HBV DNA Detection by PCR - Liver tissue

This test detects the presence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA in liver tissue through a technique called polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

• To diagnose acute or chronic HBV infection
• To monitor the progression of HBV infection and assess response to antiviral treatment
• To evaluate patients with chronic hepatitis B for liver cancer risk
• To determine if a person is a carrier of HBV and could transmit the virus to others

Your doctor may recommend this test if you

• have symptoms of hepatitis such as fatigue, abdominal pain, and jaundice,
• have risk factors for HBV infection such as a history of intravenous drug use or unprotected sex with multiple partners,
• have been exposed to someone with HBV infection, or
• have chronic hepatitis B or cirrhosis, or are receiving antiviral therapy for HBV.

An abnormal result could indicate an active HBV infection, chronic infection, or a high risk of developing liver cancer.

Your doctor will perform a biopsy of your liver to obtain a tissue sample. The tissue sample will be sent to the laboratory for processing and analysis.

• Inform your doctor about any medications and supplements you are taking. Also, tell them if you have any specific requirements.
• Follow specific instructions from your doctor on when to stop eating and drinking before the test.
• You may be asked to undergo a blood test to evaluate your liver function before the biopsy procedure.

• Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) test: This blood test is used to detect the presence of HBV in the bloodstream.
• Liver function tests: These blood tests evaluate the functioning of your liver and the levels of liver enzymes.
• Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) test: This blood test measures a protein produced by liver cancer cells.

HBV PCR, Hepatitis B viral load, or Hepatitis B DNA quantification

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver and can lead to serious liver damage, liver cancer or cirrhosis. It's transmitted through contact with infected blood, semen, or other body fluids. Most people recover from acute HBV infection, but some develop a chronic infection that requires long-term monitoring and treatment.

Liver cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the liver. It is the 6th leading cause of cancer death worldwide. The most common type of liver cancer is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HCC is often caused by chronic hepatitis B or C infection, alcoholism, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Liver cancer is often difficult to detect early, as it does not usually cause any symptoms until it is in an advanced stage. Treatment for liver cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of treatments.