Hepatitis B Treatment

A diagnosis of Hepatitis B is usually confirmed with a blood test that measures the levels of antibodies as well as the virus in the system. If suffering from chronic Hepatitis B, other tests may be used to help guide the treatment regime. An ultrasound or CT scan can help determine the severity of liver damage brought on by chronic Hepatitis B and provide regular screenings for the development of cancer. A liver biopsy may also be used to examine liver damage and to determine how well the treatment is working (eMedicine, 2012). There is no specific treatment used for acute Hepatitis B but for those recovering from an acute infection, maintaining good nutrition and balance of fluids (WHO, 2012).

When the infection becomes chronic, the goal of treatment is to reduce the likelihood of complications such as liver failure or cirrhosis. Treatment will often involve medications that are usually nucleoside/nucleotide analogues or interferons (MedicineNet, 2012). Nucleoside/nucleotide analogues (NAs) are compounds that have been synthesized that mimic the body's NAs the virus uses to replicate itself; this prevents the virus from spreading and growing stronger. There are a number of different NAs that can be used but unfortunately, the virus can become resistant to NAs over time. At this time, this treatment approach is only recommended for up to 6 months and the success varies (MedicineNet, 2012).

Interferons are naturally occurring proteins produced by the body's white blood cells to fight infection. Only 27%-32% of patients given this treatment will be able to produce the antibodies against the virus and a relapse may occur if the treatment is stopped. This treatment also includes side effects not limited to but including: fatigue, fever, loss of appetite, chills, generalized muscle aches, depression, mood swings, anxiety, thyroid gland abnormalities, infection, hair loss, or inhibition of bone marrow creation of blood cells (MedicineNet, 2012). If complications occur and the liver begins to fail, a liver transplant may be recommended by your health care professional