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Hepatitis C Virus RNA, Plasma

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

This test checks for the presence of Hepatitis C virus genetic material in your blood plasma to help determine if you have an active infection.

Quick summary

["Helps diagnose and monitor Hepatitis C virus infection."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
104721-6
Short code
HCV RNA SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
HCV RNA SerPl-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
molgen
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 symptoms of liver disease, such as fatigue, abdominal pain, or jaundice, or if you’ve been exposed to Hepatitis C. It’s also used to screen people at higher risk, like those with a history of intravenous drug use or blood transfusions before 1992.

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. It usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch. If you’re nervous, let your provider know.

What the Test Results Mean

A positive result means Hepatitis C virus RNA is detected, suggesting an active infection. A negative result means no active infection is found at that time. Follow-up tests may be needed to confirm or monitor the infection.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

A positive test result is almost always due to Hepatitis C infection. Rarely, false positives can occur, especially with certain medications or blood products. If you have questions about your results, discuss them with your provider.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HCV RNA (Plasma)

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my test results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your provider will contact you once they’re ready.
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
No, avoid alcohol for 24 hours before your blood draw, as it may affect test accuracy.
What if my test is positive for Hepatitis C?
If positive, your provider will likely recommend further testing (like HCV antibody testing) and may refer you to a specialist for treatment options, which may include antiviral medications.
  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