The viral load of hepatitis C refers to the amount of virus present in the bloodstream. The quantitative HCV RNA tests measure the amount of hepatitis C virus in the blood. Many people refer to the quantitative measurement as the hepatitis C "viral load." Viral load tests are used to confirm active hepatitis C infection and are used during treatment to help determine response. If you have lower levels of virus in your blood when you start treatment, you may have a better chance of getting rid of the virus.
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For each patient, the result can be described as either a "high" viral load, which is usually more than 800,000 IU/L, or a "low" viral load, which is usually less than 800,000 IU/L. It's not uncommon to have a viral load in the millions. Today's hepatitis C treatments are very effective with both high and low viral loads. An undetectable HCV viral load 10-12 weeks after hepatitis C is completed is associated with a cure.
However it has to be noted that the viral load measurement does not tell us anything about the severity of a patient's liver disease or the degree of fibrosis (scarring).
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15 IU/mL: Despite virus detection, the exact viral load cannot be measured. Hence, you will need to do the test again to see if there is a change in the measurement.
> 800,000 IU/mL: A low viral load is present.
< 800,000 IU/mL: A high viral load is present.
< 100,000,000 IU/mL: Active infection is present.
Inconclusive: The virus cannot be measured. So, a new sample should be collected.
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What does the HCV PCR Test Measure ?
The HCV RNA PCR test is used to determine whether the hepatitis C virus (HCV) exists in your bloodstream. If the virus is present, the test can also measure the exact amount that’s in your blood. The amount of virus in your blood is known as the viral load. The HCV PCR or Viral Load test can also help your doctor decide how best to treat the virus and reduce viral load. Giving you the test before and during treatment allows your doctor to see exactly how your body reacts to certain treatments.
Why should I do the HCV Viral Load PCR Test ?
You should take the Hepatitis C Viral Load Test if
Using shared needles
Had unprotected sex/p>
Recieved blood transfusions
If you are undergoing Hepatitis C Treatment
How is the CBC Test Done ?
The HCV Viral Load or PCR Test is best done at Maurya Labs Bigar. The centre is equipped with best in vlass technology. The test is done on a PCR machine at NABL certified Maurya Labs in Bihar. The blood can be taken by the phlebotomist at Maurya Labs or at home as the per convenience of the patient.
How often should CBC Test be Done ?
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.
- 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.
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.
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