Study on Newborns' Response to Hepatitis B Vaccine
Author Information
Author(s): Ulla B Hellström, Kazimierz Madalinski, Staffan P E Sylvan
Primary Institution: Department of Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Uppsala County Council, Sweden
Hypothesis
Does recognition of preS1 epitopes in newborns correlate with antibody response to hepatitis B surface antigen after vaccination?
Conclusion
Newborns who recognized multiple preS1 epitopes showed a stronger antibody response to the hepatitis B vaccine.
Supporting Evidence
- 50% of newborns had detectable levels of anti-preS1 (21–32) antibodies.
- 54% of newborns were anti-preS1 (32–47) reactive.
- 43% of newborns were anti-preS1 (94–117) reactive.
- Higher anti-HBs levels were observed in newborns with detectable anti-preS1 (32–47) reactivity.
Takeaway
This study found that babies who recognized more parts of a hepatitis B vaccine had better immune responses.
Methodology
28 healthy newborns were vaccinated with either 2.5 ug or 5.0 ug of the Sci-B-Vac vaccine and their antibody responses were measured at 6 and 9 months.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the small sample size and exclusion of certain demographics.
Limitations
The study did not explore long-term immunity or responses in different populations.
Participant Demographics
Healthy newborns, mothers negative for hepatitis B markers, and newborns with normal Apgar scores.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.025
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website