How often should hepatitis B virus DNA quantitative testing be performed?
May 10, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jiang Weimin
Introduction
If you are currently in the acute phase of hepatitis B infection, it is recommended to have a quantitative HBV DNA test repeated approximately every 5 weeks until the virus disappears or progresses to chronic infection. If you have chronic hepatitis B with stable condition, testing should be done about every 6 months to monitor the level of viral replication, which helps determine the treatment plan and evaluate its effectiveness.
The timing for retesting quantitative hepatitis B virus DNA generally depends on different stages of the disease. Retesting is usually recommended around 5 weeks and around 6 months, with specific details as follows:
1. Around 5 weeks
If a patient is currently in the acute phase of hepatitis B infection, it is generally recommended to perform a quantitative hepatitis B virus DNA test approximately every 5 weeks until the virus clears or progresses to chronic infection, helping to assess recovery status.
2. Around 6 months
For individuals with chronic hepatitis B infection who have stable conditions, retesting every 6 months is recommended. This helps monitor the level of viral replication and track disease progression, which is beneficial for determining treatment strategies and evaluating therapeutic effectiveness.
After hepatitis B virus infection, patients should closely observe their condition. Changes in urine color or skin color may indicate worsening of the disease, and prompt medical evaluation and retesting are advised.
