Hepatitis C Antibody with Reflex to PCR

Formal Name of the Test:
Hepatitis C Antibody with Reflex to HCV, RNA, Quantitative, Real-Time PCR

Other Names Used:
 HCV, Hep C

Sample Required:
Serum

Test Overview:
Hepatitis is caused by the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). An HCV infection can cause a variety of symptoms. In 50 to 80 percent of instances, HCV infection leads to a chronic infection. The time between HCV infection and seroreactivity is highly diverse, ranging from three to six months. Antibodies to the Hepatitis C virus are detected using this test. Because a person with a history of infection will have a lifelong antibody response, confirmed positive antibody tests indicate that the individual has been exposed to the virus at some point. This test is quite effective in ruling out HCV infection.

Test Preparation:
There is no need for any prior preparation.

Test Performed at:
Quest Diagnostics, Test Code 8472
Click here to go to Quest Diagnostics page for this test