Hepatitis C Total Antibody (HCV)
Product Description
Price: 35 د.ا
The Hepatitis C Total Antibody (HCV) test is a critical diagnostic tool used to detect antibodies against the Hepatitis C virus in the blood. This test helps in identifying individuals who have been exposed to the virus, indicating either a past infection that has resolved or an ongoing chronic infection.
Normal Range
For all groups (females, males, and children), the normal result of an HCV antibody test is negative, meaning no antibodies against Hepatitis C are detected. If the result is positive, it indicates exposure to the virus at some point.
Function in the Body
The primary function of the HCV test is to detect the presence of antibodies to the Hepatitis C virus. Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system in response to an infection. This test does not measure the virus itself but rather the immune system’s response to it.
Diseases Revealed by the Test
The HCV antibody test can reveal the presence of Hepatitis C infection. Hepatitis C is a liver disease caused by the Hepatitis C virus, which can lead to chronic liver problems such as cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer if left untreated.
Symptoms of Hepatitis C
Acute Hepatitis C:
– Fatigue
– Fever
– Nausea or vomiting
– Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
– Dark urine
– Abdominal pain
Chronic Hepatitis C:
– Often asymptomatic for years
– Persistent fatigue
– Joint pain
– Itchy skin
– Muscle pain
– Fluid retention
– Spider angiomas (spider-like blood vessels on the skin)
Symptoms of Deficiency and Overdose
Since the HCV test measures antibodies, not nutrients or drugs, there are no deficiency or overdose symptoms associated with this test. It is a diagnostic tool rather than a measure of body substances.
Diagnosis
- Initial Screening:
The HCV antibody test is usually the first step. A positive result indicates exposure to the virus.
- Confirmatory Testing:
If the antibody test is positive, further tests such as HCV RNA PCR are conducted to detect the presence of the virus and measure the viral load, confirming an active infection.
- Liver Function Tests:
These tests assess the extent of liver damage and functionality.
- Genotype Testing:
Determines the specific strain of the virus, which can guide treatment options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does a positive HCV antibody test mean?
A: A positive result means that antibodies to the Hepatitis C virus are present in the blood, indicating exposure to the virus. Additional testing is required to determine if the infection is current.
Q: Can I have a false positive HCV antibody test?
A: Yes, false positives can occur, although they are rare. Confirmatory testing with HCV RNA is necessary to verify active infection.
Q: How is Hepatitis C transmitted?
A: Hepatitis C is primarily transmitted through blood-to-blood contact, such as through sharing needles, blood transfusions before 1992, and less commonly, through sexual contact.
Q: Is there a vaccine for Hepatitis C?
A: No, there is currently no vaccine for Hepatitis C. Preventive measures focus on reducing exposure risks.
Q: Can Hepatitis C be cured?
A: Yes, with modern antiviral treatments, Hepatitis C can often be cured, especially if diagnosed early and treated promptly.
Q: How often should I be tested for Hepatitis C?
A: Individuals at high risk (e.g., those with a history of intravenous drug use, recipients of blood transfusions before 1992, or those with certain medical conditions) should be tested regularly as recommended by their healthcare provider.
Function in the Body
Symptoms of Deficiency
Symptoms of Overdose
Diagnosis
More Information
Frequently Asked Questions
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