Clinical Scorecard: Assessing the Impact of Traditional Chinese Medicine on Immune Function in Patients with Hepatitis B-Induced Liver Fibrosis or Cirrhosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

At a Glance

Key Highlights

• Combination of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and nucleos(t)ide analogs (NAs) shows potential in improving immune cell metrics.
• Meta-analysis included 25 RCTs with 2,585 patients.
• TCM may decrease harmful cytokines and improve liver function indexes.
• Evidence quality for immune function and liver health is classified as low.
• Further high-quality RCTs are needed to strengthen findings.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis based on the Guidelines for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis B.

Management

• Current treatments primarily manage hepatitis B and prevent complications; no specific anti-fibrotic agents approved.

Monitoring & Follow-up

• Monitor liver function and immune response metrics in patients receiving TCM and NAs.

Risks

• Risk of bias in included RCTs; potential publication bias noted.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Adults diagnosed with hepatitis B-related liver fibrosis or cirrhosis.

TCM combined with NAs may improve immune function and liver health, but evidence is low quality.

Clinical Best Practices

• Integrate TCM with conventional antiviral therapy for comprehensive management.
• Conduct regular assessments of liver function and immune parameters.

Related Resources & Content

• Systematic Review Registration