Hepatitis C Virus Antibody Screen, Serum (Qualitative Immunoassay)
This test checks for antibodies to the hepatitis C virus (HCV) in your blood. Antibodies are your body’s immune response to an infection.
["A positive result may indicate past or current hepatitis C infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 89359-4
- Short code
- HCV IgG SerPlBld Ql IA.rapid
- Synonyms
- HCV IgG SerPlBld Ql IA.rapid
- 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-rapid
- 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 This Test Measures
This test detects the presence of antibodies against the hepatitis C virus. If your body has been exposed to HCV, your immune system produces these antibodies. The test uses an immunoassay method to identify them in your serum sample. This is a screening test, meaning it helps determine if further testing is needed to confirm infection.
Why It’s Done
Doctors 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 populations or after exposure to HCV.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. The process usually takes a few minutes. If you’re nervous, let your healthcare provider know—they can help make it more comfortable.
What to Expect After the Test
After the blood is drawn, you may feel a slight pinch or bruising at the site. Apply gentle pressure to stop any bleeding. You can resume normal activities immediately. If you experience excessive pain or swelling, contact your healthcare provider.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result on this screening test means your body has detected HCV antibodies, which may indicate past infection. However, it does not confirm active hepatitis C. If the test is positive, your doctor will likely order additional tests, such as HCV RNA testing, to determine if the virus is currently active and to guide treatment decisions. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found, suggesting you have not been infected in the past or currently.
Short name
HCV Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I get hepatitis C from 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