Hepatitis C Viral RNA (HCV RNA) Quantitative Real Time PCR Test
Short Name: HCV RNA Quantitative PCR
Also known as: HCV RNA Quantitative PCR, Hepatitis C Viral Load Test, HCV PCR Quantitative Test
Hepatitis C Viral RNA (HCV RNA) Quantitative Real Time PCR Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹5,265. Uses Real Time PCR on Serum or Plasma samples. Results in Sample collected on Tue/Fri by 11 am; report available on Thu/Mon via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Pasupathy Arumugam
Consultant Pathologist · Reg: 21521
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
This test is intended for use as an aid in management of HCV infected patients and is not intended for use in the initial diagnosis or confirmation of HCV infection. This test quantifies HCV RNA of free HCV virions in serum / plasma. HCV RNA is a marker of viral replication and persistence is associated with disease progression. This test can be used to monitor response to therapy.
- Test Code
- 723
- Price
- ₹5,265
- Sample Type
- Serum or Plasma
- Result Time
- Sample collected on Tue/Fri by 11 am; report available on Thu/Mon via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
- Fasting Required
- Yes (12 hours)
- Method
- Real Time PCR
Sample Collection
12 hours fasting is recommended. Stay hydrated.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm by a trained phlebotomist.
Report Delivery
Apply pressure to the puncture site to stop bleeding. Resume normal activities.
Timeline: Sample collected on Tue/Fri by 11 am; report available on Thu/Mon via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
This test is intended for use as an aid in management of HCV infected patients and is not intended for use in the initial diagnosis or confirmation of HCV infection. This test quantifies HCV RNA of free HCV virions in serum / plasma. HCV RNA is a marker of viral replication and persistence is associated with disease progression. This test can be used to monitor response to therapy.
How to Prepare
- Separate serum/plasma aseptically within 2 hours of collection
- Ship refrigerated or frozen
- 12 hours fasting recommended prior to sample collection
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Pasupathy Arumugam — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521
"This test is crucial for monitoring HCV infection and guiding treatment decisions. Early detection can prevent liver complications and improve patient outcomes."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Insufficient sample volume
- Clotted or hemolyzed samples
- Improperly labeled specimens
- Contaminated samples
Understanding Your Results
Undetectable or below detection limit
No active HCV infection detected or successful treatment response
Low viral load (e.g., <15 IU/mL)
Possible early infection, resolving infection, or low-level replication
High viral load (e.g., >15 IU/mL)
Active HCV infection requiring medical evaluation and potential treatment
If you have risk factors for Hepatitis C, experience symptoms like jaundice or fatigue, or receive a positive test result, consult a doctor immediately for further evaluation and management.
Limitations
- ⚠Cannot distinguish between acute and chronic infection
- ⚠Results may vary with viral genotype
- ⚠Requires specialized laboratory equipment
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor pain or bruising at the blood draw site
- ●Rare risk of infection or fainting
- ●Slight discomfort during blood collection
Interfering Factors
- ●Hemolyzed or lipemic samples
- ●Improper sample handling or storage
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Hepatitis C Viral RNA (HCV RNA) Quantitative Real Time PCR Test | HCV Antibody Test | Liver Function Tests | HCV Genotyping |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Hepatitis C Viral RNA (HCV RNA) Quantitative Real Time PCR Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HCV RNA Quantitative Real Time PCR test?
How is the HCV RNA test different from the HCV antibody test?
What does a high viral load result indicate?
Is fasting required before the HCV RNA test?
How long does it take to get the test results?
What is the cost of the HCV RNA Quantitative test at DNA Labs India?
Can this test be used to diagnose Hepatitis C initially?
What sample is required for this test?
How accurate is the HCV RNA Quantitative PCR test?
What should I do if my test results are positive?
Is home collection available for this test?
Can this test detect all genotypes of Hepatitis C?
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