Diagnostic markers for hepatitis virus infection.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Accurate diagnosis and characterization of hepatitis viruses are essential from a public health perspective and for clinical management. OBJECTIVE: To review recent advances in the diagnosis of viral hepatitis A - D and their clinical utilities. METHODS: Review of the literature published up to 2007. RESULT/CONCLUSION: Recent advances in the sensitivity and ease of serologic and molecular diagnostics have improved our understanding of the natural history of viral hepatitis, are helpful in the pretreatment evaluation and provide guidance to antiviral therapy. As the technology improves, this will be reflected in an increased reliance and expanded role of these tests in clinical management and improved safety of the blood supply.