Hepatitis C Test
This test screens for hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibodies to detect past or current infection, with automatic RNA testing if antibodies are found.
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LevelPanel has no business or affiliate relationship with Quest or LabCorp. These links are provided as a public service.
Lab testing services linked from this site are not available to residents of Alaska, Arizona, or Hawaii, unless otherwise noted on the lab's own website.
This publication is not intended to solicit the purchase of laboratory testing from any individual consumer.
What this test measures
This test screens for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection using a two-step process. The initial screening detects antibodies the immune system produces in response to HCV exposure. If antibodies are found, the laboratory automatically performs a follow-up RNA test to determine whether the virus is currently active in the bloodstream. This two-step approach is necessary because approximately 15% to 25% of people who contract hepatitis C clear the virus on their own, but their antibodies persist for life.
An antibody-only result cannot distinguish between a past resolved infection and an ongoing active one, which is why the reflex RNA test is critical for determining current infection status. Hepatitis C is a blood-borne virus that primarily affects the liver, and chronic infection can lead to liver damage, cirrhosis, and liver cancer over time. Modern direct-acting antiviral medications can cure hepatitis C in the majority of cases, making early identification through screening a meaningful step toward preventing long-term liver complications.
Who should consider this test
You might consider this test if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Adults born between 1945-1965, as this generation has the highest rates of hepatitis C infection
- People who have ever used injection drugs, even if only once or many years ago
- Individuals who received blood transfusions or organ transplants before 1992, when screening began
- People with HIV infection or other sexually transmitted infections
- Healthcare workers or first responders with potential blood exposure
- Anyone with unexplained liver problems or elevated liver enzymes
- People seeking comprehensive STD screening or routine health checkups
- Partners of individuals known to have hepatitis C infection
What to expect
Preparation
No special preparation is needed. You can eat normally and take medications as usual.
Sample Type
A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle
Collection
Visit any participating lab location with a valid photo ID. The blood draw takes just a few minutes and you can resume normal activities immediately
Turnaround
Results are typically available within 1-3 business days and will be securely delivered to your online account
Understanding your results
A non-reactive (negative) antibody result indicates that HCV antibodies were not detected, meaning exposure to hepatitis C is unlikely. A reactive (positive) antibody result means exposure has occurred at some point, but does not by itself confirm active infection. When antibodies are detected, the automatic reflex RNA test determines whether the virus is currently present: a detectable RNA level confirms active infection, while an undetectable RNA level suggests the infection has been cleared, either spontaneously or through prior treatment. Healthcare providers interpret results alongside liver function tests, medical history, and risk factors to determine whether treatment or monitoring is appropriate.
| Population | Reference Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All adults | Non-reactive (Negative) | Normal result - no hepatitis C antibodies detected |
| All adults | Reactive (Positive) | Antibodies detected - requires follow-up RNA testing to determine infection status |
Reference ranges shown are general guidelines. Your lab report will include the specific reference range used by the laboratory that processed your sample, which is the authoritative range for interpreting your results.
What does a “Low” result mean?
A non-reactive result indicates no detectable hepatitis C antibodies, suggesting you have not been exposed to the virus. However, if exposure occurred within the past 8-11 weeks, antibodies may not yet be detectable.
What does a “High” result mean?
A reactive antibody test indicates exposure to hepatitis C virus. This may represent a current active infection, a past infection that was cleared naturally, or successful treatment. Automatic RNA testing will determine your current infection status.
Privacy & confidentiality
Your hepatitis C test results are completely confidential and will only be shared with you through your secure online account. Results are not shared with employers, insurance companies, or anyone else without your explicit consent. All testing is conducted in accordance with HIPAA privacy regulations to protect your personal health information.
Frequently asked questions
Related tests
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Last reviewed: April 2026
CPT Code: 86803
This test may not be available in: NY, NJ, RI
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding any health concerns. LevelPanel does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe.
Order this test
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LevelPanel has no business or affiliate relationship with Quest or LabCorp. These links are provided as a public service.
Lab testing services linked from this site are not available to residents of Alaska, Arizona, or Hawaii, unless otherwise noted on the lab's own website.
This publication is not intended to solicit the purchase of laboratory testing from any individual consumer.
Not sure if this is the right test? Contact our care team for guidance.
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