HDV Ag

HDV Ag is an essential test for detecting the presence of the hepatitis D virus in the blood. IntroLab in Belgrade utilizes the latest technology to ensure precise and reliable results, offering top-quality diagnostic services. If you suspect an infection or have been diagnosed with hepatitis B, an HDV Ag test at IntroLab can give you a clear assessment of your health and the possibility of co-infection with hepatitis D.

What is HDV Ag?

HDV Ag refers to the antigen of the hepatitis D virus. Hepatitis D is unique because it only occurs in individuals who are already infected with the hepatitis B virus (HBV). For HDV to successfully replicate, the presence of HBV is necessary.

When is the HDV Ag test used?

The HDV Ag test is used to detect active hepatitis D virus infection. A positive result indicates an ongoing infection with this virus. In individuals already infected with hepatitis B, hepatitis D can complicate the disease, leading to a more severe liver condition.

What is Hepatitis D?

Hepatitis D, also referred to as delta hepatitis, is a viral infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis D virus (HDV). This type of hepatitis is unique because it can only occur in individuals who are already infected with the hepatitis B virus (HBV). HDV is a satellite virus that relies on the HBV envelope to complete its life cycle. Without the presence of HBV, HDV cannot cause an infection on its own.

What are the symptoms?

Hepatitis D symptoms are similar to those of other types of hepatitis and include:

• Fatigue
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

In some cases, a chronic infection can develop, leading to liver scarring, known as cirrhosis. Because of co-infection with HBV, the symptoms may be more severe than those caused by infection with a single virus.

How is the virus transmitted?

Hepatitis D is spread through direct contact with the blood and other bodily fluids of an infected person. The most common ways of transmission are:

• Sharing needles or drug-use equipment
• Unprotected sexual contact with an infected individual
• Transmission from mother to child during childbirth
• Using non-sterilized medical instruments

Specific tests and variants

Besides the HDV Ag test, there are other crucial lab methods for detecting and monitoring hepatitis D virus infection:

• HDV IgM: This test identifies IgM antibodies to the hepatitis D virus, which suggest a recent or acute infection. IgM antibodies are the first to be produced by the immune system in response to a new infection, so their presence often indicates a newly acquired HDV infection.
• HDV Total Antibodies: This test detects both IgM and IgG antibodies against hepatitis D. The presence of these antibodies may indicate an active, past, or chronic HDV infection. If the test is positive for total antibodies but negative for IgM, it typically indicates a past infection and the potential long-term presence of antibodies without an active infection.

For individuals who test positive for hepatitis B, it is advisable to test for hepatitis D to check for possible co-infection.