Ulta Lab Tests

Compare - Hepatitis C Test (EW)

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The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: Anti HCV, HCV Antibody

Hepatitis C Antibody

The Hepatitis C Antibody Test, sometimes called the Anti-HCV Test, looks for antibodies to the Hepatitis C virus. Antibodies are chemicals released into the bloodstream when someone gets infected.

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The Compare - Hepatitis C Test (EW) test contains 1 test with 2 biomarkers .

Compare and Save | Hepatitis C Test | Ulta Lab Tests Why pay $69 for Everlywell's Hepatitis C finger prick test kit when you can experience the convenience and affordablity of a Hepatitis C lab test with Ulta Lab Tests - compare now and save!

Why pay $69 for Everlywell's Hepatitis C finger prick test kit when you can experience the convenience and affordablity of a Hepatitis C lab test with Ulta Lab Tests - compare now and save!

Brief Description: The Hepatitis C Lab Test is a diagnostic assessment that aims to detect the presence of the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibodies in a patient's blood. This test is crucial for identifying current or past infections with Hepatitis C, a viral infection that affects the liver.

Also Known As: Hepatitis C Antibody Test, Anti HCV Test, HCV Antibody Test, Hep C Antibody Test

Testing Method: Immunoassay

Collection Method: Blood Draw Compare Hepatitis C Test EW Blood Draw | Ulta Lab Tests
Specimen Type: 4 mL Serum Compare Hepatitis C Test EW Specimen Type Serum | Ulta Lab Tests

Test Preparation: No preparation required

Hepatitis C Antibody Reflex to HCV PCR | Ulta Lab Tests Reflex

If Hepatitis C Antibody is reactive or borderline, then Hepatitis C Viral RNA, Quantitative, Real-Time PCR will be performed at an additional charge.

When and Why the Hepatitis C Test May Be Ordered

Timing of the Test: The Hepatitis C Test may be ordered whenever there is suspicion of HCV infection or as part of routine screening, especially for individuals with known risk factors.

Reasons for Ordering the Test:

  1. Screening: Routine screening may be recommended for individuals with specific risk factors, such as a history of injection drug use, receiving blood transfusions before 1992, or having been born to a mother with Hepatitis C.

  2. Symptoms: When a patient exhibits symptoms suggestive of Hepatitis C infection, including jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, or unexplained liver abnormalities in blood tests, healthcare providers may order the test.

  3. High-Risk Behaviors: People engaged in high-risk behaviors, such as unprotected sexual intercourse with multiple partners, sharing needles for drug use, or receiving tattoos or piercings in unregulated settings, may be advised to undergo testing.

  4. Prior Exposure: Individuals who have had potential exposure to HCV, such as healthcare workers after a needlestick injury, may undergo testing to determine if they have contracted the virus.

What the Hepatitis C Test Checks For

The Hepatitis C Lab Test consists of two components:

  1. Hepatitis C Antibody: This initial test detects antibodies produced by the body in response to a Hepatitis C infection. A reactive result suggests that the patient has been exposed to HCV at some point in the past, but it does not confirm a current infection.

  2. Reflex to Quantitative Hepatitis C RNA Real-Time PCR: If the Hepatitis C Antibody test yields a reactive result, the second part of the test is automatically performed. This component quantifies the amount of HCV RNA (genetic material) in the blood. A positive result for this part confirms an active HCV infection.

How Health Care Providers Use the Results of the Hepatitis C Test

The results of the Hepatitis C Lab Test are used by healthcare providers to:

  1. Determine Infection Status: A reactive Hepatitis C Antibody test indicates past or current exposure to HCV, while a positive Quantitative Hepatitis C RNA Real-Time PCR confirms an active HCV infection.

  2. Evaluate Liver Health: The presence of Hepatitis C may lead to liver damage over time. Positive results prompt healthcare providers to assess the patient's liver function and the degree of liver fibrosis or cirrhosis, if necessary.

  3. Treatment Decisions: A confirmed HCV infection may warrant antiviral treatment to eliminate the virus and prevent liver complications. The specific treatment plan is determined based on the genotype of the virus and the patient's overall health.

  4. Monitoring Progress: For patients undergoing treatment, healthcare providers use follow-up tests to monitor the effectiveness of antiviral therapy and the patient's viral load.

  5. Prevent Transmission: Individuals with an active HCV infection are counseled on how to prevent transmission of the virus to others, including safe sex practices and not sharing needles or personal items that may have blood contamination.

In conclusion, the Hepatitis C Lab Test is essential for identifying and diagnosing Hepatitis C infections. It allows healthcare providers to assess the infection status, evaluate liver health, initiate treatment when necessary, and provide guidance to prevent further transmission. Early detection and management of Hepatitis C are crucial for preventing severe liver-related complications.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

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