Confirming the presence of hepatitis C virus (HCV)-specific IgG antibodies in serum specimens that are reactive by HCV antibody screening tests
Distinguishing between true- and false-reactive HCV antibody screening test results
This test is not intended for use as a hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody screening test for blood or human cells/tissue donors
This assay is not useful for detection of early or acute hepatitis C (<2 months from exposure) as immunocompromised patients may not develop detectable HCV antibodies in blood until 6 months after infection
This assay is not useful for differentiating between past (resolved) and chronic hepatitis C
To distinguish between past (resolved) and chronic hepatitis C, order HCVQN / Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) RNA Detection and Quantification by Real-Time Reverse Transcription-PCR (RT-PCR), Serum
This test is indicated for individuals with reactive hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody results but undetectable HCV RNA levels
For screening of asymptomatic individuals for HCV, order HCSRN / Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Antibody Screen with Reflex to HCV RNA, PCR, Asymptomatic, Serum
For detection of HCV in symptomatic at-risk individuals, order HCVDX / Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Antibody with Reflex to HCV RNA, PCR, Symptomatic, Serum
Specimen Type
Serum
Specimen Requirements
Preferred: Serum Gel (SST)
Acceptable: Red Top
Minimum Sample Volume
0.1 mL
Additional Processing Details
Centrifuge blood collection tube within 2 hours of collection
Aliquot serum into plastic vial.
Required Information
Date of collection is required
Stability
Frozen (preferred): 30 days
Refrigerated: 7 days
Unacceptable Specimen Conditions
Gross hemolysis
Limitations
Performance characteristics have not been established for the following types of specimen:
