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Hepatitis D Virus Antibodies, Confirmatory (IgM)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test detects antibodies to Hepatitis D Virus (HDV), a rare liver infection that only occurs in people who already have Hepatitis B. It helps confirm past or current infection with HDV.

Quick summary

["This test checks for past or current Hepatitis D infection, which can worsen liver damage from Hepatitis B."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
82960-6
Short code
HEDIS 2017-18 Grp A Strep
Synonyms
HEDIS 2017-18 Grp A Strep
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
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

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have risk factors for Hepatitis B (like exposure to infected blood) or if you have symptoms of liver disease. It’s also used to monitor people with known Hepatitis B for signs of HDV co-infection.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. A blood sample will be taken from a vein in your arm by a healthcare professional. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort.

What the Test Results Mean

Positive results indicate the presence of HDV antibodies, suggesting past or current infection. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies, so HDV infection is unlikely. Consult your doctor for interpretation based on your medical history.

Common Causes of False Results

False negatives are rare but possible if the test was taken too early after exposure. False positives can occur due to cross-reactivity with other infections or laboratory errors. Your doctor will discuss results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

HDV IgM Antibody Confirmation

Frequently asked questions

What does this test measure?
This test measures IgM antibodies specific to Hepatitis D Virus. These antibodies develop after exposure to HDV and can indicate an active infection or recent exposure. HDV is a defective virus that requires Hepatitis B to replicate, so it only infects people with active Hepatitis B.
How soon after exposure might I get positive results?
IgM antibodies to HDV typically appear within 2 to 6 weeks after exposure to HDV. However, results can vary, and some people may not develop detectable antibodies for months. Your doctor will guide timing based on your exposure history.
Can this test be used to diagnose Hepatitis D alone?
No, this test alone cannot diagnose Hepatitis D. It confirms past or current infection with HDV antibodies. A diagnosis of Hepatitis D requires clinical correlation with symptoms, liver function tests, and sometimes additional testing for HDV RNA (viral load) to confirm active infection.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy