Hepatitis D virus (HDV)

Microbiology

Notes

• Hepatitis D (Hepatitis Delta virus) is a blood borne virus
• Hepatitis D virus can propagate only in people already infected with the Hepatitis B virus (HBV).
• Super-infection and co-infection with HDV results in more severe complications compared to infection with HBV alone
• Serology for Hepatitis D IgG and IgM is the screening test of choice.
• Hepatitis D PCR is also available in relevant circumstances
• See also Hepatitis B viral load

Sample requirements

Serology

Serum - paired samples not required

8.5 mL of blood taken into a plain gel tube

PCR

Plasma - paired samples not required

4ml of blood taken into an EDTA Tube

For adults 2 full EDTA tubes are required for Hepatitis D PCR

For babies and small children a minimum of one full 2mL paediatric EDTA or one full paediatric Mini Collect EDTA tube is required

Required information

• Relevant clinical details
• Hepatitis B status
• Time of sample collection

Storage/transport

Serum

Store at fridge temperature

Transport as soon as possible at ambient temperature

EDTA

Transport immediately at ambient temperature

Turnaround time

Hepatitis D serology and PCR:

Sent to a Regional Reference Centre

Up to 10 days