Our lab detects the presence of antibodies to hepatitis C (HCV) in the blood sample.

• A negative result indicates that no HCV antibodies were detected in the specimen tested. If recent exposure to HCV is suspected, testing for HCV RNA may be required.
• A positive result indicates that HCV antibodies were detected in the specimen tested. This result is consistent with a current HCV infection, or a past infection that has resolved, or a biologic false positivity for HCV antibody. Follow up testing for HCV nucleic acid (RNA) is required to identify a current infection.

There is vaccination for hepatitis C (HCV). Treatment options vary depending on HCV genotype, viral load, stage of infection, liver damage, and any other health complications. 8-12 weeks of antiviral medications are now effective in approximately 90% of cases. However, these medications do not repair any tissue damage that has already occurred. Liver transplantation may be necessary for severe liver damage.

Hepatitis C (HCV) is usually transmitted through exposure to blood from an infected individual.

• Sharing needles (most common source)
• At birth (~6% of infants of infected mothers)
• Sexual intercourse (rare but more common in men who have sex with men)
• Healthcare exposures
• Blood transfusions and organ transplants (now very uncommon)
• Unregulated tattoos or body piercings
• Sharing personal items that have been contact with infected blood (e.g. glucose monitors, razors)

The CDC recommends universal HCV screening at least once in a lifetime for all adults and for all pregnant women during each pregnancy, except in populations where the prevalence of HCV is less than 0.1%. Testing is especially important for:

• HIV-positive individuals
• Anyone who has ever injected drugs (regular testing for current injectable drug users)
• Individuals with abnormal liver tests and/or liver disease
• Anyone who received blood or organs before July 1992
• Anyone who received clotting factor before 1987
• Anyone who has been potentially exposed to the blood of an infected individual

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Affected individuals should:

• • Not donate blood, tissue, or semen
  • Refrain from sharing items that may come into contact with blood (e.g. razors, glucose meters, toothbrushes)

• • Cover any cuts or sores