Test
HCV RNA Qualitative, Real Time PCR
Pathology
Summary
Hepatitis C (HCV) is an RNA virus of Flavivirus group transmitted via blood transfusions, transplantation, injection drug users, accidental needle punctures in healthcare workers, dialysis patients and rarely from mother to infant. 10% of new cases show sexual transmission. As compared to HAV & HBV, chronic infection with HCV occurs in 85% of infected individuals. In high risk populations, the predictive value of Anti HCV for HCV infection is > 99% whereas in low risk populations it is only 25%.
