Detection of HBV DNA by PCR and its application in clinical transfusion

This study was to detect the hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA copies in patients through blood transfusions; recessive carriers with HBsAg negative but HBV DNA positive were further studied to see the content and distribution of HBV in patients, and provide evidence for the clinical treatment. A total of 532 blood samples collected from July 2014 to July 2015 were tested for HBV-DNA viral load and hepatitis B serological markers using quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) and serologic test (five serological markers of hepatitis B). The results showed that, 3 cases were HBV serology negative and the HBV-DNA viral load was in the range of 250-500 whereas only 1 case was HBsAb positive and the HBV-DNA viral load was above 500. qPCR, for detecting HBV DNA, together with serological routine test can effectively reduce HBV infection during transfusion and prevent medical disputes.