Interferon-α and Lamivudine Combination Therapy of Children with Chronic Hepatitis B Infection Who Were Interferon-α Nonresponders

Abstract

Greater than one-half of children with chronic hepatitis B infection are nonresponders to interferon-α (IFN-α). The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of lamivudine (LMV) and IFN-α combination therapy in these children. Nineteen children were given LMV alone for 3 months; then IFN-α was added to LMV for 6 months. Virologic response was achieved in seven (36.8%) patients. LMV and IFN-α combination therapy may represent an effective treatment option.