure have good outcomes. qHBsAg in combination with HBV RNA, hepatitis B core related antigen, LHBs, MHBs and qAnti-HBc may predict virological and clinical relapses of patients with a partial cure. The patients achieved partial cure should be monitored closely. Retreatment is necessary for patients who experience a virus-dominated hepatic flare after discontinuation of therapy, whereas it is not for those with a host-dominated flare.