PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:
OVERVIEW:
What is the anti HCV lab test?
An anti HCV lab test is a blood test that looks for antibodies against the hepatitis C virus.
Why is the anti HCV lab test done?
An anti HCV lab test is done in order to:
- Diagnose hepatitis C virus infection,
- Screen for hepatitis C virus infection,
- Guide treatment of hepatitis C virus infection,
- Monitor the effect of treatment of hepatitis C virus infection.
WHAT DOES HCV Ab MEASURE?
What does an anti HCV lab test measure?
An anti HCV lab test detects the antibodies formed by the body to fight against the hepatitis C virus. Antibodies are proteins that are formed by the body as soon as it finds any virus in your blood. Antibodies against hepatitis C virus are usually formed 12 weeks after getting infected.
Are there any risks associated with this test?
There are no known risks associated with this test.
How should I prepare for this test?
There is no special preparation needed for this test.
Is anti HCV lab test 100 percent accurate?
Anti HCV lab test is not 100 percent accurate as 1 out of 5 people who get a positive test result do not have hepatitis C virus infection.
Does a negative anti HCV lab test result rule out hepatitis C virus infection?
A negative anti HCV lab test result does not rule out hepatitis C virus infection as getting this test done very early in the course of the disease will yield a negative result even if you are infected hepatitis C virus infection.
At what time of the day should I get this test done?
You can get this test done at anytime of the day.
Positive (reactive) test result means that you have been infected with hepatitis C virus.
Negative (non-reactive) test result means that your blood does not have antibodies against the hepatitis C virus.
An anti HCV lab test is done in order to:
- Diagnose hepatitis C virus infection,
- Screen for hepatitis C virus infection,
- Guide treatment of hepatitis C virus infection,
- Monitor the effect of treatment of hepatitis C virus infection.
