Real-world effectiveness of hepatitis B vaccination in dialysis patients

Chronic kidney disease is (CKD) a highly prevalent condition worldwide, with an increasing prevalence in the general population. Effective vaccination strategies are crucial in this population to prevent hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related complications. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of different HBV vaccines in patients with CKD undergoing dialysis, focusing on seroconversion rates and overall immune response. A non-concurrent prospective cohort study was conducted on 160 outpatient long-term dialysis patients at the G. Martino Hospital in Messina. Patients were vaccinated with either FENDRIX (HB-AS04), HBVAXPRO 40 mg, or a combination, and their immune responses were assessed one month after the completion of the vaccination course. The study achieved 100 % vaccination coverage. The overall seroconversion rate was 62.5 %, with mean anti-HBs titers of 604.15 mIU/mL (±437.23 SD) across the cohorts. No significant differences were observed between responders and non-responders concerning demographic, clinical, and biochemical characteristics. The study confirms the effectiveness of HBV vaccines in patients with CKD, though with a lower and delayed response compared to the general population. Establishing a diagnostic-therapeutic care pathway that integrates vaccination from the early stages of CKD is essential to improve outcomes in this high-risk group.