Hepatitis B Virus DNA Detection with Nucleic Acid Probe in Cerebrospinal Fluid
This test looks for genetic material (DNA) from the hepatitis B virus in cerebrospinal fluid, the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord, using a nucleic acid probe method.
["It helps determine whether hepatitis B virus is present in the fluid around the brain and spinal cord, which can matter in rare cases of central nervous system involvement."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 49363-5
- Short code
- HBV DNA # CSF NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- HBV DNA # CSF NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Being Tested
The test detects DNA from the hepatitis B virus (HBV). A nucleic acid probe is a laboratory tool that recognizes a specific sequence of viral genetic material, allowing the lab to identify whether HBV DNA is present in the sample.
Why Cerebrospinal Fluid Is Used
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is collected through a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). Testing CSF rather than blood helps assess whether the virus is present in the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord, which is relevant when central nervous system symptoms or involvement are being evaluated.
How the Probe Method Works
The nucleic acid probe binds to viral DNA if it is present in the sample. This binding produces a detectable signal that the laboratory can measure, indicating the presence of HBV genetic material. Specific detection limits depend on the laboratory and are not stated here.
What Results Mean
A positive result indicates that HBV DNA was detected in the cerebrospinal fluid. A negative result indicates it was not detected under the conditions of the test. Results are interpreted together with blood tests, symptoms, imaging, and other clinical information by your healthcare provider.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Hepatitis B is primarily a liver infection, and virus in the cerebrospinal fluid is uncommon. CSF testing may be considered when there are neurological symptoms or concern for central nervous system involvement. Because results can be affected by specimen handling and test sensitivity, they should always be interpreted alongside the full clinical picture.
Short name
HBV DNA CSF Probe
Frequently asked questions
Can this test tell me how severe a hepatitis B infection is?
Is a lumbar puncture required for this test?
Does a negative result rule out hepatitis B?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy