A viral load test measures how much hepatitis C virus is in the blood. Viral load may be measured before, during, and after treatment.
This test is done to see if there is any active virus in the blood. It's sometimes used to see how well treatment for hepatitis C is working. And it's done after treatment to see if treatment worked.
In general, there is nothing you have to do before this test, unless your doctor tells you to.
Information about Hepatitis C Viral Load Test
A health professional uses a needle to take a blood sample, usually from the arm.
You may feel nothing at all from the needle, or you may feel a quick sting or pinch.
There is very little chance of having a problem from this test. A small bruise may form at the site.
The results of a viral load test show whether you have hepatitis C.
Hepatitis C viral load test
Normal:
Hepatitis C is not detected (undetectable) in the blood.
Abnormal:
Hepatitis C is detected in the blood. Viral load results are reported as a specific amount of virus (IU/mL) in the blood.
If the virus is undetectable, it usually means that you don't have hepatitis C. This can happen if your body cures the infection on its own. Or it can happen if you were treated with medicines.
If the virus is detected, it means that you have hepatitis C. If the viral load is checked during treatment, the level should go down.
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review Board All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Clinical Review Board All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.
To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.
