What is the normal level of quantitative hepatitis B viral nucleic acid?

Sep 13, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jin Zhongkui
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the reference range for quantitative hepatitis B virus nucleic acid is 20–500 copies/ml. If the virus is not detected, it indicates no hepatitis B virus infection. However, due to differences among hospitals, testing equipment, and reagents, the reference values for this index may vary. Lower levels of hepatitis B virus nucleic acid quantification are preferable.

Hepatitis B is a particularly feared and highly contagious disease, so many people receive the hepatitis B vaccine as a preventive measure. Regular health checkups are also important to ensure that hepatitis B viral DNA levels remain within the normal range. So, what is the normal level for hepatitis B viral DNA quantification?

What Is the Normal Range for Hepatitis B Viral DNA Quantification?

Generally, the normal reference range for hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA quantitative testing is around 20–500 IU/mL. If the test detects no viral DNA, it usually indicates that the person is not infected with the hepatitis B virus. However, due to differences among hospitals, testing equipment, and reagents, the reference values may vary slightly, although such variations are typically not significant.

Hepatitis B virus DNA quantification measures the amount of hepatitis B virus present in the blood and reflects the replication activity of the hepatitis B virus DNA. This test specifically detects the presence of hepatitis B viral DNA and indicates the level of viral replication. Based on the results of this test, doctors can determine whether a person is infected with hepatitis B, assess the degree of infectivity in patients, and evaluate the effectiveness of antiviral treatments.

Lower hepatitis B virus DNA levels are better. A low HBV DNA level suggests infection with the hepatitis B virus, but with weaker viral replication and lower infectivity, which may be associated with the "minor three positive" pattern (small three positives). In contrast, a high HBV DNA level indicates active viral replication, strong infectivity, and is often seen in cases of the "major three positive" pattern (large three positives). We hope this information has been helpful. Wishing you good health and happiness!

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