What does hepatitis B virus nucleic acid testing mean?
Feb 14, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jiang Weimin
Introduction
HBV nucleic acid testing refers to the detection of hepatitis B virus DNA, primarily through blood tests to determine whether the hepatitis B virus is replicating in the body. The normal value for this test is less than 50 U/mL. Patients with hepatitis B need to undergo regular HBV DNA testing and should, whenever possible, choose reputable medical institutions and follow physician guidance when undergoing the test.
Hepatitis B virus nucleic acid testing refers to the detection of hepatitis B virus DNA. It primarily involves blood tests to determine whether the hepatitis B virus is actively replicating in the body. The normal value for this test is less than 50 U/mL.
Hepatitis B virus DNA testing helps diagnose viral load levels, assess infectivity, and evaluate immune response, thereby guiding clinicians on whether antiviral therapy is needed and whether combination therapy should be considered. Hepatitis B virus DNA testing also serves as an important indicator for assessing the extent of viral replication and indirectly reflecting the patient's immune response. If a patient’s HBV level falls below the lower limit after treatment, it indicates that antiviral therapy or interferon treatment has been effective. However, if the viral load does not decrease but instead increases after treatment, drug resistance may have developed, necessitating medication review and adjustment.
Hepatitis B patients should undergo regular hepatitis B virus DNA testing and should choose reputable medical institutions and follow physician guidance when undergoing such tests.
