Early changes in HBV RNA serum levels are a predictor of HBeAg seroconversion in patients with chronic hepatitis B receiving treatment with Peg-interferon alpha-2a (40KD).

Introduction: We explored HBV RNA as a predictor of HBeAg seroconversion in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). Methodology: 16 pairs of patients with HBeAg positive CHB (HBeAg seroconversion vs. non-seroconversion, matched by country and genotype) treated with Peg-IFN alpha-2a for 48 weeks and observed for additional 24 weeks were retrospectively studied. HBV RNA was quantified from serum samples collected at baseline, at weeks 12 and 24 of treatment. The factors HBV RNA, HBV DNA, HBsAg and ALT levels at baseline, week 12 and 24 were explored for their association with HBeAg seroconversion in a multivariat…