HCV RNA Qualitative by PCR
HCV RNA Qualitative by PCR
Hepatitis C is a contagious blood-borne viral infection that affects the liver. It spreads through infected blood and often has no symptoms for decades. When left untreated, it progresses to serious life-threatening conditions such as cirrhosis, fibrosis, cancer and even death.
HCV RNA Qualitative assay, based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR), is an important diagnostic tool to help doctors detect the presence or absence of HCV genetic material (RNA) in the patient’s blood sample.
Typically, this test follows positive anti-HCV antibody test results for more than 6 months to indicate that the patient has progressed to chronic hepatitis C. However, it cannot quantify the virus in the body.
For most qualitative HCV RNA assays, the lower limit for detecting the virus is 10-15 IU/mL
What is HCV RNA Qualitative PCR Used For?
The HCV RNA qualitative PCR test is used:
To confirm a positive HCV antibody screening result and make the diagnosis of chronic HCV infection
Symptoms of Hepatitis C
Most new infections of HCV lack symptoms. But a small percentage of people may develop mild symptoms that may include
Jaundice (yellow discoloration of the eye and skin)
Tiredness
Nausea and Vomiting
Fever
Pain in the upper right part of the belly
Joint pain
Dark-colored urine and stool
Test preparation
This test does not require any preparation. However, let your doctor know the medications and supplements you're currently taking to avoid interference with test results
Interpretation of the Test Results
Positive result (Detected)
This result indicates the presence of viral RNA in the blood and confirms the patient has chronic hepatitis C. Your doctor will assign the patient for an HCV RNA quantitative test to determine the viral load in the body
Negative result (Not Detected)
This result suggests no sign of virus in the blood
FAQs
. Is the HCV RNA Qualitative Test by PCR accurate?
Yes. This test is almost accurate in detecting an HCV infection within 1-2 weeks after exposure, regardless of how low the viral load is in the blood
Who should get the HCV RNA Qualitative PCR test?
Individuals having the risk factor for exposure to HCV, such as those with a history of injection drug use, blood transfusion, or having associated conditions like HIV infection and hemophilia or have been on hemodialysis, must get tested
Can someone with acute hepatitis C become chronically infected?
It is estimated that more than half of those exposed to hepatitis C will eventually develop chronic infectionIt is estimated that more than half of those exposed to hepatitis C will eventually develop chronic infection
Should I be tested for hepatitis C if I am pregnant?
As per CDC recommendation, women must get tested for hepatitis C during every pregnancy. And if they have hepatitis C, their babies must also be tested within two months after the birth
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