Can hepatitis B be cured?

Sep 23, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Gao Jun

Introduction

In general, hepatitis B refers to Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Whether it can be cured depends on the specific situation. Most cases of acute hepatitis B can be completely cured, while chronic hepatitis B is currently difficult to eradicate entirely. However, with proper treatment, the condition can be effectively controlled over the long term, allowing patients to maintain a normal life. The key difference lies in the age at which the virus is acquired and the type of disease presentation. If you suspect or have been diagnosed with hepatitis B, it is recommended to seek timely medical care at a正规 hospital.

Generally speaking, "hepatitis B" refers to hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Whether it can be cured depends on the specific situation. Acute hepatitis B can usually be completely cured, while chronic hepatitis B is currently difficult to eradicate entirely. However, with proper treatment, the condition can be effectively controlled long-term, allowing patients to live normal lives. The key difference lies in the age at which the virus was acquired and the type of disease. Here's a detailed explanation:

Acute hepatitis B commonly occurs in adults. After infection, the body's immune system can actively clear the virus. Most individuals recover within several months, with liver function returning to normal and the hepatitis B surface antigen turning negative—achieving what is effectively a "complete cure." Only a small proportion of cases progress to chronic infection. In contrast, chronic hepatitis B usually results from infection during childhood. The virus remains latent in the body for long periods, evading complete elimination by the immune system and often leading to recurrent flare-ups. Currently, no medication can fully eliminate this latent virus, making a complete cure very difficult.

Although chronic hepatitis B cannot yet be completely cured, clinical remission or long-term control can be achieved through standardized treatment. For example, taking antiviral medications such as entecavir or tenofovir as prescribed by a doctor can suppress viral replication, reducing viral load to undetectable levels and maintaining normal liver function. This prevents liver damage and significantly reduces the risk of progression to cirrhosis or liver cancer. Patients can then work and live much like healthy individuals.

If you suspect or have been diagnosed with hepatitis B, it is recommended to seek timely medical care at a正规 hospital, undergo appropriate tests, and follow medical advice for treatment, thereby minimizing the impact on your health as much as possible.

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Is liver cancer or chronic viral hepatitis contagious?

In general, liver cancer itself is not contagious, but chronic viral hepatitis can be transmitted. In daily life, it is important to avoid sharing personal items that may come into contact with blood, such as toothbrushes and razors. Individuals with chronic viral hepatitis should actively seek treatment to reduce the risk of virus transmission. Healthy individuals can enhance their resistance to related viral hepatitis through measures such as receiving the hepatitis B vaccine.

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Can patients with hepatitis B take entecavir?

In general, "hepatitis B" refers to hepatitis B virus infection. Patients with chronic hepatitis B can take entecavir, which is a first-line antiviral drug in clinical treatment. Entecavir can effectively suppress hepatitis B virus replication and delay the progression of liver damage. However, it must be used properly under the guidance of a doctor; self-medication or stopping the medication without medical advice is not recommended. During treatment, patients should regularly undergo follow-up tests for liver function and viral markers.

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What medication should be taken for high alanine aminotransferase?

Generally speaking, there is no specific medication for "elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT)." High ALT levels may result from factors such as chronic sleep deprivation, excessive alcohol consumption, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, drug-induced liver injury, or chronic hepatitis B. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition through general management, medications, or other treatments under the guidance of a physician.