Skip to content

Hepatitis C Virus Antibody, Qualitative, Serum

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test detects antibodies to the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) in your blood. Antibodies are proteins your immune system makes in response to infection.

Quick summary

["This screening helps identify if you’ve ever been exposed to Hepatitis C."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
23870-9
Short code
HCV100+5-1-1 Ab Ser Ql IB
Synonyms
HCV100+5-1-1 Ab Ser Ql IB
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ib
CPT
86803
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Does This Test Measure?

The test looks for specific antibodies (proteins) your body produces when it encounters Hepatitis C virus particles. These antibodies can appear after infection, even if you don’t yet have symptoms.

How Is the Sample Collected?

A small blood sample is drawn from your arm by a healthcare professional. The blood is then processed into serum (liquid part after clotting).

Why Might This Test Be Ordered?

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have risk factors for Hepatitis C, such as exposure to contaminated blood, long-term tattoos/piercings, or travel to regions with higher infection rates.

What Are Common Risk Factors?

Common risk factors include sharing needles, receiving blood transfusions before 1992, or having close contact with someone infected. It’s also used as part of routine screening for certain groups.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HCV Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean for my health?
A positive antibody test indicates you may have been exposed to Hepatitis C, but it doesn’t confirm if the virus is still active. You’ll need further testing to assess your current health status.
How soon after exposure might I test positive?
Antibodies typically appear within 4 to 8 weeks after exposure, but results can vary. If you suspect exposure, ask your doctor about timing for retesting.
Can I still get Hepatitis C if my antibody test is negative?
A negative antibody test means your body hasn’t detected the virus yet, but it doesn’t guarantee you’re completely protected. If you have risk factors, discuss retesting or prevention strategies with your doctor.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy