Induced HBs antigenemia in healthy adults after immunization with two different hepatitis B recombinant vaccines.

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND AIMS:

Currently, vaccination is the most effective protective tool against hepatitis B virus infection. Some studies have shown that positive results for a hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg) test may be seen after vaccination.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In this clinical trial study, 62 healthy adult volunteers were randomly assigned to receive either the Engerix-B or the Hepavax-Gene hepatitis B recombinant vaccine. Blood samples were drawn 1, 3, and 5 days after vaccination and were tested for HBsAg using two different ELISA kits (Behring and Mega).

RESULTS:

HBsAg was positive in 5, 3, and 2 participants of the Engerix-B group in the 1st, 3rd, and 5th days after vaccination, respectively, using the Behring ELISA kit the test was positive in only one subject in the Hepavax-Gene group, on the 5th day after vaccination. No positive result was seen in any groups when the Mega ELISA kit was used to test the specimens.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our results showed transient HBsAg antigenemia after vaccination against hepatitis B. This condition depends on the type of vaccine and the HBsAg diagnostic test.

• Authors: Masoud Ziaee, Alireza Saádatjoo, Malihe Mohamadpour, Mohammad Hasan Namaei
• Journal: Hepatitis monthly (Hepat Mon) Vol. 10 Issue 4 Pg. 298-301 ( 2010) ISSN: 1735-3408 [Electronic] Netherlands
• PMID: 22312397 (Publication Type: Journal Article)