The Anti-HCV test detects antibodies to the hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the blood. It is primarily used to screen for HCV infection and is often the first step in diagnosing hepatitis C.

Acute HCV infection, Chronic HCV infection, Hepatitis C treatment assessment, Hepatitis C therapy decisions

Normal Range

• Normal Result: A negative test result indicates no antibodies to HCV are present.
• Positive Result: A positive result indicates the presence of antibodies, suggesting either current or past infection with HCV.

Interpretation

• Negative Anti-HCV Test:
  • Indicates no infection with HCV.
• Positive Anti-HCV Test:
  • Suggests current or past infection. Further testing (e.g., HCV RNA test) is needed to confirm active infection or evaluate the stage of disease.
• Indeterminate Results:
  • May require retesting or additional tests to clarify the status.

The sample type for the Anti-HCV test is typically serum or plasma obtained from a blood draw.