Poor sensitivity of rapid tests for the detection of antibodies to the hepatitis B virus: implications for field studies

Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz. 2017 Mar;112(3):209-213. doi: 10.1590/0074-02760160394. Epub 2017 Jan 30.

Abstract

Rapid tests (RTs) can be used as an alternative method for the conventional diagnosis of hepatitis B virus (HBV). This study aims to evaluate antibodies to HBsAg (anti-HBs) and antibodies to HBeAg (anti-HBe) RTs under different Brazilian settings. The following three groups were included: GI: viral hepatitis outpatient services; GII: low resource areas; and GIII: crack users and beauticians. Imuno-rápido anti-HBsAg™ and Imuno-rápido anti-HBeAg™ RTs were evaluated and showed specificities greater than 95% in all groups. The sensitivity values to anti-HBs were 50.38%, 51.05% and 46.73% and the sensitivity values to anti-HBe were 76.99%, 10.34% and 11.76% in the GI, GII and GIII groups, respectively. The assays had a low sensitivity and high specificity, which indicated their use for screening in regions endemic for HBV.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Hepatitis B / diagnosis*
  • Hepatitis B Antibodies / blood*
  • Hepatitis B Surface Antigens / blood*
  • Hepatitis B e Antigens / blood*
  • Hepatitis B virus / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Reagent Kits, Diagnostic
  • Sensitivity and Specificity

Substances

  • Hepatitis B Antibodies
  • Hepatitis B Surface Antigens
  • Hepatitis B e Antigens
  • Reagent Kits, Diagnostic