Anti-hepatitis B surface antigen titres in vaccinated dentistry students at Damascus University

Abstract

Dental practice carries considerable danger for acquiring bloodborne pathogens such as hepatitis B virus (HBV). Vaccination against this virus is an important approach to reducing the infection. Post-vaccination test to confirm the seroconversion is important also. Over the period 1 March-31 May 2010, we assessed the efficacy of HBV vaccination among 91 fourth-year dental students at Damascus University, who were vaccinated under the mandatory Faculty of Dentistry programme. Anti-HBsAg antibody titres were determined in the blood samples using an enzyme immunoassay to measure; ≥10 IU/mm was considered an adequate response titer. Seven of the 91 dentistry students (7.7%) had anti-HBs antibody titre 10 mIU/mL. The frequency of unresponsiveness was significantly higher with smoking (P=0.012) and alcohol consumption (P=0.014). Anti-HBs test should be included in routine immunization services of the School of Dentistry at Damascus University.