HEPATITIS C ANTIBODY (ANTI HCV IGG), SERUM

Hepatitis C Antibody (Anti-HCV IgG), Serum

What it is

The Hepatitis C Antibody (Anti-HCV IgG) test is a blood test that detects IgG antibodies produced in response to hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. The presence of Anti-HCV IgG indicates that a person has been exposed to HCV at some point. While it cannot distinguish between past resolved infection and current active infection, it is an important first-line screening tool for hepatitis C.

Uses

This test is used to:

• Screen for hepatitis C infection in at-risk individuals or general population programs.
• Identify people who may need confirmatory testing with HCV RNA PCR to check for active infection.
• Support early detection of chronic hepatitis C, which can otherwise remain silent for years.
• Guide blood donor screening, preoperative checks, and occupational health evaluations.

Symptoms That May Lead to the Test

Doctors may order this test if you have risk factors such as blood transfusion before safe screening practices, injection drug use, long-term dialysis, unprotected sexual exposure, or occupational exposure to blood. It may also be ordered if you present with symptoms of chronic liver disease, including jaundice, persistent fatigue, abdominal swelling, easy bruising, or unexplained elevated liver enzymes.

Abnormal Results

Positive Anti-HCV IgG: Indicates exposure to HCV. It may represent a past resolved infection, ongoing chronic infection, or (rarely) a false-positive result. Confirmation with HCV RNA PCR is required to establish active infection.

Negative Anti-HCV IgG: Suggests no detectable antibodies, meaning no prior exposure. However, if infection is recent, antibodies may not yet be detectable (the “window period”).

Risks

The test involves a routine blood draw. Risks are minimal and include mild pain, slight bruising, or dizziness at the puncture site, which usually resolve quickly.