Hepatitis B surface antigen and antibody negative?
Hello, I would like to ask: I recently had a health check-up, and the results showed no hepatitis B antigens or antibodies.
However, during a health check several years ago, I did have antibodies.
What could explain this situation? Does the absence of antigens mean that I have never been infected with hepatitis B? Or is it possible that I was infected in the past but have since recovered? I am planning to get pregnant soon and am concerned about any potential effects on the fetus! Would you recommend that I undergo a more detailed examination, or is it sufficient to just receive a booster vaccine? Thank you for your response!
Amber, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/11
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Miss: The antibodies produced by the hepatitis B vaccine may decrease to undetectable levels with age, but the immune memory remains intact.
Therefore, we do not actively encourage the general public to receive an additional dose of the vaccine at their own expense to boost immune memory (unless they are healthcare workers).
Please be mindful to avoid contact with unknown blood sources.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shih-Dian
Reply Date: 2015/07/11
More Info
When interpreting your recent Hepatitis B test results, which indicate that both the Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and the Hepatitis B surface antibody (Anti-HBs) are negative, it is essential to understand what these results signify in the context of your health and potential future pregnancy.
1. Understanding the Results:
- Negative HBsAg: This result indicates that you are not currently infected with the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). HBsAg is a protein on the surface of the virus, and its presence in the blood typically indicates an active infection. Therefore, a negative result means that there is no active infection at this time.
- Negative Anti-HBs: This result suggests that you do not have protective antibodies against Hepatitis B. Anti-HBs are produced by the immune system after either vaccination or recovery from a past infection. A negative result here indicates that you have not developed immunity to the virus.
2. Previous Antibody Presence: You mentioned that you had antibodies in a previous health check. This could imply that you were either vaccinated against Hepatitis B or had a past infection that your body successfully fought off. Over time, antibody levels can decline, especially if you have not been exposed to the virus again. It is not uncommon for antibody levels to wane, leading to a situation where you no longer have detectable antibodies.
3. Possibility of Past Infection: While a negative HBsAg indicates no current infection, it does not completely rule out the possibility of a past infection. If you had a Hepatitis B infection in the past and your body cleared the virus, you would typically develop Anti-HBs. However, if your antibody levels have decreased significantly, you might not have detectable antibodies anymore.
4. Implications for Pregnancy: Since you are planning to conceive, it is crucial to ensure that you have adequate immunity against Hepatitis B. A lack of Anti-HBs means you are susceptible to infection. Hepatitis B can be transmitted from mother to child during childbirth, so it is essential to address this before pregnancy.
5. Recommendations:
- Vaccination: Given your current negative results, it would be advisable to receive the Hepatitis B vaccine. The vaccine is safe and effective, and it can help you develop the necessary antibodies to protect both you and your future child from Hepatitis B.
- Follow-Up Testing: After completing the vaccination series, you should have your Anti-HBs levels checked again to confirm that you have developed immunity. This follow-up is crucial to ensure that you are protected before attempting to conceive.
- Consultation with a Healthcare Provider: It is always a good idea to discuss your results and plans with a healthcare provider, especially when considering pregnancy. They can provide personalized advice and may suggest additional testing or monitoring based on your health history.
In summary, your negative HBsAg and Anti-HBs results indicate that you are not currently infected with Hepatitis B and do not have immunity. Given your previous antibody presence, it is likely that your immunity has waned over time. To ensure a healthy pregnancy and protect your child, consider getting vaccinated and consulting with your healthcare provider for further guidance.
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