Hepatitis C Virus Immunoglobulin G (IgG) Antibody Test by Pattern Recognition Immunoassay
This test checks for antibodies to the hepatitis C virus (HCV) in your blood, which may indicate past or current infection.
["Helps determine if you’ve been exposed to hepatitis C virus antibodies."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 34162-8
- Short code
- HCV IgG Patrn Ser IB-Imp
- Synonyms
- HCV IgG Patrn Ser IB-Imp
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 17
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ib
- CPT
- 82784
- 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 detects specific antibodies (IgG) produced by your immune system in response to the hepatitis C virus. These antibodies can appear after infection or vaccination. This test is not used to diagnose an active infection but confirms prior exposure or immunity.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have risk factors for hepatitis C, such as exposure to contaminated blood, long-term tattoos/piercings, or if you’ve had an undiagnosed liver issue. It’s also used to screen for past infection in certain populations.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. A small needle will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort. The test takes about 10–15 minutes.
What to Expect After the Test
You can resume normal activities immediately. Apply gentle pressure to the puncture site to stop bleeding. There may be mild bruising or soreness, but this typically fades quickly. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a few hours.
Reference range
NCBI: NSE 0-17 ng/mLN/A
No special preparation required. Some tests may require follow-up confirmatory testing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results indicate the presence of HCV IgG antibodies, suggesting past infection. This does not mean you currently have an active infection, but it confirms your body has encountered the virus. If you’re at risk for hepatitis C, further testing (like HCV RNA) may be needed to assess current viral load or liver health. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies, so no prior infection is confirmed.
Short name
HCV IgG Antibody
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test detect an active hepatitis C infection?
How long after infection might antibodies appear?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy