Anti-HCV (Hepatitis C Virus) Antibody Test by Immunoassay (Screening)
This test detects antibodies to the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) in your blood. Antibodies are proteins your immune system makes in response to an infection, such as HCV.
["A positive result suggests past or current exposure to Hepatitis C, but not necessarily active infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 11076-7
- Short code
- HCV5-1-1 Ab Ser Ql IB
- Synonyms
- HCV5-1-1 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have risk factors for Hepatitis C, such as exposure to contaminated blood, long-term intravenous drug use, or living with someone who has Hepatitis C. It can also be part of routine screening for certain groups at higher risk.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re nervous, let your provider know—they can offer ways to make it more comfortable.
What the Test Results Mean
A positive result means your blood contains antibodies to HCV, indicating past exposure. A negative result means your blood did not show these antibodies at the time of testing. Further testing (like HCV RNA) may be needed to determine if you have an active infection.
Next Steps After Testing
If your test is positive, your provider will likely order additional tests to confirm infection and assess your health. They may also recommend treatment options if needed. Follow-up visits are important to monitor your progress.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
HCV Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
Early detection of Hepatitis C is crucial because it can lead to serious liver damage if untreated. This test helps identify potential infections so you can get proper care and treatment to manage or clear the virus.
What does a positive result mean?
Can I get Hepatitis C from this test?
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