Hepatitis E virus: molecular biology and diagnosis.

The hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a cause of severe liver disease in humans, especially in developing countries. Several assays are available to detect the HEV genome and specific antibodies against HEV (anti-IgG, IgA and IgM). Different serological patterns enable the diagnostician to differentiate remote from recent infections. In order to avoid diagnostic errors based on incomplete serological diagnosis, these patterns are shown with their specific serological marker.