Induced HBs Antigenemia in Healthy Adults after Immunization with Two Different Hepatitis B Recombinant Vaccines

Background and Aims: Currently, vaccination is the most effective protective tool against hepatitis B virus infection. Some studies have shown that positive results for a hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg) test may be seen after vaccination. The aim of this study was to compare the incidence of positive HBsAg results after vaccination with two different hepatitis B recombinant vaccines. Materials and Methods: In this clinical trial study, 62 healthy adult volunteers were randomly assigned to receive either the Engerix-B or the Hepavax-Gene hepatitis B recombinant vaccine. Blood samples were drawn 1, 3, and 5 days after vaccination and were tested for HBsAg using two different ELISA kits (Behring and Mega). Results: HBsAg was positive in 5, 3, and 2 participants of the Engerix-B group in the 1st, 3rd, and 5th days after vaccination, respectively, using the Behring ELISA kit; the test was positive in only one subject in the Hepavax-Gene group, on the 5th day after vaccination. No positive result was seen in any groups when the Mega ELISA kit was used to test the specimens. Conclusions: Our results showed transient HBsAg antigenemia after vaccination against hepatitis B. This condition depends on the type of vaccine and the HBsAg diagnostic test.