Detection of immunoglobulin M antibody to hepatitis A virus in Alaska residents without other evidence of hepatitis

Clin Infect Dis. 2005 Nov 1;41(9):e86-8. doi: 10.1086/497073. Epub 2005 Sep 21.

Abstract

During a 38-month period, 13 of 41 persons with test results positive for IgM antibody to hepatitis A virus did not meet the case definition for hepatitis A or have a clear indication for testing, which suggests that test results were falsely positive. No single testing platform or kit was used. Health care providers should restrict serologic testing for hepatitis A to patients with clinical or epidemiologic indications.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Alaska
  • Child
  • False Positive Reactions
  • Female
  • Hepatitis A / blood*
  • Hepatitis A / diagnosis*
  • Hepatitis A virus / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin M / blood*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged

Substances

  • Immunoglobulin M