Screening of HBV infection in multi-transfused previously vaccinated patients

Introduction: Blood and blood products transfusion is an essential therapy for many patients. However, it carries the risk of transmission of infection. The hepatitis B virus can be transmitted by blood transfusion. This highlights the importance of combined HBsAg and anti-HBc screening to eliminate blood-transmitted HBV. Aim of work: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of HBV among vaccinated multi-transfused patients in Egypt. Material and methods: The study was conducted on 805 multi-transfused patients who were followed up at the outpatient hematology clinic at Cairo University Children’s Hospital. Plasma blood samples were collected for an HBV rapid screening test, and serum samples were collected for serological and molecular analysis of positive cases. Results: The results of this study results of HBV screening using RDT revealed three positive cases out of 805. The first case showed HBsAg positive, HBsAb negative, HBcAb positive, and HBeAg positive, as well as a high viral load. The second case showed HBsAg positive, HBsAb negative, HBcAb positive, HBeAg negative, and an intermediate viral load.The third case showed HBsAg negative, HBsAb positive, HBcAb positive, HBeAg negative, with an undetectable titer. Conclusions: HBV infection persists among multi-transfused and previously vaccinated children. Therefore, the postimmunization immune status of these patients should be assessed, and strict hemovigilance should be followed.