HCV ANTIBODY

Investigates the presence of antibodies associated with HCV infection within patient serum/plasma. The test indicates exposure to virus but does not necessarily signify current infection. The HCV antibody test may therefore be used to screen patients for possible HCV infection and indicate whether or not further diagnostic investigation is warranted.

HCV QUALITATIVE PCR (Dried blood spot only)

A positive HCV antibody test does not distinguish between the majority of patients with chronic infection and a minority of those who have spontaneously cleared the virus; hence, a positive HCV antibody test should be confirmed by a HCV qualitative PCR test. This can be carried out using the same dried blood sample from the HCV antibody test.

HBV SURFACE ANTIGEN

Detects the presence of hepatitis B surface antigen, which indicates infection, within human serum or plasma. It is the first marker to appear and may be observed 2 or 3 weeks before clinical symptoms. HBs Ag persisting beyond 6 months denotes chronic hepatitis.

HIV ANTIBODY

Investigates the presence of antibodies associated with HIV infection within patient serum/plasma. The test indicates exposure to virus but does not necessarily signify current infection. The HIV antibody test may therefore be used to screen patients for possible HIV infection and indicate whether or not further diagnostic investigation is warranted.