Hepatitis C Antibody with Reflex to HCV, RNA, Quantitative, Real-Time PCR

Hepatitis C (HCV) is a virus that causes an infection in the liver. The Hepatitis C blood test is used to detect past Hepatitis C infection in those who have symptoms of the disease and who are at high risk. More specifically, the HCV RNA PCR test is administered via a process called polymerase chain reaction (PCR). There are two approaches used to conduct this process: qualitative and quantitative. The HCV RNA PCR quantitative test is useful for screening and monitoring the amount of HCV in your blood over time or gauging your response to the treatment proposed to reduce your viral load. The Hepatitis C virus infects the liver and can cause liver damage. Early symptoms include yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, nausea, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Those at high risk include drug users, health workers, those on dialysis, and those with risky sexual behavior. The test also detects antibodies to a previous Hepatitis C infection.