Can Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Become Negative with Treatment?

Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)

Hello, I am a carrier of hepatitis B.
Recently, my surface antigen decreased from 1.3 to 1.04, while my surface antibody levels are between 5.6 and 5.56.
In previous years, my surface antigen was consistently above 5 or higher.
Is there any active treatment available that can help reduce my surface antigen to negative? Thank you.

I'm sorry, but it, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/12

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello,
1.
For the treatment of hepatitis B, there are currently five antiviral medications and interferons (both long-acting and short-acting).
Antiviral medications reduce HBV-DNA and improve liver function.
Interferons have immunomodulatory and antiviral properties.
Other mechanisms of action drugs, including those aimed at reducing HBsAg, are still under development.

2.
Hepatitis B carriers should focus on liver protection and undergo regular follow-up examinations.

Wishing you health,
Dr.
Lin Ming-Hui, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2015/11/12

More Info

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver and can lead to chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis and liver cancer. The Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) is a key marker used to determine whether a person is currently infected with the virus. A positive HBsAg indicates an active infection, while a negative result suggests that the virus is no longer present, either due to recovery or successful treatment.

In your case, it is encouraging to see that your HBsAg levels have decreased from over 5 to 1.04. This reduction indicates that the viral load is decreasing, which is a positive sign. The presence of Hepatitis B surface antibodies (anti-HBs) at levels of 5.6-5.56 suggests that your immune system is responding to the infection, which is also a good sign.
To answer your question, yes, it is possible for HBsAg to become negative with appropriate treatment. The goal of treatment for chronic Hepatitis B is to suppress the virus to the point where it is undetectable, which can lead to the loss of HBsAg. This process can take time and may require a combination of antiviral medications.
Currently, the main antiviral treatments for Hepatitis B include nucleos(t)ide analogs such as entecavir and tenofovir. These medications work by inhibiting the replication of the virus, thereby reducing the viral load and allowing the immune system to regain control over the infection. In some cases, patients may also be treated with interferon, which can help to boost the immune response against the virus.

The decision to initiate or change treatment should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider who specializes in liver diseases. They can assess your liver function, the level of viral replication, and any potential liver damage to determine the best course of action.
It is important to note that not all patients will achieve a negative HBsAg status, and some may require long-term treatment to maintain viral suppression. Regular monitoring of liver function tests, HBsAg, and HBV DNA levels is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment and make necessary adjustments.

In addition to antiviral therapy, lifestyle modifications can also play a crucial role in managing Hepatitis B. This includes avoiding alcohol, maintaining a healthy diet, and regular exercise to support liver health.
In summary, while it is possible for HBsAg to become negative with treatment, achieving this goal may take time and requires a comprehensive approach that includes antiviral therapy and lifestyle changes. Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is essential to monitor your progress and make informed decisions about your treatment plan.

Similar Q&A

Can Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Change from Positive to Negative?

Hello Doctor: I previously underwent a health check-up in January 2003, where the hepatitis B surface antigen was positive and the surface antibody was negative, thus I was determined to be a carrier (liver function tests, alpha-fetoprotein, and abdominal ultrasound were all norm...

Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, previously the surface antigen was positive, but it is now undetectable, and the surface antibody is also negative. There are several possibilities: 1. The surface antigen may still be present but at a level too low to be detected due to the sensitivity of the test; 2. It ...

Understanding Surface Antibodies and Relapse Risks After Hepatitis B Treatment

Hello: Four years ago, I started taking entecavir due to acute hepatitis. In January of this year, my E antigen turned negative, and the other day, my surface antigen also turned negative, with a surface antibody level of 861 IU/L. Since my health insurance coverage will expire i...

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Currently, the National Health Insurance recommends that patients with e-antigen positive hepatitis B who turn negative require one year of consolidation therapy. The presence of S-antigen turning negative and the production of S-antibodies in patients infected with hepati...

Understanding Hepatitis B: Antibodies, Treatment, and Risks Explained

Hello, Doctor. 1. I tested positive for hepatitis B surface antigen. If I have hepatitis B surface antibodies, does that mean I won't be infected with hepatitis B again? However, my previous hepatitis B antibody test was negative. Why do I now have hepatitis B? If I recove...

Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Reply: Hello, 1. A positive Hepatitis B surface antibody indicates immunity, meaning you will not be reinfected with the Hepatitis B virus. Since your Hepatitis B antibody (surface antibody?) is negative, there is a possibility of Hepatitis B infection. Even if Hepatitis B is t...

Can I Donate Blood After Testing Negative for Hepatitis B Surface Antigen?

Hello Director: I am a carrier of hepatitis B. I started interferon treatment three years ago for a duration of one year, and I have been off medication for two years now. In July of last year (2015), my surface antigen tested negative, my surface antibody tested positive, and th...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, sir: According to medical principles, you are eligible to donate blood; however, if the blood donation center has a record of your Hepatitis B, they will likely refuse your donation. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian