Anti-Hepatitis C Virus Antibody, Serum (Screening)
This test checks for antibodies that your immune system makes in response to the Hepatitis C virus. It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to the virus, even if you don’t yet have symptoms.
["A positive screening result may require further testing to confirm Hepatitis C infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 5199-5
- Short code
- HCV Ab Ser Ql IB
- Synonyms
- HCV Ab Ser Ql IB
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ib
- 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 recommend this test if you have risk factors for Hepatitis C, such as recent needle exposure, chronic liver disease, or if you’re part of a group at higher risk (e.g., people who use intravenous drugs, those born between 1945–1965, or those with close contact to someone with Hepatitis C). It can also be part of routine screening for certain populations.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw a blood sample. The process takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch. If you’re nervous, let your healthcare provider know.
What to Expect During the Test
You’ll sit comfortably while the healthcare provider collects blood from your vein. The area will be cleaned, and you may feel a small sting. The test itself is quick, and you can usually return to your normal activities afterward.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means your blood contains antibodies to Hepatitis C, suggesting past or possible current infection. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found. Follow-up testing may be needed to confirm or rule out infection.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test plays a critical role in early detection of Hepatitis C, which can lead to chronic liver disease if untreated. Early diagnosis allows for timely treatment and management to protect liver health. While antibodies indicate exposure, they don’t always mean active infection—further testing is needed to confirm.
Short name
HCV Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive screening result mean?
Can I get Hepatitis C from this test?
How often should I get this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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