Serological evidence of past hepatitis B infection in liver donor and hepatitis B infection in liver allograft

Lancet. 1995 Apr 29;345(8957):1084-5. doi: 10.1016/s0140-6736(95)90819-6.

Abstract

The presence of hepatitis B surface and core antibodies (anti-HBs and anti-HBc) in a liver donor without hepatitis B surface antigen is taken to indicate resolution of hepatitis B and is not considered to contraindicate donation. We report a liver transplant recipient who developed hepatitis B after such a donation. It seems that hepatitis B virus can reside in the liver of a patient who has seemingly recovered from his disease. We recommend avoidance of liver transplants from donors who are positive for anti-HBs and anti-HBc.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Graft Rejection
  • Hepatitis B / diagnosis*
  • Hepatitis B Antibodies / blood*
  • Hepatitis B Antigens / blood*
  • Hepatitis B Antigens / immunology
  • Hepatitis B virus / immunology
  • Humans
  • Liver / virology*
  • Middle Aged
  • Serologic Tests
  • Tissue Donors*

Substances

  • Hepatitis B Antibodies
  • Hepatitis B Antigens