[Australia antigenemia and hepatitis after kidney transplantation]

The clinical significance of Australia-antigenemia following kidney transplant has been studied in 18 patients. In 12 of these infection occurred after kidney graft. Sixteen allograft recipients had positive tests for Hbs-AG for 15-89 months. Development of chronic persistent hepatitis was observed in 7 cases; chronic aggressive hepatitis was not seen. Findings in the literature and the practical implications are discussed.