Test Directory

This assay is used for the qualitative detection of Hepatitis D virus (HDV) antibodies (IgG/IgM) and is intended to aid in the diagnosis of HDV infection in individuals with known HBV infection (HBsAg-positive). Testing for HDV RNA should be performed on HDV antibody-positive individuals to differentiate between active and resolved HDV infection.

Specimen Type: Serum

Alternate Specimen Type: Plasma

Collection Container: Gold Top, Serum Separator

Alternate Collection Container: Lavender Top (EDTA)

Desired Specimen Volume: 0.5 mL

1. Collect a gold top, serum separator tube via venipuncture.

1. Separate serum from cells.
2. Transfer 0.5 mL of serum to a clear aliquot tube (screw cap).

Transport to the laboratory refrigerated. 

• Gross hemolysis, lipemia or visible microbial contamination
• Heat-inactivated samples
• Specimens other than serum and EDTA plasma

See patient report.

A reactive specimen should be investigated further with sensitive, supplemental HDV-specific tests, such as identification of HDV RNA, to be matched with the clinical story of the subject and with markers of a previous HBV infection (HBsAg, anti-HB Core, HBV DNA, etc.). Like all immunoassays, this assay may occasionally yield nonspecific reactions due to other causes. A nonreactive test result for HDV antibodies does not exclude the possibility of exposure to or infection with HDV. Further investigations with alternative HDV-specific tests are suggested in case of suspected infection despite the negative finding.

• Hepatitis D Virus (HDV) Antibody, IgG and IgM
• HBV
• Hepatitis delta