Test Quick Guide

Hepatitis C testing is used to detect infection with the hepatitis C virus (HCV). The most common first step is an antibody test that looks for proteins made by the immune system in response to the virus. If antibodies are found, a follow-up HCV RNA test is used to confirm whether the virus is currently active.

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the liver. Testing can determine whether a person has a current hepatitis C infection or has been exposed to the virus in the past. HCV is primarily spread through blood-to-blood contact, most often through sharing needles or other equipment used to inject drugs. Less commonly, it can be transmitted through sexual contact, from mother to baby during childbirth, or through unsterile medical procedures.

Hepatitis C infections may be acute or chronic. Acute hepatitis C occurs within the first six months after exposure. In many people, the infection becomes chronic, meaning it lasts longer than six months. Chronic hepatitis C can lead to serious complications over time, including liver scarring, cirrhosis, liver failure and liver cancer.

The CDC recommends that all adults over age 18 be screened for hepatitis C at least once in their lifetime, with more frequent testing for people at increased risk.

About Our Hepatitis C Test

Purpose of the test

Hepatitis C testing is used to detect current infection, identify past exposure and guide treatment decisions.

  • Screening for HCV: Screening helps identify hepatitis C in people who have no symptoms, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment before liver damage occurs.
  • Diagnosing HCV infection: Testing confirms whether the virus is currently present in the body and whether additional evaluation or treatment is needed.
  • Monitoring treatment: For people being treated for hepatitis C, testing can measure how well therapy is working and confirm when the virus has been cured.

What does our hepatitis C test measure?

Hepatitis C testing looks for antibodies to the virus and for the genetic material of HCV in the blood.

  • Hepatitis C antibody test (anti-HCV): This blood test checks for antibodies produced in response to hepatitis C. A positive antibody result means a person has been exposed to the virus at some point, but it does not confirm whether the infection is still active. It is usually detected within 6-10 weeks after exposure
  • Hepatitis C RNA test: Also called a viral load test, this test detects the actual genetic material of the virus in the blood. It is used to confirm a current infection after a positive antibody test and to measure the amount of virus present. According to the CDC, an HCV RNA test should be performed after a positive antibody test to confirm active infection.
  • Hepatitis C genotype testing: If chronic hepatitis C is confirmed, genotype testing may be performed to identify the specific strain of the virus. This information helps guide treatment choices.

When should I get a hepatitis C test?

Hepatitis C screening is recommended for all adults at least once, and regular testing is advised for people with ongoing risk factors.

You may benefit from hepatitis C testing if you:

  • Have ever injected drugs, even once
  • Received a blood transfusion or organ transplant before 1992 when widespread screening was introduced
  • Are HIV-positive
  • Have been on long-term hemodialysis
  • Were born to a mother with hepatitis C
  • Have had unprotected sexual contact with a partner who has hepatitis C
  • Have elevated liver enzyme levels
  • Work in health care and have had a needle-stick injury
  • Shared personal care items (such as razors or toothbrushes) that might have traces of blood

Because it takes time for antibodies to develop after exposure, healthcare providers often recommend testing about 6-10 weeks after a potential exposure to ensure the most accurate antibody results. If tested too early, a repeat test or direct RNA test may be advised.

A doctor may also recommend testing based on symptoms such as:

  • Persistent fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Dark urine
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes

Finding a Hepatitis C Test

How to get tested

Hepatitis C testing is commonly ordered by a doctor and performed in a hospital, laboratory or medical clinic. Testing requires a blood sample collected by a health care professional. Fasting is not necessary.

For laboratory testing, blood is drawn from a vein and sent to a lab for analysis. The test can also be ordered online through approved testing services.

Can I take the test at home?

At-home hepatitis C tests are available and typically involve collecting a small blood sample using a fingerstick. The sample is mailed to a laboratory for analysis.

Most at-home hepatitis C tests screen only for antibodies and cannot confirm current (active) infection without follow-up RNA testing through a healthcare provider. If the at-home antibody test is positive, schedule confirmatory RNA testing.

How much does the test cost?

The cost of hepatitis C testing depends on the type of test performed, where it is conducted and whether you have health insurance. Testing ordered by a doctor is often covered by insurance, although copays and deductibles may apply.

If you do not have insurance, a doctor, clinic or local health department may be able to help you find low-cost testing options.

Taking a Hepatitis C Test

Hepatitis C testing is performed on a sample of blood collected by a doctor, nurse or other health care provider.

At-home testing requires carefully following the instructions included in the test kit.

Before the test

No special preparation is required. Tell your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking.

During the test

A blood draw generally involves:

  • Locating a vein in the arm or hand
  • Cleaning the puncture site
  • Inserting a small needle and collecting blood

The process typically takes only a few minutes. Mild discomfort or bruising may occur.

For some at-home tests, a small fingerstick blood sample may be used instead.

After the test

A bandage is applied to the puncture site. There are no restrictions on activities after testing.

FAQs About a Hepatitis C Test

What should I do if I think I’ve been exposed to hepatitis C?

If you believe you may have been exposed to hepatitis C, testing can determine whether infection has occurred. Because early hepatitis C often has no symptoms, getting tested is the most reliable way to know your status. A healthcare provider can help you decide which tests are appropriate and when to be tested.

How and when will I receive my test results?

Results from a hepatitis C blood test are usually available within a few business days. If the test was ordered by a doctor, results are typically shared through a follow-up visit, patient portal, phone call or secure email. At-home test results are generally provided through the testing company’s online system once the lab processes the sample.

What does a positive hepatitis C test mean?

A positive hepatitis C antibody test means you were exposed to the virus at some point. It does not necessarily mean you currently have hepatitis C. A follow-up HCV RNA test is needed to confirm whether the virus is still active in your body.

What happens if I test positive for hepatitis C?

If follow-up testing confirms an active hepatitis C infection, your healthcare provider will discuss next steps. This may include additional blood tests, evaluation of liver health and referral to a specialist. Modern hepatitis C treatments are highly effective, and many people can be cured with a short course of medication.

Can a negative test rule out hepatitis C completely?

A negative antibody test usually means there is no hepatitis C infection. However, if testing was done soon after a possible exposure, the body may not yet have produced detectable antibodies. In that case, repeat testing or an HCV RNA test may be recommended.

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