Comprehensive evaluation of NAT+/HBsAg- blood donors: confirmation strategies, serial testing outcomes, and S gene mutations associated with occult HBV infection.

ABSTRACT:

Background

S gene mutations may lead to undetectable HBsAg, contributing to occult HBV infection (OBI). Nucleic acid testing (NAT) has been widely implemented to reduce transfusion-transmitted OBI. However, distinguishing between false positives and true OBI among NAT+/HBsAg- donors remains challenging, as these individuals frequently exhibit inconsistent or fluctuating test results. This study aims to improve infection status confirmation and donor management by analyzing detection patterns and investigating S gene mutations.

Methods

Blood donors were detected for HBV using individual-NAT and HBsAg enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Routine discriminatory test (dHBV), additional three repeated dHBV (3-repeated dHBV), and serological assays were conducted to confirm the inf

SUBMITTER: Du R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12534964 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature