Write a Comment
9 Comments
It depends on what test is ordered. Sometimes an HCV antibody test can have the designation "undetected" (or negative, or nonreactive, or nondetectable); in a viral load test, such as a PCR, "undetected" is also a possible result. In each case, the results means that the person is HCV-negative. However, if the antibody test is negative, then the person never was exposed to HCV at all, whereas in the case of a negative PCR test, the person could have a positive HCV-antibody result, despite being negative for HCV.
What does it mean undetectable? is it undetectable in PCR test or HCV antibodies test negative or positive? If HCV (HCV antibodies) are negative please let me know........i need it, i really need it.
You probably had hep C in 1976 and cleared it within 6 months (40% of women clear it on their own.) You will have the antibody for life. I think the test is conclusive, and I like your primary's idea of retesting one more time. I see no reason to see a liver specialist unless that second test comes in with a different result, which is very unlikely. However, in rare instances, the RNA test isn't accurate, such as if you have cryoglobulinemia. Assuming you don't, I'd continue on your quest to find the cause of your medical problems.
Hello: I am a 66 YO female, who received a transfusion in 1975 to save my life which infected me with several pathogens. The fact that I received tainted blood and was related to my on going medical problems was not discovered until the year 2001. From 1976 to 2001 I was Mis diagnosed with Lupus, auto immune hemolytic aememia, possible MS and idiopathic Uveitis. In 2001 I tested positive for Lyme by PCR and Babesia by Western Blot and received treatment for both. It was believed by the bands present, that I had been infected for many many years. 2 years post treatment, all my symptoms ( including my eyes) were mostly alleviated. The symptoms for Lyme and Hep C are very similar. I realize the controversy about post Lyme syndrome ( which I do not seem to have and was considered a "good" antibiotic responder). SInce I turned 65, my primary Dr. said I should be tested for Hepatitis A, B and C. I tested negative for A & B, and have subsequently been vaccinated for Hep A. I tested positive the the anti- HCV antibody, but tested Negative on the follow-up HCV PCR. My doc wants another PCR in December this year (2014). I remember having acute hepatitis in 1976 and at the time the drs were unaware of hep C and were unconcerned with my hepatitis- saying I would recover. My question now is.... is there enough info to determine if my body cleared the virus in 1976? I didn't think any memory cell ( or cell-line ) could keep up antigen memory for almost 40 years - so why do I have the antibody to Hep C now in 2014?? - but a negative PCR ( my PCR test could detect down to 15units). My primary doesn't know if I should see a hepatologist or not. What is the general consensus on positive Anti-HCV (antibody) but negative PCR. Should I see a liver specialist? Thanks, any info would be greatly appreciated. Barb P.
Here is some info: http://www.poz.com/articles/AbbVie_FDA_761_25497.shtml abd http://www.hcvadvocate.org/hepatitis/factsheets_pdf/Phase_3_Genotype_1_AbbVie.pdf Hope this helps.
What can you tell us about the AbbVie drugs that are also waiting for FDA approval?
Oh Denise, that is tough. If you are anything like me, you probably had yourself all geared up and ready to go. Having gone through 3 treatments and bringing vast experience to the table, I know what I would do. I'd wait, esp since your doc said you could, you have kids, and the difference in side effects is HUGE. I recommend you join the Hep Forums (http://forums.hepmag.com) for asking questions about hepatitis C treatment. There is lots of good information there, and I think you will find the answers to your questions. The forums are monitored 24x7 and you will find many folks willing to share their knowledge and experience. Peace and Health, Lucinda
Reta
My dad has been receiving repavirin and Sovaldi . The first PCR is negative after 12 week . But after 20 week it went positive . What is the reason ? Is there a hope to go back negative ? Also, how we compensate the iron since the combo causes hemolytic anemia ?
April 9, 2015