Seroconversion following hepatitis B vaccination in children with chronic kidney disease

Abstract EN

Seroconversion following hepatitis B vaccination is low in children with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

This study aimed to assess the seroconversion and persistence of protective immunity following hepatitis B vaccination in children with CKD.

This prospective observational study was conducted in a tertiary pediatric nephrology centre to assess the seroconversion and maintenance of antibody titers (>10 mIU/mL) at one year following hepatitis B vaccination (10 µg at 0, 1, and 2 months) in children with CKD Stages II to V.

Those who did not seroconvert after the schedule were re-vaccinated, and antibody titers were checked.

Categorical data were expressed as proportions and analyzed using the Chi-square test.

Pearson’s correlation test was used to determine the correlation of antibody titers with other continuous variables.

Seroconversion was observed in 72% (n = 26/36) after vaccination.

Only 60% (n = 6/10) had seroconversion after the second course of vaccination.

Only 60% of children (n = 12/20) who seroconverted had protective antibody titers at one year.

Seroconversion following three doses of hepatitis B vaccine is low in children with CKD.

Antibody titers should be monitored periodically as the protective immunity wanes rapidly