Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Quantitative, DNA Real-time PCR, (Graphical)
Also known as: HBV Quantitation
Use
The Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) quantitative DNA real-time PCR test is used to quantitate and monitor HBV viral load in patients over time. It is an essential tool in the management of patients with chronic HBV infection, guiding treatment decisions and monitoring therapeutic efficacy or disease progression. The assay specifically quantifies HBV DNA using real-time PCR, allowing healthcare providers to track changes in viral load, which is crucial for tailoring antiviral therapy and assessing treatment response.
Special Instructions
Submit the patient's Social Security number for serial monitoring. To order this test without the serial monitor service, use test 551610. It is recommended to submit a separate frozen specimen for each test requested to avoid delays in turnaround time when multiple tests are needed on frozen samples.
Limitations
This assay has a quantitative range of 10 to 1,000,000,000 IU/mL, meaning that results outside this range cannot be quantitated accurately. The test is not designed to detect mutations in the HBV genome and may not differentiate between different HBV genotypes. It is also not suitable for use as a screening test for HBV infection in asymptomatic individuals or in assessing the risk of HBV transmission.
Methodology
PCR-based (RT-PCR)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 42595-9
- 42595-9
- 48398-2
- 19147-8
- 80563-0
Result Turnaround Time
2-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
2.5 mL
Minimum Volume
700 μL
Container
Gel-barrier tube, lavender-top (EDTA) tube, or plasma preparation tube (PPT™)
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge sample within 24 hours of collection. Transfer serum/plasma to a screw-cap polypropylene transport tube. Ship frozen (preferred). Plasma from a PPT™ can be frozen and shipped in situ.
Storage Instructions
Freeze (preferred) or refrigerate.
Causes for Rejection
Incorrect anticoagulant; PPT™ not centrifuged
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 24 hours |
| Refrigerated | 6 days |
| Frozen | 12 weeks |