The Central Research Institute of Epidemiology of Rospotrebnadzor has registered the world’s first rapid test for the diagnosis of viral hepatitis B, Rospotrebnadzor’s press service reported.
The test is based on loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), a technology described as a faster, simpler, and cheaper alternative to the traditional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. A key advantage of the LAMP-based test is that the reaction occurs at a constant temperature, eliminating the need for the expensive and complex thermal cyclers required for PCR. The test can be performed using a simple heating block or water bath.
“The new test is comparable to PCR in sensitivity but detects the virus in just 25-30 minutes, significantly speeding up diagnosis,” the statement said. “This is crucial for the rapid identification of patients, prescribing effective therapy, and implementing epidemic control measures.”
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver and can cause both acute and chronic disease, including cirrhosis and liver cancer. The virus is transmitted through contact with blood or other body fluids, with children and immunocompromised individuals being particularly vulnerable.
