ANTI HCV ANTIBODY / TOTAL ANTIBODY TO HEPATITIS C

Overview

HCV antibodies are usually not detectable during the first 2 months following infection, and they are usually detectable by the late convalescent stage (>6 months after onset) of infection. These antibodies do not neutralize the virus, and they do not provide immunity against this viral infection. Loss of HCV antibodies may occur in the years following resolution of infection. A positive test result does not distinguish between past (resolved) and chronic HCV infection. Serologic tests cannot predict or monitor response to antiviral therapy.