HCV Viral Load Test - Price, Purpose, Procedure, & More

Introduction to Hepatitis C Viral Load Test

The Hepatitis C Viral Load test is a blood test that measures the amount of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) present in the blood. This viral load can help evaluate how well your body responds to treatment, but it cannot assess the progression or severity of hepatitis C. 

This test is essential for diagnosing chronic Hepatitis C, a liver infection that can cause cirrhosis, liver damage, or liver cancer if left untreated. Hepatitis is a liver disease with several types, each named after the virus that causes it. The hepatitis C virus (HCV) can be easily transmitted through blood contact or during sexual contact with an infected person. Additionally, a mother Hepatitis C-positive mother can transmit the virus to their infant during childbirth.

However, everyone with Hepatitis C doesn't need to have symptoms. In fact, in some people, the infection resolves on its own. However, a hepatitis C infection can last anywhere from a few weeks to a lifetime. 

You should take the Hepatitis C Viral Load Test if you have been at risk for Hepatitis C, like sharing needles, unprotected sex, or receiving blood transfusions before 1992. It's also recommended for people with liver disease or unexplained liver abnormalities.

Doctors recommend this test to track the progression of the disease, determine the best treatment options, and monitor response to therapy. For the Hepatitis C (HCV) Viral Load Test, choose Redcliffe Labs. The professional will provide you with the best diagnostic experience at affordable prices, and you can be assured of on-time and quality reports.

Test details in brief

Purpose of the Hepatitis C Viral Load Test

The Hepatitis CViral Load test measures the amount of Hepatitis C Virus in the blood. Its primary purpose includes-

1. Confirm Infection- It helps to detect whether the virus is actively replicating in the body.
2. Monitor Treatment- Viral load tests can help determine how well your body responds to treatment. For example, a lower viral load at the start of treatment may indicate a better chance of getting rid of the virus. 
3. Post-Treatment Monitor- Ensures the virus remains undetectable after completing therapy, indicating sustained virologic response (SVR).

Preparation for the Hepatitis C Viral Load Test

The Hepatitis C virus does not require any special preparation before the test. Here are the instructions you need to follow-

• Fasting- You do not need to fast before the Hepatitis C Viral Load test. You can eat anything you want.
• Medications- If you take any medication or supplements, inform your doctor before taking the test.
• Stay hydrated- Make yourself comfortable and stay hydrated before the test.

If you have any questions about the Hepatitis C viral load test, consult your doctor before the test.

The procedure of the Hepatitis C (HCV) Viral Load Test By RT PCR

The Hepatitis C Viral Load Test by RT-PCR is a blood test. Here is the procedure for the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). 

• The phlebotomist will collect the sample from the vein of your arm. The phlebotomist will first identify the suitable vein to collect the blood sample and then tie a band or tourniquet on the arm area. Next, he will clean the arm area with an alcohol-based sanitizer to reduce the chance of infection.
• Next, he draws blood from the vein using a sterile needle. After collecting the sample, he removes the needle, puts pressure on it, and applies cotton gauze at the site to stop the bleeding.
• The PCR test quantitatively measures the amount of HCV RNA in the sample. The results are reported as the number of IU/mL.
• A high viral load indicates a higher amount of virus in the blood, while a low one indicates a lower amount.
• The test results help diagnose an active HCV infection and determine the amount of virus in the bloodstream.

It also helps doctors assess the effectiveness of treatment and whether further action is needed.

What do the Hepatitis C Viral Load Test reports indicate?

The Hepatitis C Viral Load Test report indicates the amount of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) in your blood. It is usually measured in the IU/mL. Here is what the test results indicate-

• Undetectable- No virus is present in measurable amounts, which means successful treatment or low-level infection.
• Low Viral Load- Indicates a smaller quantity of virus, which could mean a less severe infection or a positive response to treatment.
• High Viral Load- The high amount suggests a more active or advanced infection.

The viral load also helps determine how well a patient responds to treatment and helps predict the risk of liver damage. Here is the normal range of Hepatitis C Viral Load test-

How often do you get the Hepatitis C Viral Load Test?

The frequency of Hepatitis C Viral Load Tests may vary depending on various factors, including the stage of hepatitis infection, your treatment plan, and your doctor's recommendations. Here's a general guideline:

• Before Starting Treatment, a viral load test is performed to confirm the diagnosis and assess the virus's level in the bloodstream.
• During Treatment, if you are undergoing antiviral treatment, your doctor may recommend regular viral load tests (every 4 to 12 weeks) to monitor its effectiveness. This helps determine whether the therapy is working and if adjustments are needed.
• After treatment completing antiviral therapy, a test is typically done to check for a sustained virologic response (SVR), meaning that the virus is undetectable in the blood 12 to 24 weeks after treatment.
•  For people with chronic Hepatitis C, especially those without treatment, the test may be repeated periodically to monitor the virus's activity and assess liver health. 

Certain groups are vulnerable to transmission of HCV. These groups can include-

• People on dialysis
• Kids born to HCV-positive mothers
• People who may have had blood contact with someone with Hepatitis C

HCV Transmitted through- 

• Sharing infected needles and syringes
• A positive other with hepatitis C transferring HCV to her child during childbirth

Occasionally, HCV is transmitted through:

• having intercourse with someone who has hepatitis C
• getting a tattoo with an infected needle
• sharing personal care items, such as toothbrushes, and with someone who has hepatitis C

What are the common symptoms related to Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C often does not show any symptoms in the early stages, and many people may not experience noticeable signs until liver damage occurs. However, the symptoms do appear; they can vary in severity. Common symptoms of Hepatitis C include:

• Fatigue
• Jaundice
• Abdominal Pain
• Dark Urine
• Pale Stools
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Loss of Appetite
• Muscle or Joint Pain
• Itchy Skin
• Flu-like Symptoms
• Swelling in the Abdomen or Legs

Since Hepatitis C can remain asymptomatic for years, many people may not realize they are infected until more severe liver damage (such as cirrhosis) occurs. If you experience these symptoms, consult your Doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. 

Hepatitis C Viral Load Test price at Redcliffe Labs

The Hepatitis C Viral Load Test cost at Redcliffe Labs is INR 4800. You can book your appointment online using our Redcliffe Labs app or call our agents to book your test. All our labs follow the highest quality standards, with 50+ internal and external quality control checks regularly. Our experience as professional doctors and MD pathologists ensures Six Sigma processes are followed for 100% Report correctness. We are trusted by 50,000 doctors across PAN India. In addition, we are accessible in more than 2000+ collection centers. 98% of reports for routine tests are delivered on the same day. What about affordability? Well, our diagnostics tests are available at cost-friendly prices, so everyone can take advantage of them. With us, India saves more than one crore by booking tests. Need more? Call us to book your HPC viral load test and get the best offers and discounts. 

Hepatitis C (HCV) Viral Load Test Price in Different Cities

Note: We also offer Hepatitis C (HCV) Viral Load Test PAN India. Please call the number 8988988787 to check the availability of our services in your area.

Get your Hepatitis C Viral Load Test Done From Redcliffe Labs

Suppose a person has a Hepatitis C viral infection. In that case, getting a Hepatitis C Viral Load Test is crucial to understand the extent of the infection and determine the best course of treatment. This test measures the amount of HCV C virus in your blood, which can help your doctors assess how actively the virus is replicating. If you get the diagnosis at the right time, it helps to know the severity of liver damage and inform you of the appropriate treatment strategy. 

The test is important because Hepatitis C often has no symptoms in its early stages, and many people do not know that they are infected until significant liver damage has occurred. 

The viral load test not only confirms the presence of the virus but also monitors the effectiveness of ongoing treatments. Taking the Hepatitis C Viral Load Test from Redcliffe Labs offers several advantages. With over 80 labs across India, Redcliffe Labs ensures accurate, reliable, and timely results. Additionally, we are easily accessible with our Mobile app; you can call us or book your appointment online and book your test right from your home.