Influencing factors for the functional cure of chronic hepatitis B and related mechanism / 临床肝胆病杂志

ABSTRACT

Functional cure of chronic hepatitis B (CHB), defined as negative hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) with or without the presence of hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs), is considered the optimal endpoint for CHB treatment at present. Studies have shown that HBsAg clearance can reduce the risk of HBV complications such as liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. However, HBsAg clearance rate remains at a relatively low level, which may be associated with the immune tolerance state caused by HBV infection. HBsAg clearance and/or the presence of anti-HBs indicate the partial recovery of HBV-specific immunity. This article discusses the influencing factors for the functional cure of CHB and the underlying mechanisms.