HCV RNA PCR
Confirms active hepatitis C infection after a positive antibody test.
Also known as: HCV RNA, hepatitis C viral load, HCV PCR
Price on request
We can collect this sample at your home, free of charge. Book a home visit.
- Turnaround
- 5–7 working days
- Preparation
- No fasting needed. Eat and drink normally.
- Sample
- Blood sample
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About this test
A positive HCV antibody only shows exposure — a proportion of people clear the virus naturally and stay antibody-positive for life. RNA answers whether the virus is still there, and it is the test that confirms cure twelve weeks after treatment ends.
What it measures
- HCV RNA detection
- Quantitative viral load
A note on results. A single test is one part of a clinical picture, not a diagnosis. Discuss your report with a qualified doctor, who will read it alongside your history and examination.
Related to
- Liver
- Fever & infection
Often ordered with this
AFB Smear & Culture
Microscopy and liquid culture for tuberculosis.
- Smear same day; culture up to 6 weeks
- No fasting
AFP (Alpha-Fetoprotein)
A liver and germ-cell tumour marker, also used in antenatal screening.
- 24–48 hours
- No fasting
- Home collection
Anti-HCV (Hepatitis C Antibody)
Screens for exposure to hepatitis C.
- Same day
- No fasting
- Home collection