Curative effect of lamivudine on cirrhosis in patients with chronic active hepatitis B

Objective To study the curative effect of lamivudine on cirrhosis following chronic active hepatitis B. Methods Forty inpatients and outpatients in a hospital from February 2000 to February 2002 received lamivudine 100mg orally everyday for consecutive 12 months. Clinical symptoms, signs, biochemical exam results and viral markers were compared between before and after the treatment. Results After receiving lamivudine treatment, 37 patients' situation remained stable, life quality improved, child pugh score declined, and liver function became normal or better. The level of HBV DNA decreased to less than 10 3 copies/mL; HBeAg of 29.73% of patients (11/37) became negative. Conclusion Treatment with lamivudine for cirrhosis following chronic hepatitis B can improve liver function and life quality.