Repetitive Maternal-Fetal Transmission of Fatal Hepatitis B

Abstract

FATAL hepatitis was observed in two three-month-old infants born successively to an asymptomatic carrier of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBs Ag). We attempted to place these unusual cases in perspective by reviewing the current literature bearing on the need for screening pregnant women for HBs Ag, for counseling those found positive, and for attempting immunoprophylaxis of hepatitis B among their offspring.Case ReportsIndex CaseAfter an uncomplicated gestation, full-term delivery, and three months of normal growth and development, a male infant was hospitalized with vomiting, lethargy, and jaundice of three days' duration. He was alert but irritable, . . .