Hepatitis C RNA PCR Qualitative

The clinical symptoms of an HCV infection are variable. Infection with HCV results in a chronic infection in 50 to 80% of cases. The “window” between HCV acquisition and sero-reactivity is highly variable; up to six months.

Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is one of the several viruses that cause hepatitis. It is severely contagious, being spread mostly through unprotected sex and contaminated blood. Hepatitis is a form of liver inflammation and enlargement which can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer. Qualitative HCV PCR test detects the presence of HCV genetic material in the blood. The test is performed in the early stages of infection or shortly after possible exposure since viral RNA is present in the blood earlier than antibodies and helps to diagnose early infection. This lab test is a qualitative test, meaning the results are “positive” or “negative”.

This lab test is performed in following conditions such as:

• Jaundice
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dark urine and/or pale colored stool
• Abdominal pain