Hepatitis C Antibodies (hcv)

The HCV ABS, SERUM test, often referred to as the Hepatitis C Antibody (HCV Ab) test, is used to detect antibodies to the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the blood.

• The HCV ABS test detects antibodies that the immune system produces in response to infection with the Hepatitis C virus (HCV).
• A positive result means that the person has been exposed to HCV at some point but does not confirm whether they have an active infection.
• This test is usually the first step in determining if further testing, such as a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test, is needed to confirm an active HCV infection.

• All adults 18 and older.
• All pregnant women during each pregnancy.
• People with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)

• Screening for individuals who are at risk of Hepatitis C infection (e.g., those who have injected drugs, received blood transfusions before screening, or have had unprotected sex with an infected person).
• Diagnosing Hepatitis C, particularly when the patient shows symptoms or has risk factors.
• Testing for individuals who may be donating blood to ensure they are not carriers of HCV.