Hepatitis B surface antigen positivity after twinrix vaccination: a case report

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Vaccinology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Travelers are at increased risk for hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection.
• Hepatitis B vaccination is crucial for preventing HBV infection in travelers.
• Combined hepatitis A and B vaccines are commonly administered to travelers.

Observation:

• A healthy Canadian female presented with prolonged transient hepatitis B surface antigenemia.
• The antigenemia was detected 8 days after receiving a combined hepatitis A and B vaccine.

Findings:

• The case demonstrates a prolonged, yet transient, positive hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) test post-vaccination.
• This phenomenon, while uncommon, can occur after administration of combined hepatitis A and B vaccines.

Implications:

• Travel health providers must be aware of this potential vaccine side effect.
• Educating patients about transient antigenemia is essential to prevent unnecessary anxiety and misdiagnosis.
• Understanding this phenomenon aids in accurate interpretation of hepatitis B serological markers in vaccinated individuals.