A systematic review 1 including 26 RCTs with a total of 1,305 subjects was abstracted in DARE. All trials had a minimum follow-up of 12 months. The outcome measure (response) was sustained enzymatic normalisation, clearance of virus (absence of HBV-DNA as tested by PCR), HBeAG/anti-HBe seroconversion and a net sustained improvement in clinical condition. Partial responders achieved widespread improvement in their clinical condition but not complete normalisation or they had a relapse after suspension of treatment. The overall odds ratio of remission between treated and untreated patients was 4.0 (95% CI 3.1 to 5.2).
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