WHAT IS THE CORRECT MANAGEMENT AND FOLLOW-UP FOR INFANTS WHOSE MOTHERS ARE INFECTED WITH HEPATITIS B?

Douglas Bradford Mogul, Kathleen B. Schwarz

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

In the United States, the incidence of acute hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in children younger than 15 years has declined by 98% from 1990 to 2006. This decrease can be attributed both to the introduction of the universal infant vaccination in 1991, as well as recommendations for the use of hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) in neonates born to HBsAg (hepatitis B surface antigen)-positive mothers. 1, 2 However, while the incidence of HBV infection is declining, approximately 24,000 HBV-infected women give birth each year in the United States. 3 Furthermore, neonates are especially susceptible to developing chronic hepatitis B (CHB) as compared to older children and adults. While only 5% to 10% of acutely infected adolescents and adults will develop CHB, 90% of neonates and 25% to 50% of children aged 1 to 5 years will develop CHB. 4 The younger the age of acquisition, the higher the risk of cirrhosis, liver failure, and hepatocellular cancer. 4 Clearly, aggressive monitoring of the immunization status of pregnant women as well as a comprehensive vaccine strategy for newborns has been a successful public health intervention and ongoing vigilance is necessary.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationCurbside Consultation in Pediatric GI
Subtitle of host publication49 Clinical Questions
PublisherCRC Press
Pages27-39
Number of pages13
ISBN (Electronic)9781040143759
ISBN (Print)9781617110146
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2024

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

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