Hepatitis C Antibody
Does this test have other names?
Antibody to HCV, anti-HCV
What is this test?
A hepatitis C antibody test is used to find out if you are infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV). When your body is infected with a virus, it makes antibodies to fight the virus. This test looks for antibodies that the body makes when HCV is present.
HCV infects the liver. It often causes swelling and damage. It can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer. It's more common in developing nations.
Why do I need this test?
Every adult who is 18 years of age or older should have this test at least once to screen for HCV. You may also need this test if your health care provider suspects that you have HCV. If you are infected with HCV, you likely won't have any symptoms at first. Because of this, the CDC advises having the test if you:
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Ever injected illegal drugs.
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Had a blood transfusion before 1992.
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Had an organ transplant before 1992.
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Received clotting factor concentrates for hemophilia before 1987.
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Are the child of a mother with HCV.
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Have had sex with someone who has HCV.
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Have HIV.
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Are a health care worker who may have been exposed to HCV.
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Have been on kidney dialysis.
HCV can lead to liver disease, which has symptoms that include:
Symptoms of severe liver disease include swelling of your feet, ankles, and belly, and being confused.
What other tests might I have along with this test?
If your results on the hepatitis C antibody test are positive or you have symptoms that suggest HCV, your health care provider may order a hepatitis C RNA test. This is a blood test that looks to see if the virus is in your blood. If this is positive, it means you have an infection. Another test is called viral genotyping. This test helps find out what kind of HCV infection you have. And it tells you what type of treatment may be needed. In some cases, you may need a liver biopsy to look for liver damage from HCV.
Other tests may be done to look for enlarged blood vessels in the esophagus (varices) or for cancer in the liver. Ongoing infection with HCV can cause swelling. And it can destroy blood cells, blood vessels, and other tissues in the body. Your provider may test for these also.
You may be tested for other types of hepatitis viruses, such as hepatitis A or hepatitis B.
What do my test results mean?
Test results may vary based on your age, gender, health history, and other things. Your test results may vary based on the lab used. They may not mean you have a problem. Ask your health care provider what your test results mean for you.
A test for hepatitis C antibodies is either positive or negative. If you test positive, you may have an HCV infection. But it could also mean that you had the infection in the past and are not infected now. If you test negative, it is likely that you don't have the infection.
How is this test done?
The test is done with a blood sample. A needle is used to draw blood from a vein in your arm or hand.
Does this test pose any risks?
Having a blood test with a needle carries some risks. These include bleeding, infection, bruising, and feeling lightheaded. When the needle pricks your arm or hand, you may feel a slight sting or pain. The site may be sore after the test.
What might affect my test results?
Hepatitis C antibody is just one of many tests that health care providers use to diagnose an HCV infection. It simply notes that you have been exposed to the virus. It can't tell a current infection from a past one. A weak positive test result could be a false-positive.
How do I get ready for this test?
You don't have to prepare for this test. Be sure your provider knows about all medicines, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. This includes medicines that don't need a prescription and any illegal drugs you may use.