Evaluation of Truenat results for viral hepatitis
Vandana Sharma, Mahima Mahima, Sanjay MankotiaObjectives:
Viral hepatitis (VH) due to hepatitis B and hepatitis C viruses (HBV/HCV) is a public health problem. Truenat provides molecular assays for VH detection. We aimed to inspect the successful and unsuccessful Truenat results and actions applied for reducing unsuccessful outcomes.
Materials and Methods:
Retrospective study (January 2024–December 2025) of secondary HBV and HCV Truenat data carried out at a district hospital in Una, Himachal Pradesh. Results reported as “detected,” “not detected,” “invalid,” and “error” (unsuccessful results). The laboratory adhered to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and good laboratory practices for decreasing unsuccessful results.
Statistical analysis:
Data extracted from the Truenat machine. Analyzed for the proportions of detected, not detected, invalid, and error. Difference between viral load values calculated with Student’s t -test.
Results:
A total of 537 plasma and 195 serum samples were evaluated for Truenat hepatitis B (n = 207) and hepatitis C viral load (n = 525). Average viral load for HBV and HCV was 5.9 × 10 7 IU/mL and 1.8 × 10 5 IU/mL, respectively. The mean viral load among plasma and serum was similar ( p = 0.213). In 2024 and 2025, the total rate of (HBV + HCV) detected was 57.7 and 62.1%, not detected was 42.3 and 37.9%. Meanwhile, the invalid and error rate was 17 and 12.7% in 2024, and in 2025, it was 2.5 and 5.1%, respectively. A reduction was noted in invalids and errors in 2025 compared to 2024.
Conclusions:
Truenat testing is advantageous in resource-poor settings. Plasma and serum samples compare favorably for viral load. Laboratories should follow good laboratory practices, identify reasons for unsuccessful outcomes, and resolve them through troubleshooting and precautionary measures.