Hepatitis C Virus (HCV Antibody)-IgG

Testing positive for hepatitis C can be serious. Acute infection may be mild or unnoticed, but many people develop chronic infection, which over years can cause liver inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis, liver failure, and higher liver cancer risk. Highly effective antiviral treatments can cure most cases, so prompt specialist evaluation, regular liver monitoring, and timely treatment reduce complications and transmission.

If an HCV test is positive, a confirmatory HCV RNA test checks for active infection. If RNA is positive, clinicians assess liver health (blood tests, imaging/FibroScan), may check genotype, and start direct-acting antiviral treatment, which cures most people in 8–12 weeks. Patients are monitored for response, advised on preventing transmission, offered hepatitis A/B vaccination, and followed for liver complications.

HCV antibody tests are reported as non‑reactive (negative) or reactive (positive). Most labs use a signal‑to‑cutoff (S/CO) ratio: <1.0 is non‑reactive and ≥1.0 is reactive. A reactive result indicates past or current exposure and requires confirmatory HCV RNA testing, since antibodies can persist after clearance; seroconversion may take several weeks.

Hepatitis C spreads when infected blood enters another person’s bloodstream. Common routes include sharing needles or other injecting equipment, unsterile tattooing or piercing, needlestick injuries in healthcare, and blood transfusions or organ transplants performed before screening. Mother-to-child transmission can occur during childbirth. Sexual transmission is less common but possible, especially with rough sex or when HIV is present.

Hepatitis C is not guaranteed 100% for everyone, but modern direct‑acting antivirals cure the infection in the vast majority—typically over 95%—defined as undetectable virus 12 weeks after treatment. Relapse is uncommon, but reinfection can occur with new exposures. Advanced liver damage or cirrhosis may not fully reverse, so testing, prompt treatment, and ongoing monitoring are important.

Living with someone who has hepatitis C is generally safe. Hepatitis C spreads mainly through blood-to-blood contact (sharing needles, razors, toothbrushes, or blood-contaminated items). Casual contact—hugging, kissing, sharing food, dishes, or toilets—does not transmit it. Avoid sharing personal items that might have blood and manage open wounds carefully. Modern treatments cure most cases; encourage testing and follow medical advice.