Hepatitis

Important things to note if you test positive for hepatitis C

What does a positive hepatitis C antibody test mean?
A positive result on a hepatitis C antibody test indicates that hepatitis C antibodies were detected in the specimen tested. This result is consistent with a current infection, or a past infection that has resolved, or a biologic false positivity for hepatitis C antibody (1).

What are the next steps?
Consult with a health care professional for follow up testing for hepatitis C nucleic acid (RNA). The detection of hepatitis C RNA utilizes a different lab technique compared to the detection of hepatitis C antibodies.

If hepatitis C RNA is not detected, it indicates a past hepatitis C infection that has resolved, and generally no further action or treatment is required. It is estimated that up to half of all infected individuals are able to spontaneously clear hepatitis C after an acute infection (2).

If hepatitis C RNA is detected, it indicates a current hepatitis C infection. Generally an additional test for hepatitis C RNA is recommended to confirm a current infection before any treatment protocols begin (3).

Management and treatment of an active hepatitis C infection
Appropriate counseling, care and treatment will be organized by the health professional who requested the hepatitis C RNA test (4). Management and treatment options may include:

  • Medical evaluation for chronic liver disease
  • Vaccinations for hepatitis A and hepatitis B (no vaccines are available for hepatitis C)
  • Screening for and control of alcohol consumption
  • HIV testing
  • Direct acting antivirals to limit the replication of the hepatitis C virus and slow the progression of the disease
  • Following a healthy diet and staying physically active
  • Consultations before taking any new prescriptions, medications or supplements (to prevent further potential liver damage)
  • Avoid donating blood, tissue, or semen
  • Covering of cuts and sores to prevent transmission of hepatitis C

References
1. Ghany MG, Strader DB, Thomas DL, & Seeff LB. (2009). Diagnosis, management, and treatment of hepatitis C: An update. Hepatology, 49 (4),1335-1374.
2. Seo S, et al. (2020). Prevalence of Spontaneous Clearance of Hepatitis C Virus Infection Doubled From 1998 to 2017. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol, 18 (2), 511-513.
3. Hepatitis C. (2020, July). World Health Organization. 
4. Viral Hepatitis – Hepatitis C Questions and Answers for Health Professionals. (2020, August). CDC.