Hepatitis A Virus RNA Detection PCR Test
Short Name: HAV RNA PCR
Also known as: Hepatitis A RNA Test, HAV RNA RT-PCR Test, Hepatitis A Viral Load Test, HAV Molecular Test
Hepatitis A Virus RNA Detection PCR Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹6,000. Uses Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR), Real-Time PCR on Plasma samples. Results in Reports are typically available within 10 days from the date of sample collection. Sample should be received daily by 11 am for processing.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The primary purpose of the Hepatitis A Virus RNA Detection PCR Test is to detect active Hepatitis A infection at the molecular level by identifying HAV RNA in the patient's blood. This test is used for early and accurate diagnosis, confirmation of suspected cases, epidemiological surveillance, and monitoring of viral clearance during recovery.
- Test Code
- 708
- CPT Code
- 87684
- ICD Code
- B15.9
- Price
- ₹6,000
- Sample Type
- Plasma
- Result Time
- Reports are typically available within 10 days from the date of sample collection. Sample should be received daily by 11 am for processing.
- Fasting Required
- Yes (12 hours)
- Method
- Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR), Real-Time PCR
Sample Collection
The patient is required to fast for at least 12 hours before sample collection. Inform the phlebotomist about any current medications, especially antiviral drugs. Stay adequately hydrated during the fasting period.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A blood sample of approximately 4 mL will be drawn from a vein in the arm using a sterile needle and collected into a Lavender Top (EDTA) tube. The procedure takes only a few minutes and may cause mild discomfort or a slight pinch at the puncture site.
Report Delivery
Apply gentle pressure with a cotton ball or bandage at the puncture site to stop any bleeding. Plasma must be separated aseptically within 2 hours of collection. The sample should be shipped refrigerated or frozen to maintain RNA integrity.
Timeline: Reports are typically available within 10 days from the date of sample collection. Sample should be received daily by 11 am for processing.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The primary purpose of the Hepatitis A Virus RNA Detection PCR Test is to detect active Hepatitis A infection at the molecular level by identifying HAV RNA in the patient's blood. This test is used for early and accurate diagnosis, confirmation of suspected cases, epidemiological surveillance, and monitoring of viral clearance during recovery.
How to Prepare
- Fasting for 12 hours is recommended before sample collection
- Collect 4 mL (2 mL min.) of blood in a Lavender Top (EDTA) tube
- Separate plasma aseptically within 2 hours of blood collection
- Ship the separated plasma sample refrigerated or frozen
- Label the sample correctly with patient details and collection time
- Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles to preserve RNA integrity
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"The Hepatitis A Virus RNA Detection PCR Test is one of the most reliable molecular assays for confirming active Hepatitis A infection, especially during the early viraemic phase when serological markers may not yet be detectable. PCR-based detection offers superior sensitivity over conventional antibody-based methods, enabling clinicians to initiate timely supportive care and implement necessary public health measures to prevent further transmission. I recommend this test for any patient presenting with acute hepatitis symptoms, recent travel history to endemic regions, or known exposure to an infected individual."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Sample collected in incorrect tube type (non-EDTA)
- Plasma not separated within 2 hours of collection
- Sample received at room temperature or thawed during transit
- Insufficient sample volume (less than 2 mL plasma)
- Unlabelled or mislabelled samples
- Samples with visible contamination or clot formation
Understanding Your Results
Detected
Hepatitis A virus RNA is present in the plasma, confirming active HAV infection. The patient is likely in the viraemic phase and may be contagious. Clinical correlation and further evaluation are recommended. Supportive care and infection control measures should be initiated.
Not Detected
Hepatitis A virus RNA was not detected in the plasma sample. This may indicate absence of active infection, a very early infection before viraemia, or a past infection where the virus has been cleared. If clinical suspicion remains high, repeat testing or serological evaluation (anti-HAV IgM) may be warranted.
Inconclusive
The result could not be clearly determined due to possible low viral load near the detection limit, sample quality issues, or PCR inhibition. Repeat testing with a fresh sample is recommended.
Consult your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms such as persistent fatigue, nausea, vomiting, dark-coloured urine, pale stools, abdominal pain, or yellowing of the skin and eyes. If you have been in close contact with a person diagnosed with Hepatitis A or have recently travelled to an endemic area, seek medical advice for testing. If your test result is positive or inconclusive, visit your physician or a gastroenterologist/infectious disease specialist for proper evaluation and management.
Limitations
- ⚠This test detects Hepatitis A RNA only and does not differentiate between genotypes of the virus
- ⚠A negative result does not entirely exclude Hepatitis A infection if the sample was collected outside the viraemic window
- ⚠The test is qualitative or semi-quantitative and should not be used as the sole basis for treatment decisions without clinical correlation
- ⚠Results should always be interpreted alongside serological markers (anti-HAV IgM), liver function tests, and clinical presentation
- ⚠Cross-reactivity with other Hepatitis viruses has not been reported but cannot be entirely ruled out in mixed infections
Risks & Considerations
- ●Mild pain or bruising at the blood draw site
- ●Slight risk of infection at the puncture site (very rare with proper technique)
- ●Fainting or dizziness in sensitive individuals during venipuncture
Interfering Factors
- ●Haemolysed or lipaemic plasma samples may interfere with PCR amplification and affect result accuracy
- ●Improper sample storage or delayed processing (plasma not separated within 2 hours) may degrade viral RNA
- ●Concurrent antiviral therapy may reduce viral RNA levels below the detection threshold
- ●Contamination during sample collection or handling may lead to false-positive results
- ●Extremely early infection (before viral replication in blood) may yield false-negative results
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Hepatitis A Virus RNA Detection PCR Test | Hepatitis A IgM Antibody Test | Hepatitis A IgG Antibody Test | Liver Function Test (LFT) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Hepatitis A Virus RNA Detection PCR Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
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