HBV itself and the host immune responses determine the outcome of HBV infection, which can be either acute or chronic. Current immunological researches and clinical observations have revealed that existing antiviral drugs cannot restore the antiviral immunity of patients with chronic hepatitis B, and therefore can not completely eliminate HBV. Combined with new immunotherapy, according to the different stages of disease to adopt individualized treatment, may be an effective way to achieve the cure of HBV infection. Here, the current progress and challenges of chronic HBV infection will be reviewed.

chronic hepatitis B  /  disease progression  /  antiviral therapy  /  immunotherapy