An anti-HCV (hepatitis C antibody) positive result means your blood contains antibodies to hepatitis C, indicating past exposure. It does not confirm active infection — an HCV RNA (PCR) test is required to detect current virus. Further evaluation includes liver tests, specialist referral for RNA confirmation, genotype assessment and treatment planning. False positives can occur; follow-up testing and transmission advice are recommended.

The normal anti‑HCV result is non‑reactive (negative). Qualitative antibody tests report “non‑reactive” or “negative”; many lab assays use a signal‑to‑cutoff (S/CO) index where <1.0 is considered negative. A reactive (positive) result generally requires confirmatory HCV RNA testing. Note a negative antibody test can miss very recent infections during the window period.

HCV test prices vary by country and test type. Antibody screening is often free in public programs or costs roughly $20–$150 (≈₹300–₹1,000) in private labs. Confirmatory HCV RNA (PCR) is costlier: about $50–$700 (≈₹2,000–₹7,000). Prices depend on the lab, location and insurance; many clinics and health services offer free or subsidized testing.

A positive hepatitis C test can be serious: many infections become chronic and over decades may cause liver scarring (cirrhosis), liver failure, or liver cancer. It’s blood‑borne and can be transmitted through shared needles or unscreened transfusions. Modern antiviral treatments (direct‑acting antivirals) cure most people, with cure rates above 95%, greatly reducing complications, so early testing and follow‑up are important.

After a positive Hepatitis C antibody test, get a confirmatory HCV RNA (PCR) test to detect and quantify active infection and determine genotype. Assess liver health (ALT/AST, fibrosis staging by FibroScan or blood scores), screen for HIV and hepatitis B, vaccinate for A/B if needed, and see a specialist for direct‑acting antiviral therapy and counseling on treatment and transmission prevention.

A positive HCV test means you’ve been exposed to hepatitis C virus, usually through blood-to-blood contact. Common causes include sharing needles or other injecting equipment, unsterile medical or tattoo/piercing procedures, transfusions or organ transplants before screening, needle‑stick injuries, and mother‑to‑child transmission. Sexual transmission is less common but can occur, especially with multiple partners or HIV co‑infection.