HEPATITIS B VIRAL LOAD TEST

What is this test? This blood test measures the amount of hepatitis B virus DNA (or viral load) in the blood of chronically infected patients.
Sample required: Blood obtained from a vein.
Client preparation: No specific client preparation protocol required. Inform your tester if you are on any medications or have any underlying medical conditions or allergies before undergoing this test.
Turn-around time (How long does it take?): 2 HOURS OFFSITE IN A LAB.
Basis of the Test: The Hepatitis B Virus – Viral Load test measures the definite quantity of hepatitis B existing in a blood sample. This test assists ascertains if Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is getting reproduced in the liver. If HBV viral load is higher than 20,000 international unit per milliliter (IU/mL) in an individualwith detectable Hepatitis B envelope antigen (HBeAg) then it shows that the virus is lively and has the best possible cause of harm to the liver. Similarly, if HBV viral load is higher than 2,000 IU/mL in HBeAg-negative persistent or chronic hepatitis B patients then it shows that the virus is lively and has the best possible cause of harm to the liver. If the HBV viral load is above these numbers, treatment is considered paramount