Hepatitis D (HDV) Antibody Blood Test

Sample Report Test Code: 4990 Specimen Type: Blood

Description:

Hepatitis D (HDV) Antibody Blood Test

This test looks for antibodies to Hepatitis D (HDV).  Hep D or Hepatitis Delta, is an infection of the liver caused by the Hepatitis D virus.  HDV is not common in the United States but is more prevalent in areas including Eastern Europe, Southern Europe, the Mediterranean region, the Middle East, West and Central Africa, East Asia, and the Amazon Basin in South America.  The Hepatitis D virus can only replicate when Hepatitis B is present.  Therefore, the only people who can contract HDV are those who already have Hep B or those who are exposed to both viruses at the same time.  Approximately 5% of people with Hepatitis B worldwide also are infected with Hep D.  HDV is spread through contact with the blood or bodily fluids of someone who is infected.  The spread of hepatitis D can occur through sexual contact, sharing needles during intravenous drug use, the use of improperly cleaned and sterilized items such as piercing or tattoo equipment, from an infected mother to her infant during birth, and sharing personal items such as razors or toothbrushes. 

People infected with HDV typically develop symptoms within 3-7 weeks.  These symptoms can include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dark-colored urine, jaundice, and joint pain.  People who are infected with both Hep B and D at the same time usually develop a less serious illness than those who are already infected with Hep B and are exposed to Hep D later.  Treatment for Hepatitis D is available and in most cases, early treatment can help lessen the likelihood of long-term health complications.  If left untreated, Hepatitis D can cause serious liver damage that can eventually become fatal. While there is no way to vaccinate against Hepatitis D, there is a vaccine against Hepatitis B.  Since Hep D infections can only occur in people who already have Hep B, people who have received a Hep B vaccine should also be protected from contracting Hep D.

This test screens for both IgM and IgG antibodies but does not differentiate between them.  A positive result can indicate either an acute or chronic infection.  Antibodies may remain at detectable levels for months or years after successful treatment.  In the event of a positive test result, it is important to follow up with your doctor.  Hep D testing is often ordered along with a Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Test.

Turnaround for this test is typically 3-8 business days.

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