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Hepatitis C Virus Antibody Screening (Serum/Plasma)

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

["A positive result may indicate past or current hepatitis C infection; a negative result means no detectable antibodies were found at this time."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
22327-1
Short code
HCV Ab Ser-aCnc
Synonyms
HCV Ab Ser-aCnc
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 Does This Test Measure?

The test looks for antibodies produced by your immune system after exposure to the hepatitis C virus. These antibodies can appear months to years after infection, even if you don’t yet have symptoms.

Why Might I Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have risk factors for hepatitis C, such as a history of blood transfusions before 1992, needle exposure, or chronic liver issues. It can also be part of routine screening for certain groups.

What Does a Positive Result Mean?

A positive result suggests you may have been exposed to hepatitis C virus in the past or currently have an active infection. Further testing (like HCV RNA) is needed to confirm active infection and guide treatment.

What Does a Negative Result Mean?

A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found at this time, but it doesn’t rule out past infection. You may need follow-up testing if you have risk factors.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HCV Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

How soon after infection might I test positive?
Antibodies typically appear 6 to 12 weeks after infection, but some people may take longer. A negative test now doesn’t mean you’re definitely clear—your provider may recommend retesting later if you have risk factors.
Can I get hepatitis C from a positive antibody test?
No, a positive antibody test alone doesn’t mean you’re contagious. You’d need confirmation with an HCV RNA test to determine if the virus is actively replicating.
What if my test is positive but I’ve never had symptoms?
Even without symptoms, hepatitis C can cause long-term liver damage. Your provider will likely order additional tests to assess liver health and guide treatment if needed.
  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