HCV RNA quantitatively

HCV RNA quantitative

Clinical significance

HCV -HCV virus belongs to the Flaviviridae family, causes hepatitis C. The virus is transmitted through contact with blood and infected tissues, including as maternal-fetal infections and through sexual contact. The incubation period of the disease averages 50 days (15-160 days). The HCV virus replicates predominantly in the liver, less frequently in B lymphocytes or mób tissue. The disease can have an acute or chronic course, as a consequence of which cirrhosis or primary liver cancer can develop. Early detection of infection allows to start therapy, eliminate or slow down the disease. Hepatitis C diagnosis includes, at the first stage, the determination of anti-HCV antibodies, whichóre detected in the blood 4-10 weeks after infection. In immunodeficient and dialysis patients, the test result may be falsely negative. A qualitative HCV RNA assay is performed to confirm infection. Viral replication testing with quantitative HCV RNA determination allows determination of infection activity. There are 6 main genotypesów, rów differing in sensitivity to antiviral drugs. For this reason, HCV genotyping is performed in HCV diagnosis to assess prognosis, type and duration of therapy. During treatment, the amount of viral genetic material in the blood is evaluated to assess the effectiveness of treatment.

Patient preparation

Material: Serum