Information and Advice Regarding Diagnosis of Hepatitis C
Hepatits C results and interpretationHepatitis C is first tested with HCV antibody in a blood sample. The antibody does not indicate chronic infection. It persists after cure for many years.If HCV antibody result is positive HCV viral RNA is the next test needed.
- HCV RNA result positive confirms chronic infection and referral to specialist services for treatment is indicated.
- HCV RNA negative excludes chronic infection and no further action is required.
New diagnosis of Hepatitis C adviceA person diagnosed with hepatitis C should be:
- Counselled about the dangers of alcohol consumption
- Informed of the risk of transmitting infection
- Educated about methods to reduce the risk of spreading infection
- Vaccinated against hepatitis A and B if non-immune to these infections
- If the results indicate chronic infection (HCV RNA positive) referral to a specialist service for monitoring and treatment is indicated.
Other recommendations include administration of annual influenza vaccine and pneumonia vaccine.