Serological Profile of Hepatitis B in Chronic Hemodialysis Patients

Abstract

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a major concern for patients on chronic hemodialysis (CHD) due to immunosuppression and the high risk of nosocomial transmission. This study aimed to describe the serological profile and immune status regarding HBV among CHD patients in a Moroccan dialysis unit.Methods: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study conducted at the Mohammed V Military Teaching Hospital in Rabat, Morocco, between March 2019 and February 2020, involving 37 CHD patients. Demographic, clinical, and serological variables (HBsAg, Total anti-HBc, Anti-HBs) were collected. Serological diagnosis was performed using chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA).Results: The population comprised 51% men (Sex ratio M/F = 1.05). The most represented age group was 70–80 years. The most notable result was the prevalence of active infection (HBsAg positive), which was null (0%, n = 0/37) in this cohort. Regarding immune status: 19% of patients (n = 7/37) were positive for Total anti-HBc (indicating prior contact), and 68% (n = 25/37) were positive for Anti-HBs. Among patients with positive Anti-HBs, 72% presented a typical post-vaccination profile (HBsAg-/Total anti-HBc-). However, 56% of protected patients had Anti-HBs titers below the optimal protective threshold (<100 IU/L).Conclusion: The absence of active HBV infection suggests the efficacy of the rigorous prophylactic and hygiene measures in place within this hemodialysis unit. However, the high proportion of patients with suboptimal Anti-HBs titers highlights the need for regular antibody monitoring and booster doses to maintain adequate seroprotection in this immunocompromised population.