Description
The Hepatitis C Infection Blood Test is used to screen for and diagnose hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, which can cause both acute and chronic liver disease. This test includes a reflex to PCR (polymerase chain reaction) testing if the initial screen is positive—providing confirmation and viral load measurement if infection is detected.
How Hepatitis C is Transmitted:
- Sharing needles or syringes
- Blood transfusions or medical procedures with unscreened blood (especially before 1992)
- Unregulated tattoos or body piercings
- Low risk from unprotected sex (more likely with other risk factors)
Common Symptoms of Hepatitis C:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Dark urine
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Note: Many people with hepatitis C may not experience symptoms until liver damage occurs.
What This Test Includes:
- Hepatitis C Antibody Test – Screens for past or present exposure to HCV
- Reflex to HCV RNA PCR (if antibody positive) – Confirms active infection and measures viral load
Test Details:
- Sample Type: Blood
- Fasting Required: No
- When to Consider Testing:
- History of injection drug use
- Received blood products before 1992
- Known exposure to HCV
- Abnormal liver tests
- As part of routine screening (recommended once for all adults)
Understanding Your Results:
- Negative antibody: No evidence of current or past infection
- Positive antibody, negative PCR: Past exposure, no current infection
- Positive antibody and PCR: Current active infection – further evaluation needed
Why This Test Matters:
Early diagnosis of hepatitis C allows for timely treatment to prevent liver damage, reduce transmission, and potentially cure the infection with antiviral medications.
