Hepatitis C Virus Test
2,650 Kshs | Home Collection Available
Synonyms
HCV Test
Purpose
Healthcare providers use the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Test to detect antibodies or genetic material (RNA) related to the Hepatitis C virus in the blood. This test identifies current or past HCV infections and is commonly recommended for individuals at higher risk, including those with a history of blood transfusions, injection drug use, or unprotected sex with an infected partner.
This test is important because Hepatitis C often progresses silently without symptoms, yet can lead to serious complications like chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer if left untreated.
The test can be done alongside HCV RNA PCR, HCV genotyping, and Liver function tests (e.g., ALT, AST, and bilirubin).
Patient Preparation
No special preparation is needed.
Samples
2.5ml (minimum 700ul) serum or plasma collected in gel-barrier tube, lavender-top (EDTA) tube, or plasma preparation tube. Centrifuge the samples within 24 hours after collection, then transfer the serum or plasma to a screw-cap polypropylene transport tube and freeze. Samples are stable at room temperature for 24 hours, refrigerated for 72 hours, and frozen for 6 weeks.
Reference Range
Negative
Results Turnaround
3-5 days after sample collection.
Diseases / Diagnostic Indicators
A positive HCV antibody test indicates exposure to the Hepatitis C virus, but it does not confirm an active infection. If positive, a follow-up HCV RNA test is needed to determine if the virus is currently present in the blood.
A positive HCV RNA result confirms an active infection, which may be acute (short-term) or chronic (lasting more than 6 months).
Chronic Hepatitis C can lead to long-term liver complications such as fibrosis, cirrhosis, liver failure, or hepatocellular carcinoma.
A negative HCV RNA after a positive antibody test may suggest a past infection that has resolved on its own or successful treatment.
Outcomes of the test guide decisions about antiviral treatment, monitoring, and liver health evaluation.
For more on the Hepatitis C virus test, read this study.