Skip to content

Hepatitis C Virus Antibody, Serum/Plasma (Qualitative) by Immunoassay

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

This test detects antibodies to the hepatitis C virus (HCV) in your blood. Antibodies are your body’s natural defense against infections, including viruses like hepatitis C.

Quick summary

["A positive result suggests past or current exposure to hepatitis C, but it doesn’t confirm active infection alone."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13955-0
Short code
HCV Ab SerPl Ql IA
Synonyms
HCV Ab SerPl 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 a history of blood transfusions before 1992, intravenous drug use, or exposure to contaminated needles. It’s also used as part of screening for liver disease or after exposure to hepatitis C.

What to Expect During the Test

A small amount of blood is drawn from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort. The test is quick and typically takes a few minutes.

What the Results Mean

A positive result means your body has detected antibodies to hepatitis C, which could indicate past infection. However, a single positive test isn’t definitive—confirmatory testing is needed. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found in this sample.

Next Steps and Follow-Up

If your initial test is positive, your doctor will likely order additional tests to confirm the diagnosis and assess liver health. If negative, further testing may be recommended if you have risk factors.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

HCV Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

Early detection of hepatitis C is crucial because it can lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, or liver cancer if untreated. Antibody testing helps identify potential infections so that treatment can begin promptly.
A positive antibody test alone doesn’t confirm active hepatitis C. You’ll need follow-up tests, such as HCV RNA testing, to determine if the virus is currently active in your body.
If I have a positive antibody test, what does that mean for my liver?
A positive antibody test suggests your body has been exposed to hepatitis C at some point, but it doesn’t automatically mean your liver is damaged. Your doctor will evaluate your overall health and may recommend additional tests to check for active infection and liver function.
Can I still get hepatitis C if my antibody test is negative?
Yes, it’s possible. A negative antibody test means no detectable antibodies were found in this sample, but you could still be infected if exposed recently. If you have risk factors, your doctor may recommend retesting or other screening methods.
  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