Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccine Efficacy and Antibody Decline
Hepatitis B vaccine issues? Hello Doctor: When my daughter entered junior high school, her hepatitis B antibody test was negative, and the antigen was also negative. After receiving three doses of the vaccine, her antibody level was >1000 (+), indicating a strong antibody conc...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Generally, after 5 to 10 days, antibody levels may decrease or disappear. A booster dose of the vaccine can enhance antibody levels, indicating that memory cells are still present. If three years have passed, antibody levels may significantly decline, which could be due to...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccine Efficacy and Antibody Decline
Understanding Baraclude for Chronic Hepatitis B Treatment: Key Concerns and Insights
The treatment for hepatitis B is Baraclude? Dear Doctor, I hope this message finds you well. I previously asked you several questions regarding the treatment of hepatitis B, and I now have a few more concerns that I would like to outline below: 1. I have been taking Baraclude (...
Dr. Li Yongming Reply:
You have raised many excellent questions, many of which are still intriguing topics in medical research. The mechanism of action of the drug "Baraclude" (entecavir) is to inhibit the further replication of the hepatitis B virus, thereby achieving therapeutic effects. Th...[Read More] Understanding Baraclude for Chronic Hepatitis B Treatment: Key Concerns and Insights
Understanding Hepatitis B Antibody Levels After Vaccination: What to Expect
Could you please provide more details about the issue regarding hepatitis B antibodies? Dear Doctor: My hepatitis B antibody test result was originally positive. To boost the antibody concentration, I received an additional dose of the hepatitis B vaccine. About 7 to 8 days later...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Previously, if the antibodies were produced after vaccination, some individuals may not have detectable antibodies after 5 to 10 years. However, if their memory immune cells are still present, a single dose of the hepatitis B vaccine can trigger a rebound in antibody level...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Antibody Levels After Vaccination: What to Expect
Understanding Hepatitis B Antigen Results: What Parents Need to Know
What are the issues related to Hepatitis B surface antigen? Dear Doctor, I have been feeling panic and anxiety for the past six months regarding this issue. I have searched for a lot of information online, but the more I search, the more anxious I become, and I feel very depress...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Ms. Lin. Basically, the results of the hepatitis B antigen test are not solely about the concentration values, so there is no need to focus too much on the numbers. As long as the result is <1.0 and there are positive antibodies, it indicates lifelong immunity. I won&#x...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Antigen Results: What Parents Need to Know
Understanding Abnormal Blood and Urine Test Results in Liver Health
Regarding blood and urine test results? In the year 2012, a health check-up was conducted, and the results suggested the following follow-up: weight loss (44 kg/160 cm), low white blood cell count, positive urine protein, weakly positive urine ketones, positive urine bilirubin, e...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. For chronic hepatitis B carriers with abnormal liver function, regular follow-up is necessary. 2. If there are symptoms of jaundice, such as intermittent high indirect bilirubin, it may sometimes be necessary to check for hemolytic anemia, G6PD deficiency, and other con...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood and Urine Test Results in Liver Health
Understanding Liver Ultrasound Results: What You Need to Know
Questions about liver ultrasound examination? Hello, ultrasound physician: Last week, I underwent a routine ultrasound follow-up for gallbladder polyps. The polyps have been monitored for 7 years and have consistently measured between 0.4 cm and 0.6 cm (the doctor said this is wi...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Ms. Liu. The interpretation of ultrasound is quite subjective. Most physicians tend to be conservative and may describe some findings as coarse echogenicity (fibrosis). This can sometimes cause anxiety for patients. Generally, as long as liver function remains normal over ...[Read More] Understanding Liver Ultrasound Results: What You Need to Know
Should You Get Another Hepatitis B Vaccine After Three Doses?
After receiving three doses of the hepatitis B vaccine and still testing negative, is it necessary to receive additional doses of the hepatitis B vaccine? Four years ago, a company health check indicated that both the hepatitis B surface antigen and antibody were negative. As a r...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: The success rate of hepatitis B vaccination is approximately 90%. It is generally recommended that if there are two consecutive failed vaccination attempts, further vaccinations should not be administered. Best regards, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of He...[Read More] Should You Get Another Hepatitis B Vaccine After Three Doses?
Understanding the Risks of Reinfection in Chronic Hepatitis B Carriers
The issue of severe and recurrent infections with Hepatitis B virus? Hello, Doctor: Taiwan is an endemic area for hepatitis B, and many people are unaware of how they became infected. If a healthy carrier of hepatitis B is unknowingly infected by another hepatitis B carrier, will...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: As a carrier of hepatitis B, since you are already infected, further exposure to other strains of hepatitis B will not have additional adverse effects. Wishing you good health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan General Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Understanding the Risks of Reinfection in Chronic Hepatitis B Carriers
Understanding Elevated GPT Levels: What You Need to Know
GOT is normal, while GPT is elevated? Hello, doctor. My brother underwent a military physical examination at your hospital last September, and the report indicated that his GOT levels were normal, but his GPT was elevated at 98. He returned for a follow-up examination on February...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Ms. Peko. 1. If you have a higher body weight, fatty liver should be addressed by first losing weight and confirming with an ultrasound. 2. Other potential causes such as medications and alcohol must also be ruled out. Dr. Chen Shidian from Changhua Hospital cares abo...[Read More] Understanding Elevated GPT Levels: What You Need to Know
Can I See General Internal Medicine for Hepatitis B Follow-Up?
Saturday clinic issues~ Hello, regarding my previous inquiry about an appointment on Saturday morning, I am currently under follow-up for hepatitis B. Can I still schedule an appointment with a general internal medicine doctor to arrange for blood tests and an abdominal ultrasoun...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, yes, you can schedule a general internal medicine appointment for a follow-up on hepatitis B testing. Wishing you good health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Can I See General Internal Medicine for Hepatitis B Follow-Up?
Saturday Appointment Queries for Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology
Saturday outpatient registration issues? Hello, a few days ago I inquired about the Saturday outpatient services for the Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology. You mentioned that I could use the general internal medicine registration on Saturdays. However, I am a carri...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: General follow-up is acceptable, but if there is a need for antiviral medication due to hepatitis B, it is not permissible. Best wishes, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Saturday Appointment Queries for Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology
Understanding Elevated Serum Transaminases: Causes and Solutions
Serum transaminases The blood donation center report indicates that my serum transaminase level is 93, which is elevated. However, I went to bed around 2 AM the night before donating blood. What are the effects of elevated transaminase levels on the body, and how can I improve th...
Dr. Li Yongming Reply:
The measurement of serum transaminases (GPT, GOT) is used to assess whether liver cells are damaged. Normal serum transaminase levels are generally below 40 units. There are many causes for elevated serum ALT levels, primarily including alcohol abuse, medication use, intense exer...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Serum Transaminases: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Chronic Hepatitis B: 22 Years as a Carrier and Treatment Insights
Hepatitis B carrier for 22 years? The patient has been a carrier of hepatitis B for 22 years. Five years ago, liver function tests showed a level of 1600. After taking liver protective medication for one and a half years, liver function and tumor markers are currently normal. An ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Generally speaking, if the condition is fully controlled, the viral load is undetectable. It is currently recommended to continue using Hepatitis B medication. If there are signs of liver function abnormalities or if the viral load increases instead of decreasing, it may i...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Hepatitis B: 22 Years as a Carrier and Treatment Insights
Understanding e-Antigen Negative Hepatitis B: Risks and Treatment Options
Hepatitis B patients who are e-antigen negative? Hello Doctor: In 2006, I tested negative for HBeAg and positive for HBeAb, and I originally thought I was a low viral load hepatitis B patient. However, my recent tests showed GPT=77, GOT=31, AFP=4.5, and HBV DNA=250,000 IU/mL. The...
Dr. Li Yongming Reply:
Hello, you are a very diligent patient. I will first address your questions in order, and then provide the current health insurance regulations and personal recommendations regarding your situation. First, the e antigen in wild-type chronic hepatitis B virus is indeed an indica...[Read More] Understanding e-Antigen Negative Hepatitis B: Risks and Treatment Options
Understanding Elevated ALT Levels: Causes and When to See a Doctor
Serum Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) When I went to donate blood, my serum transaminase (ALT) level was elevated at 91. I usually go to bed around 12:10 AM and wake up around 7 AM. I don't have any bad habits. My father seems to have hepatitis B (I'm not sure what could...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, please visit the Gastroenterology and Hepatology outpatient clinic to investigate the cause of your condition for appropriate treatment (please bring your reports with you during your visit). Dr. Chen Shih-Dian from Changhua Hospital cares about your health.[Read More] Understanding Elevated ALT Levels: Causes and When to See a Doctor
Is Severe Pain Below the Nipple Related to Liver or Stomach Issues?
Is the pain below the nipple when taking a deep breath related to the liver? What are some issues concerning the stomach and liver? Hello Dr. Lee: I would like to ask some questions regarding my stomach and liver. I have been a carrier of hepatitis B for over ten years, and I hav...
Dr. Li Yongming Reply:
Doctors cannot accurately diagnose the source of a patient's pain based solely on its location; otherwise, there would be no need for ultrasound, endoscopy, or X-rays! You may suspect that you have a stomach or liver condition but are reluctant to undergo further testing. Wi...[Read More] Is Severe Pain Below the Nipple Related to Liver or Stomach Issues?
Understanding Changes in Hepatitis B Surface Antigens After 20 Years
I have been a carrier of hepatitis B for 20 years? I have been a carrier of Hepatitis B for 20 years. My previous health check results were: Hepatitis B surface antigen positive, surface antibody negative, E antigen negative, E antibody positive. However, this year's results...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: This year's positive surface antibody results differ from previous years, and the most likely reason is laboratory error. However, it is still important to consider the numerical values, as tests usually have a cutoff value; results above this cutoff are considered po...[Read More] Understanding Changes in Hepatitis B Surface Antigens After 20 Years
Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccination: Dosage, Antibody Testing, and Next Steps
Hepatitis B vaccination administration Hello Doctor: My daughter underwent a health check-up for high school admission, and both her Hepatitis B surface antigen and antibody tests were negative. The hospital recommended that she receive the Hepatitis B vaccine. I would like to as...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Ms. Lin: After receiving the hepatitis B vaccine, you can have a blood test to confirm its effectiveness as a reference. Children only need a booster dose. For the initial vaccination, three doses are required, but adults should first check if their HBcAb is positive. Curre...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccination: Dosage, Antibody Testing, and Next Steps
Understanding Hepatitis B Antibody Levels and Vaccination Recommendations
Hepatitis B antibody concentration Hello Dr. Chen, I have my child's high school entrance health check report: (1) Hepatitis B surface antigen: negative (2) Hepatitis B surface antibody: 18 (weak positive). It is recommended to receive a booster dose of the Hepatitis B vacc...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello: A maximum of one booster dose of the hepatitis B vaccine can be administered, and antibody levels can be tested one month later. Non-healthcare personnel do not need a booster, but receiving an additional dose is harmless.[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Antibody Levels and Vaccination Recommendations
High White Blood Cell Count and Elevated Liver Enzymes: What Does It Mean?
Elevated white blood cell count and liver enzymes? During my health check-up, my white blood cell count was 14.28, SGOT was 126, and SGPT was 124. I also no longer have antibodies for hepatitis B (I am not a carrier). My life has been relatively normal, yet my liver enzymes are s...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. Elevated white blood cell count and liver enzymes require further investigation to identify the cause of inflammation and infection. Possible infections include chronic hepatitis B virus and other viruses; bacteria can also be a cause. Factors such as fatigue, alcohol, ...[Read More] High White Blood Cell Count and Elevated Liver Enzymes: What Does It Mean?