What is Hepatitis C Antibody (HCV) test?
Hepatitis C (HCV) is a virus that causes an infection of the liver that is characterized by liver inflammation and damage. Hepatitis C tests are a group of tests that are performed to detect, diagnose, and monitor the treatment of a hepatitis C viral infection. The most common test for HCV looks for antibodies in the blood that are produced in response to an HCV infection. This test detects the total anti-Hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibodies and is used as a screening test to detect the HCV virus infection. The test is performed by an immunochromatography method. Since this is a screening test all the reactive cases have to be confirmed by HCV RNA qualitative PCR test.
Why get the Hepatitis C Antibody (HCV) test?
This test is a screening test for Hepatitis C virus infection and helps in diagnosing HCV infection and usually ordered when HCV infection is suspected. This test is also usually performed before any surgery and recommended to all pregnant women.
When to take this test?
AnytimeBased on doctor adviceNo particular precautions are required, unless it is recommended by your doctor.HCV