The correct answer is 3. Perthes disease is more common and has a better prognosis in younger children.

The [HIDDEN] Perthes disease is more common and has a better prognosis in younger children.

An 8 year old boy with lameness of the right lower extremity, of insidious presentation and one month of evolution. There is no history of trauma or constitutional signs. On examination there is evidence of restriction to passive mobilization of the limb, especially in abduction and internal rotation. Of the following statements all are true EXCEPT one:

In transient synovitis the onset is usually acute.

In Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease the prognosis is worse the younger the age of onset.

The cause may be a hypercoagulable state.

The therapeutic option will vary depending on the degree of involvement.

Legg-calve-perthes disease: a review of cases with onset before six years of age.

The prognosis for children in whom Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease develops before the age of six years was initially reported to be good, but later studies demonstrated a less favorable prognosis. To assess the natural history of this condition in this age group, we reviewed a large cohort of children who had received minimal treatment for the disease. The medical records and radiographs of all children with Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease seen at our institution between 1944 and 2000 were reviewed. The cases of 172 patients with a total of 188 affected hips were studied. The course of the disease and the final clinical and radiographic outcomes were evaluated in all patients. Typical Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease was noted in 164 hips of 160 patients. According to the lateral patellar classification, seven of these hips were in group A; 101, in group B; twenty-seven, in the B/C border group; and twenty-nine, in group C. According to the Stulberg classification, there were 131 Class-I or II (good) results, fourteen Class-III (fair) results, and nineteen Class-IV (poor) results. The lateral pillar classification was highly correlated with the outcome, whereas treatment did not correlate with the outcome. Only lateral pillar group-B/C border and C hips with an onset of the disease between the ages of four years and five years and eleven months had a poor prognosis. We unexpectedly encountered a group of twelve patients with bilateral, simultaneous development of apparent Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease. In that group, there were twenty-one Stulberg Class-I or II (good), three Stulberg Class-III (fair), and no Stulberg Class-IV (poor) results, although fourteen of the twenty-four hips were in lateral pillar group C. The outcome in the hips in lateral pillar group C was significantly better when the patient had bilateral simultaneous involvement than when the patient had typical Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease. The prognosis for patients with the onset of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease before the age of six years is favorable, with 80% having a good result. Only children between the ages of four years and five years and eleven months with a B/C or C lateral pillar classification of involvement have a less favorable prognosis. Treatment was not found to influence outcome. Simultaneous bilateral disease, which had a more favorable prognosis, may represent a unique disorder.

[Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease--diagnostics and contemporary treatment].

Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease represents avascular necrosis of the femoral head in a growing child. It commonly affects children aged 2-14 years, mostly boys, and has familiar pattern. The etiology of this disease is unknown. It is based on avascular necrosis due to variations of the femoral head vascular supply, trauma, coagulation of endocrine disturbances. The disease presents with limping and pain localized in the hip with projection to thigh and knee, frequently accompanied by the limitation of abduction and internal rotation, as well as slight limitation in flexion of about 20 degrees. Plain radiography is most informative additional diagnostic procedure, enabling assessment of the stage of disease, containment of the femoral head within the acetabulum, acetabular coverage and the extent of disease. Main treatment goal is obtaining the spherical congruity of the hip joint. This can be achieved by abduction bracing, varization femoral osteotomies and various innominate osteotomies (sometimes combined with femoral osteotomies). Children younger than four years of age, with minimal femoral head involvement, do not need any treatment. These children with a larger involvement, older than four years of age, with possible containment in hip abducion, should be treated by one of the following procedures: Salter innominate osteotomy, Salter innominate osteotomy with femoral shortening, or triple pelvic osteotomy. The patients with containment of the hip is not possible in abduction (related to subluxation and femoral head crush), should be treated by Chiari pelvic osteotomy.

[Legg-calvé-perthes disease.].

The author summarizes basic findings on the etiology and epidemiology of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (LCP). Attention is paid to its pathogenesis, and the relationship of transient synovitis to LCP is discussed. Attention is paid to pathological findings in LCP and the relationship of growth to the development of LCP. The author analyzes work devoted to clinical and radiological findings, arthrography and scintigraphy of the hip joints, incl. MR, CT and US examinations. He deals also with the differential diagnosis of LCP and prognostic factors which have an impact on therapeutic results. Therapy is discussed from the aspect of conservative treatment (Atlanta splints did not prove very effective in severe forms of LCP), as well as from the aspect of surgical treatment. Special attention is paid to varus osteotomy and osteotomy of the pelvis according to views of various authors, and on the other hand to valgusextension osteotomy in patients where so-called abduction on a hinge with excentric rotation of the head of the femur develops. Special attention is devoted to therapeutic possibilities in severe forms of LCP. The latest views on classification of so-called abduction on a hinge are given corresponding to the grade of lateral extrusion of the head, incl. possibilities of suitable treatment. Key words: Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, diagnosis, treatment.

The natural history of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease.

Two groups of patients who had Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease were studied. The first group of patients consisted of eighty-eight patients (ninety-nine affected hips) followed in three hospitals for an average of forty years. The second group consisted of sixty-eight patients (seventy-two affected hips), all of whose radiographs from the onset of disease to maturity were available and all of whom had been treated in one hospital. The patients in this second group were followed for an average of thirty years. Each hip in both study groups could be placed into one of five classes of deformity based on its radiographic appearance at maturity. Each class showed a characteristic pattern of involvement during the active stages of the disease and had a specific long-term clinical and radiographic course. The clinical and radiographic course of an involved hip subsequent to childhood was related to the type of congruency that existed between the femoral head and acetabulum. Three types of congruency were recognized: (1) spherical congruency (Class-I and II hips) - in hips in this category arthritis does not develop; (2) aspherical congruency (Class-III and IV hips) - mild to moderate arthritis develops in late adulthood in these hips; and (3) aspherical incongruency (Class-V hips) - severe arthritis develops before the age of fifty years in these hips.

Surgery_Schwartz

and pelvic osteoto-mies, are done in older age groups and in more severe cases. Osteonecrosis of the femoral head is a possible complication of treatment and can result in pain and decreased range of motion.Legg-Calvé-Perthes DiseaseOsteonecrosis of the proximal femoral epiphysis can cause flattening of the femoral head called Legg-Calvé Perthes disease. The age at presentation is between 4 and 8 years of age and occurs more in males, usually affecting one side. Younger age at presentation (less than 6 years old) will have a better prognosis. The patient presents with groin or knee pain, decreased hip motion, and a limp. Treatment includes traction, physical therapy, abduction exercises, and crutches. Restoration of range of motion is important. Femoral and pelvic osteotomies may be needed in extreme cases and in older children.Slipped Capital Femoral EpiphysisChildren ages 10 to 16 years can develop displacement of the epiphysis on the femoral neck with no history of injury. The

[Rotational acetabular osteotomy in the treatment of Legg-Calve-Perthes disease].

The material of prospective study involving 57 surgically treated hips in 55 patients suffering with a severe form of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (LCPD) was analysed by the use of statistical methods to depict the influence of age, of sex, of the amount of head involvement on the outcomes of surgical treatment by rotational acetabular osteotomy (Salter or Steel osteotomy from 9 years of age). During the period 1990-2000 rotational acetabular osteotomy for Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease was performed totally in 124 patients. Excluded were cases, in which the operation was done for residual subluxation as a definitive outcome of former LCPD, cases which did not return for controls, cases with not yet completed consolidation after surgery and cases operated by me abroad. Totally were analysed stastistical sheets from 57 rotational acetabular osteotomies, including basis dates from medical history, clinical and x-ray examinations. Special concern was given to the evaluation of remodellation of the affected femoral head chronologically. All patients were operated by the group of three senior orthopaedic surgeons. Indication for surgery was based on the evidence of the progressive collapse of the femoral head issuing in the lateral and anterior head extrusion. As the Mose as well as Stulberg classification are showing inter-rater discrepancies, authors measured as well head-neck index, epiphyseal index and acetabulum-head index to eliminate subjectives errors. Age at operation and sex did not affect the results expressed in epiphyseal quotient and acetabulum-head index. With the increasing age the head-neck index dropped down depicting the progressive shortening of the femoral neck the older kids. The periods from the operation till the consolidation of the lateral pillar of the femoral head were longer in younger than in older children. Although the evaluation of results in Mose classification showed poorer results generally and also specifically in relation to the increasing age, distribution of results in Stulberg classification showed excellent and fair results in almost 90% of all treated patients. Prospective study based on the use of rotational osteotomy, avoiding the routine combination with varisation of the proximal femur in older kids using in them Steel triple osteotomy, showed promising results especially in Stulberg classification. Contrary to Salter and others prerequisiting for the indication of operation only slight deformity of the affected femoral head, many of the enrolled cases appeared with the remarkable deformity of the femoral head before the operation. Rotational acetabular osteotomy showed its potential to involve the enlarged head and follow-up depicted its subsequent slow remodellation. Submitted study was prepared to be matched nextly with the conservative group, which will be published in another publication. Internal analysis of the presented cohort disclosed that presented surgical treatment (Salter or Steel osteotomy respectively) assured, that irrespective of higher age, the important parameters like epiphyseal quotient and acetabulum-head index did not become worse than in younger groups. Even in the group over 9 years of age, 87.5% were categorised like excellent and fair results in Stulberg classification.

Transient synovitis

Some children may have a slightly raised temperature; high fever and general malaise point to other, more serious conditions. On clinical examination, the child typically holds the hip slightly bent, turned outwards and away from the middle line (flexion, external rotation and abduction). Active and passive movements may be limited because of pain, especially abduction and internal rotation. The hip can be tender to palpation. The log roll test involves gently rotating the entire lower limb inwards and outwards with the patient on his back, to check when muscle guarding occurs. The unaffected hip and the knees, ankles, feet and spine are found to be normal. Complications In the past, there have been speculations about possible complications after transient synovitis. The current consensus however is that there is no proof of an increased risk of complications after transient synovitis.

[The Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease: which assessment? Which therapeutic approach?].

Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease remains indefinite from an etiologic point of view and unforeseable in its evolution. The evolution depends on the extent of epiphyseal involvement and the age of the child. It may safely be stated that the more extensive the epiphyseal involvement, the more compromised is the prognosis. Also the older the child, the more the femoral head remoulding will be limited. Preserving articular mobility and containing the head within the depth of acetabulum constitute the mainstay of treatment aiming for a femoral head as spherical as possible upon completion of growth. At the end of growth spherical or ovoid heads will cause no or few problems, however strongly deformed femoral heads will evolve into early hip arthritis. The early recognition of which hip will profit from which treatment, constitutes the major difficulty of the therapeutic process.

Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome -- History and Physical

Patients with greater trochanteric pain syndrome usually have lateral hip pain, tenderness over and around the greater trochanter, pain at end-range hip rotation, abduction or adduction, pain with resisted hip abduction, and a positive Patrick-FABER (flexion abduction external rotation) test. Patients usually suffer from chronic back pain radiating to the posterolateral aspect of the thigh, leg paresthesias, and tenderness over the iliotibial tract. [6] They will often complain of the inability to lay on the affected hip. The mean duration of symptoms before treatment ranges from 7.1 weeks to 4.4 years. Young adults (18 to 35 years old) with hip pain often present with non-specific symptoms and vague findings from the history and physical examination, which may lead to a misdiagnosis of GTPS or trochanteric bursitis. [1] [4]

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease -- Prognosis -- Age at Onset

Usually younger age at diagnosis equals a better outcome. Patients less than 6 years old may develop a normal hip joint. Patients older than 6 years may have continued pain and subsequent arthritis. Lateral Pillar Classification (degree of femoral head involvement: A [least] to C [most]) Patients more than 8 years old and patients in lateral pillar group B or B/C (border group) do better with surgery than with nonoperative treatment. Patients less than 8 years old and patients in group B do well regardless of treatment choice. Patients in group C experience poor outcomes regarding hip condition, regardless of treatment choice. [1]

Legg–Calvé–Perthes disease

Signs and symptoms The condition is most commonly found in children between the ages of 4 and 10. Common symptoms include pain in the hip, knee, or ankle (since hip pathology can cause pain to be felt in a normal knee or ankle), or in the groin; this pain is exacerbated by hip or leg movement, especially internal hip rotation (with the knee flexed 90°, twisting the lower leg away from the center of the body). The range of motion is reduced, particularly in abduction and internal rotation, and the patient presents with a limp. Pain is usually mild. Atrophy of thigh muscles may occur from disuse and an inequality of leg length. In some cases, some activity can cause severe irritation or inflammation of the damaged area, including standing, walking, running, kneeling, or stooping repeatedly for an extended period of time. In cases exhibiting severe femoral osteonecrosis, pain is usually a chronic, throbbing sensation exacerbated by activity.

Transient Synovitis -- History and Physical -- History [14] [15]

TS most commonly presents as acute unilateral limb disuse ranging from nonspecific hip pain or subtle limp to a refusal to bear weight.  Depending on the age of the patient, the history may only be significant for the child or infant becoming increasingly agitated or crying more often than at baseline.  Therefore, heightened clinical suspicion is warranted in younger pediatric patients and infants.  In addition, examiners should elicit any pain or discomfort localized or radiating to or from the lower back.  Oftentimes the clinician may only be able to rely on the history obtained from the parents or guardians.  Direct observation of the child in the emergency room or clinic can often yield valuable information.  A recent history of an upper respiratory tract infection, pharyngitis, bronchitis, or otitis media is often elicited and favors a diagnosis of TS.

Assessing the role of hip arthrography in the treatment decision making for children with Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease.

The aim of this study was to determine the role of hip arthrography in the treatment decision making for children with Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (LCPD). A total of 47 consecutive children with LCPD (42 boys, 5 girls; mean age=7.5 years; range=6-10 years) who underwent operative treatment were included in the study. The patient demographics, physical examination findings (pain and hip range of motion [ROM]), standard anteroposterior and Löwenstein lateral hip radiographs, and hip arthrography data were retrospectively collected. The arthrographies were performed immediately before the surgery under general anesthesia. The patients were staged according to the Catterall and Herring classifications and examined in terms of head-at-risk signs before the study. Four sets of patient files were established based on the aforementioned data, with each child in a randomized and blinded order. Ten consultant pediatric orthopedic surgeons randomly assessed the patient files on 4 separate occasions (Set 1 vs Set 2 and Set 3 vs Set 4), with a minimum time interval of 4 weeks. In the first and second sets, the demographic and clinical information, including the age, gender, hip ROM, and hip radiographs, were presented. In the third and fourth sets, hip arthrography was presented in addition to the data from Set 1 and Set 2. The observers were instructed to choose the best treatment options. The percent agreement (PA) and Gwet's AC1 statistics were used to establish a relative level of agreement among the observers. The mean intra-observer reliabilities ranged from fair to moderate after adding the hip arthrography data (Gwet's AC1 = 0.36 for Set 1 vs Set 2 and 0.42 for Set 3 vs Set 4). The mean PA was 56.6% (range = 29.8% to 78.7%) with a Gwet's AC1 value of 0.51 (range: 0.21 to 0.77) between Set 1 and Set 3 (moderate intra-observer reliability). The decision for the treatment strategy was changed in 43.4% of the patients. For inter-observer reliability, Gwet's AC1 was computed as 0.48 (moderate reliability). The correlation between the intra-observer reliability and stage progression was not significant (p>0.05) for any of the subgroups. Thus, there is a negative correlation with the disease progression. Hip arthrography seems to have a significant role in the treatment decision making for children with LCPD, especially in the advanced stages of the disease. Level IV, Therapeutic study.

Lasegue Sign -- Definition/Introduction -- Examination Techniques

The patient should be informed about the steps of the test, what to expect during the exam and to describe the pain distribution. The patient should be examined in a neutral supine position with the head slightly extended. During the exam, the hips and legs should stay neutral. No hips abduction or adduction is allowed as well as no leg internal or external rotation is permitted. The affected leg is then passively and slowly raised by the ankle with the knee fully extended. Upon eliciting pain, the examiner stops further leg elevation and records the range of motion along with the area of pain distribution. It is noteworthy that ankle dorsiflexion during SLRT may exaggerate the pain; notwithstanding, it is not part of the Lasegue sign. [13] Criteria for a true positive SLRT [14] [15] Radicular leg pain should occur (radiating below the knee). Pain occurs when the leg is between 30 and 60 or 70 degrees from horizontal.

[Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease].

Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease is characterized by avascular necrosis of the head of the femur. This article deals with the epidemiology, possible causes, treatment and prognostic factors connected with the disease. The article is based on a non-systematic literature search and own clinical practice, with special emphasis on a Norwegian countrywide study of children with Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease. The incidence of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease varies in different countries and regions. Those who are older than six years at the time of diagnosis and have over 50% femoral head necrosis have a worse prognosis than younger children where the necrosis is less extensive. Treatment has been discussed extensively over the past 100 years, and still varies considerably. The Norwegian countrywide investigation showed that the results in children who were over six years at the time of diagnosis and had more than 50% femoral head necrosis were significantly better after varus femoral osteotomy than after physiotherapy or orthosis. This agrees with the only other prospective study that has been published. Operative treatment should be considered in children who are six years old or older and have over 50% femoral head necrosis when the diagnosis Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease is made. Those who are younger than six years at the time of diagnosis or who have less than 50% femoral head necrosis should be treated symptomatically. Abduction orthosis has no place in the treatment of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease.

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease -- History and Physical -- Physical Examination

Decreased internal rotation and abduction of the hip Pain on rotation referred to the anteromedial thigh and/or knee Atrophy of thighs and buttocks from pain leading to disuse Afebrile Leg length discrepancy

[Legg-Calve-Perthes disease].

Treatment of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease remains, in spite of realized progresses, difficult and disturbing. The important factors for establishing diagnosis concerning definition, etiology, physiopathology and clinical manifestations are reminded. The role of present complementary investigations as well as their evolution are very important to better establish the prognosis and the treatment. The most important factors for treating and establishing the prognosis of LPC are: 1) age. The prognosis is good in almost every case before 5 years old, without any treatment; 2) the prognosis is not good after 9 years, also, very often, after surgical treatment; 3) area of the epiphyseal necrosis, particularly of the lateral pillar; 4) extrusion of the hip at any age. Today, there is always no causal treatment of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease. Conservative and surgical treatment aims to prevent deformities of the femoral head accompanied or not by articular incongruency, responsible for hip arthritis from the fourth decade. The place of conservative and surgical treatment as well as their complications are described; it aims to guide the spontaneous recovery with as little as possible, deformation of the femoral epiphysis.

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease.

Legg-Calve,-Perthes disease is a self-limited disease of the femoral head that presents in the first decade. The pathogenesis is thought to involve bone necrosis, collapse, and repair. The presenting complaint is often a painless limp or hip pain, with decreased abduction and internal rotation of the hip. Factors that are believed to correlate with a poor prognosis are onset of symptoms after age 8 years, lateral head subluxation, involvement of over 50% of the femoral head with collapse of the lateral pillar, and the combination of an aspherical femoral head and an incongruent joint. The current cornerstones of treatment are maintenance of hip motion, relief of symptoms, and containment. Containment may be achieved by bracing or surgical means. The literature remains inconclusive on the indications for and effects of treatment. A long-term study has suggested that disabling arthritis of the hip develops in the sixth decade of life in 50% of untreated patients.

Intoeing -- Introduction

In coming to understand variational pathologies of the lower limb, it is important to be familiar with the normal growth and development of children’s lower extremities. Neonates are born with about 40 degrees of femoral anteversion or forward rotation of the femoral neck. This increased internal rotation of the hip decreases over time. By about 10 years old, the degree of anteversion decreases by about half. Any deviation from the expected course of limb development and rotation should be recognized and differentiated from the persistence of early angulation, to pathologies preventing normal rotation.

Septic arthritis

because there are usually few or no objective signs to rely upon. Needless to say history taking is not fully reliable and fever is not a constant sign in such an age group. Acute phase reactants like ESR and CRP may be unreliable in such an age group. Importantly, observation of active limb motion or kicking in the lower limb can provide valuable clues to septic arthritis of hip or knee. In neonates/new born and infants the hip joint is characteristically held in abduction flexion and external rotation. This position helps the infant accommodate maximum amount of septic joint fluid with the least tension possible. The tendency to have multiple joint involvements in septic arthritis of neonates and young children should be closely considered.

Recurrent Legg-Perthes-Calvé disease.

Legg-Perthes-Calvé disease (LPC), or primitive hip osteochondritis, is a frequent pathology but in which recurrence is extremely rare. WE REPORT: The case of a girl diagnosed with bilateral LPC at the age of 4.5 years. Containment in a Scottish-Rite (Atlanta) brace was prescribed. X-ray follow-up found complete right-hip healing at 1.5 years' evolution (Catterall group 2). The patient was seen again at the age of 8 years, for limp and functional disorder associated with recurrence of right-hip LPC (Catterall group 3). Evolution was satisfactory: the girl was assessed at the time of bone maturity, with good clinical and radiological findings. Children contracting LPC are commonly thought to be thereby "vaccinated" against it. This is wrong, and a literature search found 10 cases similar to the present one, making 11 children in all (two girls, nine boys) presenting with recurrent LPC. Mean age at initial onset was 4 years (range, 2.5-6 yrs). Five of the 11 had initially been presented with bilateral LPC. Mean age at recurrence was 9.4 years (range, 6-12 yrs). The recurrences were more severe than the initial episodes, but final prognosis after recurrence would not seem to be worse than normal. This exceptional case of recurrent LPC was well documented up to bone maturity. It does not support the notion of Meyer's disease at the initial episode, as suggested by certain authors, but rather that of true recurrence of the primitive LPC.

[Late results of conservative treatment of perthes disease.].

The objective of the submitted work was to assess the long-term prognosis of Perthes disease. From the originally invited 142 patients 72 attended the check-up examination, complete X-ray documentation was assembled only in 32 patients with 38 affected hip joints. The time interval which had elapsed since the onset of the disease was on average 17 years. The authors evaluated the clinical and X-ray picture of the hip joints and assessed retrospectively the affection of the head according to Catterall's method, incl. signs of a head associated with risk. Treatment provided during the sixties and beginning of the seventies did not meet the principles of modern "containment" therapy. It comprised bed rest, application of a plaster spike and aftertreatment with a Thomas splint. During late check-up examinations Wiberg's angle, the epiphyseal index, the index of overlapping of the head, the distance of the head from the floor of the acetabulum and the height of the peak of the greater trochanter above the centre of the head of the femur were assessed. In addition to assessment of these partial X-ray parameters the authors evaluated the spherical properties of the head by Mose's method and subjectively the X-ray picture, using a three grade scale (satisfactory, feasible, poor). In the majority of assessed parameters the authors found a statistically significant correlation with the retrospective classification of the original X-ray pictures classified according to Catterall. The clinical picture was satisfactory in the majority, the authors did not find painful restriction of movement, while almost half the patients reported occasional subjective complaints as regards the hip joint. On the X-ray changes in the overgrowth of the greater trochanter were more marked than changes of the spherical character of the head and the extent of decentering. The follow-up of the group will continue to obtain a longer time interval from the onset of the disease. Key words: Perthes disease, late results, Catterall's classification.

Femoral Head Avascular Necrosis -- History and Physical

Patients may be asymptomatic early on in the disease process. When they become symptomatic, however, the stated history is usually of hip pain that may radiate to the groin and/or thigh. The pain is typically aggravated by activities such as walking and climbing stairs and alleviated by rest. The pain will often still be present, even in the absence of movement. [17] Some examples of physical exam findings indicative of osteonecrosis of the femoral head are restricted range of motion, pain upon abduction and internal rotation, and tenderness to palpation of the hip region. [18]

[Perthes disease with onset after nine years of age].

The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare selected clinical and radiological hip joint parameters in Perthes disease with onset before and after 9 years of age. Analysis was based on 261 patients with unilateral Perthes disease. Patient with bilateral changes ware excluded because of earlier onset before 9 years old. The average age of patients at the time of initial symptoms was 7,1 years ( 2,5 - 13 years). The follow-up ranged from 16 to 50 years (average 20, 2 years). The clinical analysis was based on evaluation of age, gender and range of passive abduction. The radiological assessment was based on Catterall and Herring classifications, lateral subluxation, premature physeal closure by Bowen classification, limb length discrepancy, shape of the lateral acetabulum rim, ATD distance and index, center-edge angle, the Mose Classification, epiphyseal index and quotient. Assessments of final results were based on The Mose Classification and the Stulberg Classification. We affirmed that, in children with the onset of disease after 9 years of age, asymmetrical premature physeal closure, major lateralization, grater contour of the head deviation (Mose) and trochanteric overgrowth were more frequent occurred than in children with Perthes disease before 9 years of age. Patients who were over the age of 9 years at the time of onset and have a hip in Catterall 3 group and 4 group together with the lateral pillar B group or C group get a poor outcome. There were not any differences in the outcomes in Catterall 1 and 2 group together with Hering A group depending on age at the time of onset. Both age at the time of onset after 9 and quantity of femoral head necrosis have the most significant impact on the outcome, leading to poor final results. In accordance with our observation we do advise caution in older children's treatment with femoral varus osteotomy.

Osteochondrosis

Signs and symptoms These conditions nearly all present with an insidious onset of pain referred to the location of the bony damage. Some, notably Kienbock's disease of the wrist, may involve considerable swelling, and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease of the hip causes the victim to limp. The spinal form, Scheuermann's disease, may cause bending, or kyphosis of the upper spine, giving a "hunch-back" appearance. Symptoms in animals The most common symptoms are lameness and pain in the affected joints. Animals may try to ease the pain and walk differently and the pain can be noticed by the change in animals walking style. The condition affects both sides (right and left leg). On most occasions, the other leg is worse. This can result that the dog starts encumbering the other leg and the healthier leg becomes more strained. Sometimes the symptoms are so mild or there are no symptoms which can make it hard to detect that there is something wrong with that dog.

First_Aid_Step2

Radiographs are unreliable until patients are > 4 months of age because of the radiolucency of the neonatal femoral head. Begin treatment early. < 6 months: Splint with a Pavlik harness (maintains the hip ﬂ exed and abducted). To prevent AVN, do not ﬂex the hips > 60 degrees. 6–15 months: Spica cast. 15–24 months: Open reduction followed by spica cast. Joint contractures and AVN of the femoral head. Without treatment, a significant defect is likely in patients < 2 years of age. Idiopathic AVN of the femoral head (see Figure 2.9-8). Most commonly found in boys 4–10 years of age. Usually a self-limited disease, with symptoms lasting < 18 months. F IGU R E 2.9-8 Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease. AVN of the femoral head. (Reproduced, with permission, from Skinner HB. Current Diagnosis & Treatment in Orthopedics, 2nd ed. Stamford, CT: Appleton & Lange, 2000: 543.) Generally asymptomatic at first, but patients can develop a painless limp.

Valgus femoral osteotomy for noncontainable Perthes hips: prognostic factors of remodeling.

The authors have performed valgus femoral osteotomy (VFO) with rotational and sagittal components for Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease hips with hinge abduction. We analyzed skeletally mature patients to determine: (1) whether VFO improved hip function; (2) whether favorable radiographic remodeling of the hip occurred; and (3) whether any clinical or radiographic factors were associated with remodeling of femoral head deformity. Thirty-one patients (31 hips, 25 boys and 6 girls) who underwent VFO between 1986 and 2007, and subsequently followed until skeletal maturity constituted the study cohort. The mean age at surgery was 9.4 years (range, 3.5 to 15 y) and the mean age at the most recent follow-up was 20.2 years (range, 14.6 to 28.3 y). Clinical outcomes were evaluated using Iowa Hip Scores and ranges of hip motion. Radiographic outcomes were assessed with respect to the radiographic indices for femoral head deformity and subluxation. Clinical and radiographic parameters were analyzed to find correlations with the femoral head remodeling (preoperative to final follow-up changes in deformity index). Iowa Hip Score improved from 71 (30 to 91) to 92 (76 to 100). Ranges of hip abduction, internal rotation, and external rotation increased. At last follow-up evaluations, mean Mose sphericity index of the femoral head was 4.2 mm (range, 0 to 13 mm) and femoral heads had 4 Stulberg type II, 21 type III, and 6 type IV deformity. Overall radiographic indices for femoral head deformity and subluxation did not change during follow-up period except decreased medial joint space, but greater amount of preoperative to final follow-up changes in deformity index was associated with younger age (<10 y) and earlier disease stages (fragmentation and early reossification stage) at time of surgery. VFO modified to accommodate the various hinging patterns of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease hips was found to beneficially improve hip function at skeletal maturity. Although overall radiographic remodeling was not definite, favorable remodeling of the femoral head can be expected when younger patients undergo this procedure at the fragmentation or early reossification stage.

The natural history of Perthes' disease.

The prognosis in Perthes' disease varies considerably according to certain risk factors, but there is no concensus regarding the relative importance of these factors. We assessed the natural history of the disease and defined prognostic factors of value in deciding the proper treatment. During the 5-year period 1996-2000, a nationwide study on Perthes' disease was performed in Norway. 425 patients were registered. The present study involved the 212 children (mean age 5.1 years, 77% boys) who were affected unilaterally and who had been treated with physiotherapy only (which is considered not to change the natural history). They were followed by taking radiographs at the time of diagnosis and after 1, 3, and 5 years. At the 5-year follow-up, the outcome was evaluated according to a modification of the Stulberg classification: good (spherical femoral head), fair (ovoid femoral head), and poor (flat femoral head). The 5-year radiographic results were strongly dependent on 4 risk factors: age 6 years or more at diagnosis, total femoral head necrosis, height of the lateral pillar of the epiphysis less than 50% of normal height, and femoral head cover less than 80%. As the number of risk factors increased from 0 to 4, the proportion of patients with good radiographic 5-year outcome decreased from 79% to 0% and the proportion with poor outcome increased from 3% to 91%. Most children under 6 years of age do not need any special treatment. In older children, no special treatment is indicated if the whole femoral head is not necrotic and the femoral head cover is > 80%. In the most severe forms of the disease (i.e. more than 2 risk factors), surgical containment treatment seems advisable.

First_Aid_Step2

■Typically presents with acute or insidious thigh or knee pain and a painful limp. Differential diagnosis of pediatric limp— Acute cases present with restricted ROM and, commonly, inability to bear weight. Bilateral in 40–50% of cases. Characterized by limited internal rotation and abduction of the hip. Flex-ion of the hip results in an obligatory external rotation 2° to physical displacement that is observed as further loss of internal rotation with hip ﬂ ex-ion. Radiographs of both hips in AP and frog-leg lateral views reveal posterior and medial displacement of the femoral head (see Figure 2.9-9). Rule out hypothyroidism with TSH. The disease is progressive, so treatment should begin promptly. No weight bearing should be allowed until the defect is surgically stabilized. Gentle closed reduction is appropriate only in acute slips. F IGU R E 2.9-9. Slipped capital femoral epiphysis.

Limp

Other A non-painful limp may be due to a number of mechanical conditions including hip dysplasia and leg length differences. Inflammatory Transient synovitis Transient synovitis is a reactive arthritis of the hip of unknown cause. People are usually able to walk and may have a low grade fever. They usually look clinically nontoxic or otherwise healthy. It may only be diagnosed once all other potential serious causes are excluded. With symptomatic care it usually resolves over one week. Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis presents gradually with early morning stiffness, fatigue, and weight loss. Vascular Legg–Calvé–Perthes syndrome Legg–Calvé–Perthes syndrome is a degenerative disease of the head of the femur which results in bone loss and deformity. It usually presents as a chronic condition.

Conservative treatment of Legg-Calvé-Perthes condition.

As we continue to learn more about the evolution of Legg-Calvé-Perthes condition, several advantages to early conservative treatment become apparent. First, since it may take as long as 6 months to determine the extent of femoral head involvement in patients who present early in the disease process, nonoperative methods may be used to improve the range of motion and to contain the femoral head within the acetabulum, thus minimizing further deformity. Second, since the duration of treatment need no longer be as extensive as was previously thought, the argument that nonoperative means are unrealistic for patient needs is not valid. Finally, it has been recognized that with moderate sphericity and moderate retention of the shape of the femoral head, as evaluated in relationship to secondary changes in the acetabulum, the patient can reach at least middle age before having significant secondary arthritic problems. A relatively conservative approach is therefore in order for most children whose disease is discovered in the early phases. Of course, it must be recognized that social problems develop in the older child, especially in girls, that contraindicate nonoperative care. Surgical considerations are indicated for many children in the older age group with more than one half of the femoral head involved, as well as in those with unsuccessful nonoperative efforts at containment.

Clinical outcomes of conservative treatment with a non-weight-bearing abduction brace for Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease.

Treatment with a brace is the first choice as conservative treatment via the containment method for Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (LCPD). The purpose of this study is to evaluate clinical outcomes and influential factors of conservative treatment with the non-weight-bearing abduction brace for LCPD. One hundred thirty hips in 130 patients were examined in this study. The mean age at onset was 7.0 years (3.3-12.4 years) and the mean follow-up period was 8.4 years (4.1-17.6 years). The extent of necrosis and lateral collapse of the femoral head were evaluated using the Catterall classification and the lateral pillar classification, respectively. Radiological outcome was assessed as good (classes I and II), fair (III), and poor (IV), according to the modified Stulberg classification. Radiographic outcome at final follow-up was good in 82 hips (63%), fair in 40 hips (31%), and poor in 8 hips (6%). Multinomial logistic regression analysis showed that major influential factors for good outcomes were as follows: age at onset, lateral pillar classification, and Catterall classification. From the receiver operating characteristic curve, the cut-off value for age at onset was 8.4 years old to obtain good outcomes. Hips with Catterall group I and II and lateral pillar group A and B had significantly better results. Patients younger than 8.4 years old at onset with lateral pillar group A or B or Catterall group I or II showed good outcomes with a non-weight-bearing abduction brace for LCPD. These results show that alternative treatment, such as surgery, may be another option for patients who are not included in the above groups.


As long as the serological levels of anti-HBs are above 10 IU/l it is not necessary to revaccinate.

A 40-year-old orthopedic surgeon who in a routine serology was found to have anti-HBs levels of 30 IU/l. He refers complete vaccination according to the standard hepatitis B vaccination schedule 4 years ago. It would be advisable:

Restart vaccination schedule (0-1-6 months).

Restart vaccination schedule (0-1-2-12 months).

Give anti-hepatitis B immunoglobulin and restart vaccination schedule (0-1-2-12 months).

Vaccination against hepatitis B: comparison of three different vaccination schedules.

Three different hepatitis B vaccination schedules employing injections at months 0, 1, 2, and 12, at months 0, 1, and 6, or at months 0, 1, and 12 were compared in 89 healthy young adults. Concentrations of antibodies to hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs) after the third injection were dependent on the interval between the second and the third dose; geometric mean titers (GMTs) in the three groups were 53 IU/l, 5,846 IU/l, and 19,912 IU/l, respectively, when the third dose was given at month 2, 6, or 12. Whereas the anti-HBs responses to the third dose at month 6 or 12 were typical booster reactions, the kinetics after a third dose given at month 2 resembled those after only two doses but on a significantly higher level. A fourth dose given at month 12 to the individuals vaccinated at months 0, 1, and 2 led to a prompt anti-HBs response similar in height to the response in those vaccinated at months 0, 1, and 12. Thus, for achieving a high anti-HBs concentration guaranteeing its long-lasting persistence, vaccination at months 0, 1, and 12 seems to be preferable to vaccination at months 0, 1, and 6. For individuals at high risk of hepatitis B infection, vaccination at months 0, 1, 2, and 12 might be considered for obtaining an optimal early seroconversion as well as long-term protection.

[Are teenagers immunized in infancy still protected against hepatitis B?].

Immunization is the best method of protection against hepatitis B. Routine vaccination for newborns and infants was introduced in Poland in 1994-96. Although duration of protection afforded by vaccination remains unknown, no routine boosters are recommended. According to references, up to 50% of 15-year old children had lost the post vaccination immune memory protecting against HBV infection. The aim of the study was to determine the immunity against hepatitis B in 10-12-year old children and to establish indications for routine booster doses. In 130 children aged 10-12 years, immunized against hepatitis B with recombinant vaccine in infancy (10 microg, according to schedule: 0-1-2-12 months, first dose given at birth) humoral immunity (anti-HBs antibodies) as well as cellular memory (anamnestic response to booster given in children without protective titers of anti-HBs) were determined. Titers of anti-HBs > or = 10 IU/l were considered protective. Anamnestic response was defined as increase in anti-HBs concentration from < 10 IU/l to > or = 10 IU/l 4 weeks after receiving a booster dose. MARKERS OF HBV INFECTION: hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg - marker of chronic hepatitis) and antibodies to core antigen (anti-HBc--marker of past HBV infection) were additionally determined. Protective level of anti-HBs was found in 102/130 (78%) children, including 43/130 (33%) with high (100-999 IU/l) and 16/130 (12%) with very high (> or = 1000 IU/l) titers. 28/ 130 (22%) did not have protective level of anti-HBs, in 9/130 (7%) antibodies were undetectable. Immune memory was determined in 9 children--anamnestic response was revealed in eight of them (89%). In 6/130 (4.5%) of participants HBV infection was confirmed according to positive anti-HBc, including 2 (1.5% of the study group) with positive HBsAg. Most children in the studied group had seroprotection and immune memory against hepatitis B 10-12 years after vaccination. No routine booster seems to be necessary.

Modeling long-term persistence after 8 years of hepatitis B booster vaccination in 5- to 15-year-old children.

Vaccination remains the most effective and cost-saving measure to protect against hepatitis B, a global health problem. It is crucial to characterize the persistence of the immune response after booster vaccination. This study aimed to quantify the persistence through mathematical modeling. Booster vaccination against hepatitis B was conducted in children 5-15 years in 2009-10 in Zhejiang Province. There were four dosage formulations of hepatitis B vaccines [Shenzhenkangtai Biotechnology Co. Ltd. Dalianhanxin Biotechnology Co. Ltd. NCPC GeneTech Biotechnology Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. Sinovac Biotech Co. LTD. China]: 5, 10, and 20 μg hepatitis B vaccines or 5 μg hepatitis A and B (HAB) combination vaccine with a 0-1-6-month schedule. These were randomly administered to children negative for all hepatitis B markers, named as the schedule 2 group. Anti-HBs positive subjects were given one dose of booster, named as the schedule 1 group. Anti-HBs antibody was measured 1, 7, 18, 66, and 102 months after the first booster dose. A linear mixed-effects model was proposed to predict long-term persistence. One hundred two months after the booster dose, the mean anti-HBs levels were 33.8 mIU/mL, with 73.7 mIU/mL for the schedule 1 group and 20.2 mIU/mL for the schedule 2 group. The model predicted that 99.5% of subjects would remain seropositive (≥10mIU/mL) at year 20 post booster vaccination, with 100.0% and 98.8% for the schedule 1 group and the schedule 2 group, respectively, whereas at year 30, the seropositivity rates would decrease to 76.8%, with 99.4% for the schedule 1 group and 62.5% for the schedule 2 group. The immunogenicity of the booster vaccination could persist for at least 8 years. Mathematical modeling may predict even longer, up to 30 years of protection.

Comparison of anti-HBs persistence after hepatitis B vaccination on two-dose schedule and three-dose schedule among adults: results from a 12-year follow up study in China.

Comparison of anti-HBs persistence after hepatitis B vaccination on two-dose schedule and three-dose schedule among adults is still controversial. In this study, adults were followed up at 12 years after the primary immunization. Three hundred and forty-one and 288 adults with age 15 through 40 years old were given anti-HBV vaccination on a 0-, 1-, and 6-month schedule or on a 0- and 6-month one, respectively (in 2003). Blood samples of 202 patients on 0-, 1- and 6-month schedule and 194 patients on 0- and 6-month regimen were collected at one month and twelve years (in 2015) after the primary series and anti-HBs levels were measured. The seroprotection rate for 3-dose schedule and 2-dose one was 71.78% (95%CI = 65.04%, 77.87%) and 53.61% (95%CI = 46.07%, 60.49%). The GMC of anti-HBs was 31 mIU/mL (95%CI = 24, 41) and 12 mIU/mL (95%CI = 9, 17), respectively. Participants using three doses had higher seroprotection rate and GMC (P < 0.001). Multivariable analysis showed that subjects with anti-HBs titers ≥100 mIU/ml just after the primary series had a higher probability of anti-HBs levels than <10 mIU/ml and 10-100 mIU/ml at follow-up (OR = 8.36, 95%CI: 3.41-20.49, P< 0.001; OR = 43.28, 95%CI: 11.45-163.51, P< 0.001; β = 0.77, 95%CI: 0.48-1.06, P< 0.001; β = 1.20, 95%CI: 0.86 ~ 1.54, P< 0.001). In conclusions, adults receiving HepB primary immunization on 0-, 1- and 6-month schedule might have more prolonged anti-HBs than those on 0-, 6-month schedule, although good anti-HBs persistence could be achieved after HepB immunization on both schedules.

Antibody persistence six years after two doses of combined hepatitis A and B vaccine.

Persistent immunity to hepatitis A and hepatitis B antibodies six years after vaccination of adolescents (aged 12-15 years) with a combined hepatitis A and B (HAB) vaccine following a 0, 6 month or a 0, 12 month schedule was assessed. Yearly (Year-2-6) serum samples were tested for anti-HAV and anti-HBs using EIA. Subjects with anti-HBs concentrations <10 mIU/mL (14/23) at Year-5 or Year-6, received an additional HBV vaccine dose approximately 12 months after Year-6. Blood samples were collected pre-booster and 1 month post-booster to assess booster response. 240 subjects were vaccinated in the study; at Year-6, data were available from 88 subjects. At that time 84.8% (39/46; 0, 6 month) and 92.9% (39/42; 0, 12 month) of subjects had anti-HBs concentrations > or = 10 mIU/mL. All but one of the 14 boosted subjects responded to the additional HBV vaccine dose with anti-HBs concentrations > or = 100 mIU/mL. All seroconverted subjects who returned at Year-6 were seropositive for anti-HAV. Simplification, reduced number of doses and similar long-term persistence of immunity make the 0, 6 month and 0, 12 month schedule preferable for immunization against HAV/HBV in this population.

Hepatitis B vaccination schedules in genitourinary medicine clinics.

To compare two vaccination schedules in delivering hepatitis B vaccine to at-risk genitourinary medicine clinic attenders. Genitourinary medicine clinic of St Thomas' Hospital, London, UK. Two vaccination protocols were compared. Between January 1991 and December 1992, individuals had doses of recombinant hepatitis B vaccine at 0, 1 and 6 months (standard). From January until October 1993 doses of vaccine were administered at 0, 1 and 2 months (accelerated), following which timing of a booster dose was made on the basis of hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs) assessment. Case notes were reviewed with regard to compliance rates and anti-HBs levels. Two hundred and fourteen individuals were included (standard 104, accelerated 110). Of the standard group 80.8% and 61.5% attended for the 2nd and 3rd doses respectively compared with 80.0% and 75.5% of the accelerated group (attendance for the 3rd dose chi 2 = 4.19, p < 0.05). For both of these groups compliance was significantly better in those who requested vaccination rather than being offered it opportunistically (chi 2 = 4.86, p < 0.05). Seroconversion rates were not significantly different between the two groups (87.5% versus 83.1%). A significantly higher proportion of the standard group, however, achieved anti-HBs levels greater than 100 i.u./l. Completion of hepatitis B vaccination was improved by changing to a 0, 1 and 2 month protocol. Levels of anti-HBs achieved in the accelerated group, however, were lower. If it is confirmed that maintaining anti-HBs levels is not important in retaining protection against hepatitis B then the accelerated schedule has clear advantage. If not, the advantages may be nullified by the need, in some, for an early booster.

[Control of hepatitis B in French Polynesia with a program of systematic vaccination of newborns with the Genhevac B vaccine].

In 1988, a 5-year vaccination program against hepatitis B was launched for all newborns in a pilot area, the Austral archipelago in French Polynesia. Genhevac B, a recombinant vaccine produced from mammalian cells was administered. Three different immunization schedules were used, none of them including additional specific immunoglobulin: i) four doses, one at each months (M) 0, 1, 2, and 12; ii) three doses one at each MO, M1 and M6; and iii) three doses one at each MO, M1 and M12. Each year during the 5 year period a serological survey was conducted. Of the 837 children who received at least one vaccine dose, 5 were HBsAg carriers. Seroprotection rates for anti-HBs and anti-PreS2 antibodies were 88% after one dose and 97% after two doses. After the third dose, seroprotection rates and geometric mean titers of anti-HBs antibodies were 95% and 217 mIU/ml for schedule (i) (three dose only); 92% and 389 mIU/ml for schedule (ii) and 93% and 344 mIU/ml for schedule (iii) respectively. After four doses (schedule i) the values were 100% and 1228 mIU/ml. Of the 18 newborns whose mothers were positive for both HBsAg and HBeAg, one was a HBsAg carrier. The estimated protective rate for prevention of perinatal transmission was 94%. This study suggests that in field conditions, systematic vaccination of newborns without using specific immunoglobulins can confer early protection. The schedule recommended for use in French Polynesia was three doses, at MO, M1 and M6-12 (between 6 and 12 months) with an additional booster dose at age 6 years, the last year of nursery school. Since April 1992, all children born in French Polynesia have been vaccinated according to this schedule. A catch-up program has been implemented for children aged 4 to 10 years old using a similar immunization schedule.

Influence of vaccination schedules and host factors on antibody response following hepatitis B vaccination.

In a prospective multicentre trial, the influence of schedule, compliance, age, sex and weight on the antibody response to hepatitis B vaccination was investigated. Comparison of the vaccination schedules 0, 1, 6 months (group 1; n = 143) and 0, 1, 2, 12 months (group 2; n = 141) was performed in months 3, 7 and 12. In addition, the antibody response was compared one month after the third and one and six months after the last vaccination. Seroprotection rates (anti-HBs greater than 10 IU/l) and antibody titres, given as geometric means (GMTs), were higher in group 1 at month 12 as well as one month after completion of three immunizations. More vaccinees of group 2, however, showed seroprotection at month 3 with higher GMTs. In addition, GMTs in group 2 were higher both one month and six months after the last vaccine dose. Determination of parallel corrected correlation factors demonstrated that age was the most important single factor, followed by body weight and sex. However, no more than 3% of the variation in the GMT can be explained by the influence of age. Due to decreased compliance with the four-dose schedule with a drop-out rate of approximately 10% of the vaccinees, the total percentage of initial vaccinees who in the end developed protective antibody levels was higher in the 0, 1, 6 months schedule. Thus, it can be concluded that subjects likely to comply will benefit from the 0, 1, 2, 12 months schedule as more rapid protection is obtained and the higher antibody levels after the booster vaccination at month 12 provide longer protection. However, vaccinees whose compliance might be questionable over a period of 12 months, should be selected for the vaccination 0, 1, 6 months schedule as compliance is at a higher level over this period and advantage can be taken of the booster effect of the third dose given in month 6.

Response to an extra dose of hepatitis B vaccine and specific antibody persistence in non-responders to primary immunization.

In a campaign to vaccinate health care workers, a three-dose schedule (0, 1, and 6 months) and a four-dose schedule (0, 1, 2, and 14 months) with hepatitis B (HB) vaccine were used. After primary immunization 26 subjects vaccinated with the 3-dose schedule and 4 subjects vaccinated with the 4-dose schedule had undetectable anti-HBs titres. All these 30 non-responders received an extra dose of the same vaccine 2 months after primary immunization and a booster dose with a yeast-derived vaccine 6 years later. Anti-HBs levels were evaluated 1 month after the extra dose and after the booster dose. One month after the extra dose 26.9% (7 of 26) of the subjects vaccinated with the 3-dose schedule became positive for anti-HBs. Six years later only two of these subjects had detectable anti-HBs. After the booster dose the seven subjects who responded to the extra dose showed an anamnestic type of response, and five additional subjects became positive for anti-HBs. Responders to the extra dose were significantly younger than the non-responders. In the four-dose group only one subject responded to the extra dose, and that subject maintained protective anti-HBs. About 25% of non-responders to primary HB vaccination could benefit from an extra dose, and these subjects show an anamnestic type of response to HBs antigen even after 6 years. This response seems to be influenced by age.

Long-term persistence of anti-HBs after vaccination with a recombinant DNA yeast-derived hepatitis B vaccine: 8-year results.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the persistence of antibodies 7 years after hepatitis B booster administration in healthy adult volunteers who were vaccinated in 1986. In October 1986, 188 seronegative, healthy adult volunteers (117 men and 71 women) were vaccinated with a 20 micrograms dose recombinant DNA yeast-derived hepatitis B vaccine. Mean age of the study group was 23.3 years (+/- 0.28). Immunisation was carried out according to a 0-1-2 month vaccination schedule, with a booster dose at 12 months. Of the 159 subjects who received the full vaccination course, 63 (40%) had a blood sample taken 8 years after the first vaccination. Of these 63 subjects, five were excluded from the analysis due to an irregular vaccination schedule and four subjects did not complete the accompanying questionnaire on possible booster administration. So, 54 subjects remained available for further analysis. Fourteen individuals had received an additional booster of hepatitis B vaccine sometime between 1989 and 1994. The geometric mean titre (GMT) at month 13 for these 14 individuals was 1494 mIU ml-1, compared with 3103 mIU ml-1 for those who did not receive an interim booster. Forty subjects, who received no additional booster dose besides that of month 12, met the inclusion criteria of the follow-up study. Of these, all subjects except one were seropositive for anti-HBs at month 96 (GMT: 215.9 mIU ml-1). All subjects were still anti-HBc negative at that time. Distribution of individual antibody titres revealed that overall 92.5% of subjects retained protective antibody levels (> or = 10 mIU ml-1); 72.5% of vaccinees retained high levels of anti-HBs (> or = 100 mIU ml-1) as compared to 99.2 and 97.0% at month 13, respectively. A positive correlation was found between the subjects' titres at month 13 and month 96. A 0-1-2 dose vaccination course with a booster dose administered at month 12, induces a protective immune response which lasts at least until 7 years after the full vaccination course of the subjects. A positive correlation was found between the anti-HBs antibody titres at month 13 and month 96.

Combined intramuscular-intradermal protocol of universal neonate HB vaccination irrespective of mother's status of HBsAg.

To evaluate a protocol of combined intramuscular-intradermal (i.m.-i.d.) universal hepatitis B (HB) vaccination of neonates regardless of the mothers' HB surface antigen HBsAg status, 160 full-term newborn babies were sequentially divided into groups A and B (test and control groups). The group A babies were immunized by giving 30 micrograms HB vaccine i.m. within 24 h after birth and 2 micrograms i.d. twice at 1 and 6 months of age. Group B babies were immunized by giving one initial dose of 30 micrograms i.m. and two booster doses of 10 micrograms i.m. after same 0, 1, 6-month schedule. Blood samples were collected at birth before the first dose of the HB vaccine, at 6 months of age before the third dose and at 12 months. The blood samples were tested for HBsAg and anti-HBs by using Abbott RIA reagents. All of the 160 newborns received three doses of vaccine, but in only 96 of them was the blood examination completed. The positive rate of anti-HBs > 10 IU l-1 was 76.27 and 83.08% in groups A and B, respectively at 6 months, and 83.72 and 92.45%, respectively at 12 months. The geometric mean titres (GMT) of anti-HBs was 42.25 and 60.25 IU l-1 in groups A and B, respectively at 6 months, and 74.45 and 87.1 IU l-1, respectively at 12 months. HBsAg was negative in the two groups 6 and 12 months after birth. The chi 2 and t-tests showed there were no significant differences in these data between the two groups. Thus was it demonstrated that the combined i.m.-i.d. protocol using 34 micrograms of HB vaccine can produce a protection similar to that of the conventional 50 micrograms i.m. regimen, while ca on-third of the vaccine can be saved. The new protocol is theoretically rational and may be ideal according to the cost-effectiveness principle.

Hepatitis A and B vaccine

It is widely available. Administration schedule Routine Twinrix vaccination is administered by intramuscular injection in the deltoid area using a schedule of three separate doses at 0, 1, and 6 months ([minimum intervals: 4 weeks between doses 1 and 2, 5 months between doses 2 and 3]). In some circumstances, an accelerated dosing schedule of 0, 7 and 21 to 30 days followed by a booster at 12 months can be used and was shown to have similar efficacy as the traditional schedule. Efficacy The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that clinical trials found the following levels of protection against Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B one month after each dose: A: 93.8%, 98.8%, 99.9% B: 30.8%, 78.2%, 98.5% GlaxoSmithKline claims that its studies found 70% of subjects had antibodies against hepatitis B a month after just the first dose, however.

Long-term persistence of anti-HBs after hepatitis B vaccination among adults: 8-year results.

The long-term persistence of hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs) after hepatitis B vaccination among adults was not known clearly. This study aimed to assess the immunogenicity and persistence of antibodies 8 years after hepatitis B immunization with different vaccination schedules among adults who tested negative for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), anti-HBs, and hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc). A total of 771 participants who received the full vaccination course (three doses) and also had a blood sample taken 1 month after the first vaccination were recruited. Of these, 529 were excluded due to the missing data of anti-HBs 8 years after the first vaccination. Vaccinations were carried out at 0-1-3, 0-1-6 and 0-1-12 month vaccination schedules, and 104, 45, and 93 participants were included, respectively. The positive seroprotection rate was 85.9% 1 month after the third vaccination, and 58.3% 8 years later (<iχ</i<sup2</sup = 54.52, <iP</i < .001), while the geometric mean titer (GMT) of anti-HBs was 158.49 mIU/mL [95% confidence interval (CI): 131.83-190.55)] and 15.14 mIU/mL (95% CI: 10.96-20.42) after 1 month and 8 years, respectively. Compared with the standard 0-1-6 month vaccination schedule, the positive seroprotection rate and the GMT of the 0-1-3 month vaccination schedule had no difference. The long-term immune effect of the 0-1-3 month vaccination schedule was better than that of the 0-1-12 month vaccination schedule. No correlation was found between the GMT of anti-HBs 1 month and 8 years later.

Evaluation of the immunogenicity of a recombinant vaccine against hepatitis B containing S and pre-S2 sequences using two different schedules.

The immunogenicities of hepatitis B virus vaccines containing S and pre-S2 regions were compared using two different schedules of immunization (A: 0-1-2-12 months and B: 0-1-6 months). Two hundred males and females aged 17-22 years were vaccinated with 20 micrograms per dose. The follow-up period was extended up to 13 months. One month after the booster dose anti-HBs were detected in 98.9% of those vaccinated with schedule A and 100% of those vaccinated with schedule B. Geometric mean titres (GMT) of anti-HBs were significantly higher with schedule A than schedule B, reaching GMT of 16269.7 mIU ml-1 and 4372.4 mIU ml-1, respectively, one month after the booster dose. Seroconversion rates for the anti-pre-S2 antibodies one month after the booster dose were 89.4% for schedule A and 76.6% for schedule B. GMT were 157.8 mIU ml-1 and 67.5 mIU ml-1, respectively. We conclude that both vaccines elicit high titres of anti-HBs and anti-pre-S2 antibodies. Immunity lasts longer in schedule A than in schedule B.

[Anti-Hbs level after the basic course of vaccination against hepatitis B in health care workers].

Health care workers are the group at high hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection risk. Groups of physicians and nurses working in hospitals of Lublin have been vaccinated since 1989. The aim of this work was to assess the level of anti-HBs in different years after the basic course of vaccination. We have examined 166 persons, aged from 18 to 65 years, vaccinated with a yeast recombinant hepatitis B vaccine Engerix B (Smith Kline Biologicals). They completed the full cycle of vaccination according to the pattern of 0, 1, 6 months. Within the group of people who had got the third dose one year ago we found 100% of women and 88% of men with a protective level of anti-HBs (> or = 10 IU/l). Four years after the final inoculation differences between female and male population were even more significant: 93% of man had a protective level of anti-HBs. We have also found that humoral response was higher in the group of younger vaccinees (18-40 years). We propose that timing of booster vaccination should be scheduled on the basis of anti-HBs level. It seems to be necessary to control the level of anti-HBs at least 3 years after the last dose of vaccination.

Vaccination in Brazil

Routine vaccinations Vaccination coverage includes: For children BCG vaccine, Intradermal, at birth Hepatitis B vaccine, at birth, 1 and 6 months Pentavalent vaccine, DTP (whole cell pertussis component), HB, and Hib, administered at 2, 4, and 6 months, with a booster (DTP) at 15 months and 4 years. Polio vaccine (inactivated), at 2 and 4 months Polio vaccine (oral), at 6 and 15 months Rotavirus vaccine (monovalent oral human rotavirus vaccine) at 2 and 4 months Pneumococcal vaccine 10-valent conjugate vaccine d at 2, 4, 6, and 10 months Yellow fever vaccine at 9 months and booster every 10 years MMR vaccine at 12 months and 4 years Meningococcal vaccine at 3, 5, and 15 months Influenza vaccine, annually MMRV vaccine, after 1 year of age Hepatitis A vaccine, at 0 and 6 to 12 months For adults:

Strategies for hepatitis B booster vaccination among children: an 8-year prospective cohort study.

Debate continues regarding the need for a booster vaccination in children who received a universal infant hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination. The aim was to explore the need and the strategies for the booster HBV vaccination. 8-year prospective cohort study was conducted among children aged 5-15 years in 2009-2010 in Zhejiang Province. The participants were divided into groups A (<0.1 mIU/mL), B (0.1 to < 1 mIU/mL) and C (1 to <10 mIU/mL) according to the pre-booster anti-HBs antibody levels. 5 μg (group I), 10 μg (group II), 20 μg hepatitis B vaccines (group III) or 5 μg hepatitis A and B (HAB) vaccines (group IV) with 0-1-6-month schedule were randomly administered to children negative for all markers. Blood samples were collected at baseline HBV marker testing, 1 month after the first dose, 1 month, 1 year, 5 years and 8 years after the third dose. Among 4170 children, 2326 (55.8%) were negative for all HBV markers. Group II showed the highest seropositive rates of 92.8%, 99.7%, 97.6%, 90.3% and 83.4% with GMTs of 4194.5 mIU/ml, 4163.9 mIU/ml, 466.9 mIU/ml, 190.6 mIU/ml, 122.6 mIU/ml from 1 month after dose 1 to 8 years after dose 3, respectively (<iP</i < .01). Participants in group C showed seropositive rates of 98.9%, 99.9%, 99.5%, 95.5%, 92.8% after the revaccination with GMTs of 6519.6 mIU/ml, 5267.4 mIU/ml, 547.1 mIU/ml, 249.5 mIU/ml, 155.3 mIU/ml, respectively, higher than group A and B (<iP</i < .001), except 1 month after the third dose. The 10 μg of HBV vaccine with a 0-1-6-month booster regimen may elicit robust responses and persist for 8 years or longer. Additionally, 1-dose revaccination maybe suitable for children with 1 to < 10 mIU/ml anti-HBs titers.

A randomized trial of alternative two- and three-dose hepatitis B vaccination regimens in adolescents: antibody responses, safety, and immunologic memory.

Hoping to increase hepatitis B (HB) vaccination of adolescents, we did the following: 1) studied if modified regimens of the recombinant HB vaccine, Recombivax HB (2 or 3 doses of 5 or 10 microg given over 4 or 6 months), induce protective anti-hepatitis B surface antibody [anti-HBsAb] levels (>/=10 mIU/mL) comparable to the recommended regimen (5 microg at 0 and 1, and 6 months); 2) measured early antibody response after a single dose; and 3) assessed immunologic memory after 2- and 3-dose regimens. One thousand twenty-six adolescents were randomized to 1 of 5 treatment groups (10 microg at 0 and 4 or 0 and 6 months; 5 microg at 0 and 6 or 0, 2, and 4 or 0, 1, and 6 months) in an open trial. Anti-HBsAb was measured in all participants just before and 1 month after the last dose, and at several other times in a subset of vaccinees. Anti-HBsAb response to a booster dose 2 years later was examined to assess immunologic memory in participants vaccinated with 5 microg at 0 and 6 or 0, 1, and 6 months. All regimens induced >/=10 mIU/mL of anti-HBs in >/=95% of vaccinees. Geometric mean titers ranged from 674.8 to 3049.4 mIU/mL. Geometric mean titers were higher with regimens using the following: 1) 10 versus 5 microg; 2) 3 versus 2 doses; and 3) vaccination intervals of 6 versus 4 months. After 6 months, 63.8% of vaccinees given one 10-microg dose had >/=10 mIU/mL of anti-HBsAb versus 41.6% after one 5-microg dose. Participants vaccinated with either two or three 5-microg doses retained robust immunologic memory. . The results of this study show that a 2-dose regimen of Recombivax HB is as immunogenic and induces immunologic memory as effectively as the recommended 3-dose regimen. A regimen of two 10-microg doses may be of significant benefit for vaccinees who are poorly compliant or deviate from the intended vaccination schedule.

Long term (24 months) follow-up of a hepatitis A and B vaccine, comparing a two and three dose schedule in adolescents aged 12-15 years.

A two dose schedule (0 and 6 months) for a combined hepatitis A and B vaccine is currently being developed. The present study compared the combined hepatitis A and B vaccines in 12-15-year-old: Twinrix paediatric (360 EL.U HAV antigen/10 microg HBs antigen) on a three dose schedule (0, 1 and 6 months) to the adult formulation (720 EL.U HAV antigen/20 microg HBs antigen) on a two dose schedule (0 and 6 months) and also reports on the follow-up until 24 months. Seroconversion (SC) rates to HAV in both regimens reached 100% by month 7 and remained 100% up to month 24. Anti-HAV, GMTs were slightly higher for the two dose than the three dose regimens at this time point. Seroprotection against hepatitis B was >99% in both groups by month 7 and 24, this was still 94 and 96%, respectively. Statistical non-inferiority of group 1 (two dose) versus group 2 (three dose) was demonstrated. All vaccines were well tolerated and the most frequently reported local and general symptoms were pain and fatigue. There were no vaccine-related serious adverse events reported during the study. The two dose regimen elicited similar immunogenicity to HAV and HBsAg and reactogenicity profiles as the three dose regimen in this group of healthy adolescents. The reduction in the number of doses from the current three dose schedule will make vaccination against hepatitis A and B more convenient to the vaccinee, reduce healthcare staff time required and may lower the overall costs associated with vaccination.

Hepatitis B vaccine

An antibody level between 10 and 100mIU/ml is considered a poor response, and these people should receive a single booster vaccination at this time, but do not need further retesting. People who fail to respond (anti-Hbs antibody level below 10mIU/ml) should be tested to exclude current or past hepatitis B infection, and given a repeat course of three vaccinations, followed by further retesting 1–4 months after the second course. Those who still do not respond to a second course of vaccination may respond to intradermal administration or to a high dose vaccine or to a double dose of a combined hepatitis A and B vaccine. Those who still fail to respond will require hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) if later exposed to the hepatitis B virus.

Ten-year serological follow up of hepatitis B vaccine recipients.

To determine long-term persistence of antibodies to hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs) after vaccination against hepatitis B. Thirty-four laboratory workers received hepatitis B vaccine in 1989 in a 0-1-6 month vaccination schedule. Group A (n = 16) received a booster at 3 years after vaccination whereas Group B (n = 18) did not. Anti-HBs was quantitated at 1 month and 1, 2, 3, 5, 6 and 8 years post-vaccination. At eight-year follow up, 10 of 15 subjects in Group A and 3 of 16 in Group B had protective levels of anti-HBs; in addition, two and four subjects, respectively, had detectable anti-HBs though below protective levels. At ten years, 9/15 and 3/16 were anti-HBs positive in Groups A and B, respectively. One subject in each group had rise in anti-HBs titer at 6-year follow up but both of them tested negative for IgG antibodies to hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc). A booster dose at 10 years to anti-HBs negative subjects led to an anamestic response in 3/4 and 8/10 persons in Groups A and B, respectively. Immunological memory after vaccination against hepatitis B is maintained for at least 10 years.

Optimal vaccination program for healthy adults in China.

There is still no suitable routine hepatitis B immunization strategy for adults in China. To establish an optimal vaccination schedule for healthy adults, we investigated various schedules in healthy adults. In this randomized 5143 healthy adults received 10 μg hepatitis B vaccine at 0, 1 and 3 months(group A), 0, 1 and 6 months(group B), or 0, 1 and 12 months(group C). Blood samples were collected after 1 month and 12 months after the third dose. The geometric mean titer (GMT), seroconversion rate (levels of anti-HBs ≥ 10 mIU/mL) and high response rate (levels of anti-HBs ≥ 100 mIU/mL) were assayed. In our study, 2438 healthy adults finished the full vaccination program and follow-up. The seroconversion/sero-protective rate of groups A-C at one and 12 month after administration of the third vaccine dose was 100%, 99.9% and 97.9% verse 64.9%, 75.7% and 79.0%, respectively. GMT for anti-HBs tested in group A to C within 1 or 12 month after the third vaccination was 213.16, 432.58 and 451.47 mIU/ml verse 22.07, 46.70 and 56.18 mIU/ml, respectively. There were significant differences of seroconversion/sero-protective rate and GMT among the 3 groups (p < 0.01). Given the high anti-HBs seroconversion rate and GMT in all 3 groups, a flexible schedule for Hepatitis B vaccine should be recommended to adults, but 0-1-12 schedule is a better choice.

Hepatitis B vaccine

Hepatitis B vaccination, hepatitis B immunoglobulin, and the combination of hepatitis B vaccine plus hepatitis B immunoglobulin, all are considered as preventive for babies born to mothers infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV). The combination is superior for protecting these infants. The vaccine during pregnancy is not considered to be valuable in protecting babies of the infected mothers. Hepatitis B immunoglobulin before birth has not been well studied. Effectiveness Following the primary course of three vaccinations, a blood test may be taken after an interval of 1–4 months to establish if there has been an adequate response, which is defined as an anti-hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-Hbs) antibody level above 100mIU/ml. Such a full response occurs in about 85–90% of individuals. An antibody level between 10 and 100mIU/ml is considered a poor response, and these people should receive a single booster vaccination at this time, but do not need further retesting.

A two-dose schedule for combined hepatitis A and B vaccination in children aged 6-15 years.

A combined hepatitis A and B vaccine, Twinrix, in a paediatric formulation for ages 1-15 years and in an adult formulation for those ages 16 years and older, became commercially available in Turkey as well as in many countries. It is administered according to a three-dose schedule (0, 1 and 6 months). A reduction in the number of doses would improve the compliance rate and reduce administration costs. Therefore, we planned a trial evaluation of the immunogenicity, safety and reactogenicity profile of a high-dose combined hepatitis A and B vaccine, administered in two doses, compared with the profile of a paediatric-dose combined vaccine, administered in three doses, in healthy children aged 6-15 years. One hundred children were randomly attributed to the two study groups. The first group (paediatric-dose vaccine group) received the licensed Twinrix Paediatric, at months 0, 1 and 6; the second group (high-dose vaccine group) received the high-dose vaccine, following a 0, 6 months schedule. The reactogenicity was assessed after each vaccine dose. The immunogenicity was evaluated by testing for anti-HBs and anti-HAV antibodies. Seroconversion rates and geometric mean titres (GMTs) were compared. Both formulations of the combined vaccine were well tolerated. The high-dose combined vaccine administered in two doses, elicits satisfactory immunogenicity profiles, similar to those elicited by the paediatric vaccine administered in three doses. On completion of the vaccination schedule in the two groups all children were protected against hepatitis B and immune for hepatitis A. Anti-HAV GMTs after completion of the vaccination schedule were 7163 mlU/ml in the paediatric-dose group, 8241 mlU/ml in the high-dose group; anti-HBs GMTs were 8679 and 4583 mlU/ml, respectively. These results indicate that a two-dose schedule, compared with the standard three-dose schedule, offers fewer injections for satisfactory protection against the two infections. This means fewer clinic visits, lower administration costs, better compliance, and higher coverage rate. Therefore, this two-dose schedule can be considered an appropriate regimen for the immunization of children and adolescents against hepatitis A and B infection, in the context of school-based immunization programmes.

[Course of antibody titer following preventive hepatitis B vaccination and a recommendation for renewal following the use of H-B-Vax vaccines].

97% of the vaccinees developed anti-HBs independently of the applied vaccine (experimental vaccine or H-B-Vax). With the experimental vaccine the mean antibody titre was 1095 IMU/ml four weeks after third inoculation. Follow up revealed that during a period of 18 month individual antibody titres declined continuously to approximately one tenth. Therefore the duration of protection depends on the titre of anti-HBs which was measured after the third immunization. A control of the antibody titres should be performed after about 3-5 years, when the antibody titres are greater than 1000 IMU/ml 4 weeks after vaccination. But a control should be made already after about 1 1/2-3 years if the antibody titres are 200-1000 IMU/ml. Antibody titres between 100 and 200 IMU/ml should be estimated about 6-18 months later and titres between 10 and 100 IMU/ml already about 3-6 months later. We recommend an immediate revaccination for persons with anti-HBs titres below 10 IMU/ml. Serological findings in hospital staff of the University in Hamburg revealed the presence of protective antibodies in 11,6% which is due to a previous hepatitis B infection. In this cases vaccination was unnecessary.

Recombinant hepatitis B vaccine: a review of its immunogenicity and protective efficacy against hepatitis B.

Recombinant hepatitis B vaccine Engerix B((R)) [Hep-B(Eng)] is a noninfectious subunit hepatitis B viral vaccine indicated for the active immunisation of adults, children and infants against hepatitis B virus infection. It contains hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) which is produced by the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae by use of recombinant DNA technology. In adults and children seroprotection rates [anti-HBsAg antibody (anti-HBs) titres >or=10 IU/L] were 93 to 100% 1 month after completion of the immunisation schedule with Hep-B(Eng) [0, 1, 6-month schedule]. A more rapid immunological response has been reported with accelerated Hep-B(Eng) immunisation schedules, such as the 0, 1, 2, 12-month schedule. Hep-B(Eng) produces seroprotection rates similar to those achieved with the plasma-derived vaccines and the recombinant hepatitis B vaccine, Recombivax-HB((R)) [Hep-B(Rax)] when administered at recommended doses. In studies in Taiwanese and Thai neonates born to hepatitis B carrier mothers, seroprotection rates were >or=94% 12 months after immunisation with Hep-B(Eng) [+/- hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG)] and protective efficacy was high, with <or=4% of neonates becoming chronic hepatitis B carriers. Similarly, among 119 homosexual men, none had any markers of hepatitis B infection 1 month after completion of immunisation with Hep-B(Eng). Immunoprophylaxis with Hep-B(Eng) +/- HBIG compared with no immunoprophylaxis also resulted in a lower incidence of acute symptomatic hepatitis B infection among healthcare workers accidentally exposed to HBsAg-positive blood (0 vs 6%). Although seroprotective levels of anti-HBs have been reported to persist for at least 5 years in adults and 8 years in children immunised with Hep-B(Eng), anti-HBs titres do decline with time and may become undetectable several years after immunisation in some vaccinees. Moreover, it is currently unclear whether vaccinees require booster doses or whether, on exposure to the virus, natural boosting occurs when anti-HBs titres fall below the protective level (<10 IU/L). Long term follow-up studies should clarify this issue. Hep-B(Eng) is generally well tolerated with a tolerability profile similar to that of Hep-B(Rax) and plasma-derived vaccines. Mild soreness at the injection site is the most common adverse event associated with Hep-B(Eng). Although further long term follow-up is necessary to determine the persistence of protective immunity against hepatitis B, available data indicate that Hep-B(Eng) is an effective and suitable alternative to other vaccines currently used for immunisation against infection caused by hepatitis B virus.

[Compliance with the vaccination recommendations for 0- to 24-month-old infants in general or paediatric practice].

To describe the vaccine practice of general practitioners and paediatricians for the 0-24-month-old infants and their deviations to the official recommendations. One thousand three hundred and fifty-five practitioners, 46 +/- 8-year-old took part in the survey. Among them 42.7% were general practitioners and 57.3% were paediatrician. Only one third of them, strictly complied with the official vaccination recommendation (33.1%). This percentage was higher for the general practitioners (43.4%) than for the paediatricians (25.5% P < 0.001). When practitioners adapted the vaccination program, their modifications essentially concerned the first administration of the DTCP Hib vaccine, which was delayed of 1 or 2 months. Some vaccines were specifically concerned by the modifications. The ROR was delayed and the vaccination coverage reached only 75% at 18 months. General practitioners adapted the vaccination calendar more often than paediatricians (16.9 vs. 9.0%: P < 0.05). The B Hepatitis vaccination schedule was the most frequently adapted one by general practitioners as well as paediatricians to deal with multiple injections (53.5%), and the age of the infants (39.1%). The availability of hexavalent vaccination containing B Hepatitis should contribute to increase the vaccination coverage of the population against B Hepatitis and could allow an antipneumococcal vaccination through an heptavalent vaccine without increasing the number of injections. On the other hand, general practitioners and paediatricians must actively contribute to increase the ROR vaccination coverage.

Comparative Efficacy of a High-Dose vs Standard-Dose Hepatitis B Revaccination Schedule Among Patients With HIV: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Active immunization for hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is recommended in patients living with HIV. Limited evidence is available about the most appropriate regimen of HBV vaccination among those who have not responded to an initial schedule. To determine the efficacy of a high-dose schedule compared with a standard dose of HBV vaccination. This double-masked, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial included patients living with HIV at a single outpatient HIV and hepatology clinic in Chile for whom previous HBV vaccination had failed. Patients with hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs) titers less than 10 IU/L after an initial HBV vaccination regimen were included. Consecutive patients were recruited between December 2013 and March 2018. Data were analyzed in June 2018 using intention-to-treat analysis. The high-dose HBV vaccination group consisted of 3 doses of 40 μg recombinant hepatitis B vaccine at 0, 1, and 2 months. The standard-dose group received 3 doses 20 μg each at 0, 1, and 2 months. Primary outcome was the serologic response to HBV vaccination (anti-HBs greater than 10 IU/L) 4 to 8 weeks after completion of the schedule. Secondary outcomes were anti-HBs greater than 100 IU/L and seroprotective anti-HBs at 1 year follow up. A total of 107 patients underwent randomization (55 to the standard-dose group, 52 to the high-dose group); 81 (75.7%) were men, and the mean (SD) patient age was 47.0 (13.3) years. Nearly all patients were receiving antiretroviral therapy (105 patients [98%]) and 92 patients (86%) had an undetectable HIV viral load. Mean (SD) CD4 count was 418 (205) cells/mm3. There were no differences in baseline characteristics between groups. Serological response in the high-dose group was found in 36 of 50 patients (72%; 95% CI, 56.9%-82.9%) compared with 28 of 55 patients in the standard-dose group (51%; 95% CI, 37.1%-64.6%) (odds ratio, 2.48; 95% CI, 1.02-6.10; P = .03). Mean (SD) anti-HB levels were 398.0 (433.4) IU/L in the high-dose group and 158.5 (301.4) IU/L in the standard-dose group (P < .001). Of patients with a serological response in the high-dose group, 29 of 36 (80.6%) had anti-HBs titers greater than 100 IU/L compared with 14 of 28 responders (50.0%) in the standard-dose group (P = .02). At 1-year follow-up, 20 of 25 patients (80.0%) with a serological response in the high-dose group had protective anti-HBs vs 9 of 23 patients (39.1%) in the standard-dose group (P = .01). The results of this randomized clinical trial suggest that use of a high-dose regimen for HBV revaccination for patients with HIV achieves a higher and longer-lasting serological response as compared with a standard-dose regimen. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02003703.

[Persistence of anti-HB antibodies after vaccination against hepatitis B in medical staff of the Memorial Child Health Institute in 1994-1998].

The objective of the study was to assess the persistence of anti-HBs antibodies after vaccination against hepatitis B in the medical staff of the Children's Memorial Health Institute in 1994-1998. The workers were vaccinated with Engerix B, 20 mg per dose, scheme: 0, 1, 6 and 60 months. The anti-HBs level in vaccinated persons was assessed 3 months after basic vaccination and 1 month after administration of a booster dose. The persistence of antibodies was analyzed 2 and 5 years after basic vaccination and 2 years following the booster dose. The analysis revealed a very satisfactory response in 96.2% of workers, including 84.0% persons with preventive titre above 100 iu/l. The absence of response was found in 3.8% of persons, and very weak (below 100 iu/l response in 12.2% of workers. After 5 years, the percentage of good and very good responders diminished to 54.5 and that of non-responders increased to 12.6. For 12.6% of workers, a booster dose after 5 years proved to be too late as they required earlier revaccination and individual monitoring of antibodies titre. Only 87.4% of workers showed the protective anti-HBs level after 5 years. Booster administration after 5 years improved the response in persons with anti-HBs protective level; their percentage increased to 98.8% while the percentage of non-responders decreased to 1.2. Comparison between the antibody persistence 2 years after basic vaccination and after booster dose indicated its improvement in persons with seroconversion, however, the percentage of workers with anti-HBs antibodies below the protective level remained at the same level (3.3%).

Hepatitis A Vaccine -- Indications

In the United States, recommendations are for all children to receive HAV beginning at age one year old (twelve to twenty-three months) following routine vaccine schedules. Children aged 12 to 23 months without documentation of hepatitis A vaccination or serologic evidence of immunity should receive a vaccination on arrival in the United States. [2] Children not vaccinated by age two years can receive the vaccination at subsequent visits. [4] Persons working in or traveling to places with high or intermediate endemicity of infection should receive HAV doses at the appropriate age. The first dose of HAV should be given at the earliest opportunity after planning travel, as the antibody formation might not be complete until four weeks after vaccination. Completion of the vaccine series is the recommendation for long-term protection according to routine vaccination schedules.

Three vs Four Dose Schedule of Double Strength Recombinant Hepatitis-B Vaccine in HIV-infected Children: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

To compare seroprotection rates and the anti-HBs titers following primary immunization with double strength (20 µg) recombinant hepatitis B virus (rHBV) vaccine administered intramuscularly (IM) in a 3-dose (0, 1 and 6 months) vs 4-dose (0, 1, 2 and 6 months) schedule in HIV-infected children receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). An accelerated 3-dose schedule (0, 1, 2 months) within the 4-dose group was also compared. Randomized controlled trial. Pediatric ART clinic of a tertiary hospital in Delhi from November, 2017 to April, 2019. Fifty (25 per group) HIV-infected children aged 18 months - 12 years receiving ART for at least 6 months who had not received any prior dose of HBV vaccine, and were anti-HBs negative. Group 1 received 20 µg of rHBV vaccine IM (in deltoid muscle) at 0, 1, and 6 months, and group 2 received 20 µg the same vaccine at 0, 1, 2 and 6 months. Anti-HBs titers and proportion of responders in 3-dose vs 4-dose group at seventh and twelfth month and at third month after an accelerated 3-dose schedule. Median (IQR) anti-HBs titers at the seventh month were significantly higher in group 2 [225.7 (151-300) IU/L] compared to group 1 [138.2 (35.2-250) IU/L], but were comparable at the 12th month. Seroprotection rates were comparable between group 2 and group 1 at 7th month (96% vs 80%; P=0.19) and 12th month (96% vs 88%; P=0.61). The proportion of good responders were also comparable between the groups at 7th month and 12th month (both P=0.29). Accelerated 3-dose schedule achieved comparable anti-HBs titers [179.9 (130.6-250) IU/L] and seroprotection rate (92%) one month after completion of schedule to the standard 3-dose + schedule. A 3-dose double strength recombinant HBV vaccine schedule offers comparable seroprotection to 4-dose schedule for HIV-infected children receiving ART.

[Hepatitis B immunization--when is a booster injection necessary?].

Over 10,000 high risk individuals in the Zurich area have been vaccinated against hepatitis B with 3 initial injections of 20 micrograms H-B-Vax. The question arises whether, and if so when, booster injections should be given. Concentrations and persistence of the protective anti-HBs antibodies of 158 successfully vaccinated individuals (medical staff, patients on hemodialysis or with renal transplants) were analyzed. The anti-HBs behaved typically in most individuals, reaching maximum levels in the 7th month (1 month after the third vaccine injection) and then falling gradually, more rapidly in the next following month than later. Persistence of antibodies depended on the maximum anti-HBs concentration reached initially. Three years after the first vaccine injection anti-HBs concentrations had fallen below 10 mIU/ml in all healthy individuals with initial concentrations between 10-99 mIU/ml, in 44% vaccinees with initial titers between 100 and 499 mIU/ml, in 17% individuals with initial anti-HBs between 500 and 1499 mIU/ml but in none of the vaccinees whose antibodies had originally been higher than 1500 microIU/ml. Anti-HBs were undetectable in 6% of all medical staff members, in 30% of hemodialysis patients and in 59% of patients with renal transplants. Several policies for booster injections are discussed. One possible approach is to measure anti-HBs in all vaccinees after completion of the initial immunization, a further booster injection being recommended individually on the basis of the calculated time when anti-HBs fall lower than, for example, 10 mIU/ml having regard to the initial anti-HBs concentration.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)