Resolving infection is characterised by the loss of HBeAg and development of anti-HBe, the reduction of HBV DNA levels and the eventual loss of HBsAg with the development of anti-HBs. Persistence Lumacaftor solubility dmso of HBsAg for longer than 6 months is diagnostic of chronic infection. Studies indicate that HBsAg levels are predictive of response to both PEG-IFN and nucleoside analogue (NA) therapy. Quantification of HBsAg is not widely available in routine diagnostic laboratories. Further studies are required to make firm recommendations
about the optimal use of HBsAg levels in the setting of HIV infection. HBV DNA assays that have a wide range of quantification should be used, and should be reported in IU/mL. We recommend against HBV resistance testing at baseline in those previously unexposed to antivirals (1C). We recommend, buy EPZ5676 where feasible, HBV resistance testing at baseline in those with detectable HBV DNA and previously exposed to antiviral drugs with anti HBV activity if not on treatment, where there is primary non-response or partial response
to HBV-active antivirals, or where there is virological breakthrough (1C). We recommend against a change in HBV-specific therapy in those whose viraemia continues to show improving response to treatment after 48 weeks (1C). We recommend against testing for HBV genotype as an investigation to determine initial treatment (1C). We recommend adherence is discussed with all patients with HBV viraemia receiving antivirals. Primary infection with lamivudine-resistant HBV has been detected in HIV populations [10]. The prevalence of mutations at baseline is low [11]. Both major resistance mutations and compensatory mutations have been described [12]. These mutations are not thought to confer resistance to tenofovir and thus baseline genotypic testing is not routinely recommended, whereas it is appropriate in those with treatment experience, especially in those unable to receive tenofovir (Table 6.2). The risk of development of resistance is associated
with the HBV DNA level and the type of nucleoside/nucleotide analogue the individual is receiving. In previously untreated patients, the genetic Erastin molecular weight barrier to resistance is low with 3TC, FTC and telbivudine (TBV); low to intermediate with adefovir (ADV); and high with entecavir and tenofovir (TDF). The genetic barrier of entecavir is lowered by previous exposure to 3TC monotherapy. There is potential cross-resistance between ADV and TDF, which is overcome by the greater potency of TDF. HBV is classified into ten genotypes (A–J) on the basis of divergence of 8% or more in the nucleotide sequence, the most common in the UK being genotype D (31%) [13]. HBV genotyping is not widely utilised in clinical practice.