Reverse seroconversion of hepatitis B virus after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in the absence of chronic graft-versus-host disease

Hematology. 2009 Apr;14(2):73-5. doi: 10.1179/102453309X385223.

Abstract

The appearance of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in patients previously positive for antibody to this antigen (HBsAb) is called reverse seroconversion, a rare complication after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), which occurs almost exclusively after HSCT from an HBsAb-negative donor and the development of chronic graft-versus-host disease (CGVHD). However, we experienced a patient who developed reverse seroconversion 23 months after unrelated HSCT even in the absence of immunosuppressants use or CGVHD. Serum immunoglobulin level was persistently normal. Therefore, all HBsAb-positive recipients should be considered to be at risk for HBV reactivation, even in patients without any risk factors.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Graft vs Host Disease / immunology
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation / methods
  • Hepatitis B / blood
  • Hepatitis B / immunology*
  • Hepatitis B Antibodies / blood
  • Hepatitis B Surface Antigens / blood
  • Hepatitis B Surface Antigens / immunology
  • Hepatitis B virus / immunology
  • Hepatitis B virus / isolation & purification
  • Humans
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Transplantation, Homologous

Substances

  • Hepatitis B Antibodies
  • Hepatitis B Surface Antigens