Molecular Test Detection

Test : Hepatitis B DNA detection


Indications : The test is ordered to detect the presence of the hepatitis B virus in a patient with clinical symptoms of liver disease. The sample used is serum plasma, but in some cases liver tissue is used. The method used in the slot blot DNA assay.

• DNA is extracted from the sample through standardized method and is denatured
• Single stranded DNA is attached to a nylon membrane which is positively charged
• A probe complimentary to the HBV DNA is applied and allowed to bind to the DNA on the membrane.

Physiology : Hepatitis B is a serious liver disease caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Its symptoms include jaundice, hepatomegaly (enlargement of the liver), flu- like symptoms, and overall fatigue. The disease spreads through contact with infected blood or body fluids and infected needles. It can also be passed on to a new born from an infected mother.

Acute hepatitis is a temporary phase and the body soon clears itself of the virus. But those with chronic hepatitis retain the virus for a very long time and can infect other people. 20% of those with chronic hepatitis B can even develop cirrhosis or cancer of the liver.

Slot blot DNA hybridization is a very sensitive method which is capable of detecting viral DNA in amounts as low as 0.1 pg approximately.

Normal Range : The DNA probe assay provides a direct measure of HBV in serum or plasma and correlates with infectivity titers.

Interpretation : The probe is either radioactive or is bound to an enzyme which makes the viral - DNA probe complex easily detectable. The presence of this complex is an indication of the presence of hepatitis virus.

Of late, the PCR assay is the most sensitive method for detecting the serum HBV DNA

Sample : No HBV viral DNA detected.

Test Method : Slot blot DNA hybridization entities

Related Tests : Serum Plasma, liver tissue

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