Being HCV positive means that a person has tested positive for the Hepatitis C virus. This usually involves two steps of testing, as highlighted in the reference material.
Understanding HCV Testing
The initial test for HCV looks for antibodies in your blood. These antibodies are created by your immune system in response to the Hepatitis C virus.
- Antibody Test: This first test determines if you have been exposed to the virus. A positive result means your blood contains antibodies, indicating a past or current infection.
- Important: A positive antibody test doesn't confirm an active infection. According to the reference, further tests are needed.
Confirming Active Infection
If the initial antibody test is positive, a second test is done to see if the virus is still present in the body.
- RNA PCR Test: This test, also known as an HCV RNA test, is crucial because it detects the actual presence of the virus in your blood. This test can confirm an active infection of HCV.
HCV Positive Explained
| Test | Result | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| HCV Antibody Test | Positive | Your body has produced antibodies, indicating past or current exposure to HCV. |
| HCV RNA PCR Test | Positive | The actual virus is present in your blood, confirming an active HCV infection. |
Key Takeaway
So, when someone is said to be "HCV positive," it means they have tested positive for antibodies to hepatitis C, and importantly, a follow-up RNA PCR test has confirmed the presence of the actual virus, meaning they have an active HCV infection.
