Two cases with evolution of persistent HBsAg carrier state after initial acqusition of HBV-infection in adult

Abstract

Two cases who became hepatitis B virus (HBV) carrier after initial infection of HBV in adult were reported. The first case had the acqusition of HBV infection and had sustained HBsAg positive during the immunosuppressive treatment for nephrotic syndrome. After discontinuation of immunosuppressive therapy for 5 years, he lost HBsAg in serum, followed by the development of antibody to HBsAg (anti-HBs). The second case, medical technician, had no mderlying disease and developed acute type B hepatitis with following HBsAg carrier state even after resolution ofhepatitis. Both cases had no symptom and jaundice throughout the illness of acute hepatitis. Peaks of the levels of serum transaminase were 540 KU and 588 KU, respectively. The im- munological factors responsible for the evolution of persistent HBsAg carrier state in these two cases were discussed.