Immunohistochemical detection of HBs, HBc and delta antigens in liver sections. Technics, value as a routine procedure according to the cycle of the viral disease and prospects for the future
Degott, C.; Paris, R.; Bonilla, S.; Potet, F.
Annales de Pathologie 8(3): 175-183
1988
ISSN/ISBN: 0242-6498 PMID: 3052481 Document Number: 311019
The detection of hepatitis B viral antigens and the hepatitis delta viral antigen on liver section is currently facilitated by the production and marketing of good quality antisera and revelation systems. Moreover, the routine application of these techniques in histology departments has become more widespread. The detection of HBs and HBc antigens may be useful in the diagnosis of chronic hepatitis. It allows evaluation of replication of HBV (in the same way as HBe antigen and serum DNA) and the examination of a liver needle biopsy should include, in addition to analysis and classification of the lesions, tests for the presence of these antigens. The detection of the delta antigen is particularly useful for the diagnosis of acute hepatitis delta (in cases of co-infection or secondary infection). On the other hand, it is disappointing for the diagnosis of chronic hepatitis delta.