Synopsis: The reactivation of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection during immunosuppressive therapy is common. The rate of reactivation in hepatitis patients undergoing SCT ranges from 3 to 43%. This “JOURNAL WATCH” discusses the study “Efficacy of lamivudine prophylaxis in preventing hepatitis B virus reactivation in patients with resolved infection undergoing allogeneic SCT and receiving rituximab,” from Infection by Springer; Dec 2020. Authors : Emanuela Zappulo, Laura Ambra Nicolini, et al.
What was the need for this study? Prophylaxis against HBV reactivation is universally recommended in patients who have undergone stem cell transplant (SCT). The prophylaxis is also recommended in patients treated with anti-CD20 agents (i.e., rituximab). The safety and efficacy profile of lamivudine (LAM) as a prophylactic therapy has been debated, due to the emergence of resistant viral strains.…
