Skip to content

Hepatitis D Virus Antibody, Qualitative (Serum/Plasma) Probe

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test checks for antibodies to the Hepatitis D virus (HDV) in your blood. Antibodies are proteins your immune system makes to help fight infections.

Quick summary

["HDV antibodies may indicate past or potential exposure to Hepatitis D, which often co-infects with Hepatitis B."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
72606-7
Short code
HDV Gentyp Spec NAA+probe
Synonyms
HDV Gentyp Spec NAA+probe
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
probe-amp-tar
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Does This Test Measure?

This test detects the presence of HDV antibodies in your blood using a special probe method. Antibodies are your body’s natural defense against foreign invaders like viruses. If your body has encountered HDV before, it will produce these antibodies. This test does not measure the virus itself but helps determine if your immune system has recognized HDV.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Doctors may order this test if you have active or past Hepatitis B infection, as HDV often spreads alongside it. It can also be used to screen for HDV exposure in high-risk groups, such as those who inject drugs or have had multiple sexual partners. This test helps assess your risk for complications related to HDV.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then tested in a lab using a qualitative immunoassay probe method to detect HDV antibodies. Results are reported as either positive or negative.

What Are the Possible Results?

A positive result means your blood contains HDV antibodies, suggesting past exposure to the virus. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found in your sample. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized interpretation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

HDV antibodies are important because Hepatitis D is a serious liver infection that worsens liver disease caused by Hepatitis B. Having HDV antibodies can indicate a history of infection, which may influence treatment decisions or monitoring needs. Early detection helps manage liver health and prevent complications like cirrhosis or liver cancer.

Short name

HDV Antibody (Qualitative)

Frequently asked questions

What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result means your body has likely encountered Hepatitis D virus in the past. This does not necessarily mean you are currently infected, but it indicates your immune system has responded to the virus. Your doctor may recommend further testing or monitoring to assess liver health.
How Can I Reduce My Risk of Hepatitis D?
To lower your risk of Hepatitis D, avoid sharing needles or other drug equipment, practice safe sex, and get vaccinated for Hepatitis B if you haven’t already. If you are at high risk, your doctor may recommend testing for both Hepatitis B and D antibodies.
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
Test results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will contact you once results are ready for review.
  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 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.

Medical Disclaimer

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