Background/aims:
Possible pathogenic differences among hepatitis b virus (hbv) genotypes have been observed; however, the response to interferon therapy among hbv genotypes remains unknown. we therefore analyzed the efficacy of interferon alfa in the treatment of chronic hepatitis b patients with different hbv genotypes.
Methods:
Fifty-eight genotype b or c infected chronic hepatitis b patients who had been treated with interferon alfa-2b were retrospectively studied. the response to interferon was defined as normalization of serum aminotransferase level, loss of hepatitis b e antigen and hbv dna 48 weeks post-treatment.
Results:
Baseline data of both groups of patients were comparable; however, genotype c patients had a higher serum aminotransferase level and a higher frequency of core promoter mutation. the response rate was 41% and 15% in genotype b and c patients, respectively (p=0.045). in those with higher serum aminotransferase levels, the response rate was 50% and 17%, respectively (p=0.025). additionally, younger age and genotype b infection may predict a better response to interferon alfa.
Conclusions:
Hbv genotype c, compared to genotype b, is associated with a higher frequency of core promoter mutation, and a lower response rate to interferon alfa therapy.