Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management? A. Start vitamin E B. Perform liver biopsy C. Start alpha interferon D. Request anti-Delta antibody
Understand the Problem
The question presents a clinical scenario involving a 45-year-old patient with chronic hepatitis B who has developed increasing jaundice. It provides lab results and asks for the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient from the given options.
Answer
Request anti-Delta antibody.
The most appropriate next step is to request anti-Delta antibody testing.
Answer for screen readers
The most appropriate next step is to request anti-Delta antibody testing.
More Information
Given the patient's chronic hepatitis B infection and worsening liver function, checking for Hepatitis D co-infection (Delta agent) is important. Delta hepatitis requires specific management, and anti-Delta antibody testing can confirm this co-infection.
Tips
A common mistake is to start treatment without confirming co-infection. Always verify the presence of additional factors that may affect management.
Sources
- Therapy of Delta Hepatitis - PMC - pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
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