Hepatitis A

Brief guidelines for sendout samples for Serological diagnosis of Hepatitis A virus infections

Hepatitis B and C Real-time PCR

Request Forms:

1. Hepatitis B PCR
2. Hepatitis C PCR
3. Sample Collection Guide

Sample collection / storage / transport

• 5 ml of blood sample collected into a disposable EDTA tube should be sent to MRI in ice (4⁰C) as early as possible (maximum delay – 48 hours)
• The sample should be stored at 4⁰C until transport
• Sample collection can be conducted at MRI for patients between 8 am – 12 pm on week days (Monday to Friday)

Important points

• Hepatitis B/ C real-time PCR is an expensive test and should be ordered only when there is a real indication.
• The test should always be authorized by a Consultant.
• Serology results should always be available before requesting this test (Special situations should be discussed with the Consultant Virologist).
• 2 ml of blood should be sent in a plain bottle for the confirmation of HCV Ab result along with the sample for HCV PCR.