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

ABSTRACT:

Background

This study assessed the epidemiology of hepatitis delta virus (HDV) within the University of Utah UHealth health care system (2000-2021).

Methods

Analysis of HDV/HBV testing, diagnostic codes, liver enzymes, and comorbidities was performed.

Results

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.

Discussion

Improved HDV testing and surveillance are crucial for early detection and implementation of targeted therapies.

SUBMITTER: Hesterman MC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11420768 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature