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Addressing Hepatitis B in the Context of Hepatitis C

  • Hepatitis C (H Vargas and S Flamm, Section Editors)
  • Published:
Current Hepatology Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

There 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 Findings

It 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.

Summary

Several 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.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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  1. Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Oregon Health and Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd, Portland, OR, 97239, USA

    Lauren Myers, Arnab Mitra & Joseph Ahn

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Myers, L., Mitra, A. & Ahn, J. Addressing Hepatitis B in the Context of Hepatitis C. Curr Hepatology Rep 20, 175–182 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11901-021-00578-6

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