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Hepatitis C RNA

Infection and immunity tests · also printed as HCV RNA, Hep C RNA, Hepatitis C PCR, HCV PCR, HCV viral load

Typical UK adult rangeExpected result: Not detected

Not detected is the expected result, and the result that confirms cure.

What this test measures

Hepatitis C RNA detects the virus's genetic material directly, showing whether the virus is present now. It is the test that confirms active infection and confirms cure after treatment.

Why doctors request it

Requested after a positive antibody and at the end of treatment.

What commonly pushes it up

Current hepatitis C infection

What commonly pushes it down

A negative result is the usual finding

Everyday reasons for a value outside the range

Results can be equivocal and are then repeated
Recent vaccination or infection elsewhere can occasionally give a weak positive

About the sample

No fasting needed.

Written by a UK consultant physician. Typical UK adult reference ranges; your laboratory's own printed range takes precedence.

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This is an educational summary of results you uploaded. It is not medical advice, a diagnosis or a treatment plan, and it does not replace the doctor who requested the test. If you are worried, or a result is marked outside range, discuss it with your doctor. Written and reviewed by a UK consultant physician. Reference ranges vary between laboratories.