The new testing option automatically triggers hepatitis D screens for patients who test positive for hepatitis B surface antigen.
Labcorp has announced the availability of a new hepatitis D reflex testing option within its hepatitis testing portfolio. Because hepatitis D occurs only in individuals already infected with hepatitis B, the reflex option allows clinicians to automatically screen for hepatitis D using the original blood sample if a patient tests positive for the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg).
This streamlined workflow is intended to support earlier diagnosis as new treatment options for hepatitis D continue to advance, according to a press release from Labcorp. Hepatitis D is considered the most severe form of viral hepatitis and is associated with higher risks of liver cancer, cirrhosis, and other serious liver complications.
Addressing Gaps in Hepatitis D Detection
An estimated 70,000 to 150,000 people in the United States (US) are living with active hepatitis D, yet fewer than 20% of patients who test positive for hepatitis B are currently screened for the disease, according to Labcorp. This gap in testing contributes to significant underdiagnosis and delays in patient care.
By electing the reflex testing option, clinicians can obtain actionable results more quickly without the need for a separate laboratory order or additional blood draws. Labcorp also provides enhanced hepatitis B reporting with simplified result interpretations to assist in clinical decision-making, according to the company.
“Hepatitis D remains significantly underdiagnosed despite the serious consequences it can have for patients and long-term liver health,” says Brian Caveney, chief medical and scientific officer at Labcorp, in a release. “As treatment options continue to advance, identifying patients earlier is more important than ever. By integrating hepatitis D testing into the diagnostic workflow, we can help clinicians uncover infections that might otherwise go undetected and connect more patients to appropriate care sooner.”
Building on Reflex Testing Models
The introduction of hepatitis D reflex testing builds on the company’s experience using automated pathways to reduce diagnostic delays. Similar models used for hepatitis C have been associated with faster diagnosis of active infections and higher rates of confirmatory testing, according to Labcorp.
The new option is part of a broader effort to improve follow-up care and liver health outcomes by identifying infections that might otherwise go undetected during routine screenings.
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