Cirrhosis regression in patients with viral hepatitis B and C: a systematic review.

INTRODUCTION

Cirrhosis is a major milestone in patients with chronic liver disease because of its impact on patient morbidity and mortality. Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and hepatitis C (CHC) are important causes of cirrhosis. This systematic review examines the relevant literature and evidence to assess whether cirrhosis can be reversible in patients with cirrhosis from viral hepatitis through long viral suppression.

METHODS

A MEDLINE and Cochrane Library search was conducted to identify all articles pertinent to the subject matter. Fourteen publications were included in the final analysis: 4 hepatitis B studies and 10 hepatitis C studies. Data abstracted from individual studies included patient demographics, antiviral therapy used, length of treatment, liver biopsy scoring system, length of biopsy, and time between biopsies.

RESULTS

In CHB, the 7 studies reviewed included a total of 463 cirrhotic patients. Regression of cirrhosis was noted in a median of 70% (range, 33% to 80%) of patients. In CHC, the 13 studies reviewed included a total of 58 cirrhotic patients. Regression of cirrhosis was seen in a median of 64% (range, 33% to 100%) of patients with sustained viral response.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of our review suggest that viral suppression in CHB and sustained virologic response in CHC can be associated with histologic regression of cirrhosis in select patients.