HDV is a subviral agent that is dependent on the HBV virus for its life cycle; therefore, HDV infection cannot occur in the absence of HBV infection.
Normal range: Negative.
Use
Diagnosis of concurrent HDV infection in patients with fulminant acute HBV infection (acute coinfection), chronic HBV infection (chronic coinfection), or acute exacerbation of known chronic HBV infection (HDV superinfection).
Interpretation
Increased in previous or current hepatitis D infection.
Limitations
The role of HDV antibody testing is controversial because the incidence of infection with HDV has declined markedly in the United States with use of HBV vaccine.
Interferon treatment may decrease the antibody levels.
This testing should be ordered only when the patient has an acute or chronic hepatitis B infection.