Interferon tx for HBV vs. genotype

[NashPred]

As a reminder, I have both Hep C & B. I was planning on tx Hep C for 24 weeks and then managing the HBV with an antiviral after that.

Dr. now thinks I should continue on Interferon tx for 48 weeks total (an additional 24 weeks) for HBV because I had such a great initial response to it (UND at 4 weeks) and because of my HBV genotype being “type A”

They said I had a 40% chance of getting rid of HBV with all things considered in my case with IFN. I don’t know where they got this figure from, but if anyone has any insight I would appreciate it.

I know that genotype A can be the easiest to tx, but my main concerns were autoimmune problems developing from the IFN and the way the drug makes me feel. They said that at 24 weeks when I am able to stop taking the Ribavirin for Hep C that my symptoms would improve because the symptoms are more related to the Ribavirin than the IFN.

I could handle an additional 24 weeks of IFN if I truly have a 40% chance of clearing HBV and the symptoms subside after stopping the Riba. I’m just having a hard time figuring out if it is worth it and where they got this figure from. I’m also ready to start feeling better and want my old self back.

Anyone ever heard of a HBV genotype A clearing from IFN mono therapy? Especially when VL was UND after only 4 weeks of tx? Would my chances really go up with 48 weeks of IFN tx versus only 24?

Thoughts anyone?

Anyone currently on or have taken IFN mono therapy? How does the IFN alone make you feel? What was/is your genotype and result?

[cajim]

Glad to hear from you and hope good results are coming.

Best.

[NashPred]

Thanks Jim....looks like you've been busy. Lots of questions asked on the forum lately. I have some catching up to do.

[zellyf]

Thanks for the update, NashPred.  Make sure you tell us your results!

[NashPred]

Finally got the results of my lastest lab work:

HBsAg - still positive (I'll see what I can do about converting that for next month)

VL - still UND (Everything is good there)

ALT - 27 (Only up 1 point from last month so it is holding steady.)

I got this info over the phone from the nurse so I don't have the hard copy yet, but I didn't ask about eAg or eAb but I would guess eAg still Neg and eAb still Pos.

Looking forward to coming off the Ribavirin that I take for HCV to see if some of my CBC's return to normal. Just 1 more month of those pills.

Tune in next month for exciting adventures.

[cajim]

Good results.  For HBsAg to turn negative, I have read it may take years.

Best.