A randomized controlled study of accelerated versus standard hepatitis B vaccination in HIV-positive patients

Immunogenicity and Efficacy of Vaccination in People Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus

People living with HIV (PLWH) remain at high risk of mortality and morbidity from vaccine-preventable diseases, even though antiretroviral therapy (ART) has restored life expectancy and general well-being. When, which, and how many doses of vaccine should be administered over the lifetime of PLWH are questions that have become clinically relevant. Immune responses to most vaccines are known to be impaired in PLWH. Effective control of viremia with ART and restored CD4+ T-cell count are correlated with an improvement in responsiveness to routine vaccines. However, the presence of immune alterations, comorbidities and co-infections may alter it. In this article, we provide a comprehensive review of the literature on immune responses to different vaccines in the setting of HIV infection, emphasizing the potential effect of HIV-related factors and presence of comorbidities in modulating such responses. A better understanding of these issues will help guide vaccination and prevention strategies for PLWH.

Associated Factors and Immune Response to the Hepatitis B Vaccine with a Standard Schedule: A Prospective Study of People with HIV in China

Hepatitis B (HB) vaccination is recommended for people with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS). We aimed to assess the immune response to the HB vaccine and associated factors using the standard vaccination schedule among people with HIV (PWH) in China. A prospective study was carried out from 2016 to 2020 in Beijing, China. PWH were given three 20 μg doses of recombinant HB vaccine at 0, 1, and 6 months. Blood samples were taken within 4-6 weeks after each dose to evaluate the anti-HBs levels. A total of 312 participants completed vaccination and serologic testing. The seroconversion (anti-HBs ≥ 10 IU/L) rates following the first, second, and third doses of the vaccine were 35.6% (95% CI: 30.3-40.9%), 55.1% (95% CI: 49.6-60.7%), and 86.5% (95% CI: 82.8-90.3%), respectively, and the geometric means of the anti-HBs titers were 0.8 IU/L (95% CI: 0.5-1.6 IU/L), 15.7 IU/L (95% CI: 9.4-26.3 IU/L), and 241.0 IU/L (95% CI: 170.3-341.1 IU/L), respectively. In multivariate analysis, after three doses of vaccination, age, CD4 cell count, and HIV-RNA viral load were significantly associated with strong, moderate, and weak response, respectively. These findings confirm that these personal health conditions are related to the HB response. HB vaccination in PWH using the standard schedule was still highly effective in the context of early treatment initiation, especially among participants aged 30 years and younger.

Living with HIV and Getting Vaccinated: A Narrative Review

After 40 years of its appearance, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection remains a leading public health challenge worldwide. Since the introduction of antiretroviral treatment (ART), HIV infection has become a chronic condition, and people living with HIV could have life expectancies close to those of the general population. People with HIV often have an increased risk of infection or experience more severe morbidity following exposure to vaccine-preventable diseases. Nowadays, several vaccines are available against bacteria and viruses. However, national and international vaccination guidelines for people with HIV are heterogeneous, and not every vaccine is included. For these reasons, we aimed to perform a narrative review about the vaccinations available for adults living with HIV, reporting the most updated studies performed for each vaccine among this population. We performed a comprehensive literature search through electronic databases (Pubmed-MEDLINE and Embase) and search engines (Google Scholar). We included English peer-reviewed publications (articles and reviews) on HIV and vaccination. Despite widespread use and guideline recommendations, few vaccine trials have been conducted in people with HIV. In addition, not all vaccines are recommended for people with HIV, especially for those with low CD4 cells count. Clinicians should carefully collect the history of vaccinations and patients' acceptance and preferences and regularly check the presence of antibodies for vaccine-preventable pathogens.

Clinical characteristics of COVID-19 patients with HIV coinfection in Wuhan, China

BACKGROUND

Information about the impact of HIV coinfection on clinical characteristics of COVID-19 patients remains limited.

METHODS

Maximum body temperatures, fever duration, chest CT and viral shedding, lymphocyte counts, and titer of SARS-CoV-2 antibody were compared between COVID-19 patients with and without HIV infection in Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University from January 20th to February 14th, 2020.

RESULTS

Compared with 53 COVID-19 patients without HIV infection, the patients with SARS-CoV-2 and HIV coinfection had higher maximum body temperatures (38.7°C vs 37.6°C, P = 0.044), longer duration of fever (8.7 ± 4.5 vs 4.2 ± 2.1 days, P = 0.038), longer time to have improvement of chest CT images (22 vs 15 days from the onset of illness, P = 0.011), lower level of SARS-CoV-2 IgG (5.11 ± 32.33 vs 37.45 ± 15.48 AU/ml, P = 0.042). However, no statistically significant difference of duration of SARS-CoV-2 shedding in the two groups was found (12.3 ± 2.6 vs 13.4 ± 2.4 days, , P = 0.813).

CONCLUSION

Lower level of CD4+ T lymphocyte counts caused by HIV infection itself might be one of reasons for relatively weak ability to produce SARS-CoV-2 specific antibodies. The effects of anti-HIV drugs in prevention and treatment of COVID-19 appears to be limited.

Hepatitis B Vaccination and Waning Hepatitis B Immunity in Persons Living with HIV

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Persons with HIV are at a higher risk for acquiring HBV (hepatitis B virus) than the general population due to shared modes of transmission and are significantly more likely to develop and die from sequelae of chronic HBV infection. Early vaccination is key to achieving HBV protective immunity, but response rates are still much lower than in the general population, ranging from 35 to 70%. Individuals with HIV also experience more rapidly waning immunity than those without HIV. Strategies to augment initial response and improve long-term immunity in individuals with HIV include alterations in dose, frequency, and the use of immune adjuvants.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies have focused on the use of different vaccine formulations, the use of vaccine adjuvants, increased number and strength of vaccine dosages, increased dose frequency, alternative routes of administration, dual vaccinations, and the use of booster vaccines. Although no consensus has been reached on the use of certain vaccination regimens, three and four double-dose vaccine schedules via the intramuscular route have demonstrated higher initial response rates. Early vaccination when CD4 cell counts are greater than 350/mm³ with low viral loads has been shown to improve initial response, along with completion of immunization series. Adjuvants such as TLR4 and TLR9 agonists appear to improve response to HBV vaccination, but further research is needed in individuals with HIV. Persons with HIV have significant lower initial and long-term seroresponse rates after HBV vaccination than immunocompetent individuals. Recent and ongoing studies continue to evaluate multiple strategies to improve these rates within a uniquely susceptible population.

Higher rate of long-term serologic response of four double doses vs. standard doses of hepatitis B vaccination in HIV-infected adults: 4-year follow-up of a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

We previously reported that four doses or four double doses of hepatitis B vaccination regimens could not significantly increase a response rate compared with standard doses. However, the antibody levels were higher in the four doses and four double doses groups. This study followed those patients for at least 3 years and aimed to evaluate the immunogenicity of the three vaccination regimens.

METHODS

HIV-infected adults who had CD4+ cell counts > 200 cells/mm³, undetectable plasma HIV-1 RNA, and negative for all hepatitis B virus markers were randomly assigned to receive one of three recombinant vaccines (Hepavax-Gene^® Berna, Korea) regimens: 20 μg IM at months 0, 1, and 6 (standard doses group, n = 44), 20 μg IM at months 0, 1, 2, 6 (four doses group, n = 44), or 40 μg IM at months 0, 1, 2, and 6 (four double doses group, n = 44) between February 2011 and May 4, 2012. Of 132 participants, 126 were evaluated from August 2015 to January 2016; 42 in the standard doses, 43 in the four doses, and 41 in the four double doses groups.

RESULTS

At a median duration of 49.7 months (range 46.7-53.7) after completion of the primary vaccination schedule, the percentages of responders with anti-HBs ≥ 10 mIU/mL were 57.1% (95% CI 41.5-72.8%) in the standard doses group; 76.7% (95% CI 63.6-89.9%) in the four doses group (P = 0.067 vs. the standard doses group); and 80.5% (95% CI 67.8-93.2%) in the four double doses group (P = 0.033 vs. the standard doses group). Factors associated with a responder were the vaccination schedule (either four doses or four double doses groups) and a younger age.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the highly effectiveness of the standard hepatitis B vaccination regimen at 6 months after completion, the long-term immunogenicity was lower than the four double doses regimen among HIV-infected adults with CD4+ cell counts > 200 cells/mm³ and undetectable plasma HIV-1 RNA. The standard vaccination regimen may not be the best strategy to provide long-term immune response against hepatitis B virus among HIV-infected individuals. Trial registration NCT1289106, NCT02713620.

Travel vaccination recommendations and infection risk in HIV-positive travellers

BACKGROUND

With the advent of highly active antiretroviral drugs for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) it has become possible for people with HIV to travel to destinations that may place them at risk of a number of infectious diseases. Prevention of infections by vaccination is therefore of paramount importance for these travellers. However, vaccine responsiveness in HIV-positive individuals is not infrequently reduced compared to HIV-negative individuals. An understanding of the expected immune responses to vaccines in HIV-positive travellers is therefore important in planning the best approach to a pretravel consultation.

METHODS

A PubMed search was performed on HIV or acquired immune deficiency syndrome together with a search for specific vaccines. Review of the literature was performed to develop recommendations on vaccinations for HIV-positive travellers to high-risk destinations.

RESULTS

The immune responses to several vaccines are reduced in HIV-positive people. In the case of vaccines for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, influenza, pneumococcus, meningococcus and yellow fever there is a good body of data in the literature showing reduced immune responsiveness and also to help guide appropriate vaccination strategies. For other vaccines like Japanese encephalitis, rabies, typhoid fever, polio and cholera the data are not as robust; however, it is still possible to gain some understanding of the reduced responses seen with these vaccines.

CONCLUSION

This review provides a summary of the immunological responses to commonly used vaccines for the HIV-positive travellers. This information will help guide travel medicine practitioners in making decisions about vaccination and boosting of travellers with HIV.

Hepatitis B Virus Vaccination in HIV: Immunogenicity and Persistence of Seroprotection up to 7 Years Following a Primary Immunization Course

Vaccination against hepatitis B virus (HBV) is recommended in people living with HIV (PLHIV), although immune response rates are lower than in healthy individuals. We aimed at assessing response rates and predictors as well as persistence of seroprotection in a cohort of PLHIV with no serological evidence of current or previous HBV infection. PLHIV followed at our site were retrospectively included if they started a primary HBV vaccination course (20 mcg three-dose schedule, alone or combined with inactivated hepatitis A virus) between 2007 and 2012. Serological response was defined as hepatitis B surface antibodies (HBsAb) ≥10 IU/liter 4 to 24 weeks after the third vaccine dose. Among 134 patients included, 119 completed the primary HBV vaccination schedule. Of them, 68% developed serological response. HIV viral suppression was associated with HBsAb ≥10 IU/liter [_adjustedOR (odds ratio) 0.52, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.33-0.82, p = .005], whereas CD4-T cell count was not (_adjustedOR 1.001, 95% CI 1.001-1.003, p = .1). HBsAb titer declined over time, since 69.3% and 26.9% of vaccinees had HBsAb ≥10 IU/liter 36 and 84 months after the third HBV vaccine dose. Time-updated CD4-T cell count was associated with persistence of seroprotection [_adjustedHR (hazard ratio) 1.17, 95% CI 1.06-1.30, p = .003], independently from quantitative HBV surface antigen titer achieved at the end of the primary vaccination schedule (HR 1.02, 95% CI 0.96-1.08, p = .64). The longer the time interval from vaccination, the higher the risk of loss of seroprotection. Repeating HBsAb titer 5 years after a successful HBV vaccination may be used to guide booster vaccination, as the majority of subjects may no longer have seroprotective HbsAb titers.

Evaluation of a convenient vaccination schedule against hepatitis B in HIV-patients with undetectable HIV viral load

Vaccination against hepatitis B virus (HBV) is recommended for all HIV-positive individuals but the standard schedule is not satisfactory. High or more doses have also been studied with variable results. We compared a vaccination schedule with a higher dose but fewer shots to the standard scheme (HBVaxPro 40 μg versus Engerix 20 μg at 0, 1, and 6 months). Of the 63 patients vaccinated with HBVaxPro 79%, 65% and 47% seroconverted at month 1, 12 and 24 after vaccination, respectively. A total of 137 patients received Engerix and showed lower response rates (68%, 53% and 38%, respectively). Anti-HBs titers in the Engerix group were also lower with a statistically significant difference. In patients younger than 55 years HBVaxPro was 3 times more likely to provoke a response compared with Engerix (OR = 3, p = 0.006). In conclusion, HBVaxPro 40 μg at 3 doses could be proposed as a more robust and acceptable alternative.

T follicular helper cells and antibody response to Hepatitis B virus vaccine in HIV-1 infected children receiving ART

HBV vaccine has 95% efficacy in children to prevent HBV infection and related cancer. We conducted a prospective study in HIV-1 infected children receiving ART (n = 49) and controls (n = 63) to assess humoral and cellular responses to HBV vaccine provided with three doses under an accelerated schedule of 4 weeks apart. At 1 month post-vaccination all children, except 4 HIV-1 infected, displayed protective antibody (ab) titers to HBV vaccine; ab titers were lower in infected children (P < 0.0001). Ab titers decreased (P < 0.0001) in both HIV-1 infected and control children at 6 months. The frequency of circulating Tfh (cTFh) cells was 20.3% for controls and 20.8% for infected children prior to vaccination and remained comparable post-vaccination. Cytokine expression by cTfh cells upon activation with HBV antigen was comparable in the two groups at baseline and 1 month post-vaccination. Higher plasma levels (P < 0.0001) of CXCL13 were found in infected children which correlated with cTfh cell frequency at baseline. In conclusion, a lower ab response to HBV vaccine was measured in HIV-1 infected children. The frequency and activation profile of cTfh cells was comparable in infected children and controls suggesting that cells other than Tfh cells are responsible for impaired ab response to HBV vaccine.

Predictors of humoral response to recommended vaccines in HIV-infected adults

Humoral response to vaccination has been found to be inadequate in individuals infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). We retrospectively assessed antibody responses to three routinely recommended vaccines, against hepatitis B, hepatitis A and S. pneumoniae, in HIV-infected individuals. Data regarding age at HIV diagnosis, years of infection, sex, nationality, HIV mode of transmission, CD4 cell count, nadir CD4 count, plasma viral load, HIV stage, insurance status, educational level and treatment with Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) were collected. Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed in order to detect factors associated with response to vaccination. 437 patients were assessed for hepatitis B, 627 patients for hepatitis A and 66 patients for S. pneumoniae serologic vaccine responsiveness. Regarding hepatitis B and hepatitis A, education level and insurance status were the only predictors of response. As for S. pneumoniae vaccination HAART and control of viremia were correlated with better response to vaccination.

Hepatitis B virus vaccination in HIV-infected people: A review

HBV immunization is highly recommended in people infected with HIV. However, the classical schedule used in the general population has been shown to be insufficient in people living with HIV. This review summarizes the main studies dealing with HBV vaccination in people living with HIV, depending on their baseline status (in particular, never vaccinated, already vaccinated, or with an isolated anti-HBc serological profile). It shows that reinforced 40µg intramuscular HBV vaccination schedules are now frequently recommended, either initially in people never vaccinated, or in the lack of an anamnestic response in other situations. Adjuvants cannot be currently recommended. Anti-HBs titers have to be checked 1 to 2 months following the last vaccine dose, and annually thereafter a booster is necessary if antiHBs titers decrease below 10 mIU/mL. In patients with a CD4 cell count <200/µL, guidelines recommend starting the vaccination regimen as soon as possible after HAART has been started.

CD4/CD8 ratio as a predictor of the response to HBV vaccination in HIV-positive patients: A prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) share transmission mechanisms and thus coinfection is frequent. Active immunization against HBV is essential in HIV patients. Reports using standard and reinforced HBV vaccination schedules vary widely in seroconversion rates depending on the characteristics of the included patients. Regional data concerning HBV vaccination in HIV patients are scarce. We aim to determine the serological response to HBV vaccination using standard schedule in HIV-positive patients and to evaluate characteristics that predict seroconversion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a single centre prospective study of HBV vaccination with standard schedule in HIV-positive patients. Adults with negative markers of HBV infection were included between November 2012 and December 2014. Anti-HBs titres were measured 4-8 weeks after completion of vaccination schedule. Clinical, laboratory values and HIV characteristics were analyzed to determine their association with seroconversion and adherence to the HBV vaccination schedule.

RESULTS

The study included 245 HIV-positive patients, 68.9% were male and the mean age was 42.1 years. A total of 80.7% of the patients had undetectable HIV viral loads, 86.1% had CD4 counts >200, and 94.7% were on HAART. The response to vaccination was positive in 62% (95% CI, 56-68%) and mean anti-HBs titres of 646 IU/ml. 85.5% of the responders had anti-HBs titres >100 IU/ml. An age less than 45 years, no tobacco use and a CD4/CD8 ratio >0.4 were associated with seroconversion in multivariate analysis. The seroconversion rates were 86% in the subgroup of patients who met these criteria. A total of 97.9% of the study population completed the vaccination schedule.

CONCLUSION

The CD4/CD8 ratio was the primary factor associated with positive serological conversion in the multivariate analysis. The seroconversion rates were higher in a selected group of patients who were particularly suitable for the use of the standard HBV vaccination schedule.

High Prevalence and High Incidence of Coinfection with Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and Syphilis and Low Rate of Effective Vaccination against Hepatitis B in HIV-Positive Men Who Have Sex with Men with Known Date of HIV Seroconversion in Germany

Objectives

Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at higher risk for coinfection with hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and syphilis than the general population. HIV infection and these coinfections accelerate disease progression reciprocally. This study evaluated the prevalence and incidence of these coinfections in HIV1-positive MSM in Germany.

Materials and Methods

As part of a nationwide, multicenter, prospective cohort study of HIV-infected MSM, plasma samples collected yearly were screened for HBsAg and antibodies to HBc, HBs, HCV, and syphilis. Samples with indications of active HBV or HCV infection were confirmed by polymerase chain reaction. Prevalence and incidence of each infection and incidence rates per study participant were calculated, and incidences over 4-year time intervals compared.

Results

This study screened 5,445 samples from 1,843 MSM. Median age at HIV seroconversion was 33 years. Prevalences of active, cleared, and occult HBV, and of active/cleared HCV were 1.7%, 27.1%, 0.2%, and 8.2%, respectively, and 47.5% had been effectively vaccinated against HBV. Prevalence of antibodies to Treponema pallidum and of triple or quadruple sexually transmitted infections (STIs) were 39.6% and 18.9%, respectively. Prevalence of STI, cleared HBV, HBV vaccination, and history of syphilis differed significantly among age groups. Incidences of HBV, HCV, and syphilis were 2.51, 1.54, and 4.06 per 100 person-years, respectively. Incidences of HCV and syphilis increased over time. HCV incidence was significantly higher in MSM coinfected with syphilis and living in Berlin, and syphilis incidence was significantly higher for MSM living in Berlin.

Discussion

Despite extensive HBV vaccination campaigns, fewer than 50% of screened MSM were effectively vaccinated, with a high proportion of HIV-positive MSM coinfected with HBV. High rates of STI coinfections in HIV-positive MSM and increasing incidences emphasize the need for better tailored campaigns for HBV vaccination and STI prevention.

The efficacy of accelerated, multiple, double-dose hepatitis B vaccine against hepatitis B virus infection in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy carries high morbidity and mortality. Conventional hepatitis B vaccination with three doses at 0, 1, and 6 months apart is ineffective in prevention of HBV infection.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the efficacy of accelerated, multiple, double-dose HB vaccine with conventional HB vaccine in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy (CT).

METHODS

Patients of cancer who were planned for CT were screened for HBV markers (HBsAg, total anti-HB core, anti-HBs antibody and HBV DNA). Patients with negative HBV serum markers received HB vaccine in two groups. Group A received three double doses (40 μg) of recombinant HB vaccine at 0, 1, and 3 weeks before CT and additional three double doses post CT. Group B received HB vaccine (20 μg) at 0, 1, and 6 months. Efficacy of vaccine in the two groups was compared by anti-HBs titers achieved at 3, 6, and 9 months and by HBsAg positivity following CT at 1 year follow up.

RESULTS

Protective anti-HBs titers (>10 mIU/mL) at 3, 6, and 9 months in group A and B was 41.1 %, 66.2 %, and 76% and 26 %, 37.7 %, and 49% respectively (p = 0.001). Seven of 454 (1.5%) patients in group A became HBsAg positive after vaccination compared to 19/472 (4.0%) in group B (p = 0.022).

CONCLUSION

Accelerated, multiple, double-dose HB vaccine increases seroprotection and is more effective than conventional HB vaccine in preventing HBV infection.

Vaccination coverage and immunity against hepatitis B among HIV-infected patients in South Brazil

Evidence-based strategies to improve the hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination coverage rates might help to reduce the burden caused by co-infection with HBV and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). In this study, the aim was to evaluate the vaccination coverage and immunity against HBV among HIV-infected individuals in South Brazil, and identify factors that are associated with compliance patterns and antibody reactivity. Three hundred HIV-infected men and women were included in this survey. The patients answered a standardized questionnaire, and vaccination cards were checked in order to assess hepatitis B vaccine status. A blood sample was collected for quantitative determination of antibody to hepatitis B virus surface antigen (anti-HBs). Participants were also evaluated for their CD4 cell count and HIV viral load. The overall vaccination coverage of HBV vaccination found in this study (57.4%) was lower than that was previously reported in South Brazil. Anti-HBs levels >10 IU/L were observed in 47.0% of the studied population. A significant inequality in the coverage rates and antibody reactivity was found in favor of patients with better economic status. In conclusion, the results indicate the need for improvement in the HBV vaccination coverage among HIV carriers, in particular focusing on low-income individuals.

Impact and cost-effectiveness of new tuberculosis vaccines in low- and middle-income countries

To help reach the target of tuberculosis (TB) disease elimination by 2050, vaccine development needs to occur now. We estimated the impact and cost-effectiveness of potential TB vaccines in low- and middle-income countries using an age-structured transmission model. New vaccines were assumed to be available in 2024, to prevent active TB in all individuals, to have a 5-y to lifetime duration of protection, to have 40-80% efficacy, and to be targeted at "infants" or "adolescents/adults." Vaccine prices were tiered by income group (US $1.50-$10 per dose), and cost-effectiveness was assessed using incremental cost per disability adjusted life year (DALY) averted compared against gross national income per capita. Our results suggest that over 2024-2050, a vaccine targeted to adolescents/adults could have a greater impact than one targeted at infants. In low-income countries, a vaccine with a 10-y duration and 60% efficacy targeted at adolescents/adults could prevent 17 (95% range: 11-24) million TB cases by 2050 and could be considered cost-effective at $149 (cost saving to $387) per DALY averted. If targeted at infants, 0.89 (0.42-1.58) million TB cases could be prevented at $1,692 ($634-$4,603) per DALY averted. This profile targeted at adolescents/adults could be cost-effective at $4, $9, and $20 per dose in low-, lower-middle-, and upper-middle-income countries, respectively. Increased investments in adult-targeted TB vaccines may be warranted, even if only short duration and low efficacy vaccines are likely to be feasible, and trials among adults should be powered to detect low efficacies.

Hepatitis B virus coinfection in human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients: A review

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a leading cause of chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma worldwide. Due to the shared modes of transmission, coinfection with HBV and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is not uncommon. It is estimated that 10% of HIV-infected patients worldwide are coinfected with HBV. In areas where an HBV vaccination program is implemented, the HBV seroprevalence has declined significantly. In HIV/HBV-coinfected patients, HBV coinfection accelerates immunologic and clinical progression of HIV infection and increases the risk of hepatotoxicity when combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) is initiated, while HIV infection increases the risk of hepatitis events, cirrhosis, and end-stage liver disease related to chronic HBV infection. With the advances in antiviral therapy, concurrent, successful long-term suppression of HIV and HBV replication can be achieved in the cART era. To reduce the disease burden of HBV infection among HIV-infected patients, adoption of safe sex practices, avoidance of sharing needles and diluent, HBV vaccination and use of cART containing tenofovir disoproxil fumarate plus emtricitabine or lamivudine are the most effective approaches. However, due to HIV-related immunosuppression, using increased doses of HBV vaccine and novel approaches to HBV vaccination are needed to improve the immunogenicity of HBV vaccine among HIV-infected patients.

Hepatitis B vaccination for reducing morbidity and mortality in persons with HIV infection

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis B vaccine has been recommended for use in people living with HIV (PLHIV) mostly because of the similarities in routes of infection and their prevalence in the same geographic areas. PLHIV may not develop sero-protection after receiving standard hepatitis B vaccine due to their compromised immune status.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficacy of hepatitis B virus vaccine in PLHIV compared to placebo or no vaccine.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched 6 English language databases in July 2012, and updated the search in June 2013 and August 2014. We searched the grey literature, conference proceedings, specialised web sites, and contacted experts in the field.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials of hepatitis B vaccine compared to placebo or no vaccine, evaluating relevant outcomes of efficacy and safety.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently sought and extracted data on study design, participants, hepatitis B infection, hepatitis B related morbidity and mortality, anti-HBs immunogenicity and adverse effects related to vaccines from published articles or through correspondence with authors. Data were analysed qualitatively.

MAIN RESULTS

One double-blind randomised controlled trial with 26 participants who were on antiretroviral therapy (ART), comparing hepatitis B vaccine to placebo conducted in Spain met our eligibility criteria and was included in this review. The study ran for three years and participants were followed up on a monthly basis. The study reported adequate humoral response to vaccine at 12 months and no local or systematic side effects in both intervention and control groups. This humoral response was lost when the participants stopped taking ART. The sample size of the study was small and the study was conducted in a high income setting unlike the areas of highest burden of hepatitis B and HIV co-infections.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The evidence from this study is insufficient to support any recommendations regarding the use of hepatitis B vaccine in PLHIV. Neither does this evidence demonstrate that hepatitis B vaccine is unsafe in PLHIV. Further randomised controlled trials in high prevalence areas are required to generate evidence on the long term efficacy and safety of hepatitis B vaccine in PLHIV with and without ART. Different regimens and routes of administration should also be explored.

Hepatitis B vaccine by intradermal route in non responder patients: An update

Vaccination is the main prophylactic measure to reduce the mortality caused by hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in healthy subjects since the immune response to hepatitis B recombinant vaccination occurs in over 90% of general population. Individuals who develop an anti-HBs titer less than 10 mIU/mL after primary vaccination cycle are defined “no responders”. Many factors could cause a non response to the HBV vaccination, such as administration of the vaccine in buttocks, impaired vaccine storage conditions, drug abuse, smoking, infections and obesity. Moreover there are some diseases, like chronic kidney disease, human immunodeficiency virus infection, chronic liver disease, celiac disease, thalassaemia, type I diabetes mellitus, down’s syndrome and other forms of mental retardation that are characterized by a poorer response to HBV vaccination than healthy subjects. To date it is still unclear how to treat this group of patients at high risk of hepatitis B infection. Recent studies seem to indicate that the administration of HBV recombinant vaccine by the intradermal route is very effective and could represent a more useful strategy than intramuscular route. This review focuses on the use of anti hepatitis B vaccine by intradermal route as alternative to conventional intramuscular vaccine in all non responder patients. A comprehensive review of the literature using PubMed database, with appropriate terms, was undertaken for articles in English published since 1983. The literature search was undertaken in September 2013.

Serological response to one intradermal or intramuscular hepatitis B virus vaccine booster dose in human immunodeficiency virus-infected nonresponders to standard vaccination

Purpose:

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination is recommended for all human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients without HBV immunity. However, serological response to standard HBV vaccination is frequently suboptimal in this population and the appropriate strategy for revaccination of HIV-infected nonresponders remained controversial. We aimed to determine the serological response to one booster dose of HBV vaccine given by intradermal (ID) or intramuscular (IM) route in HIV-positive nonresponders to standard HBV vaccination.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, 42 HIV-infected nonresponders were enrolled. We randomized them to receive either 10 μg (0.5 mL) for ID (20 cases) or 20 μg (1 mL) for IM (22 cases) administration of HBV vaccine as a one booster dose. After 1 month, anti-HBs titer was checked in all cases. A protective antibody response (seroconversion) defined as an anti-HBs titer ≥10 IU/L.

Results:

Seroconversion was observed in 47.6% of subjects after 1 ID dose. A total of 30% showed antibody titers above 100 IU/L. Except one case, all responders had CD4⁺ >200 cells/mm³. Mean anti-HBs titer was 146.5 ± 246 IU/L. After the one IM booster dose, seroconversion was observed in 50% of cases. A total of 36.3% of subjects had anti-HBs ≥100 IU/L. All responders had CD4⁺ >200 cells/mm³, except one case. Mean anti-HBs titer was 416.4 ± 765.6 IU/L. Responders showed significantly higher CD4⁺ cell counts, in comparison to nonresponders (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

One booster dose administered IM or ID to HIV-infected nonresponders resulted in similar rates of seroconversion, overall response rate 50%. However, higher anti-HBs titers observed more frequently in IM group.

Rapid loss of vaccine-acquired hepatitis B surface antibody after three doses of hepatitis B vaccination in HIV-infected persons

HIV-infected individuals have poor responses to hepatitis B vaccine and may have decreased durability of post-vaccination immunity. Retrospective chart review was conducted for HIV-1 positive individuals aged ≥18 years who received hepatitis B vaccine at an urban HIV clinic. A total of 309 patients completed three doses and 178 had post-vaccine serology testing after the third dose. In multivariate analysis, time between the third dose and the first post-vaccine serology testing at 180-359 days (OR = 0.077, p = 0.049) and at ≥360 days (OR = 0.065, p = 0.019) were associated with poor vaccine responses. A significant decrease in seropositivity appeared as early as 180 days after the third vaccine dose, suggesting a rapid loss of vaccine-acquired hepatitis B surface antibody in HIV-infected persons. Our findings suggest that hepatitis B surface antibody should be tested at 6 to 12 months after completing primary vaccine series in order to detect early secondary vaccine failure.

Comparison of immunogenicity and safety of four doses and four double doses vs. standard doses of hepatitis B vaccination in HIV-infected adults: a randomized, controlled trial

BACKGROUND

HBV vaccination is recommended in HIV-infected adults with CD4+ cell count >200/mm(3) although the efficacy is only 33.3% -65%. We conducted a randomized, controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of three regimens of HBV vaccination at Chiang Mai University Hospital, Thailand.

METHODS

From February 4, 2011 to May 4, 2012, 132 HIV-infected adults with CD4+ cell counts >200 cells/mm(3), undetectable plasma HIV-1 RNA, and negative for all HBV markers were randomly assigned to receive one of three recombinant vaccine (Hepavax-Gene(®) Berna, Korea) regimens: 20 μg IM at months 0, 1, and 6 (Standard doses group, n=44), 20 μg IM at months 0, 1, 2, 6 (four doses group, n=44), or 40 μg IM at months 0, 1, 2, and 6 (four double doses group, n=44). The primary outcomes were to compare the immunogenicity and safety between the four-doses groups with the Standard doses group.

RESULTS

At months 7 and 12, the percentages of responders (anti-HBs ≥ 10 mIU/mL) were 88.6% and 70.4% in the Standard doses group, 93.2% and 86.4% in the four doses group, (P=0.713 and 0.119), and 95.4% and 88.6% in the four double doses group, (P=0.434 and 0.062), respectively. Factors associated with a high titer level (anti-HBs ≥ 100 mIU/mL) were vaccination schedule and younger age. The most common adverse event was pain at the injection site (42.4%); this was significantly more frequent in the four double doses group compared to the Standard doses group. No serious adverse events were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

In Northern Thailand, the standard three-doses HBV vaccination in HIV-infected adults with CD4+ cell counts >200 cells/mm(3) and undetectable plasma HIV-1 RNA is highly effective. Although regimens of four injections of either standard or double doses could not significantly increase the response rate, these regimens may induce higher levels of antibody to the virus.

TRIAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION

ClinicalTrials.gov; NCT1289106; http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01289106.

Immunogenicity of different hepatitis B virus vaccination schedules in liver transplant recipients

AIM

To compare the immunogenicity of two modified hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination schedules in liver transplant recipients. Hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) in combination with nucleoside/nucleotide analogs (NUCs) is the recommended prophylaxis for preventing HBV recurrence following liver transplantation (LT). However, HBIG treatment is expensive. Active immunization with hepatitis B vaccine would be a preferable alternative prophylaxis to replace HBIG treatment. However, the overall response rate to standard vaccination (given at months 0, 1 and 6) is relatively low in immune-compromised patients.

METHODS

Two cohorts of 114 subjects were immunized with recombinant HBV vaccine containing S-antigen. The patients in the rapid schedule group were immunized with 40 μg HBV vaccine at months 0, 1, 2 and 3, and with 20 μg at months 4, 5 and 6. The patients in the accelerated schedule group were immunized with 40 μg of HBV vaccine at days 0, 7, 14 and 28, and 20 μg at months 2, 3 and 4.

RESULTS

The overall response rate was 16.7% (19/114) and all responders discontinued HBIG injection and only one patient developed HBV recurrence. The response rate was 24.6% (14/57) and 8.8% (5/57) in the rapid vaccination and the accelerated vaccination schedules, respectively (P = 0.024).

CONCLUSION

HBV vaccination may induce endogenous anti-HBs to replace HBIG in selected patients. Vaccination schedules may influence vaccine response, and individual optimization may improve response rate to HBV vaccination.

Strategies to increase responsiveness to hepatitis B vaccination in adults with HIV-1

HIV and hepatitis B virus co-infection leads to substantially increased morbidity and mortality compared with either infection alone. Immunisation with hepatitis B virus vaccine is the most effective way to prevent the infection in people with HIV; however, these patients have decreased vaccine responses and a short duration of protection compared with immunocompetent individuals. Control of HIV replication with highly active antiretroviral therapy and increased CD4 cell counts are associated with improved immune responses to hepatitis B vaccination. New vaccination strategies, such as increased vaccine dose, use of the intradermal route, and addition of adjuvants, could improve response rates in adults with HIV.

Long-term response rates of successful hepatitis B vaccination in HIV-infected patients

BACKGROUND

Data on long-term response rates after successful primary hepatitis B (HBV) vaccination in HIV-infected patients are scarce.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the durability of an effective anti-HBs titer up to 5 years after primary vaccination in a cohort of 155 HIV-infected adults.

METHODS

From a previous multicenter HBV vaccination trial we selected patients with an anti-HBs titer of ≥10 IU/l 28 weeks after the first vaccination. The anti-HBs titer was measured in annually stored plasma samples up to 5 years after vaccination. Patients with decreasing anti-HBs titers <10 IU/I were defined as transient responders (TR) and with persistent anti-HBs titers ≥10 IU/I as long-term responders (LTR^).

RESULTS

We included 155 patients, 87 were TR and 68 LTR. Mean age, percentage of female participants and duration of HAART use at primary vaccination were similar in LTR and TR. Anti-HBs level after primary vaccination was the strongest predictor for the durability of anti-HBs. Anti-HBs >100-1000 IU/I and >1000 resulted in an OR 8.3, 95% CI 3.38-20.16; p<0.0001 and OR 75.6, 95% CI 13.41-426.45; p<0.0001 versus anti-HBs titer of 10-100 IU/I after primary vaccination respectively. The mean time to loss of an effective anti-HBs titer was 2.0, 3.7 and 4.4 years respectively, for patients with an anti-HBs titer of 10-100 IU/I, >100-1000 IU/I and >1000 IU/I at primary vaccination. An undetectable HIV-RNA load and use of HAART during vaccination and at follow-up were, though not significantly, associated a higher long-term persistence of an effective antibody titer.

CONCLUSION

The durability of an effective anti-HBs level appears to be significantly related to the height of the antibody titers after the primary immunization procedure. Schedules to improve the vaccination response in HIV-infected patients therefore seem to be justified. Whether a HBV booster is indicated remains to be elucidated.