Comments on the EASL practice guidelines for the management of chronic hepatitis B: controversies in interferon-based therapy.

摘要

To the Editor:With great interest we read the new EASL clinical practice guidelines for the management of chronic hepatitis B. First, we would, like to complement the authors with these concise and well-written guidelines. The manuscript provides valuable information and a firm helping hand for the many practicing clinicians around the globe struggling with different treatment modalities for chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. In particular, the distinction between sustained off-treatment response and treatment maintained response is of great importance. In addition, the clear recommendation for the strongest antivirals and the schedule for follow-up of antiviral therapy are important new concepts in these guidelines. There are however some concerns we would like to raise, particularly concerning the recommendations for interferon (IFN)-treated patients.