| Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) remains a major global public health concern. Current antiviral therapy, primarily based on nucleos(t)ide analogues and interferon, can effectively suppress viral replication and delay the progression of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. However, due to the persistent presence of covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA), achieving a functional cure remains challenging. In recent years, the role of integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine in the long-term management of CHB has gained increasing attention. Available evidence suggests that combining traditional Chinese medicine interventions with standard antiviral therapy can promote HBeAg seroconversion and reduce HBsAg levels, and delay the progression of liver fibrosis. Additionally, this integrated approach shows potential benefits in alleviating PEG-IFN-α-related adverse effects and improving treatment tolerability. Nevertheless, current evidence is predominantly derived from short-term endpoints and retrospective studies. There remains a lack of high-quality randomized controlled trials, and the underlying mechanisms as well as long-term clinical benefits require further clarification. This review summarizes the theoretical basis, potential mechanisms, and clinical research progress of integrated therapy for CHB, aiming to provide a reference for its standardized application. |
