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HBV DNA Viral Load Taqman RT-PCR Test
HBV DNA Viral Load Taqman RT-PCR Test
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HBV Viral Load Test Overview
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is a DNA virus that is transmitted primarily through blood exposure and sexual contact, and from mothers to their children. HBV causes liver infections in humans. The HBV DNA Viral load is a blood test that measures the amount of hepatitis B virus DNA in the blood or plasma. This helps doctors diagnose chronic HBV infection, monitor the effectiveness of antiviral treatment, and assess the risk of liver damage. The test quantifies the viral DNA, providing valuable information for managing HBV infection.
The HBV Viral Load Test, also known as the HBV DNA quantitative test, is a crucial blood examination that measures the amount of hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA present in the bloodstream. By employing the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technique, this test accurately quantifies the viral load, providing healthcare professionals with essential information about the severity and progression of the hepatitis B infection.
The HBV viral load test plays a vital role in assessing the extent of viral replication, monitoring treatment efficacy, and predicting the risk of complications associated with hepatitis B, such as liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. It is an indispensable tool for healthcare providers in making informed decisions regarding the management and treatment of individuals with hepatitis B infections.
Written by: Dr Niranjan Patil, M.B.B.S, MD, Dept. of Microbiology and Molecular Biology
Reasons for Undergoing the HBV Viral Load Test
The HBV viral load test is recommended by doctors for several important reasons.
- One key reason is to assess disease progression by determining the extent of viral replication and understanding how far the hepatitis B infection has progressed.
- It is also crucial for monitoring the efficacy of antiviral treatments, helping doctors evaluate whether the current therapy is working effectively and making necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
- Additionally, the test assists in guiding treatment decisions, such as determining if immediate treatment is required or if it can be delayed based on the viral load. The results can also predict potential disease outcomes, including the risk of complications like liver cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
- Moreover, the HBV DNA quantitative test helps identify the infection stage, distinguishing between acute and chronic hepatitis B infections, which can influence the overall treatment approach and management plan. Understanding the viral load is essential for providing optimal care for individuals with hepatitis B.
List of Parameters Considered During the HBV Viral Load Test
The primary parameter measured during the HBV DNA viral load test is the amount of HBV DNA in the blood, expressed in International Units per millilitre (IU/mL) or copies per millilitre (copies/mL).
- High Viral Load: A high viral load indicates an active viral infection, a higher risk of transmitting the virus, and an increased risk of liver damage, cirrhosis, or hepatocellular carcinoma.
- Low Viral Load: A low viral load suggests a less active infection, effective control by the immune system, and a lower risk of liver damage.
- Undetectable Viral Load: An undetectable viral load indicates that the virus is not replicating significantly, suggesting effective viral suppression, often as a result of antiviral therapy.
HBV Viral Load Test Preparation
Preparing for the HBV DNA viral load test is relatively straightforward. There is no need to fast or modify your diet before the test. However, inform your doctor about any medications you are currently taking, as some may interfere with the test results.
HBV Viral Load Test Results & Interpretation
The results of the HBV viral load test are interpreted as follows:
- High Viral Load (e.g., above 20,000 IU/mL): A high viral load indicates active viral replication, higher infectivity, and increased risk of liver damage and complications.
- Low Viral Load (e.g., below 2,000 IU/mL): A low viral load suggests less active infection and effective control by antiviral therapy or the immune system.
- Undetectable Viral Load: An undetectable viral load indicates that the virus is not significantly replicating, often due to effective antiviral therapy.
- Acute vs. Chronic Infection: A sudden rise in HBV DNA levels may indicate an acute infection, while sustained elevated levels over 6 months suggest a chronic infection.
Home Collection for HBV Viral Load Test
Metropolis Healthcare offers a convenient home collection service for the HBV viral load test, ensuring comfort and safety for patients. A trained phlebotomist will visit your home to collect the blood sample, maintaining high standards of sample handling and testing accuracy. This service allows you to receive timely and reliable results without compromising on the quality of the diagnostic solution.
By choosing Metropolis Healthcare's home collection option, you can benefit from their commitment to making healthcare accessible and providing quality diagnostic services conveniently at your doorstep.
HBV DNA Viral Load Taqman RT-PCR Test Price
Metropolis Healthcare is a leading diagnostics centre and pathology lab in India equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technologies that provides the HBV DNA Viral Load Taqman RT-PCR Test with a clear pricing structure.
The HBV DNA Viral Load Taqman RT-PCR Test Price in Mumbai is ₹ 7,200 .
We are committed to deliver accurate and quality results from the best labs in India with complete transparency regarding test cost and turnaround time. No matter where you are, we strive to offer patients high-quality service that is affordable and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
- HBV DNA test is done to determine the hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA quantity in the serum of patients.
- It is used to monitor disease progression and response to treatment.
- It is also useful to monitor the progression of disease & treatment in mutant HBV infections.
HBV DNA test requires a blood sample. A tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is then asked to make a fist. This helps in the build-up of blood filling the veins. The skin is disinfected before needle insertion and the blood sample is collected in vacutainer.
HBV DNA viral load is valuable in the diagnosis of chronic hepatitis along with ALT levels :
Case 1. HBeAg positive:
- ALT levels normal - Treatment not recommended. Monitor HBV DNA & ALT levels every 6 months & HbeAG every 12 months
- ALT levels high but less than 2 times normal. Exclude other causes of ALT elevation, assess disease severity by non-invasive tests and or liver biopsy. Monitor after 6 months, if ALT persists then treat
- ALT >= to 2 times normal and HBV DNA> 20000 IU/mL then treat. If HBV DNA 2000-20000 IU/mL then monitor after 6 months, if ALT persists then treat
Case 2. HBeAg negative:
- ALT levels normal - HBV DNA < 2000 IU/mL- Do not treat. If HBV DNA >= 2000 IU/mL then monitor every 3 months for year and then every 6 months
- ALT levels high but less than 2 times - exclude other causes of elevation. Test for disease severity. If ALT above normal with HBV DNA>= 2000 IU/mL then treat
- If ALT >= 2 times than normal and HBV DNA> 2000 IU/mL than treat. If less than 2000 IU/mL exclude other causes of ALT elevation. If ALT levels & DNA >= 2000 IU/ mL persists than treat
The HBV DNA TaqMan RT-PCR is a simple blood test that measures the hepatitis B virus load in the blood. The test uses special nucleic acid sequences complementary to the viral DNA and emitting fluorescence. When the collected sample is put along with the probe sequence in an RTPCR machine, the intensity of the light emitted is a direct quantitative measure of the viral load.
Since it is a simple blood test, no preparatory measures are required. However, you may be asked to refrain from taking certain medications for a few days before giving the test. Consult your lab or healthcare provider for instructions.
No, it is not painful. Your doctor only uses a syringe to collect a few millilitres of blood from your vein.
If the result comes back as positive, depending on the amount of the viral load and the severity of the infection, your doctor may suggest medications and certain lifestyle changes.
Acute HBV that stays only for six months can be resolved by limiting alcohol intake, eating healthy, and engaging in physical activity. However, if the condition has progressed to a chronic stage, it may require medication or surgery and sometimes a liver transplant.
A liver transplant is only required when most liver cells are damaged and medication fails. An HBV infection can often be resolved with medication and lifestyle changes. Please speak with your medical practitioner regarding your medical condition.
Some of the factors that can increase your chances of contracting an HBV infection are:
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Coming in physical contact with an infected person
- Sharing a space with an infected person as the virus can spread through body secretions like mucus, semen, vaginal secretions, breast milk, etc.
- HBV DNA viral load test
- Hepatitis B Virus DNA viral load test
- Hepatitis B Virus DNA Quantification
You may be asked to take the HBV DNA TaqMan RT-PCR if you have been experiencing the following symptoms:
- Loss of appetite - one of the early symptoms of liver disease or infection is loss of appetite or reduced hunger
- Abdominal pain - pain in the abdomen may progress from mild discomfort to excruciating pain depending on your body type and medical history
- Dark urine - since the liver is the prime organ for detoxification, infection or disease could impair its functions, resulting in urine discolouration
- Fever - temperature changes result from the immune system recognising a foreign body. Joint pain - one of the characteristic symptoms of HBV infection is joint pain
- Nausea and vomiting - paired with the loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting can weaken you
- Weakness and fatigue - as a result of poor appetite. Yellowing of the eyes (whites) and the skin - also called jaundice- could mean that you require immediate medical attention
Even in the absence of these symptoms, if you had contact with an infected person, are born to someone who has HBV infection, had sex with an infected person, shared an unknown needle, or travelled to regions with a high prevalence of HBV infection, it is suggested that you consult with or visit medical practitioners and get tested at the earliest.
The HBV viral load test, also known as the HBV DNA quantitative test, is a blood examination that measures the amount of hepatitis B virus DNA in the bloodstream using the PCR technique to quantify the viral load.
Yes, home sample collection is available for the HBV viral load test. Many laboratories, such as Metropolis Healthcare and others, offer the option to book the test online and have the sample collected from the comfort of your home.
Normal levels for the HBV DNA viral load test are typically considered when the viral load is undetectable (less than 20 IU/mL) or very low (20-2,000 IU/mL). High viral loads are generally above 20,000 IU/mL.
The HBV viral load test is used to monitor the severity of hepatitis B infection, assess disease progression, guide treatment decisions, evaluate the effectiveness of antiviral therapy, and predict the risk of complications such as liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.
The frequency of testing for the HBV DNA viral load test depends on the stage of your infection and treatment effectiveness. Patients with chronic hepatitis B may need testing every 3-6 months to monitor viral load and adjust treatment as necessary.
There is no specific time requirement for getting the HBV viral load test done, as it does not require fasting.
No, fasting is not required for the HBV viral load test.
Are there any other precautions to be taken before getting myself tested for an HBV Viral Load Test?
Before getting the HBV viral load test, inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, as some may interfere with the test results.
The primary parameter included in the HBV viral load test is the amount of HBV DNA in the blood, measured in International Units per millilitre (IU/mL) or copies per millilitre (copies/mL).
The HBV viral load test should be done at diagnosis to determine the baseline viral load, regularly during antiviral therapy to monitor treatment efficacy and predict potential complications.
The actual blood draw for the HBV viral load test is quick, typically taking a few minutes.
The turnaround time for receiving the reports of HBV viral load test may vary depending on the laboratory. Typically, you can expect the results within 24 hours depending upon the day/date the sample was collected and processed.
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