Labcorp launches reflex testing to improve hepatitis D detection in US
Labcorp estimates that between 70,000 and 150,000 people in the US are living with active HDV infection, while fewer than 20% of patients who test positive for hepatitis B are tested for hepatitis D.
USA—Labcorp has introduced a new hepatitis D virus (HDV) reflex testing option designed to help clinicians identify infections earlier among patients who test positive for hepatitis B virus (HBV).
Hepatitis D occurs only in people who have hepatitis B and is considered the most severe form of viral hepatitis.
The infection can accelerate liver damage and increase the risk of cirrhosis, liver cancer and other serious complications.
However, many people with hepatitis B who are eligible for HDV testing do not undergo screening.
Labcorp estimates that between 70,000 and 150,000 people in the US are living with active HDV infection, while fewer than 20% of patients who test positive for hepatitis B are tested for hepatitis D.
Reflex testing aims to close screening gaps
Labcorp has added the new option to its Comprehensive Hepatitis Testing portfolio.
Under the reflex testing approach, clinicians can request automatic HDV testing when a patient’s blood sample returns a positive hepatitis B result.
The laboratory can use the original blood sample for the additional test, eliminating the need for another blood draw or a separate testing order.
Labcorp said the approach could make HDV screening easier to incorporate into routine hepatitis B testing.
The company also said it is introducing enhanced hepatitis B reporting alongside the new service.
The updated reports will provide simplified interpretations of test results to help clinicians make decisions about patient care.
According to Labcorp, the limited uptake of HDV testing contributes to underdiagnosis and delays in identifying patients who may require further evaluation and treatment.
Growing momentum in HDV testing and treatment
The launch comes as the hepatitis D field sees increased activity in both diagnostics and treatment.
In August, Roche introduced the Cobas Hepatitis D Virus test, which the company described as the first high-throughput, fully automated HDV assay available on the market.
The test is designed to detect and quantify HDV RNA in patient samples and can support laboratory testing for people with suspected or confirmed infection.
Meanwhile, Gilead Sciences’ Hepcludex (bulevirtide) reached another milestone in May after becoming the first treatment approved in the United States for adults with chronic hepatitis D infection.
The treatment had previously been approved in Europe for patients with chronic HDV and compensated liver disease.
Together, these developments have expanded clinicians’ options for detecting and managing a viral infection that occurs exclusively alongside hepatitis B.
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