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 language | English (US) |
---|---|
Title of host publication | Curbside Consultation in Pediatric GI |
Subtitle of host publication | 49 Clinical Questions |
Publisher | CRC Press |
Pages | 27-39 |
Number of pages | 13 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9781040143759 |
ISBN (Print) | 9781617110146 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jan 1 2024 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Medicine