HCV RNA Test - More Information

The hepatitis C RNA test, sometimes known as a hep c RNA lab test, hepatitis C RNA level test and HCV RNA lab test, checks the HCV RNA blood level.

The hepatitis C RNA test is useful in tracking the hep C viral load in people with chronic hepatitis C infections. As a quantitative test, it will report a number if adequate amounts of hep C RNA is detectable. This RNA blood test is a useful measurement before a person diagnosed with hepatitis C starts treatment as well as during ongoing treatment. Typically, treatment success will result in declining HCV RNA levels. While this is a helpful test for determining hepatitis C viral load, it does not give any indication of the specific impact that hepatitis C has had on the liver tissue itself or its function.

This HCV RNA test uses a process known as real-time polymerase chain reaction. Polymerase chain reaction is a lab method that takes small amounts of RNA and amplifies it. PCR makes quantifying the amount of hepatitis C RNA in the blood easier to do. Using this methodology, the hepatitis C RNA blood test is used to confirm new hepatitis C infections for people who test positive on the screening hepatitis C test.

To get a quantitative hepatitis C RNA test near you, just order online and get your blood drawn at Quest Diagnostics. Once your hepatitis C RNA lab report is ready, it will be available for electronic download. As can be seen on the sample HCV lab report above, a not detected result will be reported if HCV RNA levels are below the reference range provided by the lab.