Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Status Test
This test checks for the presence of antibodies or the hepatitis C virus itself to determine if you have been exposed to or infected with hepatitis C.
["Determines whether you have hepatitis C, which can be silent but serious over time."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 55276-0
- Short code
- HCV status
- Synonyms
- HCV status
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 recommend this test if you have risk factors for hepatitis C, such as a history of intravenous drug use, blood transfusions before 1992, or exposure to contaminated needles. It may also be used during pregnancy, for liver function checks, or as part of a routine screening if you’re at higher risk.
How the Test Works
The test can be either qualitative (detects presence/absence) or confirmatory, using blood drawn from a vein. Antibody tests (screening) detect your immune system’s response, while viral tests (confirmation) check for the actual virus in your blood.
Test Preparation
No special preparation is needed, but avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the blood draw if instructed by your provider.
What to Expect
You’ll typically have a small needle inserted to draw blood, which takes a few minutes. You may feel a brief pinch, but most people tolerate it well. Rest for a few minutes afterward.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
HCV Screening/Confirmation
Frequently asked questions
If positive, this test indicates exposure to hepatitis C, which can lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, or liver cancer if untreated. Early detection allows for treatment options to manage the virus.
Follow up with your healthcare provider to discuss treatment options, which may include antiviral medications to clear the virus. They’ll also monitor your liver health with additional tests.
Yes, modern treatments can cure hepatitis C in most cases with high success rates, though ongoing liver monitoring may be recommended.
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