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Generation of Multivirus-specific T Cells to Prevent/treat Viral Infections after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant
Published on: May 27, 2011
Reverse seroconversion of hepatitis B virus after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
1Department of Hematology and Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan.
Leukemia & Lymphoma
|January 21, 2003
Summary
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reverse seroconversion, a rare complication after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), may be more common than previously thought. Factors like corticosteroid use and declining antibody levels can predict this HBV reactivation in HBsAb-positive patients.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Immunology
- Transplantation Medicine
Background:
- Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation, specifically reverse seroconversion (loss of protective hepatitis B surface antibody [HBsAb]), is considered rare post-hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).
- This phenomenon occurs in patients previously positive for HBsAb and Hepatitis B core antibody (HBcAb).
Observation:
- Two cases of HBV reverse seroconversion were observed in nine HBsAb-positive and HBcAb-positive patients undergoing HSCT.
- One case occurred after autologous bone marrow transplantation (BMT), and the other after allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (PBSCT).
Findings:
- Literature review suggests HBV reverse seroconversion post-HSCT is not uncommon in HBsAb-positive recipients.
- Predictive factors for reverse seroconversion include corticosteroid use, absence of HBsAb in the donor, and declining serum HBsAb and HBcAb levels.
Implications:
- Re-evaluation of the incidence and risk factors for HBV reverse seroconversion after HSCT is warranted.
- Monitoring HBsAb and HBcAb levels and considering donor serostatus may help predict and manage HBV reactivation in transplant recipients.
- This highlights the importance of vigilant HBV monitoring in immunocompromised patients.
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