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Hepatitis C Virus Antibody, Qualitative (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test checks for antibodies to the hepatitis C virus, which your body makes if it has ever been exposed to the virus.

Quick summary

["Helps detect past or possible current hepatitis C infection."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
109963-9
Short code
HCV Ab Msmt Ser
Synonyms
HCV Ab Msmt Ser
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

Doctors may order this test if you have risk factors for hepatitis C, such as having received blood transfusions before 1992, using intravenous drugs, or having a close contact with someone who has hepatitis C. It can also be part of routine screening for certain conditions or after exposure to the virus.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein in your arm to draw a blood sample. You might feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause pain.

What the Test Results Mean

A positive result means your body has detected antibodies to hepatitis C, suggesting you’ve been exposed to the virus at some point. A negative result means no antibodies were found, but this doesn’t guarantee you’re not infected. Follow-up tests may be needed for confirmation.

What Happens Next

If your test is positive, your healthcare provider will likely recommend further testing, such as a quantitative antibody test or viral load test, to determine if you have an active infection and plan treatment accordingly.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HCV Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

Can this test detect an active hepatitis C infection?
No, this test only detects antibodies, which means it can show past exposure or possible current infection but doesn’t confirm an active viral load. Additional tests are needed for that.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time.
Is there anything I should avoid before the test?
No specific preparations are needed, but inform your doctor about any medications or conditions that might affect the test results.
  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