Anti-rheumatic drug-induced hepatitis B virus reactivation and preventive strategies for hepatocellular carcinoma

To date, an estimated 300 million people worldwide have been infected with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV). Although anti-HBV therapies have improved the long-term survival profile of chronic carriers, viral reactivation still poses a significant challenge for preventing HBV-related hepatitis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and death. Immuno-modulating drugs, which are widely applied in managing rheumatic conditions, are commonly associated with HBV reactivation (HBVr) as a result of drug-induced immune suppression. However, there are few reports on the risk of HBVr and the medication management plan for HBV carriers, especially rheumatic patients. In this review, we summarize immuno-modulating drug-induced HBVr during rheumatoid therapy and its preventive strategies for HBVr-induced liver diseases, especially cirrhosis and HCC. These findings will assist with developing treatments for rheumatic patients, and prevent HBV-related cirrhosis and HCC.

Automated summary

This review summarizes the risk of HBV reactivation and medication management plan for HBV carriers, especially rheumatic patients, during rheumatoid therapy. It also provides preventive strategies for HBV reactivation-induced liver diseases, particularly cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). These findings are significant for developing treatments for rheumatic patients and preventing HBV-related liver diseases.