Serological responses to hepatitis B virus infection in multi-transfused thalassemic children.
One hundred children with beta-thalassemia major were studied prospectively. A one time analysis of serum samples was carried out for a battery of hepatitis B viral markers viz., HBsAg, anti-HBs and anti-HBc. Seven mutually different serological patterns were observed. The commonest profile seen in 49 patients was a combined seropositivity for anti-HBc and anti-HBs indicating past HBV infection with persisting immunity. Definite evidence of active HBV infection (seropositivity for HBsAg and/or HBeAg) was demonstrated in 10 cases, six of these were HBsAg positive. Anti-HBc positivity alone was detected in 17 patients. The remaining 24 children were seropositive for anti-HBs alone suggesting a possible passive transmission of anti-HBs through blood transfusion.
Gulati
S
S
Department of Pediatrics, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh.
Marwaha
R K
RK
Dilawari
J B
JB
Midha
U
U
Walia
B N
BN
D001803:Blood Transfusion; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003906:Developing Countries; D006509:Hepatitis B / Q000276:immunology / Q000635:transmission*; D006510:Hepatitis B Antibodies / Q000032:analysis*; D006514:Hepatitis B Surface Antigens / Q000032:analysis*; D006801:Humans; D007194:India; D007223:Infant; D013789:Thalassemia / Q000276:immunology / Q000628:therapy*
D006510:Hepatitis B Antibodies; D006514:Hepatitis B Surface Antigens