Hepatitis Delta Virus Antibody by ELISA With Reflex to Hepatitis Delta Virus by Quantitative PCR

Casandra

Casandra Test Code AR24938Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab ARUP LaboratoriesLab Test ID 3006379CPT Codes 86692, 87523

Hepatitis Delta Virus Antibody by ELISA With Reflex to Hepatitis Delta Virus by Quantitative PCR

Also known as: HEPD AB QR

Clinical Use

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Use

The Hepatitis Delta Virus Antibody by ELISA with Reflex to Hepatitis Delta Virus by Quantitative PCR test is recommended to screen for hepatitis D virus (HDV) infection. It is especially recommended for diagnosing HDV infection in patients with documented acute or chronic HBV infection. The test begins with a screening for HDV antibodies, and if positive, proceeds with a quantitative PCR to measure the viral load of HDV, assisting in distinguishing between co-infection or superinfection when combined with HBV. The test helps in assessing the extent of HDV involvement and its management.

Special Instructions

Order this test only when the patient has a confirmed acute or chronic hepatitis B infection. The PCR reflex test will incur additional charges and is performed only if the initial screening result is positive. Specimen source is required for PCR testing.

Limitations

A negative PCR result does not rule out the presence of PCR inhibitors in the patient specimen, or HDV RNA concentrations below the detection level of the test. Inhibition may lead to underestimation of viral quantification. The qualitative enzyme immunoassay (EIA) detects total antibodies (IgG and IgM) to the hepatitis Delta agent. The limit of quantification for the quantitative PCR test is 2.1 log IU/mL. Results below this threshold are reported as not detected or not quantified, which may reflect the presence of the virus at levels below the detection limit.

Test Details

New York Approved