HCV PCR (Viral Load / Quantitation)

Specimen Required

2 EDTA vials containing 3cc blood in each vial

Fasting Required

Purpose of the Test

The test is ordered to diagnose HCV infection, monitor treatment outcomes, and determine the progression of the disease.

When this test is required

The test may be requested when a person has risk factors for HCV infection, such as a history of injecting drug use, receiving a blood transfusion or organ transplant before 1992, or having unprotected sex with someone who is infected with HCV. It may also be ordered to monitor the response to treatment for HCV infection.

What the Test Detects

The test measures the amount of HCV RNA in the blood, which is an indicator of the amount of virus present in the body.

Preparation for the Test

No specific preparation is needed for the test.

Sample Requirements

A blood sample is required for the test.

Additional Notes

The test should be interpreted in conjunction with a person’s medical history and other laboratory tests. In addition, a high viral load does not necessarily mean that a person will develop liver disease, as the risk of developing liver disease is also affected by other factors, such as alcohol consumption and the presence of other liver diseases.

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