HCV RNA Combo 2 by RT-PCR & Sanger Sequencing - Serum or Plasma

This test measures the amount of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) in your blood using the techniques called RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction) and Sanger sequencing.

• To monitor and quantify HCV infection and genotypes
• To monitor the effectiveness of antiviral therapy for HCV
• To confirm cure after antiviral treatment
• To identify the genotype of the virus
• To assess liver damage caused by HCV
• To evaluate the need for liver transplantation

Your doctor may recommend this test in the following cases:

• You have risk factors for HCV infection, such as a history of intravenous drug use, unprotected sex with someone who has HCV, receiving tattoos in unhygienic conditions, or were born to a mother with HCV.
• You have symptoms of HCV infection, such as fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, joint pain or jaundice.
• You have abnormal liver function test results.
• You have received treatment for HCV and need to assess the response.

Elevated levels indicate active viral replication and suggest a chronic HCV infection.

Your doctor will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a sterile needle. The blood sample will be sent to a laboratory for testing

PCR and Sanger sequencing.

Inform your doctor if you are taking any medications that can affect the test results. Also, tell them if you have any specific requirements. Fasting is not required before the test.

• Liver function tests to assess the health of your liver
• HCV antibody test to check if you have been infected with the virus

HCV PCR test or HCV RNA test

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the liver. It spreads through contact with contaminated blood, mostly from sharing needles or other equipment to inject drugs. Some people with hepatitis C have no symptoms initially, while others may have fatigue, joint pain, abdominal pain, nausea or jaundice. Over time, hepatitis C can lead to serious liver damage and liver cancer.