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Hepatitis B virus – genotyping

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Genotyping of hepatitis B virus by sequence analysis or detection of Hepatitis B virus precore/basal core promoter mutants
Laboratory	Microbiology
Sub-section	Serology
Specimen Type	○ Serum ○ Plasma

Other Information

○ Testing will only be performed in instances of confirmed Hepatitis B infection. Serology must show markers to the Hepatitis B virus AND HBV DNA results must be positive (i.e, detectable viral load).
○ Repeated testing of HBV genotype is not warranted unless superinfection is suspected.

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

○ Serum: serum separator tube (clotted blood)
○ Plasma: EDTA-blood tube (lavender top)

Collection Requirements

○ Decontaminate skin with 70% alcohol followed by iodine or chlorhexidine, collect at least 5 mL of blood

Sample Stability

Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery

Referral Laboratory

PHOL

Routine Turnaround Time

○ Up to 21 days after receipt by PHOL

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4432

Approval Required

YES

Sample Processing / Delivery

○ Label specimen container. Place specimens in biohazard bag and seal.

○ Specimens should be stored at refrigeration temperature (2-8C˚) after collection

○ UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory will refer the original positive specimen to the Public Health Ontario Laboratory for testing upon request