Chronic hepatitis D: which test results to bring to China for an assessment for libevitug

EastMedGo Nov 6, 2026

When your medical record says “hepatitis D antibody positive,” the next step is usually to have a liver specialist review your HDV RNA results to determine whether you have an ongoing infection, then assess how well your liver is functioning and whether it is compensated. On January 20, 2026, China conditionally approved libevitug (华优诺) for adults with chronic hepatitis D who do not have cirrhosis or who have compensated cirrhosis.

Key points

List HDV and HBV tests separately, and bring the date and units for each result.
If you have ascites, vomit blood, or experience changes in consciousness, seek medical care locally first.

How to prepare if you only have hepatitis D antibody results

HDV depends on the hepatitis B virus to complete the infection process. List your previous hepatitis B surface antigen, HBV DNA, hepatitis D antibody, and HDV RNA results separately. If RNA testing is available locally, bring the original values, units, and lower limit of detection. If it is unavailable, first ask the hospital whether it offers the test and how long results take, to avoid arranging a long journey just for an additional test.

Why the compensation status of cirrhosis matters

Please provide existing reports for bilirubin, albumin, blood clotting function, platelet count, abdominal ultrasound, and any other relevant tests. Clearly tell the doctor if you have ever had ascites, bleeding from esophageal or gastric varices, or hepatic encephalopathy. The doctor needs to determine your current stage and whether any complications of cirrhosis need to be managed first. If you vomit blood, have black stools with dizziness, or experience a sudden change in consciousness, seek emergency care locally.

What other medicines are available overseas for the same disease

Libevitug is a monoclonal antibody that targets the PreS1 region of the viral envelope protein. In an open-label phase IIa study in China involving 9 participants, HDV RNA was undetectable in blood tests in 4 participants at 24 weeks of treatment. The sample was very small, and there was no concurrent control group. At follow-up visits, the doctor also needs to assess sustained virologic response and liver function. The European Union and the United States have approved another medicine for chronic hepatitis D, bulevirtide; the United States approved it in May 2026. When comparing options, ask both doctors which product, eligible patient population, and follow-up conditions their assessments are based on. In particular, do not stop your existing antiviral treatment for hepatitis B on your own.

How to move from the first prescription to ongoing treatment

The Liver Disease Center at Beijing Friendship Hospital announced its first prescription in March 2026: the hospital arranged intravenous administration once every two weeks for this patient. If you plan to continue treatment across two locations, first establish the location and date of the next administration, then confirm whether the relevant hospital campus is currently accepting patients, whether it supplies the medicine on a self-pay basis, the treatment arrangements, and follow-up liver function and virologic testing. Ask the billing office to itemize outpatient assessment, the medicine and its administration at each visit, HDV RNA testing, and other tests. Ask how many vials are used each time, the price per vial, and whether HDV RNA testing is available in both locations. Before returning to your home country, find a doctor who can receive your RNA and liver function results.

Frequently asked questions

If my hepatitis B viral load is low, do I still need an assessment for hepatitis D?

If you have already had a positive hepatitis D-related test, give the liver specialist both sets of results, as they reflect different viruses.

My overseas HDV RNA report is in a foreign language. Does the test need to be repeated?

Send the complete original report first, including the test date, method, and units. The hospital can use this to decide whether translation, verification, or repeat testing is needed.

Can I use this medicine if I only have fatty liver or hepatitis B?

This approval is for adults with chronic HDV infection. Having fatty liver or hepatitis B alone does not meet this condition.

Can my first negative RNA result mean that I am cured?

A single test only reflects the result at that time. The liver specialist will compare multiple virologic and liver assessments, then agree on the next step with you.

How can I confirm that the hospital can supply the medicine before booking an appointment?

First ask the pharmacy and the clinical department to confirm in writing that they can see you and arrange the medicine. Tell them about your previous treatment and planned arrival date before booking your tickets.