Six ‘third-generation’ techniques for the detection of HBsAg were compared,
i.e. Ausria II-125, Travenol-RIA, Auszyme, Hepanostika, Auscell and a modified Auscell
technique applying centrifugation instead of sedimentation. The Ausria II-125 was the most
sensitive test, followed by Travenol-RIA, both Auscell techniques, Auszyme and Hepanostika.
In the Ausria II-125, Hepanostika and Auscell techniques, 1-2% of false-positive
results were found in serum and 2% in plasma specimens from blood donors. Both the
Travenol-RIA and Auszyme tests gave an unacceptably high percentage (6-8%) of falsepositive
results in both serum and plasma specimens.