Long-term persistence of Seroprotection following a modified hepatitis B vaccine schedule in people living with HIV.

BACKGROUND

People living with HIV (PLHIV) exhibit reduced seroprotection and faster antibody waning after hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination. Data on long-term persistence and immunological memory following enhanced vaccination schedules are limited.

METHODS

In this interventional study, PLHIV who previously responded to a modified primary HBV vaccination schedule (four 40-μg doses) were reassessed after a median follow-up of 14.5 years. Anti-HBs titers were measured before and 1-6 months after administration of a 40 μg HBV booster dose.

RESULTS

Among 75 participants, 81,3% maintained seroprotective anti-HBs levels, with 59% classified as strong responders (≥ 100 mIU/mL). Although titers declined over time, 96% achieved seroprotection after the booster dose, demonstrating a robust anamnestic response. Higher post-primary vaccination anti-HBs titers independently predicted both long-term seroprotection and post-booster responses.

CONCLUSION

The modified HBV vaccination schedule induced durable seroprotection and confirmed persistent immunological memory in PLHIV more than a decade after primary immunization.