Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C virus infection
Liver infection caused by hepatitis C virus; most infections become chronic, and antiviral treatment cures most people.
Overview
EXPLORE BY LEVELHepatitis C is a liver infection spread mostly through blood. An A protein made by B-cell descendants that binds a particular molecular target. Binding does not by itself prove that the antibody neutralizes it. test shows whether a person has ever been infected; another test is needed to see whether the An infectious agent that is not a cell and must use a host cell to make new virus particles. is still there.
Quick Facts
AT A GLANCEFollow the Connections
See how Hepatitis C links to other biological records.
All 2 Structured Connections
Recommended Reading
Trusted references for learning more about Hepatitis C.
Research Claims
CDC recommends testing for HCV RNA after a repeatedly reactive antibody result, because antibody reactivity is consistent with current infection, resolved infection, or biologic false positivity. Direct-acting antivirals cure most infections, and prior infection does not protect against reinfection.
A reactive anti-HCV result alone does not establish current infection: it can reflect current infection, past resolved infection, or a false-positive result. HCV RNA testing identifies current infection.