Polymerase chain reaction for the diagnosis of hepatitis B and C viral hepatitis.
The detection of HBV, HCV, and HDV genomes through the use of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has made possible a new step in viral diagnosis. The main advantages of PCR are its extreme sensitivity and the possibility to develop rapid assays using non-radioactive probes. Several studies have now clearly shown its usefulness for the demonstration of viremias, the identification of seronegative viral carriers, and studies on mother-to-child transmission. Several limitations, however, still hamper the use of PCR and it should not yet be regarded as a routine test. The main developments to be expected in the near future deal with automatisation, prevention of contamination, and quantification.
Bréchot
C
C
Hybridotest Laboratory, Pasteur Institute, Laennec Hospital, Paris, France.
D004279:DNA, Viral / Q000097:blood; D005260:Female; D006509:Hepatitis B / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000635:transmission; D006526:Hepatitis C / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000635:transmission; D006801:Humans; D008107:Liver Diseases / Q000382:microbiology; D016133:Polymerase Chain Reaction; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011247:Pregnancy; D012367:RNA, Viral / Q000097:blood; D014779:Virus Replication / Q000235:genetics
D004279:DNA, Viral; D012367:RNA, Viral