ENHANCING CHRONIC HEPATITIS B TREATMENT IN ATHLETES: THE ROLE OF THYMOPENTIN AND LONG-ACTING INTERFERON IN BOOSTING CTL RESPONSE IN HBEAG-POSITIVE PATIENTS

Abstract

Objective: This study investigates the enhanced efficacy of thymopentin combined with long-acting interferon in treating athletes with HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B (CHB), focusing on its effects on CTL proliferation and liver function. Methods: We analyzed 139 HBeAg-positive CHB patients treated at our hospital from January 2021 to January 2023. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups: a control group (n=75) receiving pegylated long-acting interferon-2b alone, and a study group (n=74) receiving an additional thymopentin treatment. We compared the clinical efficacy, HBV-specific CTL proliferation, liver function indices, immune function, and adverse reactions between the two groups. Results: The study group demonstrated significantly improved rates of HBeAg conversion, HBV-DNA conversion, and virological breakthrough compared to the control group (P<0.05). HBV-specific CTL proliferation was notably higher in the study group (P<0.05). Both groups showed reductions in total bilirubin, interleukin-4, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine transaminase post-treatment, with more significant reductions observed in the study group (P<0.05). Additionally, increases in albumin and interferon levels were more pronounced in the study group (P<0.05). The incidence of adverse reactions was comparable between both groups (P>0.05). Conclusion: The combination of thymopentin and long-acting interferon significantly enhances the treatment efficacy for athletes with HBeAg-positive CHB, promoting better viral control and liver function recovery without increasing adverse effects. This treatment protocol holds substantial clinical value, offering a potent therapeutic option that supports the health and performance needs of athletes managing chronic hepatitis B.