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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

Hepatitis D Virus Detection PCR Test

Detects the Hepatitis D virus (HDV) using a sensitive PCR test. Essential for diagnosing HDV, which requires a pre-existing Hepatitis B infection. Crucial for managing liver health.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
4 mL (2 mL minimum) plasma separated from a Lavender Top (EDTA) blood collection tube. Plasma must be separated aseptically within 2 hours of collection.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
A 12-hour fast is recommended before sample collection. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Test priceKSh 17,000

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the Hepatitis D Virus Detection PCR Test test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

  • Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
  • A clinician's request / prescription for the test
  • Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

01

Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

  • ✓Individuals with symptoms of liver disease (e.g., jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain).
  • ✓People with a confirmed Hepatitis B infection.
  • ✓Individuals with risk factors for Hepatitis D (e.g., IV drug use, unprotected sex).
  • ✓Patients with unexplained elevated liver enzymes.
  • ✓Monitoring treatment response in Hepatitis D patients.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test is used to confirm or rule out an active Hepatitis D virus infection, particularly in individuals with known Hepatitis B infection or symptoms suggestive of liver disease. It helps determine the presence and potentially the level of viral load, aiding in clinical management and monitoring.
The Hepatitis D Virus Detection PCR Test is a diagnostic tool used to identify the presence of the Hepatitis D virus (HDV) in your blood. HDV is a serious liver infection that only affects individuals already infected with Hepatitis B. This test is vital for accurate diagnosis and management, especially for those experiencing liver-related symptoms or known Hepatitis B infection.

This Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test measures the amount of HDV genetic material in your blood. It is highly sensitive, capable of detecting even small amounts of the virus, providing a reliable indication of infection.

Early detection is key to managing Hepatitis D effectively. Understanding your HDV status allows for timely intervention, appropriate treatment planning by your healthcare provider, and helps prevent transmission to others. Results will indicate whether the virus is present, guiding further medical evaluation.
03

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →
04

A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

3

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

05

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →
PreparationA 12-hour fast is recommended before sample collection. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Sample4 mL (2 mL minimum) plasma separated from a Lavender Top (EDTA) blood collection tube. Plasma must be separated aseptically within 2 hours of collection.
MethodologyPolymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for the detection of Hepatitis D virus DNA.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test detects the presence of HDV genetic material. It does not differentiate between acute and chronic infection. A negative result does not rule out infection if the viral load is very low or if the sample was collected too early after exposure. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.
NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.
VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

Hepatitis D is a liver infection caused by the Hepatitis D virus (HDV). It only occurs in people who are already infected with Hepatitis B.
Detecting HDV is crucial because it can cause more severe liver damage than Hepatitis B alone. Early diagnosis allows for proper management.
Yes, a 12-hour fast is recommended before the blood sample is taken.
A positive result indicates that the Hepatitis D virus was detected in your blood. You should discuss the results with your doctor for further evaluation and management.
Yes, this test is especially important for individuals known to have Hepatitis B, as they are at risk of HDV co-infection or super-infection.
We have branches in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu, and offer home sample collection services. Contact us to book your test.
08

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

Explore partnerships
09

Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

  • ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
  • ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
  • LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
  • ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

  • Last updated: September 27, 2026
  • Medical review: not yet completed
  • Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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