How is Hepatitis C Detected?

Hepatitis C Diagnosis Guide: Key Blood Tests & Screening Procedures

The Hepatitis C virus (HCV) attacks the liver by causing swelling and inflammation, which, over an extended period, results in severe liver damage. According to a study, one out of three people infected with HCV doesn’t experience any symptoms. Therefore, timely detection and proper medical care are essential to prevent the spread of the virus.

There’s no vaccination to prevent the viral infection. Hence, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises people aged 18 and above to get tested for HCV at least once in their lifetime.

Read ahead to discover how hepatitis C is detected!

Diagnosis of Hepatitis C

The CDC recommends conducting screening tests followed by blood tests to confirm the diagnosis of the hepatitis C virus. Here are the tests to be undertaken in order:

1. Anti-HCV Antibody Test

This test determines the presence of antibodies formed by the body to fight against the hepatitis C virus. Also known as the ELISA screening test, it takes a few days to deliver results and confirms the presence of protein antibodies (if any) in the bloodstream to fight the infection.

Interpretation of the Test Results:

i.Negative (Non-reactive) Result:

It tells you that there are no HCV antibodies in your blood. Generally, it’s because you are not affected by the virus. However, these results can be false in the following conditions:

• If you take the test right after exposure to the virus, the result may appear negative, as these antibodies take several months to appear.  
• In case you have HIV or other illnesses that can reduce the efficiency of your immune system.
• If you’re receiving hemodialysis for kidney disease, the result may appear negative.

ii.Positive (Reactive) Result:

It indicates the presence of Hepatitis C viral infections. A positive anti‑HCV antibody test indicates exposure to the virus at some point. While false‑positive results can occur, particularly in low‑risk populations, confirmation with an HCV RNA test is required to determine active infection. This is because of the following reasons:

• Approximately 15–25% of individuals infected with HCV may spontaneously clear the virus without treatment. However, those with chronic HCV infection generally require antiviral therapy.
• People with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and other illnesses generally test positive for anti-HCV antibodies.
• Infants born to mothers with HCV may test positive for anti‑HCV antibodies due to passive transfer of maternal antibodies, which can persist for up to 18 months. This does not confirm active infection, and follow‑up testing is required.

However, if you test positive for HCV antibodies, the doctor may perform a Nucleic Acid Test (NAT) to verify the presence of HCV RNA (the genetic material of the hepatitis C virus).

2. RNA Test

If you test positive for the NAT, then a quantitative RNA test is performed to measure the quantity of viral RNA (also called the viral load test).

Interpretation of the Test Results:

i.Negative:

A negative RNA test result confirms that the positive antibody test showed false results. This can also occur if the infection heals itself.

ii.Positive:

A positive RNA test result means that you have an active, ongoing HCV infection in your body. The doctor may prescribe more RNA tests in the due course of time to monitor your infection levels.

Early detection of HCV infection is crucial for deciding a proper treatment plan and enhancing quality of life. Reliable health insurance plans provide comprehensive coverage for preventive health check-ups that can help in the early detection of HCV infections. 

Reader Information: This article is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Hepatitis C testing, diagnosis, and treatment decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.

Also Read:

→ How is Hepatitis A Detected

→ How is Jaundice Detected

→ How is Leprosy Detected

→ How is Meningitis Detected

 → How is Hepatitis B Detected