Hepatitis E Virus IgM Antibody Confirmation, Serum
Use
This test is used for the confirmation of reactive hepatitis E virus IgM antibody screening test results, which assists in diagnosing acute or recent hepatitis E infection that occurred within the last 6 months. Given the often low prevalence of acute hepatitis E, this confirmatory test is crucial to ascertain true infection status and prevent false positives, thereby ensuring accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of patients.
Special Instructions
Date of specimen collection is required. In cases not ordered electronically, ensure to complete, print, and submit appropriate test request forms, such as the Gastroenterology and Hepatology Test Request, Infectious Disease Serology Test Request, or Microbiology Test Request. Reviewing the Hepatitis E: Diagnostic Testing Algorithm may also be beneficial for understanding when additional tests are needed.
Limitations
This assay's performance characteristics are not established for use with serum samples that have high levels of icterus, lipemia, hemolysis, or particulate matter. A negative result doesn't exclude recent infection, especially in immunocompromised patients, and a follow-up test may be necessary. A positive result does not necessarily indicate active disease. Consider conducting repeat testing of serum for anti-hepatitis E virus (HEV) IgM and anti-HEV IgG after 4 to 6 weeks if results are indeterminate, considering false positives from nonspecific antibodies or HEV genotype 2.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Line Immunoassay (LIA))
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 14212-5
- 14212-5
Result Turnaround Time
1-21 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.2 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge blood collection tube per the manufacturer's instructions. Aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, Gross lipemia, Gross icterus
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 7 days |