Prevention and Management of Hepatitis B Virus Infection in Adults With HIV

October 16, 2024

Purpose of This Guideline

Date of current publication: October 16, 2024
Lead author: Alok Gupta, MBBS
Writing group: Rona M. Vail, MD, AAHIVS; Sanjiv S. Shah, MD, MPH, AAHIVM, AAHIVS; Steven M. Fine, MD, PhD; Joseph P. McGowan, MD, FACP, FIDSA, AAHIVS; Samuel T. Merrick, MD, FIDSA; Asa E. Radix, MD, MPH, PhD, FACP, AAHIVS; Jessica Rodrigues, MPH, MS; Christopher J. Hoffmann, MD, MPH, MSc, FACP; Brianna L. Norton, DO, MPH; Charles J. Gonzalez, MD
Committee: Medical Care Criteria Committee
Date of original publication: August 1, 2013

Purpose: This guideline on prevention and management of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in adults with HIV has been developed by the New York State Department of Health AIDS Institute (NYSDOH AI) to guide clinicians in New York State who provide medical care for adults (≥18 years old) with HIV who are at risk of acquiring HBV or have HBV coinfection.

The goals of this guideline are to:

  • Raise awareness among clinicians about the prevalence and associated risks of chronic HBV in patients with HIV.
  • Increase screening for and vaccination against HBV in adults with HIV.
  • Provide up-to-date, evidence-based recommendations on diagnosis, assessment, treatment, and monitoring of chronic HBV infection in patients with HIV, with emphasis on the essential components of antiretroviral therapy to treat coinfection.

HBV transmission: There are an estimated 1.25 to 2.49 million people with chronic HBV in the United States Lim, et al. 2020 and thousands of deaths annually from HBV-related complications, including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) CDC 2020. The primary routes of HBV transmission are perinatal transmission to the child, blood exposure, and sexual exposure. HBV DNA has been detected in various bodily secretions, including tears, urine, and saliva, but there is no firm evidence of HBV transmission via body fluids other than blood, semen, or vaginal secretions StatPearls 2023Komatsu, et al. 2012.

Approximately 95% of individuals who acquire HBV in adulthood will mount an immune response, resulting in spontaneous recovery and production of protective HBV antibodies (anti‐HBs). However, some individuals will develop persistent HBV due to failure of the initial immune response to clear the virus, which results in chronic HBV infection Bennett, et al. 2019. Chronic HBV infection is defined as circulating hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in the blood for ≥6 months Terrault, et al. 2018.

HIV/HBV coinfection: HIV and HBV share similar transmission routes and both infections are often diagnosed in the same patients. Individuals with HIV born in the United States generally acquire HBV through sexual contact and injection drug use. In contrast, people with HIV born in HBV-endemic regions most commonly acquire the infection at birth or in early childhood Alter 2006.

In a large U.S. cohort study of individuals with HIV, from 1996 to 2007, 8.4% overall tested positive for HBsAg or detectable HBV DNA; prevalence was higher (10.3%) among men who have sex with men than among individuals who inject drugs (8.5%) and heterosexual individuals with risk factors (5.2%) Spradling, et al. 2010.

HIV/HBV coinfection can significantly influence the natural history, progression, management, morbidity, and mortality associated with both infections. HBV viremia and the risk of chronic HBV are increased in people with HIV Thio 2009. In addition, HIV infection is associated with decreased clearance of HBV e antigen. Individuals with HIV who acquire protective anti‐HBs through HBV infection remain at risk of developing low antibody levels and subsequent reactivation of HBV (reverse seroconversion). Individuals with HIV/HBV coinfection also tend to have a decreased inflammatory response to chronic HBV, indicated by decreased serum alanine transaminase levels, an increased risk of progression to cirrhosis and HCC, and increased mortality compared with individuals with HBV monoinfection Sun, et al. 2021Pinato, et al. 2019Singh, et al. 2017Thio 2009.

Post-exposure prophylaxis: For recommendations on HBV post-exposure prophylaxis, see the NYSDOH AI guideline PEP to Prevent HIV Infection > Management of Potential Exposure to Hepatitis B Virus.

HBV Screening and Diagnosis

RECOMMENDATIONS
Screening Tests
  • Clinicians should determine the HBV vaccination and immune status of patients with HIV by performing laboratory testing for HBsAg, anti-HBs, and anti-HBc (total). (A*) See Table 1: Interpretation of HBV Screening Test Results.
  • Clinicians should repeat laboratory screening annually in patients who are not immune to HBV, choose not to be vaccinated, and are at ongoing risk of acquiring HBV. (A3)
Diagnosis
  • In patients with positive baseline (screening) HBsAg test results, clinicians should perform HBeAg, anti-HBe, and HBV DNA testing to diagnose the phase of HBV infection. (B2†) See Table 2: Serologic and Virologic Responses to HBV Infection.
  • If a patient with HIV and unknown HBsAg status has signs or symptoms of acute hepatitis (i.e., elevated ALT), the clinician should perform HBsAg, anti-HBc IgM, HBeAg, anti-HBe (A*), and HBV DNA (A3) testing along with other diagnostic testing for acute hepatitis.
Acute HBV Infection
  • If acute HBV infection is confirmed and the patient is asymptomatic, the clinician should repeat ALT testing within 2 to 4 weeks to assess for symptoms of liver disease progression (B3) and repeat HBsAg, HBeAg, anti-HBe, and HBV DNA testing 6 months later to determine whether infection has cleared. (A3)
  • If a patient with HIV and acute HBV is not taking ART, the clinician should recommend ART initiation. (A1)
Transmission Prevention
  • Clinicians should advise patients who have a positive HBsAg test result that they can transmit HBV (A*) and encourage sexually active patients to use effective barrier protection to reduce the risk of HBV transmission. (A2†)
  • Clinicians should inform patients with HBV that their household contacts should be vaccinated and counsel the patients to avoid sharing items such as razors or toothbrushes that could expose others to HBV-contaminated blood. (A2†)
  • For individuals who inject drugs, clinicians should offer or refer for substance use treatment, ensure access to clean needles and syringes, and provide harm reduction counseling. (A2†)

Abbreviations: ALT, alanine transaminase; anti-HBc, hepatitis B core antibody; anti-HBe, antibody to HBeAg; anti-HBs, hepatitis B surface antibody; ART, antiretroviral therapy; HBeAg, hepatitis B e antigen; HBsAg, hepatitis B surface antigen; HBV, hepatitis B virus; IgG, immunoglobulin G; IgM, immunoglobulin M.

NEW YORK STATE LAW: REPORTING HBV INFECTION

Screening Tests

Clinicians should screen all patients with HIV for HBV risk, vaccination history, and infection upon entry into medical care and perform baseline testing to determine HBV immune status. Initial laboratory testing includes serologic testing for HBsAg, anti-HBc total, and anti-HBs, with results interpreted as detailed in Table 1, below. Patients with anti-HBs levels of ≥10 IU/mL are considered immune to HBV DHHS 2023. If a patient with HIV decides against HBV vaccination and remains at risk, annual laboratory screening is recommended (see guideline section HBV Vaccination) Terrault, et al. 2018.

Abbreviations: anti-HBc, hepatitis B core antibody; anti-HBs, hepatitis B surface antibody; HBsAg, hepatitis B surface antigen; HBV, hepatitis B virus; IgG, immunoglobulin G; IgM, immunoglobulin M.
Table 1: Interpretation of HBV Screening Test Results
HBsAg Anti-HBs Anti-HBc Interpretations
IgG IgM
Negative Negative Negative Negative Susceptible to HBV infection
Negative Positive Negative Negative Immune due to HBV vaccination
Negative Positive Positive Negative Immune due to natural HBV infection
Positive Negative Positive Positive Acute HBV infection
Positive Negative Positive Negative/Positive Chronic HBV infection
Negative Negative Positive Negative/Positive Isolated anti-HBc positivity. Possible interpretations:

  • Resolved HBV infection with waning anti-HBs titers
  • False-positive result
  • Occult HBV infection
  • Resolving acute HBV infection

Download Table 1: Interpretation of HBV Screening Test Results Printable PDF

Diagnosis

For patients with positive HBsAg screening test results, follow-up laboratory testing should be performed to confirm HBV status (see Table 2, below). If a patient with HIV and unknown HBsAg status presents with signs or symptoms of acute hepatitis (i.e., elevated ALT), the clinician should perform HBsAg, anti-HBc IgM, HBeAg, anti-HBe, and HBV DNA testing to confirm a diagnosis.

Abbreviations: anti-HBc, hepatitis B core antibody (IgG or IgM); anti-HBe, antibody to HBeAg; anti-HBs, hepatitis B surface antibody; HBeAg, hepatitis B e antigen; HBsAg, hepatitis B surface antigen; HBV, hepatitis B virus; IgG, immunoglobulin G; IgM, immunoglobulin M.

Note:

  1. For more information, see Medscape: Precore Mutant Chronic Hepatitis B—Approach to Management.
Table 2: Serologic and Virologic Responses to HBV Infection
Stage of Infection HBsAg Anti-HBs Anti-HBc IgG Anti-HBc IgM HBeAg Anti-HBe HBV DNA Level
Incubation + + or − Low
Acute HBV infection + + + + High
HBs-negative acute HBV + + + or − High
Inactive HBsAg carrier + +++ + or − + Low
Precore mutant [a] + + or − + or − + High
Occult infection + + or − High or low
Chronic HBV infection + +++ + or − + or − High or low

Download Table 2: Serologic and Virologic Responses to HBV Infection Printable PDF

Acute HBV infection: Following exposure, HBV enters the bloodstream and circulates to the liver. The post-exposure time to the onset of abnormal liver enzymes averages 60 days (range, 40 to 90 days), and the onset of jaundice averages 90 days (range, 60 to 150 days). Acute HBV infection is asymptomatic in approximately 70% of patients, and <1% of patients develop fulminant hepatic failure. When symptoms manifest, they may include anorexia, malaise, nausea, vomiting, arthralgias, and right upper quadrant abdominal pain. Symptoms generally resolve within 4 weeks, with normalization of transaminase levels in 2 to 8 weeks.

Acute HBV infection is diagnosed through the detection of HBsAg and anti-HBc IgM. During the initial phase of infection, HBeAg and HBV DNA are also present (see Figure 1, below). Recovery is marked by the disappearance of HBV DNA and seroconversion of HBeAg to anti-HBe and of HBsAg to anti-HBs Shiffman 2010.

Figure 1: Typical Serologic Course of Acute Hepatitis B Virus Infection With Recovery [a]

Figure 1: Typical Serologic Course of Acute Hepatitis B Virus Infection With Recovery [a]

Abbreviations: anti-HBc, hepatitis B core antibody; anti-HBe, antibody to HBeAg; anti-HBs, hepatitis B surface antibody; HBeAg, hepatitis B e antigen; HBsAg, hepatitis B surface antigen; IgM, immunoglobulin M.

Note:

  1. Reprinted from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Recommendations for Identification and Public Health Management of Persons with Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection.

Download figure: Typical Serologic Course of Acute Hepatitis B Virus Infection With Recovery

The ideal management strategy for symptomatic acute HBV infection in patients with HIV is not clear. Treatment with entecavir (ETV), tenofovir alafenamide (TAF), or tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) outside of a fully active anti-HIV regimen could lead to HIV resistance. For most patients with acute HBV, treatment is mainly supportive. Antiviral therapy is generally not indicated in patients with symptomatic acute HBV because most immunocompetent adults with acute HBV recover spontaneously.

However, antiviral treatment is indicated for patients with acute liver failure or a protracted, severe course of HBV, as indicated by a total bilirubin level >3 mg/dL (or direct bilirubin level >1.5 mg/dL), an international normalized ratio >1.5, encephalopathy, or ascites. ETV, TAF, and TDF are the preferred antiviral agents for these patients given in conjunction with a fully suppressive ART regimen. In some patients, acute liver disease may worsen due to immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS). Treatment should be continued until HBsAg clearance is confirmed or should be continued indefinitely in patients who undergo liver transplantation Terrault, et al. 2018. Patients with HIV who are already taking a fully active ART regimen that includes TAF or TDF should continue with the regimen.

If acute HBV infection is confirmed in an asymptomatic patient, the clinician should repeat ALT testing within 2 to 4 weeks to assess for symptoms of liver disease progression and repeat HBsAg, HBeAg, anti-HBe, and HBV DNA testing in 6 months to determine whether infection has cleared. Patients with symptomatic acute HBV require more frequent monitoring tailored to the patient’s condition.

Chronic HBV infection: HBV infection is a dynamic disease, and individuals can transition through the defined clinical phases with variable levels of serum ALT activity, HBV DNA, and HBV antigens. See the guideline sections Assessment Before HBV Treatment and HBV Treatment and Monitoring for recommendations on the management of chronic HBV infection in patients with HIV.

Reactivation: Chronic HBV can resolve in some patients, and tests will indicate a sustained loss of HBsAg, undetectable serum HBV DNA levels, and absence of clinical or histologic evidence of active viral infection. However, reactivation of HBV replication, characterized by the reappearance of HBeAg and HBsAg and a rise in serum HBV DNA, can occur. Reactivation is usually seen in patients taking immunosuppressive therapy for a concurrent medical condition; in rare instances, patients with prior resolved HBV infection who are anti-HBs-positive can have reactivation of HBV during subsequent immunosuppressive therapy. For a list of medications associated with increased risk for HBV reactivation, see Medscape > Hepatitis B Treatment & Management. Reactivation of HBV can also occur in individuals with HIV, including those who experience immune reconstitution after initiation of ART. HBV reactivation may result in severe hepatitis and should be considered a potential cause of hepatitis in patients with previously resolved HBV infection. During reactivation, serum ALT levels will be elevated, and patients who were HBeAg- or HBsAg-negative may become both HBeAg- and HBsAg-positive. HBV reactivation can vary from mild and asymptomatic to severe with possible fulminant hepatic failure.

Occult HBV infection is defined as detectable HBV DNA in HBsAg-negative patients. Most patients with occult HBV have very low or undetectable serum levels, but HBV DNA is often detected in the liver. Patients with occult infection are at risk of HBV reactivation if they receive potent immunosuppressive therapy or chemotherapy. Occult HBV infection has been associated with chronic liver disease and increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma Raimondo, et al. 2007.

Transmission Prevention

HBV is significantly more transmissible through exposure to blood and body fluid than HIV and requires more frequent assessment for behaviors that increase HIV/HBV transmission risk. Barrier protection, including latex or polyurethane condoms, should be recommended to decrease the risk of sexual transmission Smith, et al. 2015Weller and Davis 2002, and sexual partners should be vaccinated if possible. It is important to advise patients that household contacts should be vaccinated against HBV and that they should avoid sharing any objects that may be contaminated with blood, such as razors or toothbrushes. Patients with chronic HBV should also be advised that there is a still a risk of HBV transmission even in the setting of low or undetectable HBV viral load.

All active injection drug users should be prescribed clean syringes and needles and offered referrals to substance use treatment, such as opioid substitution. Referral to needle-exchange programs should also be offered (see NYSDOH Drug Use Resources). Injection drug users should also receive information about safe disposal and storage of needles/syringes and safer injection techniques.

Figure 2: Algorithm for HBV Screening and Vaccination in Patients With HIV

Figure 2: Algorithm for HBV Screening and Vaccination in Patients With HIV

Abbreviations: anti-HBc, hepatitis B core antibody; anti-HBs, hepatitis B surface antibody; HBsAg, hepatitis B surface antigen; HBV, hepatitis B virus.

Notes:

  1. In patients with positive anti-HBc, negative anti-HBs, and negative HBsAg test results, vaccinate with 1 standard dose of Heplisav-B and check anti-HBs titer after 8 weeks. If titer is <100 mlU/mL, complete remaining dose in the vaccine series and recheck titer at least 8 weeks after the last vaccine.
  2. In patients with anti-HBs levels <10 mlU/mL (vaccine nonresponse), revaccination is recommended. If the Heplisav-B vaccine series was administered as the initial HBV vaccination, revaccinate with a third dose of Heplisav-B. If the Heplisav-B vaccine series was not administered as the initial HBV vaccination, revaccinate with a 2-dose series of Heplisav-B.
  3. A patient who is negative for all serologies and who does not respond to revaccination may have a primary nonresponse or chronic infection. HBV DNA testing may be used to detect the presence of chronic HBV infection.

Download figure: Algorithm for HBV Screening and Vaccination in Patients With HIV

HBV Vaccination

RECOMMENDATIONS
Primary Vaccination
  • Clinicians should offer an HBV vaccine to patients with negative test results for HBsAg, anti-HBs, and anti-HBc:
    • Preferred: 2-dose Heplisav-B vaccine series (A2)
    • Alternative: 3-dose Engerix-B or Recombivax HB vaccine series (A1)
  • Clinicians should not defer initial HBV vaccination in patients with a CD4 count <200 cells/mm3 who are at risk of HBV infection. (A2)
  • Clinicians should repeat anti-HBs testing 4 to 16 weeks, based on the patient’s visit schedule, after completion of the vaccination series to ensure immunity (anti-HBs ≥10 mIU/mL). (A3)
  • In a patient with negative HBsAg, negative anti-HBs, and positive anti-HBc test results (isolated anti-HBc positive), the clinician should offer a single dose of Heplisav-B. (A2)
    • Repeat anti-HBs testing 8 weeks after vaccination, and if the anti-HBs titer is <100 mIU/mL, complete the HBV vaccine series and repeat anti-HBs testing at least 8 weeks after the last vaccine. (A2)
    • If vaccination is refused or if follow-up anti-HBs titer testing cannot be assured, perform HBV DNA testing to evaluate for occult HBV infection. (A2)
  • Clinicians should not defer initial vaccination or revaccination in pregnant patients with HIV who do not have immunity to HBV. (A3)
Revaccination
  • In previously vaccinated patients with anti-HBs levels <10 mIU/mL (vaccine nonresponse), clinicians should recommend revaccination. (A2)
    • If the Heplisav-B vaccine series was not administered as the initial HBV vaccination, revaccinate with a 2-dose series of Heplisav-B. (A1)
    • If the Heplisav-B vaccine series was administered as the initial HBV vaccination, revaccinate with a third dose of Heplisav-B. (A2)
    • If patients have contraindications to Heplisav-B, revaccinate with a double dose of Engerix-B or Recombivax HB. (A2)

Abbreviations: anti-HBc, hepatitis B core antibody; anti-HBs, hepatitis B surface antibody; HBsAg, hepatitis B surface antigen; HBV, hepatitis B virus.

Vaccination effectively prevents HBV infection. Patients with HIV with negative anti-HBs, anti-HBc, and HBsAg test results have no evidence of immunity and should be offered vaccination against HBV DHHS 2023; see Figure 2: Algorithm for HBV Screening and Vaccination in Patients With HIV and Table 1: Interpretation of HBV Screening Test Results. Conversely, patients with positive anti-HBc and anti-HBs test results have resolved HBV infection and do not require vaccination.

Primary Vaccination Strategies

The single-antigen HBV vaccines currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for individuals ≥18 years old are Heplisav-B, Engerix-B, and Recombivax HB. Prehevbrio, a new 3-antigen recombinant HBV vaccine, was approved in 2021 by the FDA for use for individuals ≥18 years old FDA 2021, but experience regarding its use in patients with HIV is lacking at this time.

The level of immune response to HBV vaccination in individuals with HIV can be lower than in adults who are HIV seronegative Mast, et al. 2006Rey, et al. 2000Tayal and Sankar 1994Loke, et al. 1990. Many studies have shown that the presence of detectable HIV RNA Overton, et al. 2005Tedaldi, et al. 2004 and low CD4 cell counts Veiga, et al. 2006Fonseca, et al. 2005Tedaldi, et al. 2004Keet, et al. 1992 correlates with a poor immune response to vaccination. Ideally, based on the data, the HBV vaccine should be administered before a patient’s CD4 count declines to <350 cells/mm3 to improve immunogenicity; however, vaccination should not be deferred in patients who have CD4 counts <350 cells/mm3.

The recommended initial option for HBV vaccination is Heplisav-B, a 2-dose (4 weeks apart) recombinant HBsAg vaccine with a novel adjuvant, available for individuals ≥18 years old FDA 2024. In 3 randomized controlled trials among individuals without HIV, administration of 2 doses of Heplisav-B was associated with a higher seroprotection rate than 3 doses of Engerix-B FDA 2024. In a multicenter, open-label study in 68 participants with HIV who were not previously vaccinated against HBV, 3 doses of Heplisav-B vaccine (0, 4, and 24 weeks) conferred seroprotective titers in all participants; before administration of the third dose, 94.4% of participants had seroprotective titers at week 12 and 98.5% had seroprotective titers at week 24 Marks, et al. 2023.

A retrospective cohort study among individuals with HIV found seroprotection rates were increased with the Heplisav-B vaccine compared with other previously used HBV vaccines Schnittman, et al. 2021. A 2-dose series may increase adherence because it requires fewer follow-up visits and a shorter wait time between doses than the 3-dose vaccines. A modeling study found that use of a 2-dose instead of a 3-dose HBV vaccine would increase the number of adults fully seroprotected at 1 year by 275,000 per million persons beginning immunization series Oster, et al. 2022. A second modeling study determined that use of Heplisav-B among individuals with HIV results in lower costs and increased benefits compared with Engerix-B Rosenthal, et al. 2020. No data are available to support use of other recombinant vaccines for the second dose if Heplisav-B is used for the initial dose.

Other options include vaccination with conventional HBV vaccines (Engerix-B, Recombivax HB) that are typically administered intramuscularly as 3 standard doses at 0, 4, and 24 weeks (see Table 3, below). Whether patients with HIV should receive a standard or double dose of these vaccines is still being debated. This committee and the DHHS Guidelines for the Prevention and Treatment of Opportunistic Infections in Adults and Adolescents With HIV recommend administering the standard 3-dose regimen.

Combined HBV and hepatitis A virus (HAV) vaccine: Twinrix is a combination vaccine that includes recombinant HBV and HAV vaccines; it is approved by the FDA for use in individuals ≥18 years old in the United States. For individuals with HIV who are not immune to both HAV and HBV, Twinrix may be considered and administered as an initial series and administered in 3 doses at 0, 4, and 24 weeks. However, this committee prefers separate vaccination for HBV and HAV given the data for better immunogenicity with Heplisav-B in patients with HIV. No data are available to support the administration of this vaccine as a double-dose or 4-dose series, so these strategies are not recommended in patients with HIV.

Abbreviations: ESRD, end-stage renal disease; HAV, hepatitis A virus; HBV, hepatitis B virus; IM, intramuscular.

Notes:

  1. Double dosing and an accelerated schedule with Heplisav-B have not been well studied.
  2. Higher-strength regimens of both Engerix-B and Recombivax HB are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in patients with ESRD; these higher-strength regimens may also be considered for patients with other immunocompromising conditions.
  3. Double dosing with Recombivax HB has not been as well studied as double dosing with Engerix-B. However, Recombivax HB may be the only formulation available at some institutions.
  4. Double dosing and use of a 4-dose series with Twinrix have not been well studied in patients with HIV and are not recommended.
Table 3: HBV Vaccine Dosing Schedule
Vaccine Dosing Notes
Heplisav-B [a] Single dose: 20 µg as one 0.5 mL dose containing 20 µg/mL vaccine administered as follows:

  • 2 IM injections at weeks 0 and 4
  • Patients with ESRD: Standard dosing Awad, et al. 2021
  • Pregnant patients: Insufficient data to recommend use
Engerix-B Single dose: 20 µg as one 1 mL dose containing 20 µg/mL vaccine administered as follows:

  • 3 IM injections at weeks 0, 4, and 24 OR
  • 4 IM injections at weeks 0, 4, 8, and 24

Double dose: 40 µg as two 1 mL doses of 20 µg/mL vaccine administered as follows:

  • 3 IM injections at weeks 0, 4, and 24 OR
  • 4 IM injections at weeks 0, 4, 8, and 24
Patients with ESRD or other immunocompromising conditions [b]: 40 µg/mL as two 1 mL doses of 20 µg/mL vaccine administered in 3 IM injections at weeks 0, 4, 8, and 24
Recombivax HB Single dose: 10 µg as one 1 mL dose containing 10 µg/mL vaccine administered as follows:

  • 3 IM injections at weeks 0, 4, and 24 OR
  • 4 IM injections at weeks 0, 4, 8, and 24

Double dose [c]: 20 µg as two 1 mL doses containing 10 µg/mL vaccine administered as follows:

  • 3 IM injections at weeks 0, 4, and 24 OR
  • 4 IM injections at weeks 0, 4, 8, and 24
Patients with ESRD or other immunocompromising conditions [b]: 40 µg/mL as 1 mL of higher-strength vaccine administered in 4 IM injections at weeks 0, 4, and 24
Twinrix [d] Single dose: 1 mL administered as follows:

  • 3 IM injections at weeks 0, 4, and 24
For patients who are not immune to either HBV or HAV

Download Table 3: HBV Vaccine Dosing Schedule Printable PDF

Double-dose and 4-dose strategies: Other vaccination approaches are to administer a double dose of vaccine on a standard 3-dose schedule or to add a fourth dose at 2 months to a 3-dose vaccine series. Several studies have shown improved immune response to double-dose vaccinations given in a 3-dose schedule Psevdos, et al. 2010de Vries-Sluijs, et al. 2008Fonseca, et al. 2005. A 2013 meta-analysis (5 studies, n=883) found that increasing the vaccine dosage may significantly improve immune responses in participants with HIV Ni, et al. 2013.

An RCT conducted in 2013 compared the immunogenicity and safety of 4 standard doses and 4 double doses with 3 standard doses of HBV vaccination in adults with HIV Chaiklang, et al. 2013. Response rates were higher in the 4-dose group than in the standard 3-dose group, but the difference was not statistically significant. Local adverse effects were more common with increased frequency and dosage of vaccine, but systemic and serious adverse effects were extremely rare Chaiklang, et al. 2013. Based on these data, an HBV vaccination approach with a 3- or 4-injection double-dose vaccine series in patients with HIV can be considered. There are no trial studies comparing Heplisav to 3- or 4-injection double-dose vaccine series, and this committee recommends vaccination with Heplisav over double dose vaccine series.

Accelerated vaccination: An RCT using the standard-dose HBV vaccine compared an accelerated schedule (0, 1, and 3 weeks) with the standard schedule (0, 4, and 24 weeks) and demonstrated a noninferior response rate for participants with CD4 counts >500 cells/mm3; this schedule may increase patient adherence to the full vaccine series de Vries-Sluijs, et al. 2011. However, the accelerated schedule was inferior in patients with CD4 counts of 200 to 500 cells/mm3. Because of the low number of participants with CD4 counts <200 cells/mm3, the results were inconclusive for this population.

Based on these findings, the accelerated schedule may be considered for patients with CD4 counts ≥500 cells/mm3 but is not recommended for patients with CD4 counts <500 cells/mm3 de Vries-Sluijs, et al. 2011. If an accelerated HBV vaccination schedule is used, the patient should also receive a fourth-dose booster at least 6 months after initiation of the vaccine series.

Pregnancy: Clinicians should not defer initial vaccination or revaccination in pregnant patients with HIV who do not have immunity to HBV. There are no well-controlled studies designed to evaluate the recommended anti-HBV vaccines during pregnancy. However, available data do not suggest an increased risk of miscarriage or major congenital disabilities in individuals who received Engerix-B, Twinrix, Recombivax HB, or Heplisav-B vaccines during pregnancy compared with individuals in the general U.S. population who were not vaccinated during pregnancy FDA 2024FDA(a) 2023FDA(b) 2023FDA 2018.

Isolated anti-HBc positivity: Defined as having negative HBsAg, negative anti-HBs, and positive anti-HBc test results, isolated anti-HBc positivity has been reported in 0.4% to 1.7% of blood donors in low prevalence areas and 10% to 20% of the population in endemic countries Lok, et al. 1988. It has been estimated that 17% to 41% of patients with HIV have isolated anti-HBc positivity Bhattacharya, et al. 2016Witt, et al. 2013Neau, et al. 2005. As shown in Table 1: Interpretation of HBV Screening Test Results, there are 4 possible interpretations of this result: resolved HBV infection with waning anti-HBs titers, false-positive result, occult HBV infection, or resolving acute HBV infection Mast, et al. 2006.

Most patients with HIV and isolated anti-HBc positivity are HBV DNA-negative, not immune to HBV Gandhi, et al. 2005, and routinely checking HBV DNA is no longer recommended. Clinicians should offer patients with HIV and isolated anti-HBc a single standard dose of Heplisav-B DHHS 2023. Anti-HBs testing should be performed 8 weeks after the first dose. If the anti-HBs titer is <100 mIU/mL, the remaining vaccine in the series should be administered, and anti-HBs testing should be repeated at least 8 weeks after the vaccine series is complete DHHS 2023Piroth, et al. 2016. In a prospective study of 54 patients with HIV and isolated anti-HBc, 46% responded to a single dose of vaccine. Of those who did not respond to a single dose, 89% developed immunity after a 3-dose series of double-dose vaccine Piroth, et al. 2016. For patients with an anti-HBs titer ≥100 mIU/mL, clinicians may opt to discontinue the vaccine series. There are few data to guide the optimal number of vaccine doses for these patients but no evidence of harm in completing the full vaccination series.

However, if patients with HIV and isolated anti-HBc refuse vaccination or if post-vaccination anti-HBs testing cannot be assured, then a reasonable approach is to perform HBV DNA testing Chang, et al. 2018. HBV DNA testing may also be performed in patients with isolated anti-HBc who do not respond to the full vaccine series. A positive HBV DNA test result in a patient with isolated anti-HBc test results indicates occult HBV infection (see guideline section HBV Screening and Diagnosis > Diagnosis > Reactivation).

Follow-up Testing

Clinicians should repeat anti-HBs testing 4 to 16 weeks, based on the patient’s visit schedule, after vaccination to ensure immunity Rubin, et al. 2014. If the anti-HBs titer is ≥10 mIU/mL, the patient is considered immune to HBV. If the anti-HBs titer is <10 mIU/mL, the patient may have primary nonresponse to the vaccine and require revaccination, or the patient may have chronic HBV infection. HBV DNA testing may be used to detect chronic HBV.

KEY POINT
  • Patient education regarding HBV vaccination is important to ensure awareness of the continued risk of acquiring and subsequently transmitting HBV until adequate anti-HBs response is confirmed.

Revaccination

Individuals with HIV who do not respond (anti-HBs <10 mIU/mL) to the primary HBV vaccine series should be revaccinated. In patients who do not respond to an initial 2-dose Heplisav-B vaccine series, clinicians should administer a third dose of Heplisav-B. If Heplisav-B was not administered as the initial HBV vaccination series, clinicians should revaccinate with a 2-dose series of Heplisav-B. In a retrospective, cross-sectional study among individuals with HIV who failed to seroconvert after vaccination (HBsAg- and anti-HBs-negative) with Engerix-B or Recombivax HB, revaccination with Heplisav-B was highly effective in achieving seroprotection Khaimova, et al. 2021. If patients have contraindications to Heplisav-B, revaccination with a double dose of Engerix-B or Recombivax HB, given as a 4-dose series, is recommended.

Revaccination can be deferred for patients initiating ART until the CD4 count is ≥200 cells/mm3; response rates to vaccination may be higher in patients with CD4 counts ≥200 cells/mm3 than those with lower CD4 cell counts Gandhi, et al. 2005.

Assessment Before HBV Treatment

RECOMMENDATIONS
Liver Disease Assessment
  • Before initiating HBV treatment in patients with HIV, clinicians should obtain a complete physical examination and medical history, including the use of hepatoxic medications (A*); noninvasive fibrosis evaluation (A2†); baseline ultrasonography for HCC [a] (A2†); and the following laboratory testing: CBC, albumin, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, PT/INR, ALT, AST, and a basic metabolic panel. (A*)
  • Clinicians should refer patients with HIV/HBV coinfection and cirrhosis to a gastroenterologist or hepatologist to assess and manage complications of portal hypertension. (A3)
  • In patients with HIV/HBV coinfection and cirrhosis, clinicians should screen for HCC with ultrasound every 6 months. (A2†)
Alcohol Use Screening and Education
  • Clinicians should perform alcohol use screening in patients with HIV/HBV coinfection at baseline and at least annually and refer patients for treatment as needed. (A3)
  • Clinicians should educate patients about the detrimental effects of alcohol use on the course of HBV infection and counsel patients with underlying liver disease to abstain from or minimize alcohol use. (A*)
HAV, HCV, and HDV Status

Abbreviations: ALT, alanine transaminase; AST, aspartate transaminase; CBC, complete blood count; DAA, direct-acting antiviral; HAV, hepatitis A virus; HBV, hepatitis B virus; HCC; hepatocellular carcinoma; HCV, hepatitis C virus; HDV, hepatitis D virus; IgG, immunoglobulin G; IgM, immunoglobulin M; PT/INR, prothrombin time/international normalized ratio.

Note:

  1. Baseline ultrasound for HCC is performed in all patients with HIV/HBV coinfection. In patients with HIV/HCV coinfection, an ultrasound is performed only in patients with cirrhosis.

Liver Disease Assessment

Initial assessment of patients with chronic HBV should include a detailed history and physical examination to evaluate for any signs of advanced liver disease, including bruising, jaundice, dark urine, light stools, history of gastrointestinal bleeding, and pruritus. A prior treatment history, including medication history, should be obtained to determine whether the patient has previously taken hepatotoxic medications or lamivudine or emtricitabine, which have been associated with HBV resistance when taken as monotherapy. On examination, identify any stigmata of advanced liver disease, such as spider angiomas, splenomegaly, palmar erythema, and asterixis. The presence of ascites or encephalopathy indicates decompensated liver disease. Baseline laboratory tests include CBC, albumin, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, prothrombin time, ALT, and AST. Low albumin levels or elevated prothrombin time may suggest advanced liver disease with hepatic decompensation. Leukopenia and thrombocytopenia may indicate the presence of portal hypertension.

All individuals should be evaluated for liver fibrosis using noninvasive methods, such as transient elastography (FibroScan), serum testing for biomarkers (FibroSure), or AST to platelet ratio index (APRI) calculation. Liver biopsy is no longer preferred because of the risk of complications (e.g., bleeding, infection) and the possibility of a sampling error when only a small portion of the liver is evaluated. All patients with HIV/HBV coinfection should have a baseline ultrasound to screen for HCC Terrault, et al. 2018, and those with cirrhosis should be referred to a hepatologist to screen for esophageal varices Garcia-Tsao, et al. 2017de Franchis 2015.

Results of the liver disease assessment determine the phase of chronic HBV infection. Liver biopsy results are included below as part of the description of each stage. However, liver biopsy is rarely indicated in patients with HIV/HBV. The procedure can be considered in patients who have persistently elevated ALT but persistently low HBV DNA to exclude other causes of liver disease.

  • Immune tolerance: Characterized by hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) positivity with elevated HBV DNA levels but normal or minimally elevated ALT levels. Liver biopsies are generally benign, without signs of necroinflammation or fibrosis Tran 2011.
  • Immune active: Subdivided into HBeAg-positive and HBeAg-negative. In HBeAg-positive patients, HBV DNA levels are typically >20,000 IU/mL, and serum ALT levels are elevated. In HBeAg-negative patients, HBV DNA levels tend to be lower (2,000 to 20,000 IU/mL) with low to normal serum ALT levels. Liver biopsy often reveals chronic hepatitis with variable signs of necroinflammation or fibrosis Terrault, et al. 2018.
  • Inactive chronic HBV: These patients are HBeAg-negative and antibody to HBeAg-positive. Serum HBV DNA is usually <2,000 IU/mL or undetectable, and ALT levels are normal. Liver biopsy indicates an absence of significant necroinflammation and variable levels of fibrosis Terrault, et al. 2018.

Alcohol Use Screening and Education

In 2020, there were an estimated 29,000 deaths from alcoholic liver disease and 51,000 deaths from chronic liver disease and cirrhosis in the general U.S. population CDC(b) 2024CDC 2023. Chronic alcohol use in patients with HBV infection results in increased oxidative stress and liver inflammation, which can progress to cirrhosis and lead to the development of HCC Donato, et al. 1997Nakanuma and Ohta 1983. These effects are even more pronounced in patients with HIV/HBV coinfection in whom increased levels of liver inflammation, liver fibrosis, drug-induced hepatotoxicity, liver cirrhosis, and death from liver disease and HCC have been observed Marcellin, et al. 2008Poynard, et al. 2003Núñez, et al. 2001. Patient education is essential to helping patients understand the effects of alcohol use on the course of HBV infection, as is counseling for patients with underlying liver disease so that patients can make informed decisions regarding alcohol use or abstinence. Studies have shown that individual counseling and peer group education and support can be effective in reducing alcohol use in patients with HIV Knox, et al. 2013Velasquez, et al. 2009.

HAV, HCV, and HDV Status

HAV: For information on HAV/HIV coinfection, see the NYSDOH AI guideline Prevention and Management of Hepatitis A Virus Infection in Adults With HIV > Management of HAV/HIV Coinfection.

HCV: HBV/HCV coinfection is associated with higher rates of cirrhosis, increased severity of liver disease, and increased risk of HCC than HBV or HCV monoinfection Mavilia and Wu 2018. This is of particular concern in patients with HIV/HBV coinfection; patients with HIV infection have more severe liver disease and higher rates of liver complications than patients without HIV Bräu, et al. 2007Thio, et al. 2002. For information on screening, diagnosis, and treatment of HCV in patients with HIV, see the NYSDOH AI guidelines Hepatitis C Virus Screening, Testing, and Diagnosis in Adults and Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Adults.

HDV: Formerly known as hepatitis delta virus, HDV is a defective satellite RNA virus that requires active HBV infection to replicate. HIV/HBV/HDV tri-infection is associated with more rapid liver disease progression and higher rates of decompensated cirrhosis, HCC, and mortality than HIV/HBV coinfection [Béguelin, et al. 2017; Fernández-Montero, et al. 2014; Castellares, et al. 2008; Sheng, et al. 2007]. HDV infection is uncommon in the United States; it is not a reportable disease, and the prevalence is unknown Patel, et al. 2019. The majority of cases occur among people who migrate or travel to the United States from countries with high HDV endemicity (i.e., Eastern Europe, Southern Europe, the Mediterranean region, the Middle East, West and Central Africa, East Asia, and the Amazon River Basin in South America) CDC(a) 2024.

Existing data indicate that pegylated interferon (PEG-IFN) is the only effective anti-HDV treatment EASL 2012. However, fewer than 30% of people without HIV who have HDV achieve sustained HDV suppression when treated with PEG-IFN Wedemeyer, et al. 2011. No data are available regarding the efficacy of PEG-IFN therapy in patients with HIV/HBV/HDV tri-infection.

Investigational trials of the newer agent bulevirtide have shown promising results. Bulevirtide, an HDV entry inhibitor, is approved in Europe for treatment of HDV in individuals with compensated liver cirrhosis but is not currently available in the United States Wedemeyer, et al. 2023. In an analysis of 38 patients with HIV/HBV/HDV coinfection treated with bulevirtide plus pegylated interferon-α in France, 50% attained virologic response de Ledinghen, et al. 2024. Similarly, in a small compassionate use trial in Italy among patients with HBV/HDV-related cirrhosis who were treated with bulevirtide, 66% with HIV and 60% without HIV achieved virologic response and normalization of ALT Visco Comandini, et al. 2023. A list of investigational studies of HDV treatment in the United States is available at ClinicalTrials.gov.

Because HDV depends on HBV to replicate, HBsAg seroconversion should be the primary goal for patients with HIV/HBV/HDV tri-infection. In patients with tri-infection, prompt initiation of anti-HBV and anti-HIV therapy should be strongly encouraged. Little guidance is available on optimal monitoring strategies for patients with HIV/HBV coinfection and positive serum anti-HDV total (IgM and IgG) test results. It is reasonable to perform baseline HDV RNA testing and consult with an experienced care provider about ongoing HDV RNA and DNA testing Farci and Niro 2018.

HBV Treatment and Monitoring

RECOMMENDATIONS
Treatment
  • Clinicians should recommend immediate ART initiation for any patient with HIV/HBV coinfection who is not taking ART. (A1)
  • Preferred: In patients with HIV and chronic HBV, clinicians should recommend an ART regimen that includes 2 agents active against HBV (see Table 4: Available Medications for Treatment of HBV Infection in Adults With HIV). Preferred regimens include a backbone of either TAF/FTC, TDF/FTC, or TDF/3TC. (A2)
  • Clinicians should not prescribe a 2-drug regimen of TAF/FTC, TDF/FTC, or TDF/3TC alone to treat patients with HIV/HBV coinfection; a fully suppressive ART regimen is required. (A1)
  • Nonadherence with or discontinuation of anti-HBV treatment may result in transaminase flares and hepatic damage. Clinicians should educate patients about the treatment adherence requirements (A*), and if treatment must be interrupted or discontinued, consult with a care provider experienced in HIV/HBV coinfection. (A3)
  • Alternative: If a patient cannot or chooses not to take TDF or TAF, the clinician should initiate treatment with ETV and a fully suppressive ART regimen for HIV. (A3)
Pregnant Patients
  • Clinicians should offer pregnant patients treatment with an ART regimen that includes 2 agents active against both HIV and HBV; 3TC, FTC, TAF, and TDF can be used safely during pregnancy at standard doses. (A2†)
Monitoring

Abbreviations: 3TC, lamivudine; ALT, alanine transaminase; ART, antiretroviral therapy; ETV, entecavir; FTC, emtricitabine; HBV, hepatitis B virus; HDV, hepatitis D virus; IRIS, immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome; TAF, tenofovir alafenamide; TDF, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate.

Treatment

Goals: The goals of treatment for chronic HBV infection in adults with HIV are to reduce liver inflammation (as indicated by normalization of ALT), obtain seroconversion of hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) to antibody to HBeAg, and suppress HBV viral replication. These changes will help reduce the risk of hepatic decompensation, halt or reverse liver fibrosis, prevent the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and decrease HBV-related mortality Kim, et al. 2021Terrault, et al. 2018Soriano, et al. 2008.

As indicated in the NYSDOH AI guideline Rapid ART Initiation, clinicians should recommend ART to all patients diagnosed with HIV infection. For patients with HIV/HBV coinfection, the regimen should include medications that suppress both HIV and HBV (see Table 4, below). Optimal treatment for both viruses should be taken simultaneously to prevent the development of HIV and HBV drug resistance. Optimal treatment of both infections may also help reduce the risk of IRIS, which is increased in patients with high levels of HBV viremia (see guideline section Monitoring, below) Avihingsanon, et al. 2012Crane, et al. 2009.

Abbreviations: ART, antiretroviral therapy; CrCl, creatinine clearance; HBV, hepatitis B virus; NRTI, nucleoside/nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor; PEG-IFN, pegylated interferon.
Table 4: Available Medications for Treatment of HBV Infection in Adults With HIV
Medication Clinical Comment
Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)
  • A prodrug of the NRTI tenofovir active against HIV and HBV, including 3TC-resistant HBV
  • A preferred agent for chronic HBV treatment because of its high virologic efficacy and low risk of HBV resistance Terrault, et al. 2018
  • Potential association with renal impairment and loss of bone density McComsey, et al. 2011Gupta 2008
  • Initiate only in patients with CrCl ≥50 mL/min.
Tenofovir alafenamide (TAF)
  • A prodrug of the NRTI tenofovir active against HIV and HBV that achieves higher intracellular concentrations in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and hepatocytes than TDF Agarwal, et al. 2018
  • Improved biomarkers for renal and bone safety compared with TDF while maintaining high rates of HIV and HBV viral suppression Lampertico, et al. 2020Gallant, et al. 2016Callebaut, et al. 2015
  • In HIV/HBV coinfection, switching from a TDF- to a TAF-containing regimen demonstrated similarly high levels of HBV virologic control Gallant, et al. 2016.
  • Initiate only in patients with CrCl ≥30 mL/min.
Lamivudine (3TC)
  • An HBV reverse transcriptase inhibitor and HIV NRTI active against HIV and HBV
  • Has a low genetic barrier to HIV and HBV resistance and should not be used as the sole anti-HBV drug in an ART regimen. Studies found the rate of HBV resistance reached 90% after 4 years of 3TC monotherapy Benhamou, et al. 1999. Avoid 3TC monotherapy.
Emtricitabine (FTC)
  • An NRTI similar to 3TC and active against HIV and HBV
  • 3TC-resistant isolates are also cross-resistant to FTC Gallant 2006.
  • Do not use as the sole anti-HBV drug in an ART regimen.
Entecavir (ETV)
  • An NRTI active against HIV and HBV
  • May select for 3TC- and FTC-resistant HIV
  • ETV monotherapy for HBV is not recommended in patients with HIV unless combined with a fully active ART regimen to treat HIV.
Interferon (IFN)
  • IFN alfa-2a or -2b or PEG-IFN alfa-2a is used as HBV treatment in patients with HBV monoinfection.
  • Contraindicated in patients with decompensated liver disease (Child-Turcotte-Pugh class B or C)
  • PEG-IFN alfa-2a monotherapy for up to 48 weeks may be considered for HBV treatment in patients with HIV/HBV coinfection if concurrent ART active against HIV and HBV is not possible.
  • PEG-IFN alfa-2a is not associated with HBV drug resistance DHHS 2023.

Download Table 4: Available Medications for Treatment of HBV Infection in Adults With HIV Printable PDF

Preferred regimen: Because FTC, 3TC, TDF, and TAF all have activity against HIV and HBV, an ART regimen for a patient with HIV/HBV coinfection should include a nucleoside/nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor backbone of either TAF/FTC, TDF/FTC, or TDF/3TC as part of a fully suppressive regimen. TDF or TAF should not be used alone in the absence of a fully suppressive ART regimen because resistance mutations may develop DHHS 2023DHHS 2019. For the use of TDF or TAF in patients with reduced renal function, see the NYSDOH AI guideline Selecting an Initial ART Regimen > ARV Dose Adjustments for Hepatic or Renal Impairment.

Alternative regimen: If patients cannot or choose not to take TDF or TAF, the alternative recommended regimen is ETV in addition to a fully suppressive HIV ART regimen DHHS 2023DHHS 2019. ETV should not be considered part of the HIV ART regimen. The ETV dose should be increased from 0.5 mg per day to 1.0 mg per day in patients with known or suspected 3TC-resistant HBV infection. However, ETV resistance may emerge rapidly in patients with 3TC-resistant HBV infection Terrault, et al. 2018. Therefore, ETV should be used with caution in patients with HIV/HBV coinfection who do not take TAF or TDF, and frequent monitoring (every 3 months) of HBV DNA levels should be performed to detect viral breakthrough (see guideline section Monitoring, below).

The anti-HBV activity of 3TC, FTC, TDF, and TAF warrants their continued use whenever possible, even when HIV resistance indicates that they should be discontinued as part of the ART regimen. These agents should be continued after an anti-HBV therapy response has been achieved, even if the ART regimen has to be changed. Patients should be advised against discontinuing HIV or HBV treatment because the cessation of therapy has been associated with reactivation of HBV leading to exacerbations of hepatitis and hepatic failure DHHS 2023. Hepatitis flares can occur in patients with HBV monoinfection and those with HIV/HBV coinfection, but the risk of hepatic injury and fulminant hepatic failure is greater in patients with HIV/HBV coinfection Moreno-Cubero, et al. 2018Boyd, et al. 2017Dore, et al. 2010.

Two-drug regimens for HIV: For patients with HIV/HBV coinfection, a 2-drug ART regimen should not be used as initial ART unless combined with an additional agent(s) with activity against HBV (see Table 5, below, for recommended additions). The same is true for patients with controlled HIV/HBV coinfection who switch to a 2-drug regimen for HIV ART—an agent with anti-HBV activity is required. Patients switching to a 2-drug regimen for HIV plus the additional agent(s) to treat HBV should be closely monitored for potential HBV flare (see guideline section Monitoring, below).

Abbreviations: 3TC, lamivudine; ART, antiretroviral therapy; CAB, cabotegravir; DTG, dolutegravir; ETV, entecavir; FTC, emtricitabine; HBV, hepatitis B virus; RPV, rilpivirine; TAF, tenofovir alafenamide; TDF, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate.
Table 5: Recommended Additions to 2-Drug HIV ART Regimens for Patients With Chronic HBV
2-Drug HIV ART Regimen Addition for HBV Treatment
DTG/3TC TAF, TDF, or ETV
DTG/RPV TAF/FTC, TDF/FTC, TDF/3TC, ETV/FTC, or ETV/3TC
CAB/RPV TAF/FTC, TDF/FTC, TDF/3TC, ETV/FTC, or ETV/3TC

HBV treatment during pregnancy: Clinicians should offer pregnant patients with HIV/HBV coinfection ART that includes agents active against HIV and HBV. 3TC, FTC, TAF, and TDF can be safely used during pregnancy DHHS 2023Terrault, et al. 2018. The preferred regimen is DTG plus TDF or TAF in combination with either FTC or 3TC. An alternative regimen is ritonavir-boosted darunavir (DRV/r) plus TDF or TAF with FTC or 3TC DHHS 2023.

Monitoring

Recommended clinical evaluation and laboratory monitoring are described in Table 6, below.

Abbreviations: HBeAg, hepatitis B e antigen; HBV, hepatitis B virus.

Notes:

  1. Undetectable is defined as <10 IU/mL.
  2. Patients who have been taking anti-HBV treatment for several years may not convert to HBeAg-negative Singh, et al. 2017.
  3. See NYSDOH AI guideline Laboratory Monitoring for Adverse Effects of ART.
Table 6: Recommended Monitoring After HBV Treatment Initiation in Adults With HIV
Laboratory Test Every 3 Months Every 6 Months Every 12 Months
HBV DNA Until HBV DNA is undetectable [a] After HBV DNA is undetectable
HBeAg Check for HBeAg-negative result [b]
Electrolyte panel X
Serum creatinine X
Urinalysis [c] X
Liver function panel [c] Until HBV DNA is undetectable [a] After HBV DNA is undetectable

Download Table 6: Recommended Monitoring After HBV Treatment Initiation in Adults With HIV Printable PDF

Response to treatment: HBV viral load levels generally decline more slowly after treatment initiation than HIV viral load levels. Anti-HBV treatment responses are defined as follows DHHS 2023:

  • Primary nonresponse: HBV DNA <1 log10 decline at 12 weeks
  • Complete virologic response: Undetectable HBV DNA by polymerase chain reaction assay at 24 to 48 weeks
  • Partial virologic response: ≥1 log10 decline but still detectable HBV DNA at 24 weeks
  • Maintained virologic response: A response that continues while on therapy
  • Sustained virologic response: A virologic response that is still present 6 months after cessation of therapy

Renal toxicity: Renal toxicity with increased creatinine or renal tubular dysfunction has been associated with tenofovir use, and the association is stronger with TDF than TAF Gupta, et al. 2019. This renal toxicity may be reversible with dose adjustments of TDF or switching to TAF. Clinicians should evaluate electrolytes, serum creatinine levels, and urinalysis every 6 months DHHS 2023.

Cirrhosis: Patients with HIV/HBV coinfection and cirrhosis should be referred to a gastroenterologist or hepatologist to assess and manage complications of portal hypertension such as gastroesophageal varices and ascites. Patients with HIV/HBV coinfection and cirrhosis should undergo esophagogastroduodenoscopy at the time of chronic HBV diagnosis and every 1 to 2 years thereafter DHHS 2023Terrault, et al. 2018.

Acute flare: If a patient being treated for chronic HBV develops signs or symptoms of acute hepatitis (nausea, vomiting, elevated ALT or bilirubin levels), clinicians should evaluate the patient, rule out HBV IRIS and HDV flare among other potential causes, and consult with an HIV-experienced hepatologist. Hepatic flares are usually mild and self-limited but can result in decompensation in individuals with preexisting cirrhosis Anderson, et al. 2010Crane, et al. 2009Perrella, et al. 2006Konopnicki, et al. 2005Drake, et al. 2004.

In patients with HIV, initiation of or a change in ART introduces the potential for IRIS, which may manifest as a worsening of previously diagnosed disease or the appearance of a previously undiagnosed disease. In patients with HIV/HBV coinfection, IRIS can present as an acute flare of HBV disease. It can often be difficult to distinguish HBV IRIS from other causes of an acute HBV flare, such as drug or alcohol hepatotoxicity or other viral infection (hepatitis A, C, D, or E virus, Epstein-Barr virus, herpes simplex virus, or cytomegalovirus). Reviewing medication history and testing for serum HBV DNA, HBeAg, HIV viral load, and CD4 cell count can help distinguish between these possibilities DHHS 2023.

HBV IRIS is usually detected within the first 6 to 12 weeks after ART is initiated, based on a noticeable rise in ALT levels that coincides with rising CD4 cell counts (immune reconstitution) and signs and symptoms characteristic of acute hepatitis and with no other cause for the flare DHHS 2023. Risk factors for HBV IRIS include high HBV viral load, elevated ALT level, and low CD4 cell count at baseline Singh, et al. 2017.

Ongoing Screening for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Compared with HBV monoinfection, HIV/HBV coinfection is associated with an increased risk of developing HCC and increased mortality rates Sun, et al. 2021Pinato, et al. 2019Singh, et al. 2017. Patients with HIV/HBV coinfection and cirrhosis should be screened with ultrasound for HCC every 6 months Terrault, et al. 2018.

There is no consensus on how frequently to screen for HCC in patients with HIV/HBV coinfection who do not have cirrhosis. In patients with HBV monoinfection, screening is recommended every 6 months for groups at increased risk for developing HCC, including Asian men >40 years old, Asian women >50 years old, Black men >40 years old, individuals with a first-degree family member who has a history of HCC, or individuals with HDV Terrault, et al. 2018Sarin, et al. 2016Zhang, et al. 2004.

All Recommendations

ALL RECOMMENDATIONS: PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT OF HEPATITIS B VIRUS INFECTION IN ADULTS WITH HIV
Screening Tests
  • Clinicians should determine the HBV vaccination and immune status of patients with HIV by performing laboratory testing for HBsAg, anti-HBs, and anti-HBc (total). (A*) See Table 1: Interpretation of HBV Screening Test Results.
  • Clinicians should repeat laboratory screening annually in patients who are not immune to HBV, choose not to be vaccinated, and are at ongoing risk of acquiring HBV. (A3)
Diagnosis
  • In patients with positive baseline (screening) HBsAg test results, clinicians should perform HBeAg, anti-HBe, and HBV DNA testing to diagnose the phase of HBV infection. (B2†) See Table 2: Serologic and Virologic Responses to HBV Infection.
  • If a patient with HIV and unknown HBsAg status has signs or symptoms of acute hepatitis (i.e., elevated ALT), the clinician should perform HBsAg, anti-HBc IgM, HBeAg, anti-HBe (A*), and HBV DNA (A3) testing along with other diagnostic testing for acute hepatitis.
Acute HBV Infection
  • If acute HBV infection is confirmed and the patient is asymptomatic, the clinician should repeat ALT testing within 2 to 4 weeks to assess for symptoms of liver disease progression (B3) and repeat HBsAg, HBeAg, anti-HBe, and HBV DNA testing 6 months later to determine whether infection has cleared. (A3)
  • If a patient with HIV and acute HBV is not taking ART, the clinician should recommend ART initiation. (A1)
Transmission Prevention
  • Clinicians should advise patients who have a positive HBsAg test result that they can transmit HBV (A*) and encourage sexually active patients to use effective barrier protection to reduce the risk of HBV transmission. (A2†)
  • Clinicians should inform patients with HBV that their household contacts should be vaccinated and counsel the patients to avoid sharing items such as razors or toothbrushes that could expose others to HBV-contaminated blood. (A2†)
  • For individuals who inject drugs, clinicians should offer or refer for substance use treatment, ensure access to clean needles and syringes, and provide harm reduction counseling. (A2†)
Primary Vaccination
  • Clinicians should offer an HBV vaccine to patients with negative test results for HBsAg, anti-HBs, and anti-HBc:
    • Preferred: 2-dose Heplisav-B vaccine series (A2)
    • Alternative: 3-dose Engerix-B or Recombivax HB vaccine series (A1)
  • Clinicians should not defer initial HBV vaccination in patients with a CD4 count <200 cells/mm3 who are at risk of HBV infection. (A2)
  • Clinicians should repeat anti-HBs testing 4 to 16 weeks, based on the patient’s visit schedule, after completion of the vaccination series to ensure immunity (anti-HBs ≥10 mIU/mL). (A3)
  • In a patient with negative HBsAg, negative anti-HBs, and positive anti-HBc test results (isolated anti-HBc positive), the clinician should offer a single dose of Heplisav-B. (A2)
    • Repeat anti-HBs testing 8 weeks after vaccination, and if the anti-HBs titer is <100 mIU/mL, complete the HBV vaccine series and repeat anti-HBs testing at least 8 weeks after the last vaccine. (A2)
    • If vaccination is refused or if follow-up anti-HBs titer testing cannot be assured, perform HBV DNA testing to evaluate for occult HBV infection. (A2)
  • Clinicians should not defer initial vaccination or revaccination in pregnant patients with HIV who do not have immunity to HBV. (A3)
Revaccination
  • In previously vaccinated patients with anti-HBs levels <10 mIU/mL (vaccine nonresponse), clinicians should recommend revaccination. (A2)
    • If the Heplisav-B vaccine series was not administered as the initial HBV vaccination, revaccinate with a 2-dose series of Heplisav-B. (A1)
    • If the Heplisav-B vaccine series was administered as the initial HBV vaccination, revaccinate with a third dose of Heplisav-B. (A2)
    • If patients have contraindications to Heplisav-B, revaccinate with a double dose of Engerix-B or Recombivax HB. (A2)
Liver Disease Assessment
  • Before initiating HBV treatment in patients with HIV, clinicians should obtain a complete physical examination and medical history, including the use of hepatoxic medications (A*); noninvasive fibrosis evaluation (A2†); baseline ultrasonography for HCC [a] (A2†); and the following laboratory testing: CBC, albumin, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, PT/INR, ALT, AST, and a basic metabolic panel. (A*)
  • Clinicians should refer patients with HIV/HBV coinfection and cirrhosis to a gastroenterologist or hepatologist to assess and manage complications of portal hypertension. (A3)
  • In patients with HIV/HBV coinfection and cirrhosis, clinicians should screen for HCC with ultrasound every 6 months. (A2†)
Alcohol Use Screening and Education
  • Clinicians should perform alcohol use screening in patients with HIV/HBV coinfection at baseline and at least annually and refer patients for treatment as needed. (A3)
  • Clinicians should educate patients about the detrimental effects of alcohol use on the course of HBV infection and counsel patients with underlying liver disease to abstain from or minimize alcohol use. (A*)
HAV, HCV, and HDV Status
Treatment
  • Clinicians should recommend immediate ART initiation for any patient with HIV/HBV coinfection who is not taking ART. (A1)
  • Preferred: In patients with HIV and chronic HBV, clinicians should recommend an ART regimen that includes 2 agents active against HBV (see Table 4: Available Medications for Treatment of HBV Infection in Adults With HIV). Preferred regimens include a backbone of either TAF/FTC, TDF/FTC, or TDF/3TC. (A2)
  • Clinicians should not prescribe a 2-drug regimen of TAF/FTC, TDF/FTC, or TDF/3TC alone to treat patients with HIV/HBV coinfection; a fully suppressive ART regimen is required. (A1)
  • Nonadherence with or discontinuation of anti-HBV treatment may result in transaminase flares and hepatic damage. Clinicians should educate patients about the treatment adherence requirements (A*), and if treatment must be interrupted or discontinued, consult with a care provider experienced in HIV/HBV coinfection. (A3)
  • Alternative: If a patient cannot or chooses not to take TDF or TAF, the clinician should initiate treatment with ETV and a fully suppressive ART regimen for HIV. (A3)
Pregnant Patients
  • Clinicians should offer pregnant patients treatment with an ART regimen that includes 2 agents active against both HIV and HBV; 3TC, FTC, TAF, and TDF can be used safely during pregnancy at standard doses. (A2†)
Monitoring

Abbreviations: 3TC, lamivudine; ALT, alanine transaminase; anti-HBc, hepatitis B core antibody; anti-HBe, antibody to HBeAg; anti-HBs, hepatitis B surface antibody; ART, antiretroviral therapy; AST, aspartate transaminase; CBC, complete blood count; DAA, direct-acting antiviral; ETV, entecavir; FTC, emtricitabine; HAV, hepatitis A virus; HBeAg, hepatitis B e antigen; HBsAg, hepatitis B surface antigen; HBV, hepatitis B virus; HCC; hepatocellular carcinoma; HCV, hepatitis C virus; HDV, hepatitis D virus; IgG, immunoglobulin G; IgM, immunoglobulin M; IRIS, immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome; PT/INR, prothrombin time/international normalized ratio; TAF, tenofovir alafenamide; TDF, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate.

Note:

  1. Baseline ultrasound for HCC is performed in all patients with HIV/HBV coinfection. In patients with HIV/HCV coinfection, an ultrasound is performed only in patients with cirrhosis.

Shared Decision-Making

Download Printable PDF of Shared Decision-Making Statement

Date of current publication: August 8, 2023
Lead authors:
Jessica Rodrigues, MS; Jessica M. Atrio, MD, MSc; and Johanna L. Gribble, MA
Writing group: Steven M. Fine, MD, PhD; Rona M. Vail, MD; Samuel T. Merrick, MD; Asa E. Radix, MD, MPH, PhD; Christopher J. Hoffmann, MD, MPH; Charles J. Gonzalez, MD
Committee: Medical Care Criteria Committee
Date of original publication: August 8, 2023

Rationale

Throughout its guidelines, the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) AIDS Institute (AI) Clinical Guidelines Program recommends “shared decision-making,” an individualized process central to patient-centered care. With shared decision-making, clinicians and patients engage in meaningful dialogue to arrive at an informed, collaborative decision about a patient’s health, care, and treatment planning. The approach to shared decision-making described here applies to recommendations included in all program guidelines. The included elements are drawn from a comprehensive review of multiple sources and similar  attempts to define shared decision-making, including the Institute of Medicine’s original description [Institute of Medicine 2001]. For more information, a variety of informative resources and suggested readings are included at the end of the discussion.

Benefits

The benefits to patients that have been associated with a shared decision-making approach include:

  • Decreased anxiety [Niburski, et al. 2020; Stalnikowicz and Brezis 2020]
  • Increased trust in clinicians [Acree, et al. 2020; Groot, et al. 2020; Stalnikowicz and Brezis 2020]
  • Improved engagement in preventive care [McNulty, et al. 2022; Scalia, et al. 2022; Bertakis and Azari 2011]
  • Improved treatment adherence, clinical outcomes, and satisfaction with care [Crawford, et al. 2021; Bertakis and Azari 2011; Robinson, et al. 2008]
  • Increased knowledge, confidence, empowerment, and self-efficacy [Chen, et al. 2021; Coronado-Vázquez, et al. 2020; Niburski, et al. 2020]

Approach

Collaborative care: Shared decision-making is an approach to healthcare delivery that respects a patient’s autonomy in responding to a clinician’s recommendations and facilitates dynamic, personalized, and collaborative care. Through this process, a clinician engages a patient in an open and respectful dialogue to elicit the patient’s knowledge, experience, healthcare goals, daily routine, lifestyle, support system, cultural and personal identity, and attitudes toward behavior, treatment, and risk. With this information and the clinician’s clinical expertise, the patient and clinician can collaborate to identify, evaluate, and choose from among available healthcare options [Coulter and Collins 2011]. This process emphasizes the importance of a patient’s values, preferences, needs, social context, and lived experience in evaluating the known benefits, risks, and limitations of a clinician’s recommendations for screening, prevention, treatment, and follow-up. As a result, shared decision-making also respects a patient’s autonomy, agency, and capacity in defining and managing their healthcare goals. Building a clinician-patient relationship rooted in shared decision-making can help clinicians engage in productive discussions with patients whose decisions may not align with optimal health outcomes. Fostering open and honest dialogue to understand a patient’s motivations while suspending judgment to reduce harm and explore alternatives is particularly vital when a patient chooses to engage in practices that may exacerbate or complicate health conditions [Halperin, et al. 2007].

Options: Implicit in the shared decision-making process is the recognition that the “right” healthcare decisions are those made by informed patients and clinicians working toward patient-centered and defined healthcare goals. When multiple options are available, shared decision-making encourages thoughtful discussion of the potential benefits and potential harms of all options, which may include doing nothing or waiting. This approach also acknowledges that efficacy may not be the most important factor in a patient’s preferences and choices [Sewell, et al. 2021].

Clinician awareness: The collaborative process of shared decision-making is enhanced by a clinician’s ability to demonstrate empathic interest in the patient, avoid stigmatizing language, employ cultural humility, recognize systemic barriers to equitable outcomes, and practice strategies of self-awareness and mitigation against implicit personal biases [Parish, et al. 2019].

Caveats: It is important for clinicians to recognize and be sensitive to the inherent power and influence they maintain throughout their interactions with patients. A clinician’s identity and community affiliations may influence their ability to navigate the shared decision-making process and develop a therapeutic alliance with the patient and may affect the treatment plan [KFF 2023; Greenwood, et al. 2020]. Furthermore, institutional policy and regional legislation, such as requirements for parental consent for gender-affirming care for transgender people or insurance coverage for sexual health care, may infringe upon a patient’s ability to access preventive- or treatment-related care [Sewell, et al. 2021].

Figure 1: Elements of Shared Decision-Making

Figure 1: Elements of Shared Decision-Making

Download figure: Elements of Shared Decision-Making

Health equity: Adapting a shared decision-making approach that supports diverse populations is necessary to achieve more equitable and inclusive health outcomes [Castaneda-Guarderas, et al. 2016]. For instance, clinicians may need to incorporate cultural- and community-specific considerations into discussions with women, gender-diverse individuals, and young people concerning their sexual behaviors, fertility intentions, and pregnancy or lactation status. Shared decision-making offers an opportunity to build trust among marginalized and disenfranchised communities by validating their symptoms, values, and lived experience. Furthermore, it can allow for improved consistency in patient screening and assessment of prevention options and treatment plans, which can reduce the influence of social constructs and implicit bias [Castaneda-Guarderas, et al. 2016].

Clinician bias has been associated with health disparities and can have profoundly negative effects [FitzGerald and Hurst 2017; Hall, et al. 2015]. It is often challenging for clinicians to recognize and set aside personal biases and to address biases with peers and colleagues. Consciously or unconsciously, negative or stigmatizing assumptions are often made about patient characteristics, such as race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, mental health, and substance use [Avery, et al. 2019; van Boekel, et al. 2013; Livingston, et al. 2012]. With its emphasis on eliciting patient information, a shared decision-making approach encourages clinicians to inquire about patients’ lived experiences rather than making assumptions and to recognize the influence of that experience in healthcare decision-making.

Stigma: Stigma may prevent individuals from seeking or receiving treatment and harm reduction services [Tsai, et al. 2019]. Among people with HIV, stigma and medical mistrust remain significant barriers to healthcare utilization, HIV diagnosis, and medication adherence and can affect disease outcomes [Turan, et al. 2017; Chambers, et al. 2015], and stigma among clinicians against people who use substances has been well-documented [Stone, et al. 2021; Tsai, et al. 2019; van Boekel, et al. 2013]. Sexual and reproductive health, including strategies to prevent HIV transmission, acquisition, and progression, may be subject to stigma, bias, social influence, and violence.

SHARED DECISION-MAKING IN HIV CARE
  • As prevention and treatment modalities in HIV care expand (i.e., vaccines, barriers, injectables, implants, on-demand therapies), it is important for clinicians to ask patients about their goals for prevention and treatment rather than assume that efficacy is the primary factor in patient preference [Sewell, et al. 2021].
  • The shared decision-making approach to clinical care enhances patient knowledge and uptake of new technologies and behavioral practices that align with the patient’s unique preferences and identity [Sewell, et al. 2021], ensures that the selection of a care plan is mutually agreed upon, and considers the patient’s ability to effectively use and adhere to the selected course of prevention or treatment.

Resources and Suggested Reading

In addition to the references cited below, the following resources and suggested reading may be useful to clinicians.

RESOURCES
References

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Updates, Authorship, and Related Guidelines

Updates, Authorship, and Related Guidelines
Date of original publication August 01, 2013
Date of current publication October 16, 2024
Highlights of changes, additions, and updates in the October 16, 2024 edition
  • Primary HBV vaccination: Recommendation revised to identify 2-dose Heplisav-B vaccine series as the preferred vaccine strategy.
  • Revaccination: Recommendation added on revaccinating with a 3rd dose of Heplisav-B in patients receiving the 2-dose series as the primary vaccination.
Intended users New York State clinicians in outpatient settings who provide primary and HIV specialty care for adults who have or are at risk of acquiring hepatitis B virus infection
Lead author

Alok Gupta, MBBS

Writing group

Rona M. Vail, MD, AAHIVS; Sanjiv S. Shah, MD, MPH, AAHIVM, AAHIVS; Steven M. Fine, MD, PhD; Joseph P. McGowan, MD, FACP, FIDSA, AAHIVS; Samuel T. Merrick, MD, FIDSA; Asa E. Radix, MD, MPH, PhD, FACP, AAHIVS; Jessica Rodrigues, MPH, MS; Christopher J. Hoffmann, MD, MPH, MSc, FACP; Brianna L. Norton, DO, MPH; Charles J. Gonzalez, MD

Author and writing group conflict of interest disclosures There are no author or writing group conflict of interest disclosures.
Committee

Medical Care Criteria Committee

Developer and funder

New York State Department of Health AIDS Institute (NYSDOH AI)

Development process

See Guideline Development and Recommendation Ratings Scheme, below.

Related NYSDOH AI guidelines

Guideline Development and Recommendation Ratings

Guideline Development: New York State Department of Health AIDS Institute Clinical Guidelines Program
Program manager Clinical Guidelines Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases. See Program Leadership and Staff.
Mission To produce and disseminate evidence-based, state-of-the-art clinical practice guidelines that establish uniform standards of care for practitioners who provide prevention or treatment of HIV, viral hepatitis, other sexually transmitted infections, and substance use disorders for adults throughout New York State in the wide array of settings in which those services are delivered.
Expert committees The NYSDOH AI Medical Director invites and appoints committees of clinical and public health experts from throughout New York State to ensure that the guidelines are practical, immediately applicable, and meet the needs of care providers and stakeholders in all major regions of New York State, all relevant clinical practice settings, key New York State agencies, and community service organizations.
Committee structure
  • Leadership: AI-appointed chair, vice chair(s), chair emeritus, clinical specialist(s), JHU Guidelines Program Director, AI Medical Director, AI Clinical Consultant, AVAC community advisor
  • Contributing members
  • Guideline writing groups: Lead author, coauthors if applicable, and all committee leaders
Disclosure and management of conflicts of interest
  • Annual disclosure of financial relationships with commercial entities for the 12 months prior and upcoming is required of all individuals who work with the guidelines program, and includes disclosure for partners or spouses and primary professional affiliation.
  • The NYSDOH AI assesses all reported financial relationships to determine the potential for undue influence on guideline recommendations and, when indicated, denies participation in the program or formulates a plan to manage potential conflicts. Disclosures are listed for each committee member.
Evidence collection and review
  • Literature search and review strategy is defined by the guideline lead author based on the defined scope of a new guideline or update.
  • A comprehensive literature search and review is conducted for a new guideline or an extensive update using PubMed, other pertinent databases of peer-reviewed literature, and relevant conference abstracts to establish the evidence base for guideline recommendations.
  • A targeted search and review to identify recently published evidence is conducted for guidelines published within the previous 3 years.
  • Title, abstract, and article reviews are performed by the lead author. The JHU editorial team collates evidence and creates and maintains an evidence table for each guideline.
Recommendation development
  • The lead author drafts recommendations to address the defined scope of the guideline based on available published data.
  • Writing group members review the draft recommendations and evidence and deliberate to revise, refine, and reach consensus on all recommendations.
  • When published data are not available, support for a recommendation may be based on the committee’s expert opinion.
  • The writing group assigns a 2-part rating to each recommendation to indicate the strength of the recommendation and quality of the supporting evidence. The group reviews the evidence, deliberates, and may revise recommendations when required to reach consensus.
Review and approval process
  • Following writing group approval, draft guidelines are reviewed by all contributors, program liaisons, and a volunteer reviewer from the AI Community Advisory Committee.
  • Recommendations must be approved by two-thirds of the full committee. If necessary to achieve consensus, the full committee is invited to deliberate, review the evidence, and revise recommendations.
  • Final approval by the committee chair and the NYSDOH AI Medical Director is required for publication.
External reviews
  • External review of each guideline is invited at the developer’s discretion.
  • External reviewers recognized for their experience and expertise review guidelines for accuracy, balance, clarity, and practicality and provide feedback.
Update process
  • JHU editorial staff ensure that each guideline is reviewed and determined to be current upon the 3-year anniversary of publication; guidelines that provide clinical recommendations in rapidly changing areas of practice may be reviewed annually. Published literature is surveilled to identify new evidence that may prompt changes to existing recommendations or development of new recommendations.
  • If changes in the standard of care, newly published studies, new drug approval, new drug-related warning, or a public health emergency indicate the need for immediate change to published guidelines, committee leadership will make recommendations and immediate updates and will invite full committee review as indicated.
Recommendation Ratings Scheme
Strength Quality of Evidence
Rating Definition Rating Definition
A Strong 1 Based on published results of at least 1 randomized clinical trial with clinical outcomes or validated laboratory endpoints.
B Moderate * Based on either a self-evident conclusion; conclusive, published, in vitro data; or well-established practice that cannot be tested because ethics would preclude a clinical trial.
C Optional 2 Based on published results of at least 1 well-designed, nonrandomized clinical trial or observational cohort study with long-term clinical outcomes.
2† Extrapolated from published results of well-designed studies (including nonrandomized clinical trials) conducted in populations other than those specifically addressed by a recommendation. The source(s) of the extrapolated evidence and the rationale for the extrapolation are provided in the guideline text. One example would be results of studies conducted predominantly in a subpopulation (e.g., one gender) that the committee determines to be generalizable to the population under consideration in the guideline.
3 Based on committee expert opinion, with rationale provided in the guideline text.

Last updated on October 16, 2024