Diagnosis and specific prevention of hepatitis b in a specialized setting

Aim. To evaluate the diagnostic approaches to viral hepatitis B and immune response on hepatitis B vaccination among clinical dispensary of dermatology and sexually transmitted diseases medical staff.

Methods. The study included 92 serum samples of healthcare facility staff who underwent hepatitis B vaccination more than 7 years before. To assess the post-vaccination immunity, levels of antibodies to surface antigen of hepatitis B (anti-HBS) were determined by ELISA. Published data on the duration of post-vaccination immunity and annual reporting forms of clinical dispensary of dermatology and sexually transmitted diseases of Kazan in 2013 were analyzed.

Results. Patients with human immunodeficiency virus, viral hepatitis B and C are often seeking for medical aid, retaining the risk for medical staff and other patients to be infected. Diagnosis of hepatitis B virus in medical settings is based on the detection of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBSAg), while revealing hepatitis B core antigen (HBCAg), anti-HBC (summary levels), extra-Dane particle antigen (HBEAg) and other markers of viral hepatitis B would allow to diagnose a latent form of hepatitis B. In 56.5% (n=92) of cases, anti-HBs levels were below the protective titer, suggesting higher risk for infection and requiring an additional revaccination. In the remaining 43.5% of cases, protective antibodies titers were revealed, confirming the effectiveness of specific prevention measures.

Conclusion. Despite the mass vaccination for hepatitis B, owing to post-vaccination immunity weakening over time, revaccination of medical staff remains important.