Anti-HCV (Hepatitis C Virus) Antibody Test, Serum
This test checks for antibodies to the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) in your blood. Antibodies are proteins your body makes in response to infection.
["Determines if your body has ever been exposed to Hepatitis C virus."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 22325-5
- Short code
- HCV22-3 Ab Ser Ql
- Synonyms
- HCV22-3 Ab Ser Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have risk factors for Hepatitis C, such as exposure to contaminated blood, long-term tattoos or body piercings, or if you live with someone who has Hepatitis C. It can also be done as part of routine screening for certain groups, like those who use injection drugs or have had multiple sexual partners.
How the Test Works
The test uses a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is tested to detect specific antibodies that your immune system produces in response to Hepatitis C. This is typically done using an immunoassay method to identify the presence of these antibodies.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have some mild discomfort or bruising at the injection site, but this usually goes away quickly. If you are pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, or are on blood-thinning medication, let your healthcare provider know before the test.
What to Expect During the Test
The test involves a quick venipuncture (blood draw) from your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause pain. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results indicate that your body has detected Hepatitis C antibodies, suggesting past or current infection. However, a positive antibody test alone does not confirm active Hepatitis C infection. Further testing, such as HCV RNA testing, is needed to determine if the virus is currently active. Negative results mean you likely do not have antibodies to Hepatitis C and have not been infected in the past.
Short name
HCV Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get the results?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I have Hepatitis C if my antibody test is negative?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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