Hepatitis B in children with leukemia: the role of primary immunization

Authors

  • P. K. Aslam Department of Paediatrics, Institute of Maternity and Child health, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
  • A. Riyaz Department of Paediatrics, Kannoor Medical College, Anjarankandi , Kerala, India
  • V. T. Ajith Kumar Department of Paediatrics, Institute of Maternity and Child health, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
  • M. G. Geeta Department of Paediatrics, Institute of Maternity and Child health, Kozhikode, Kerala, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2349-3291.ijcp20192028

Keywords:

Hepatitis B, Leukemia, Primary immunization

Abstract

Background: Children with cancer have a greatly enhanced risk of contracting hepatitis B infection due to immunosuppression secondary to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, frequent blood transfusions, bone and peripheral vein punctures, tissue damage and mucositis. During the past 3 decades, multimodality therapy for childhood leukemia has resulted in markedly improved survival. Inspite of screening and immuno prophylaxis, hepatitis B infection rates in children with leukemia are high. In view of this, we decided to study the prevalence of hepatitis B among children with leukemia in our institution, and the possible risk factors.

Methods: This was a cross sectional study carried out at a tertiary pediatric care center in North Kerala among 104 children between 1 and 12 years of age on treatment for leukemia.

Results: Among the 104 children, only 17 (16.3%) had received primary immunization against hepatitis B. Of the 87 children who had not received primary immunization, 44.8% (n=39) developed hepatitis B, compared to 11.8% (n=2) in the vaccinated group (p=0.01).

Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of primary immunization against hepatitis B in children with leukemia, and the need for universal coverage.

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Published

2019-04-30

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Original Research Articles