Anti Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) - Total
Report in 24Hrs
At Home
Details
The Anti-HCV Total test detects both IgM and IgG antibodies produced by the immune system in response to infection by the Hepatitis C virus
₹199₹935
79% OFF
1000+ Booked this Test
🧪 Anti-Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) – Total Antibody Test
Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
Full Name | Anti-Hepatitis C Virus Antibody – Total (IgM + IgG) |
Sample Type | Blood (Serum) |
Fasting Required | ❌ No |
Test Method | ELISA / CLIA (Enzyme-linked or Chemiluminescent Immunoassay) |
🔬 What Is It?
The Anti-HCV Total test detects both IgM and IgG antibodies produced by the immune system in response to infection by the Hepatitis C virus.
- IgM antibodies appear early in infection.
- IgG antibodies persist for years (possibly for life).
- This test does not differentiate between IgM and IgG — it shows whether a person has ever been exposed to the HCV virus.
🧠 Organs Involved
Organ/System | Role |
|---|---|
Liver | Target of Hepatitis C virus; chronic infection can cause liver damage, cirrhosis, or cancer |
Immune System | Produces antibodies (IgM, IgG) in response to HCV infection |
🎯 Why Is This Test Done?
Use Case | Purpose |
|---|---|
🦠 Detect past or current HCV infection | Especially in asymptomatic individuals |
💉 Pre-blood transfusion or organ donation | Prevents transmission via blood products |
👩⚕️ High-risk groups (IV drug users, healthcare workers) | Routine screening and surveillance |
🔄 Evaluate chronic liver disease cause | Rule in or out HCV as a contributor to liver damage |
📊 Test Interpretation
Result | Interpretation | Next Steps |
|---|---|---|
Positive | Exposure to HCV (past or current) | Confirm with HCV RNA PCR to check active infection |
Negative | No antibodies to HCV detected | If recently exposed, repeat test in 6–12 weeks |
⚠️ Key Points to Understand
- A positive Anti-HCV Total test does not confirm active infection.
- Up to 25–30% of individuals clear the virus on their own but still test positive.
- Only HCV RNA (PCR) confirms active viral replication.
🔬 Recommended Additional Tests
Test | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
HCV RNA PCR | Confirms current infection and viral load |
HCV Genotype | Guides treatment choice and duration |
Liver Function Tests (LFTs) | Checks extent of liver damage or inflammation |
FibroScan / Liver biopsy | Assesses liver fibrosis/cirrhosis if chronic infection is confirmed |
HIV / HBV serology | Co-infections are common; must be ruled out |
🧬 Timeline of Marker Appearance
Marker | Timeframe Post-Infection |
|---|---|
HCV RNA | 1–2 weeks |
Anti-HCV IgM/IgG | 6–8 weeks |
✅ Summary Table
Test | Anti-HCV Total (IgM + IgG) |
|---|---|
Used For | Detecting exposure to Hepatitis C Virus |
Positive Result Means | Past or current infection |
Confirmatory Test Required | ✅ Yes – HCV RNA PCR |
Sample Type | Blood (serum) |
Fasting Required | ❌ No |
🔄 Interpretation Workflow
- Anti-HCV Total: Positive
- → Test HCV RNA (PCR)
- If positive: Active infection → Treat
- If negative: Past infection or resolved naturally
How our test process works!
