A new dual-targeting real-time RT-PCR assay for hepatitis D virus RNA detection DIAGNOSTIC MICROBIOLOGY AND INFECTIOUS DISEASE Wang, Y., Glenn, J. S., Winters, M. A., Shen, L., Choong, I., Shi, Y., Bi, S., Ma, L., Zeng, H., Zhang, F. 2018; 92 (2): 112–17

Abstract

In this study, a real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (real time RT-PCR) assay targeting 2 genetic segments was established to detect HDV RNA. Utilizing the World Health Organization International Standard for Hepatitis D Virus RNA, the lower limit of detection was 575 IU/mL, and the linearity of quantification ranged from 575,000 IU/mL to 575 IU/mL. 384 HBsAg-positive samples collected from China were tested by this method and HDV antibody detection. Eleven samples were positive for anti-HDV IgG which may persist after HDV resolution, 6 samples were HDV RNA positive, and 5 samples were positive for anti-HDV IgM. This assay showed more sensitivity than the detection of anti-HDV IgM. These data demonstrate that the real-time RT-PCR assay for HDV RNA could be implemented in the clinical detection of HDV infection in chronic HBV-infected patients in China.

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