CKS is no longer commissioned by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). NICE remains committed to providing a replacement service for CKS and is currently reviewing its options. In the meantime, although CKS content is now not being maintained, it still remains relevant and will continue to be made available. CKS content was generated under a programme of topic creation and update. To check if the topic you are viewing is current or out of date, please refer to the topic publication details by clicking on the 'How up-to-date is this topic?' link in the left hand menu on individual topic pages.
Bites - human and animal - Management
How do I test for seroconversion of a blood-borne virus?
- Obtain valid consent for all tests.
- If any of the tests are positive, seek advice from a consultant in infectious diseases for further management.
- Blood should have been taken from the victim at the time of the incident and archived.
Table 1. Testing for hepatitis C, hepatitis B, and HIV after potential exposure.
Time | Hepatitis C | Hepatitis B | HIV |
|---|
6 weeks | Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) | Surface antigen | Antigen/antibody combined test |
3 months | Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and antibody | Surface antigen | Antigen/antibody combined test |
6 months | Antibody | Surface antigen (surface antibody)* | Antigen/antibody combined test |
* HB surface antibody only needed at 6 months if vaccination only started at injury. |
|
Basis for recommendation
- This recommendation is based on expert opinion from the Health Protection Agency.
© NHS Institute for Innovation and Improvement