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[Hepatitis B in pregnancy: clinical and prophylactic implications]
R Figueroa Damián1, L Sánchez Fernández, E Benavides Covarrubias
1Departamento de Infectología e Inmunología, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, México, D.F.
Ginecologia Y Obstetricia De Mexico
|February 1, 1995
Summary
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a global health concern. Perinatal transmission can lead to chronic liver disease, but newborns can be protected with timely immunization.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Public Health
Background:
- Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections are prevalent globally, with varying endemicity.
- Perinatal HBV transmission frequently results in persistent infections, potentially leading to chronic liver diseases like cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the risks of vertical Hepatitis B virus transmission based on maternal serological status.
- To highlight the importance of timely immunization for newborns born to infected mothers.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on Hepatitis B virus transmission and prevention.
- Analysis of vertical transmission rates correlated with maternal Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and Hepatitis B e-antigen (HBeAg) status.
Main Results:
- Mothers who are HBsAg positive have a 10-20% risk of transmitting HBV to their fetus.
- Mothers positive for both HBsAg and HBeAg face an 80-90% risk of vertical transmission.
- Newborns require immediate immunization with vaccine and hepatitis B immune globulin to mitigate infection risk.
Conclusions:
- Maternal HBsAg and HBeAg status are critical determinants of perinatal HBV transmission risk.
- Post-exposure prophylaxis including vaccination and immunoglobulin is essential for preventing HBV infection in at-risk newborns.