IFNa benefits for treatment of chronic hepatitis D

New research published at this year's International Liver Congress in Barcelona has highlighted the considerable benefits of traditional treatment options for patients diagnosed with chronic hepatitis D.

Work carried out at the Hannover Medical School in Germany has shown how 35 percent of patients respond positively to interferon alpha (IFNa)-based therapies, with sustained suppression of the virus and more favourable outcomes in comparison to those that have not been treated in this manner.

Lead author of the research Anika Wranke, a Fellow of Hannover Medical School, stated: "Our study demonstrates that the long-term outcomes for patients with severe hepatitis D, who have limited treatment options, could be improved with a widely available medication."

IFNa is already a recognised treatment option in cases of hepatitis B. However, this study reveals it could also provide a welcome boost to patient outcomes in other applications as well.

Professor Tom Hemming Karlsen, EASL vice-secretary, added that the result means new studies "to enhance antiviral treatment for this serious disease" should now be carried out.

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