Risk of hepatitis b transmission after amniocentesis in chronic hepatitis B carriers

Abstract

Objectives The rick of tranimiuion of hepatitis B virus (HBV) from amniocentesis in HBV carriers has not been thoroughly investigated. In one report from Taiwan, the risk of perinatal HBV transmiuion in HBV carriers was not higher after amniocentesis compared to a control group of HBV carriers. Inuminoprophylaxis failures occured in 10% of infants in both groups. Our objective was to measure the risk of transmission of HBV in chronic carriers who undergo amniocenieses at our hospital. Study Design This study was a prospective, longitudinal study, and data were collected about women who were HBV carriers and underwent amniocentesis. The infants of these women were followed in a special clinic from birth to one year of age. Maternal data examined included HBV antigen and antibody status, liver function tests (LFTs), and the amniocentesis procedure report. Pédiatrie data was obtained from clinic records including the neonatal and 12 month HBsAg and vaccine record. Results 25 women were identified. Two of 25 neonates were stillborn unrelated to hepatitis, and 5 infants were lost to follow-up, leaving 18 mother-child pairs to evaluate. All 18 women were chronic HBV carriers at the time of amniocentesis and delivery. No mother had abnormal LFTs, and only 1 of 18 women was positive for HBeAg. 10 amniocentesis were for advanced maternal age, and 5 were for abnormal MSAFP screening. None of the amniocenteses were recorded M bloody, and the placenta was anterior in 5 of 18 procedures. None of the 18 infants (95% CI:0-18.3%) were positive for HbaAg during the first month of life or at 12 months of age. All infants received HBV vaccine and HBIg immunoprophylaxis. Conclusion The risk of transmission of HBV to the fetus after amniocentesis in women who are HBV carriers is low. Immunoprophylaxis in these infants was successful.