Real-World Evaluation of Response to Hepatitis B Vaccination in Cirrhosis: A Brief Report

Abstract

Information regarding seroresponse to hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination in India is sparse. We aimed to determine response rates to HBV vaccination in adult cirrhotic patients. We included adult patients (> 18 years) with cirrhosis after screening for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), anti-HBc, and anti-HBs. Those who were seronegative were advised vaccination. We excluded patients who were known HBsAg positive, on oral antiviral drugs, who did not complete the recommended vaccination regimen, and those who were lost to follow-up. Two months after completion of vaccination, anti-HBs titers were measured. Titers more than10 IU/L were considered as response, while less than 10 IU/L was labeled as nonresponse. The two groups were compared for baseline demographic parameters, anthropometry, model of end-stage liver disease score, and history of prior vaccination. The study cohort included 164 patients (median age: 43, range: 18–68 years, and 67% males). On follow-up at 2 months after vaccination, 103 (62.8%) patients had anti-HBs titer more than 10 IU/L. Of these, 54 (52.4%) had titers more than 100 and 49 (47.6%) had titers ranging from 10 to 99. Nonresponders were significantly older than responders (48 vs. 41 years, p = 0.01). Seroresponse to HBV vaccination in adult patients with cirrhosis was 62.8%. Older age predicted nonresponse to HBV vaccination.