Early viral dynamics is a strong significant predictor for long-term response and occurence of YMDD mutations in patients treated with lamivudine for chronic Hepatitis B

Aims: Viral kinetics and HBV genotypes are believd to play a significant role in treatment response and occurence of YMDD mutations in patients treated with lamivudine for chronic Hepatitis B (CHB). Methods: In this prospective study the serological, virological and genomic data of sixty patients (71.7% males, 60% HBeAg negative) were analyzed. All patients received 100mg lamivudine QD for at least two years. Quantitative HBV DNA and ALT levels were monitored at 4, 12, 24, 48, 72 and 96 weeks. HBV genotyping was performed at baseline whereas serological testing was performed at baseline, 24, 48 and 96 weeks. YMD…