Implications of postvaccination hepatitis B surface antigenemia in the management of exposures to body fluids

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. 2004 Jul;25(7):611-3. doi: 10.1086/502449.

Abstract

A neonate vaccinated against HBV was the source of an occupational exposure to blood. She was tested for hepatitis B surface antigen and found to be positive, leading to unnecessary treatment, retesting, and concern. Evaluation of the infectious status of HBV should rely on other means if vaccination has recently occurred.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Body Fluids / virology*
  • Female
  • Hepatitis B Surface Antigens / blood*
  • Hepatitis B Vaccines / immunology*
  • Hepatitis B virus / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infection Control / methods*
  • Needlestick Injuries / immunology
  • Occupational Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Occupational Exposure / analysis*
  • Serologic Tests

Substances

  • Hepatitis B Surface Antigens
  • Hepatitis B Vaccines