Molecular Detection of Hepatitis B virus Precore Mutants

Molecular detection of Hepatitis B virus precore mutants by line probe hybridization assay or by sequence analysis.

Serum or plasma sample. Minimum volume required for serum or plasma – 1.0 mL.

Collect blood in serum separator tubes (SST) or EDTA tubes.

Store samples frozen until shipped for testing. Ship frozen on dry ice.

Shipping of specimens shall be done by a TDG certified individual in accordance with TDG regulations. For additional information regarding classification of specimens for the purposes of shipping, consult either Part 2 Appendix 3 of the TDG Regulations or section 3.6.2 of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations as applicable.

Suspected Hepatitis B infection. Serology results must show markers to the Hepatitis B virus and HBV DNA results must be positive.

Completed Molecular and Immuno Diagnostics on Hepatitis requisition including sender name, address and telephone number. Patient name or identifier (referring specimen lab #), date of birth, suspected exposure, test(s) requested. Type of specimen and date collected. If possible, include the clinical history and lab results (particularly HBeAg/eAb test results) that have already been done at local or provincial laboratories.

Conventional PCR followed by line probe hybridization assay. Reactivity to 1896A probes indicates a precore mutation. LiPA analysis will be followed up by sequence analysis in cases of probe site negativity.

19 calendar days.

1. Cameron-Wilson C, Muir P, Ballard AL, et al. Evaluation of a line probe assay for identification of hepatitis B virus precore variants in serum from chronic hepatitis B carriers. J Virol Methods 2003 114:97-103.