Growing Awareness: Limited Testing and Screening Bias for Hepatitis Delta Virus in Utah 2000-2021.

Hesterman, Matthew C; Fallon, Braden S; Lynch, Keisa M; Weller, Melodie L · J Infect Dis · 2024

retrospective_cohort · Level III

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Abstract

This study assessed the epidemiology of hepatitis delta virus (HDV) within the University of Utah UHealth health care system (2000-2021). Analysis of HDV/HBV testing, diagnostic codes, liver enzymes, and comorbidities was performed. Among the 1962 HBV patients, only 22.2% underwent HDV testing, revealing an 8.3% positivity rate for HDV coinfections. This study observed a consistent increase in HBV and HDV cases, with higher HDV detection rates linked to increased testing. Limited HDV testing and potential screening biases were evident. Improved HDV testing and surveillance are crucial for early detection and implementation of targeted therapies.

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