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Help with hepatitis B

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Posted 9/20/2007 2:23 PM (GMT 0)
I completed my dose of hep B vaccination about 5-6 years ago and all along thought I was immuned. But a recent surface antigen blood test showed that although I am negative for hep B, I am not immuned. My antibody count is less than 10 copies per ml.

How common is a failed vaccination? Or is it likely that my antibodies level dropped to undetectable level in a matter of 6 years? I am very worried that something is wrong with my body. Please help. Thanks!

Posted 9/23/2007 2:45 AM (GMT 0)

I'm pretty sure that they don't know how long the vaccine will last.  I had the same thing happen to me although I was vaccinated much before you.  Within a year I showed no detectable antibodies.  However, a repeat test showed that I was actually borderline.  It has to do with how they calculate your values as compared to a control.  If you are not much different, it will appear that you have no antibodies.  Next test could show a little bit different and when the calculation is done, you are OK.

First, have another antibody test done if you can.  If it's neg, talk to doc about next step. 

Posted 11/2/2007 4:27 AM (GMT 0)
Hi , I am very delayed in my response, but wanted to let you know to make sure to get this straightened out with your doctor. I, too, had no antibodies even though I was vaccinated. I contracted acute hep b from my husband , actually on our honeymoon,,,,,,,he had it for at least 10-15 yrs and had no idea. I had an extremely bad case of acute hep b, almost killed me actually. Luckily, my body finally fought it off, after 6 mths and I am fine now. good luck
Posted 11/5/2007 2:07 PM (GMT 0)
about 10 percent of Hep B vaccinations fail, unfortunately. It's not a perfect vaccine.This doesn't mean yours did however.

Re-immunizations are usually recommended after about 15 years, but studies have found that even in people with a low number of antibodies beyond 15,20 years, once exposure occurred, the body kicked in and produced enough to combat the infection.

It's definitely something to talk either to your doctor, or better yet a liver or infectious disease specialist about though, just to get some clarification.
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