Skip to content

Anti-Hepatitis C Virus Antibody, Qualitative (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test detects antibodies to the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) in your blood, helping identify past or current infection.

Quick summary

["Checks for Hepatitis C infection by detecting immune system markers."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
51657-5
Short code
HCV Ab Fld Ql
Synonyms
HCV Ab Fld 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

What This Test Measures

The test looks for antibodies produced by your immune system in response to the Hepatitis C virus. These antibodies indicate whether your body has encountered the virus at any point, even if you’ve already recovered or cleared the infection.

Why It’s Done

Doctors may order this test if you have risk factors for Hepatitis C, such as exposure to contaminated blood, long-term needle use, or living with someone who has the virus. It can also be used as part of screening or monitoring for infection.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed into either serum (liquid left after clotting) or plasma (liquid part of blood without clotting factors). The test is performed on this fluid sample.

Test Results and Interpretation

Results are reported as either positive (antibodies detected) or negative (antibodies not detected). A positive result suggests past or current infection, but it does not confirm active viral replication. Further testing (like HCV RNA) may be needed to determine if the virus is still active.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HCV Antibody Test (Qualitative)

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means your body has detected antibodies to Hepatitis C, suggesting past infection or exposure. This does not always mean you are currently infected with the virus, so additional testing may be needed to confirm active infection.
What if I have a positive result?
If your test is positive, your healthcare provider will likely recommend further testing, such as HCV RNA testing, to check for active virus. They may also monitor your liver function and discuss treatment options if needed.
Can this test be used to monitor Hepatitis C treatment?
No, this qualitative antibody test is not used to monitor treatment progress. Instead, it is primarily for initial screening or confirmation of past exposure. Active infection status and treatment response are typically assessed with different tests, like HCV RNA or liver function tests.
  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