Hepatitis B Virus Drug Resistance Precore Mutations Polymerase Gene Mutation Blood

Hepatitis B Virus Drug Resistance Precore Mutations polymerase gene mutation Blood Test helps to assess the mutations in the polymerase (P) gene of hepatitis B virus. These mutations are often associated with drug resistance. The pattern of mutations may vary based on individuals and therapy. This test identifies viral mutations associated with resistance to current treatments. This helps to evaluate the treatment and select patient-specific therapy.

What is Hepatitis B Infection?

Hepatitis B infection is an infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). This is one type among the other types of viral hepatitis. This infection can spread from one person to another through contact with infected blood and body fluids. Common symptoms of this infection are dark urine, fatigue, fever, abdominal discomfort, weakness, loss of appetite, yellowing of eyes, joint and muscle pain. Symptoms usually appear about one to four months after the occurrence of infection.

Normally in most of the cases, this infection does not last for a long time. Your immune system fights it off within a few months. However, if you have it for more than six months, you are called a carrier. Mostly, adults may recover from this infection fully within a short period of time. Infants and children are more likely to develop a long-lasting infection.

What is a drug resistance mutation?

Viral mutations associated with drug resistance are common in individuals receiving treatment with anti-virals. Drug-resistant virus mutants are quickly generated in individuals receiving a single drug therapy. Prolonged therapy may cause mutations in the HBV DNA polymerase gene (including M204V in the YMDD motif) and cause drug resistance. The rate of resistance may vary based on individuals, therapy and other factors. Individuals who acquire virus drug resistance may require a modification in their current treatment. Therefore this test can be used to confirm the presence of mutations and select patient-specific therapy.

Why this test is performed?

This test is performed to confirm drug resistance-associated virus mutation(s). This test is recommended in individuals receiving treatment for Hepatitis B infection to monitor and evaluate the treatment response. This helps to know whether the treatment is working or not. Therefore this test can be used to confirm the presence of mutations and select patient-specific therapy.

The test results may be vary depending on gender, age, health conditions, and stage of infection.

If drug resistance mutations are detected it may indicate the need to add or replace a drug in the current treatment regimen.

If drug resistance mutations are not detected it may indicate the current treatment regimen is appropriate. However, this test is recommended to perform on a regular basis or as instructed by the doctor in individuals receiving anti-viral treatment for hepatitis B infection.