A sensitive radioimmunoassay was developed for specific detection of IgM antibodies to the hepatitis b virus-associated delta antigen. The test is based on the selective absorption of IgM by anti-IgM fixed on a solid phase. Transient primary IgM anti-delta responses with no conversion to a secondary IgG response were observed in acute self-limited delta infection. IgM anti-delta was invariably found in hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) carriers with active delta infection and liver disease, while it was absent in HBsAg-positive or negative individuals with anti-delta of IgG class but without liver damage or intrahepatic delta antigen. IgM anti-delta appears useful in defining the epidemiology of acute delta infection and in the serological diagnosis of active delta disease from nonpathogenic or past delta infection.
Radioimmunoassay detection of IgM antibodies to the HBV-associated delta (delta) antigen:' clinical significance in delta infection.
SMEDILE, Antonina;RIZZETTO, Mario
1982-01-01
Abstract
A sensitive radioimmunoassay was developed for specific detection of IgM antibodies to the hepatitis b virus-associated delta antigen. The test is based on the selective absorption of IgM by anti-IgM fixed on a solid phase. Transient primary IgM anti-delta responses with no conversion to a secondary IgG response were observed in acute self-limited delta infection. IgM anti-delta was invariably found in hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) carriers with active delta infection and liver disease, while it was absent in HBsAg-positive or negative individuals with anti-delta of IgG class but without liver damage or intrahepatic delta antigen. IgM anti-delta appears useful in defining the epidemiology of acute delta infection and in the serological diagnosis of active delta disease from nonpathogenic or past delta infection.
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