CHRONIC HEPATITIS B VIRUS INFECTION

Hepatitis B virus is a major health dilemma causing an enormous burden on the health care systemand a major source of patient’s suffering. Over the last decade, far-reaching research has not only led to theenhancement of present management of chronic hepatitis B, but has also revealed new options for the treatment ofthis appalling disease. Presently interferon alpha- 2b, lamivudine, adenofovir dipivoxil and tenofovir are being employedfor the management of chronic hepatitis B infection. However, extensive research is being carried out to assess theefficacy of peg- interferon, emtricitabine, entecavir and telbivudine in treating chronic hepatitis B infection.