Prostaglandin E plus famciclovir--a new concept for the treatment of severe hepatitis B after liver transplantation

Abstract

New concepts for the treatment of hepatitis B in immunocompromised patients are urgently needed. We describe our first experience with the new antiviral agent famciclovir in combination with a short course of prostaglandin E in a patient with severe hepatitis B after liver transplantation. Initial treatment with prostaglandin E reduced the inflammatory activity, as measured by transaminase activities, but did not affect viral replication. Consecutive long-term treatment with famciclovir further normalized liver function and profoundly suppressed viral replication. HBeAg and HBV-DNA -PCR all became negative and only HBsAg persisted. Histology documented marked reduction of cellular infiltration. The patient completely recovered and is back to regular work as a teacher.