What's the most sensitive test to measure HBV DNA?

[NashPred]

The Viral load tests I have been taking range down to 100 IU/mL or 160 copies/mL.

Is this the most sensitive test available for HBV DNA?

[NashPred]

Thanks guys,

I’ve been used to the HCV PCR’s where there are different test with different sensitivities that detect down to anywhere between 100 to 2 IU/mL and I think they are used usually only during tx….I think after tx they just use a qualitive instead of quantative.  They one they use on me for HCV tx is called Heptimax and detects down to 5 IU/mL

[stevenNYer]

The 100 IU/mL or 160 copies / mL HBV PCR is pretty much the standard now.  

There is the NFI HBV PCR assay that's able to detect 2 or 3 virions of HBV per mL.  While commercially available, I have no idea when someone needs that.  Probably much more expensive compare to the standard PCR assay.

HR mentioned that he developed a PCR test that can measure the HBV virus levels to well below one single copy per mL.  But it's strictly for research purposes.  I'm thinking "below one single copy", hmmmm, a HBV vapor trail perhaps...maybe it detects parts of the darn virus while it's about to form.

[cajim]

PCR