What Is Hepatitis B?
A viral infection of the liver caused by hepatitis B virus (HBV) that can be acute or progress to chronic disease.
Why Do I Need Treatment?
You may need therapy if you have:
- Elevated HBV DNA and liver enzymes
- Fibrosis on imaging or biopsy
- Family history of cirrhosis/HCC
How Should I Prepare?
- Blood tests: HBV serologies, DNA quantification, liver panel.
- Imaging: Ultrasound for fibrosis assessment and HCC surveillance.
What Happens During Treatment?
- First-line antivirals: tenofovir or entecavir daily.
- Monitor: HBV DNA and liver enzymes every 3–6 months.
- Lifestyle: Avoid alcohol; maintain healthy weight.
What Can I Expect Afterwards?
- Viral suppression in most patients within months.
- Continued treatment may be lifelong to prevent flare.
Risks & Possible Complications
- Drug side effects: renal monitoring for tenofovir
- Rare resistance with older antivirals
Follow-Up
- Clinic visits every 3–6 months for labs and HCC ultrasound.
- Consider hepatology referral for treatment decisions.
