Hepatitis D (HDV) antibody test
Quick answer: This blood test looks for antibodies against hepatitis D virus, which only infects people who also have hepatitis B. Doctors usually order it in people with hepatitis B whose liver disease is severe or worsening.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
How the test is done
- 1A nurse confirms your hepatitis B history
- 2A vein on your arm is cleaned
- 3A needle draws a tube of blood
- 4The lab tests for antibodies to hepatitis D virus
What your results can mean
Reading your report
The report usually says positive, negative or borderline; a positive result often needs a confirmatory test, so discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive result can mean you have, or have had, hepatitis D along with hepatitis B. Doctors usually confirm a current infection with an HDV RNA test, as this combination can cause faster liver damage.
Who usually has this test
People with hepatitis B whose liver disease is severe, worsening, or not explained by hepatitis B alone.
Risks and aftercare
Bruising at the needle site is the only usual effect; your liver checks carry on as planned.
Names and options
Also called: anti-HDV, delta hepatitis test, HDV antibody
Listed by the hospital as
- ANTI HDV ANTIBODY
Questions about this test
Can I get hepatitis D without hepatitis B?
No. Hepatitis D needs hepatitis B to survive, so it only affects people who also have hepatitis B. Hepatitis B vaccination also protects against hepatitis D.
Why is hepatitis D tested in hepatitis B?
Infection with both can make liver disease worse more quickly. Finding hepatitis D changes how often the liver is checked and which treatments are considered.
What test follows a positive hepatitis D antibody?
An HDV RNA test usually follows to see whether the virus is active now. Your liver specialist will arrange this.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.