Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in feces of convalescent hepatitis B patients

In 1983, 13 subjects were selected from a factory where an outbreak of viral hepatitis B occurred in October 1982. About 5-7 months later, 13 patients with viral hepatitis B were studied by RPHA and ELISA for HBsAg in feces. Presence of HBsAg was confirmed by specific blocking procedure. HBsAg was found in feces in 69% (9/13) of patients and 30.2% (26/86) of samples collected. 14 fecal specimens found to be positive for HBsAg by RPHA or ELISA examined by immune electron microscopy. Small aggregates of 20-28 nm HBsAg spherical particles were found in three fecal samples. 40-50 nm Dane's-like particles were also observed in one sample. The results suggested that in convalescent period of viral hepatitis B the HBsAg might be excreted through feces.