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Anti-Hepatitis C Virus Antibody Screening (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test detects antibodies to the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), which your body makes in response to an infection. It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to the virus.

Quick summary

["A positive result may indicate past or current HCV infection; further testing is needed for confirmation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47365-2
Short code
HCV Ab Ser Donr Ql IA
Synonyms
HCV Ab Ser Donr Ql IA
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
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 intravenous drug use, or exposure to HCV in a healthcare setting. It’s also used as part of routine screening in certain populations.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. The process takes a few minutes, and you can resume normal activities afterward.

What the Test Results Mean

A positive result means your blood contains antibodies to HCV, suggesting past or current infection. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found at this time. Remember, a positive screen does not confirm infection—additional testing is required.

Next Steps and Follow-Up

If your test is positive, your provider will likely recommend a confirmatory test (e.g., HCV RNA test) to determine if you have an active infection. If negative, repeat testing may be advised if you have ongoing risk factors.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HCV Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates your blood contains antibodies to Hepatitis C, which may mean you’ve been exposed to the virus at some point. This does not confirm an active infection—further testing is required to assess current status.
Can I get Hepatitis C from this test?
No, this test does not transmit Hepatitis C. Blood samples are handled with strict safety protocols to prevent contamination.
How often should I get this test if I have risk factors?
Your healthcare provider will determine the frequency based on your risk profile, medical history, and symptoms. Regular screening may be recommended for those with ongoing risk factors, such as intravenous drug use or exposure to HCV.
  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