Hepatitis C Virus Genotyping/Viral Load/Drug Resistance Test
About Hepatitis C Genotyping test:
Hepatitis C is caused by the hepatitis C virus and is spread through contaminated blood. It causes inflammation of the liver, sometimes leading to severe liver damage.
Hepatitis C virus genotyping and viral load drug resistance testing determines resistance to HCV directly acting agents (DAA) in certain HCV genotypes. This test helps in optimizing the DAA treatment on an individual patient basis.
Causes of HCV infection:
HCV is a bloodborne virus. It is most commonly transmitted through,
·      Re-use of syringes and needles
·      Sharing of injecting needles
·      Transfusion of unscreened blood and blood products
Symptoms of HCV infection:
In the initial infection period, most people do not exhibit any symptoms. A few typical symptoms include:
Fever
Fatigue
Decreased appetite
Nausea
Vomiting
Abdominal pain
Dark urine
Pale faeces
Joint pain
Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eye white)
Who should get tested for HCV genotyping and viral load drug resistance?
This test is recommended for people:
Who have been diagnosed with HCV infection
Who have been diagnosed with and treated for HCV infection
Who have been treated for HCV infection and developed resistance to the therapy
Routine monitoring of HCV infected persons
Test preparation
No special preparation is required for HCV genotyping and viral load drug resistance.
Interpretation of results
Positive test results
A positive hepatitis C genotyping and viral load drug resistance test result indicates that the hepatitis C virus is multiplying inside the body with no positive treatment effect on an individual.
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Negative test results
A negative test result indicates that there is no sign of Hepatitis C infection in an individual’s body.
FAQs
What is the turnaround time for the test results of Hepatitis C genotyping and viral load drug resistance test?
It will take about 7-10 working days to get the test results of Hepatitis C genotyping and viral load drug resistance.
Are there any limitations to Hepatitis C genotyping and viral load drug resistance test?
A few limitations that can be considered with this test procedure are:
·      Serum or plasma samples that have been contaminated by microbes are not acceptable for testing;
·      Improper sample collection may result in errors in the test results.
Are there any potential risks to Hepatitis C genotyping test?
There are no risks associated with Hepatitis C genotyping test. However, you might feel a slight pain at the site of sample withdrawal, which should subside in a few minutes to hours.
How can I reduce my risk of hepatitis C infection?
You may want to take the following precautions to lower your risk of contracting hepatitis C:
·      Never share injections. The most common way to contract this infection is through injecting drugs.
·      Avoid sharing items like razors, toothbrushes, and other items that come into contact with another person's blood.
The only way to lower the risk is to exercise caution, as there is no vaccine available to prevent hepatitis C infection
I am HIV positive. Should I get screened for Hepatitis C test?
Yes, if you are HIV positive then you should definitely get screened for Hepatitis test (both B and C). Hepatitis is frequently contracted by HIV-positive individuals
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