Hepatitis D (HDV): Real-time PCR-quantitative determination

Hepatitis D (HDV) is a unique viral liver disease that can only occur in the presence of hepatitis B virus (HBV). Hepatitis D is a “defective” virus that requires the hepatitis B virus envelope to replicate and spread. This means that HDV infection is only possible in people who are already carriers of HBV or are co-infected with both viruses. Hepatitis D is considered the most severe form of viral hepatitis because it significantly accelerates the progression of liver disease, increasing the risk of cirrhosis, liver failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma.

Why is HDV quantification critical?

Real-time PCR – quantitative determination of hepatitis D virus (HDV) – is a modern and highly sensitive method of laboratory diagnostics that allows not only to detect the presence of the virus in the blood, but also to determine its quantity (viral load). This is crucial for:

1. Diagnostics of active infection: Detection of HDV RNA confirms active viral replication.
2. Disease severity assessments: High viral load often correlates with a more aggressive course of hepatitis D and faster progression of liver damage.
3. Monitoring the effectiveness of treatment: Quantification allows for assessment of response to antiviral therapy by monitoring the reduction in viral load.
4. Predicting the course of the disease: Changes in viral load can indicate the dynamics of the disease and the risk of developing complications.

У Medilab Plus laboratories We offer highly accurate quantitative determination of HDV by Real-time PCR, providing reliable results for effective disease management.

Who is recommended to take the HDV Real-time PCR test?

This analysis is mandatory for all patients diagnosed or suspected of being infected with the hepatitis B virus. In particular, it is recommended to hand over in the following cases:

• All patients with positive HBsAg (hepatitis B virus surface antigen): This is the main risk group because HDV cannot exist without HBV.
• Patients with chronic hepatitis B and unexplained liver deterioration: Rapid progression of fibrosis or cirrhosis despite HBV treatment may indicate HDV coinfection.
• Individuals with elevated liver enzyme levels (ALT, AST) without an obvious cause who are carriers of HBsAg.
• Patients with acute hepatitis, especially if HBV/HDV coinfection is suspected.
• To monitor the effectiveness of antiviral therapy in patients with diagnosed hepatitis D.
• People at risk of viral hepatitis infection:
  • Injecting drug users.
  • Persons who received transfusions of blood or its components before 1992.
  • Patients on hemodialysis.
  • Healthcare workers in contact with blood.
  • Individuals who have unprotected sexual contact with HBV carriers.

Advantages of Real-time PCR at Medilab Plus:

• High sensitivity and specificity: The Real-time PCR method allows the detection of even minimal amounts of viral RNA, which is critically important for early diagnosis and monitoring.
• Quantification: Obtaining an accurate viral load allows doctors to objectively assess viral activity and the effectiveness of treatment.
• Speed of obtaining results: Real-time PCR technology provides relatively fast performance analysis, which allows for rapid clinical decision-making.
• Reliability: The use of modern equipment and compliance with international quality standards ensure high reliability of results.

Preparation for analysis:

For conducting analysis on HDV Real-time PCR is necessary to hand over venous blood sample. Special preparation (e.g. fasting) is usually not required, but it is recommended to clarify this with our specialists when making an appointment. analysis.

Interpretation of results:

• Detection of HDV RNA: Indicates active viral replication and the presence of hepatitis D. The quantitative indicator (copies/ml or IU/ml) indicates the viral load.
• No HDV RNA detected: In the absence of clinical symptoms and other markers of activity, this may indicate the absence of active infection or a successful response to treatment.

Interpretation of results should always be carried out by a doctor in conjunction with the clinical picture, medical history and results of other laboratory tests (HBV markers, liver tests, liver ultrasound, etc.).

Take the test Hepatitis D (HDV): Real-time PCR – quantitative determination in Medilab Plus laboratories and get accurate information to effectively monitor the condition of your liver. Your health is our priority.