What is an HCV Antibody Test?
- The HCV antibody test is used to identify the presence of hepatitis C virus in the body.
- This test specifically looks for antibodies related to hepatitis C in the blood.
- When an individual contracts the hepatitis C virus, their immune system produces antibodies to combat it.
- This test is commonly suggested for individuals at high risk, including drug users, healthcare professionals, and infants born to mothers with HCV.
- It is also recommended for those displaying symptoms like tiredness, vomiting, loss of appetite, dark urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or diarrhoea, as hepatitis C primarily affects the liver.
Why do I need an HCV antibody test?
It is recommended that individuals between the ages of 18 and 79 get tested for HCV antibodies. Some people do not get sick from the hepatitis C virus, but it slowly affects their liver. The test can also be used to prevent the transmission of hepatitis C infection. If you are in a high-risk category, such as a healthcare worker or an illegal drug user, you must take this test.
Common Causes of Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is primarily spread through contact with infected blood. Some common HCV exposure risk factors include:
- Sharing needles or drug paraphernalia
- Receiving a blood transfusion or organ transplant before blood screening was common
- Healthcare workers being exposed to contaminated blood
- Being born to a mother who has hepatitis C
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Get A Second OpinionHCV Exposure Risk Factors
The HCV exposure risk factors for contracting the virus include:
- Sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia
- Receiving medical procedures with improperly sterilized equipment
- Unprotected sex, especially with multiple partners or those with a history of injection drug use
- Receiving tattoos or body piercings in non-sterile environments
- Being born to a mother with hepatitis C (vertical transmission)
If you have any of these risk factors, it is essential to talk to your doctor about getting tested for HCV.
Can Hepatitis C Be Prevented?
While there is currently no vaccine for hepatitis C, there are ways to reduce your risk of exposure:
- Avoid sharing needles or personal items like razors or toothbrushes.
- Use barrier methods (like condoms) during sex, especially if you engage in high-risk behaviors.
- Ensure safe medical practices, such as using sterile needles during procedures like tattoos or body piercings.
- Get tested regularly if you’re at high risk.
Why Is the HCV Antibody Test Important?
The HCV antibody test is the first step in diagnosing hepatitis C. Many people may be unaware they are infected with the virus because it often doesn't cause symptoms in its early stages. By detecting antibodies, the test helps identify individuals who may be at risk of liver damage due to chronic hepatitis C.
- Some of the symptoms of hepatitis C to look out for include:
- Fatigue or feeling constantly tired
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss
- Dark-colored urine
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Abdominal pain, especially in the upper right side where the liver is located
- If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to get tested to determine whether HCV is the cause.
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Book an AppointmentWhat does a reactive or positive HCV antibody test result mean?
- A reactive or positive antibody test indicates that you have had hepatitis C at some point.
- Once infected, people will always have antibodies in their blood. This is true whether they have recovered from the virus, have been treated, or have the virus in their blood.
What should you do if the HCV antibody test is positive?
If the antibody test comes reactive or positive, you will need to have another test to determine if you have hepatitis C. This is known as a nucleic acid test (NAT) for HCV RNA. This test is also known as a PCR test. If the NAT for HCV RNA is:
- Negative: You were infected with the hepatitis C virus, but the virus is no longer in the body as it was treated or cleansed naturally.
- Positive: When the virus is in the blood.
If you have a positive antibody test and a positive NAT for HCV RNA, talk to your physician about treatment options. Most people with hepatitis C can be cured in 8 to 12 weeks with available treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What additional testing is needed to confirm an active HCV infection?
To confirm an active HCV infection, a second test known as the HCV RNA test is required. This test reveals the presence of the virus in a person's blood.
How long will it take for the HCV antibody test results to be available?
The time it takes to acquire HCV antibody test results varies, but results are usually available within a few days to a week.
What is the principle of the HCV antibody test?
The HCV antibody, or the anti-HCV test, detects antibodies to the hepatitis C virus in the blood. Antibodies are substances released into the bloodstream when an individual becomes infected.
How sensitive is the anti-HCV antibody test?
The HCV Ab test is used for basic hepatitis C screening. The test employs enzyme immunoassays (EIAs) to detect the presence of hepatitis C antibodies in serum. The test outcome is either positive or negative. The test result is either affirmative or negative. Third-generation EIAs have a sensitivity/specificity of about 99%.
What precautions should be taken for HCV positives?
Reusing or sharing should be avoided. Avoid sharing personal care items that may have blood on them (razors, nail clippers, toothbrushes). If you work in health care or public safety, take universal blood/body fluid precautions and handle needles and other sharps safely.
What is the cost of an HCV antibody test?
The HCV test cost in India starts from Rs. 420.
