Immunogenicity of a recombinant DNA hepatitis B vaccine in renal transplant patients.
In renal transplant patients hepatitis B infection is associated with a higher morbidity and mortality. Therefore, we investigated the immunogenicity of an enhanced vaccination scheme with a recombinant DNA hepatitis B vaccine in renal allograft recipients. Injections of 40 micrograms were given at months 0, 1, 2 and 6. Conversion rate (anti-HBS antibody titre > 10 mIU ml-1) was only 36%. On the other hand, in patients vaccinated before transplantation, a booster injection of 40 micrograms was highly successful, resulting in a rise of antibody titre > 10 mIU ml-1 in 86%. In view of the poor vaccination results after transplantation, we strongly recommend hepatitis B vaccination prior to transplantation.
Lefebure
A F
AF
Department of Nephrology-Hypertension, University of Antwerp, Belgium.
Verpooten
G A
GA
Couttenye
M M
MM
De Broe
M E
ME
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006509:Hepatitis B / Q000517:prevention & control; D006510:Hepatitis B Antibodies / Q000097:blood; D017325:Hepatitis B Vaccines / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D007115:Immunization Schedule; D007117:Immunization, Secondary; D016030:Kidney Transplantation / Q000276:immunology*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D014614:Vaccines, Synthetic / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000276:immunology
D006510:Hepatitis B Antibodies; D017325:Hepatitis B Vaccines; C075657:Hevac B; D014614:Vaccines, Synthetic