HCV RNA PCR (Hepatitis C Viral Load)
Also known as: HCV RNA, Hepatitis C PCR, HCV viral load, hepatitis C PCR, HCV PCR test
Detects and measures hepatitis C virus genetic material (RNA) in the blood. It shows whether the virus is active now.
Why it's ordered
After a reactive anti-HCV test, to confirm current infection; before treatment; and 12 weeks after finishing treatment to confirm cure.
Preparation
No preparation needed.
Typical adult values
| Normal | Not detected (or below the test's lower limit) |
|---|
Ranges vary between labs and methods. Always use the range printed on your report.
If it's positive / reactive
Detectable HCV RNA means active hepatitis C infection, which needs treatment. Modern tablet treatments, usually taken for 12 weeks, cure more than 95% of people.
Good to know
A reactive anti-HCV with undetectable RNA usually means a past infection that has cleared, either on its own (about 3 in 10 people clear it) or after treatment. Anti-HCV stays positive for life, so it cannot show cure; HCV PCR can. The size of the viral load does not show how damaged the liver is.
Common questions
My anti-HCV is reactive. Do I have hepatitis C?
Not necessarily. HCV PCR confirms whether the virus is active now. A reactive anti-HCV with undetectable RNA usually means a past infection that has cleared.
Can hepatitis C be cured?
Yes. Modern tablet treatments, usually taken for 12 weeks, cure more than 95% of people.
How do I know hepatitis C treatment worked?
An HCV PCR done 12 weeks after finishing treatment confirms cure. Anti-HCV stays positive for life, so it cannot show cure.
Does a high viral load mean more liver damage?
No. The size of the viral load does not show how damaged the liver is.