AN OVERVIEW
About HBV DNA test
Why is the HBV DNA test done?
HBV DNA test is done to distinguish between the active and inactive disease states in chronic HBV infection. Other tests can be done with this test, including liver function tests, to prescribe a suitable treatment plan.
An hepatitis B viral load, quantitative test is performed:
- For examining those diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B and receiving antiviral medication.
- For examining the efficacy of the treatment.
What does the HBV DNA test measure?
The HBV DNA test measures the amount of hepatitis B virus DNA (or viral load) in the blood.
The blood is examined using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology.
Risks/side effects of HBV DNA test
There are usually no side effects or risks associated with a HBV DNA test. However, you might feel some pain for a few days in the area from where the blood will be taken using a needle.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FAQs
What is the HBV DNA test?
The HBV-DNA quantitative viral load test for hepatitis B virus (HBV), also known as HBV DNA viral load PCR blood, HBV viral load PCR blood, and
Hepatitis B DNA viral load, is used to examine HBV DNA. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique is used for performing the test to measure the viral load in international units per milliliter (IU/ml).
Hepatitis B liver infection is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It is transmitted through coming in contact with infected blood and body fluids. The signs and symptoms of the hepatitis B virus, which usually occur one to four months after contracting the infection, include discharging dark urine, exhaustion, fever, abdominal discomfort, weakness, loss of appetite, yellowing of the eyes, and joint and muscular pain.
Usually, the infection does not last long due to the action taken up by our immune system. If you have been infected with the virus for more than six months, you are labelled as a carrier. Adults usually recover from this infection within a short time. However, infants and children are at a higher risk of developing a chronic infection.
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is a DNA virus belonging to the Hepadnavirus family. HBV consists of an outer envelope and an inner core. The outer envelope has hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), a protein. The inner core is a shell called hepatitis B core antigen or HBV core antigen (HBcAg) and is formed from hepatitis B viral DNA and enzymes that are required for HBV replication.
HBV enters into our liver cells and then goes to the nucleus of the liver cell, where the release of the viral DNA and replication occurs. The virus begins to replicate in the liver cells, resulting in serious infection.
It usually takes around a month to measure the HBV DNA levels in the blood. It is reliable in detecting HBV replication (copying).
How to prepare for the HBV DNA test?
No preparations are required for the HBV DNA test. However, before the test, do inform your doctor about any medications that you are taking.
How is the HBV DNA test performed?
The HBV DNA test is performed by collecting your blood sample from a vein using an injection. The area from where the blood would be withdrawn would be first cleaned using some alcohol. You can later cover it with a gauze pad. The HBV DNA test can be done either at a hospital, laboratory, or clinic. Home collection services are also available.
THINGS TO KNOW AFTER GETTING TESTED
Interpreting the HBV DNA test results
The HBV DNA test results depend on various factors, including gender, age, health problems, and infection stage.
Reference range:
| GENDER | AGE GROUPS | VALUE |
| UNISEX | All age groups | >20000IU/ml indicates virus is active |
If your HBV DNA test results indicate a higher than normal hepatitis B viral load level and liver damage, chances are that you might be in an active stage of hepatitis B infection (replicative) and require treatment.
If your HBV DNA test results indicate low viral loads and no liver damage, chances are that you might be in an inactive stage of hepatitis B infection (nonreplicative).
If you have high viral loads, in spite of receiving proper treatment for hepatitis C, the efficacy of the treatment is very low.
If you are pregnant and have high viral loads, you may require therapy to avoid the fetus from getting infected.
If you have significantly low viral loads after receiving proper treatment for hepatitis C, the efficacy of the treatment is high.
HBV DNA Test In Chandigarh
Starts from 150*
HBV DNA provides diagnostic values for those having poor serology results, if diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B infection. Immediate screening can help in preventing infections.
Read further to know more about the HBV DNA test in Chandigarh, including its price and cost, preparation, understanding test results, side effects, etc.
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