STUDY OF THE IMMUNE RESPONSE OF HEPATITIS B-VACCINATION IN EGYPTIAN PRE-SCHOOL CHILDREN
Ahmed Khashaba, Manal El-Defrawy, Ghada Abdel Motaleb, Mohamed El-Shafaey* Gamal Rashad M.Sc.
Department of pediatric and clinical pathology* Benha Faculty of Medicine, Benha University
Abstract:
Although immunization of infants against hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the most effective way to prevent infection, duration of the afforded protection is unknown. Titers of ani-HBV antibodies decline with age. Aim of this study is to evaluate the immune response to hepatitis B vaccination in a sample of vaccinated Egyptian pre-school children and the impact of serum ferritin on this response.
Methods: Serum samples were collected from 91apparently normal children 5-6 years old, who were fully vaccinated in infancy, during period January to October 2005, HBs antibody titer was assayed by ELIZA, colorimetric determination of serum albumin and serum ferritin estimation by enzyme immunoassay were performed. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated in all children.
Results: A total of 49 (53.8%) tested positive response for HBs antibody including [43 weak responders (10-100mIU/L) and 6 high responders (>100mIU/L)] and 42 (46.2%) showed inadequate response (< 10mIU/L). the mean value of serum ferritin (86.9 ug/L) in responders was significantly higher (P = 0.001) when compared to non-responders (62.8ug/L). No statistically significant difference regarding sex, locality (rural or urban), serum albumin and BMI were detected in between.
Conclusion:
High ferritin level (within normal range) may contribute to good immune response. Booster dose of HB vaccine should be highly considered to enhance immune protection of the vaccine.
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