Hepatitis B surface antigenemia at birth: A long-term follow-up study
Journal
Journal of Pediatrics
Journal Volume
133
Journal Issue
3
Pages
374-377
Date Issued
1998
Author(s)
Abstract
Objective: To investigate the prevalence and outcome of hepatitis B surface antigenemia in newborns of hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-positive hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) carrier mothers under the current immunoprophylaxis program. Study design: From 1984 to 1993, 665 high-risk newborns born to HBeAg-positive HBsAg carrier mothers were prospectively recruited. The newborns were tested for HBsAg soon after birth, before hepatitis B immune globulin administration. All newborns received hepatitis B immune globulin within 24 hours after birth plus subsequent hepatitis B vaccination. Those who were seropositive for HBsAg at birth were regularly followed up for their hepatitis B virus (HBV) markers, liver function profiles, and α-fetoprotein levels from 1984 to 1996. Results: Sixteen (2.4%) of the 665 subjects were found to be seropositive for HBsAg at birth, and all remained HBsAg-positive at 6 months of age. Twelve of the 16 received long-term follow-up care, and all were confirmed to have chronic HBV infection. Of the 12, 2 had HBeAg seroconversion, and 1 had alanine aminotransferase flares without HBeAg seroconversion. Delayed appearance of hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc) occurred in 2 without alanine aminotransferase elevation. Conclusions: Current immunoprophylaxis strategy does not protect newborns with surface antigenemia, apparently acquired in utero, from becoming HBV carriers. Immunologic attempts to eliminate HBV may occur in carrier children infected in utero, despite their profound immune tolerance to HBV.
SDGs
Other Subjects
alanine aminotransferase; alpha fetoprotein; hepatitis B core antibody; hepatitis B surface antigen; hepatitis B(e) antigen; alanine aminotransferase blood level; article; clinical article; congenital infection; hepatitis B; human; immunological tolerance; liver function test; newborn; prevalence; priority journal; seroconversion; serology; vaccination; virus carrier
Publisher
Mosby Inc.
Type
journal article