Hepatitis D other diagnostic studies

Liver Biopsy

 * Liver biopsy is not routinely indicated in diagnosis of acute hepatitis D unless the serologic diagnosis of hepatitis is inconclusive. However, liver biopsy is indicated in chronic liver disease to evaluate for cirrhosis or fibrosis.


 * Histopathologic findings are similar to that observed in HBV infection. Acidophilic cytoplasm in hepatocytes with lymphocytic infiltrates may be observed.


 * Immunohistochemical staining may be positive for HDV antigen with suppression of HBsAg in case of superinfection.