Anti – HCV | Qualitative Detection of Hepatitis C Virus Antibodies

Hepatitis C Virus Antibodies (Anti-HCV, Qualitative Detection) – this is a screening serological blood test designed to determine if a person's body has encountered the hepatitis C virus (HCV). The test looks for antibodies against HCV, which form after infection with the virus. These antibodies persist for life, indicating a past or current infection, but do not determine the virus's activity or stage.

The qualitative Anti-HCV test does not show the quantity of antibodies – the result is presented as positive or negative. A positive result means that the person has been or is infected with HCV. To determine if the infection is currently active, additional tests, such as HCV RNA (PCR method), are necessary.

Test Principle: Antibodies against the hepatitis C virus are detected using an immunochemical method (e.g., ELISA) from a venous blood sample. Results are presented qualitatively as “positive” or “negative.” A positive result requires additional analysis to determine the activity of the infection.

Recommendations:

• Recommended for individuals belonging to high-risk groups.
• Useful for patients with increased liver enzymes or liver dysfunction.
• Prescribed before invasive procedures, blood donation, or during pregnancy.
• Conducted as the first step in assessing potential HCV infection before performing an HCV RNA test.
• No specific preparation is required for the test.