From the Guidelines
The immunoglobulin (Ig) that shows Hepatitis B (Hep B) vaccine positivity is IgG, which is indicated by the presence of anti-HBs (antibody to hepatitis B surface antigen) in the blood, with a level of ≥10 mIU/mL considered seroprotective 1.
Key Points
- A positive Hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs) test indicates immunity to Hepatitis B virus, either from successful vaccination or from recovery after a natural infection.
- The presence of anti-HBs is generally indicative of immunity to HBV infection, and levels of ≥10 mIU/mL are considered seroprotective 1.
- The hepatitis B vaccine contains HBsAg produced in yeast by recombinant DNA technology and provides protection from HBV infection when used for both pre-exposure vaccination and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) 1.
- Hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) provides temporary protection from HBV infection and is typically used as PEP as an adjunct to hepatitis B vaccination for previously unvaccinated persons or for persons who have not responded to vaccination 1.
Important Considerations
- Certain groups like healthcare workers, dialysis patients, or immunocompromised individuals may need periodic antibody testing and booster doses if levels fall below protective thresholds 1.
- The positive result means your immune system has developed protective antibodies in response to the vaccine antigens, providing you with protection against potential future exposures to the Hepatitis B virus.
- It is essential to note that anti-HBs levels can wane over time, and booster doses may be necessary to maintain protective levels, especially in high-risk individuals 1.
From the Research
Immunoglobulin Response to Hepatitis B Vaccine
- The immunoglobulin that shows Hepatitis B (Hep B) vaccine positivity is antibody to hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs) 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
Factors Affecting Immunoglobulin Response
- Low levels of anti-HBs are associated with smoking, older age, and higher body-mass index 2.
- A high proportion of study participants who completed all three hepatitis B vaccine dose schedules had detectable HBsAb 3.
Duration of Immunity
- The duration of immunity after hepatitis B vaccination is unknown, but many healthy adults will need periodic boosters to maintain production of antibody to hepatitis B surface antigen 2.
- Protective immune response persisted for over ten years following hepatitis B vaccination among healthcare workers 3.