Anti HCV Test in Kolkata
Request a Call Back
How to Book an Anti-HCV Test in Kolkata?
What is an Anti HCV test used for?
An anti HCV test is done to detect antibodies present in the body in response to the Hepatitis C Virus. It helps determine the cause of many subsets of symptoms affecting the liver and other associated organs in the body. Hepatitis C or HCV, if left untreated, may cause long-term liver diseases and/or death.
It is also a primary surveillance tool for controlling the spread of the Hepatitis C Virus. Anyone with recent exposure to an infected individual, especially a healthcare worker, should get tested on a routine basis.
Hepatitis C Virus has been a major reason for liver transplantation worldwide and therefore, anti HCV test plays a pivotal role in reducing this health burden.
What is included in the Anti HCV test?
Antibodies are proteins produced in our bodies to fight infections. Our immune system functions to detect any microorganism that poses a threat to the normal working of organs. Once such microorganisms are detected, antibodies are manufactured by the host, which may take a few days to weeks. These antibodies bind to the antigen, in this case, the Hepatitis C Virus, forming an antigen-antibody complex thus eliminating or modifying the virus.
Our liver works to filter blood and helps break down poisonous substances such as alcohol and drugs and drives away waste from the body by producing bile.
When the liver is infected with Hepatitis C Virus, it can produce the following symptoms:
- Fever
- Nausea or lightheadedness
- Dark urine
- Gray or clay-coloured stools
- Reduced appetite
- Fatigue
- Yellow colour skin (jaundice)
- Stomach or lower abdomen pain
- Severe disease can also lead to mental confusion and profuse swelling of the abdomen, and hands and feet.
The presence or absence of antibodies to the Hepatitis C Virus are confirmed with an anti HCV test.
Procedure for an Anti HCV test
- A small amount of blood under absolutely aseptic conditions will be drawn from your vein near the arm or forearm with a sterile, disposable needle and syringe.
- A tourniquet will be applied around the upper part of the arm. You will feel a small prick while the needle is in place.
- The tourniquet will be removed once the blood is taken in the syringe. A small, disposable bandage will be applied to the pricked site to minimize the pooling of blood and prevent infection.
- The blood sample is then stored in proper devices to be transported to the designated laboratory.
- Antibodies are confirmed with the help of the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) test. The ELISA test is the gold standard for such antibody-linked tests and has a high reliability and sensitivity rate.
How to prepare for an Anti-HCV test
- You will need to inform your physician or doctor, lab technician and caregiver about any existing medicines being taken or any procedure that you have undergone in the past year.
- Food intake does not interfere with the collection of samples and therefore, there is no need to fast before sample collection.
- A comfortable sitting posture is advised for the test with a hands-on armrest.
- One must practice breathing with intermediate long breaths to facilitate smooth sample collection after pinprick and minimize discomfort.
- You must monitor yourself for any signs of dizziness and nausea while a blood sample is being taken.
Things to consider after anti HCV test is complete
The lab technician will instruct you to sit comfortably for some time while you recover from the procedure. It is recommended that you monitor and inform the technician/doctor immediately if you experience dizziness and nausea. Slight amount of soreness and discoloration around the puncture site may be experienced. Depending on the test results, your doctor may advise you to also undergo an RNA test to further determine the viral load (viremia) in the body. It is known as the HCV RNA test.
*What types of infection can an Anti HCV test detect?
An anti HCV test can detect infection with Hepatitis C Virus by confirming the presence of antibodies to the virus in the body with the help of an ELISA test.
How much does an anti HCV test cost?*
The average cost of an anti HCV test in major Indian cities has been listed below.
City | Cost (Rs.) |
Book anti HCV test in Delhi | 1001 |
Book anti HCV test in Ahmedabad | 954 |
Book anti HCV test in Mumbai | 676 |
Book anti HCV test in Chennai | 795 |
Book anti HCV test in Indore | 712 |
*Disclaimer: The value varies based on location, time, and your preferred lab partner.
How long does it take to get the results for the Anti HCV test?
You can expect to get the results for the anti HCV test within 24 to 48 hours after the sample is collected. However, in certain cases, depending on the location, medical advice and preferred lab partner, it may take longer.
What do abnormal Anti HCV test results indicate?
Interpretation of an anti HCV test includes the presence or absence of antibodies to the Hepatitis C Virus.
A positive report may indicate the presence of infection from the Hepatitis C Virus causing liver cirrhosis, liver failure, cancer or any other related conditions around the liver. Once positive, you may be advised to get an RNA test done to confirm the presence of the Hepatitis virus in your blood.
A negative or normal result, on the other hand, indicates the absence of Hepatitis C Virus in the body.
Disclaimer: Please consult with your doctor for interpreting the test reports.
Is an Anti HCV a definitive test?
An anti HCV test is a relatively definitive test which means that the results may be falsely positive or negative depending on the time when a blood sample was tested. If a person gets infected with Hepatitis C Virus and gets tested for antibodies within a few days, results may show a negative report.
How to read the Anti HCV report?
The test results will appear as:
- Positive: Confirms the presence of antibodies to the Hepatitis C Virus. There are two possibilities in this situation – the antibodies have cleared the virus from the body and the body is completely cured or that the virus is still circulating within the body and needs to be addressed.
- Negative or normal: Confirms the current absence of antibodies to the Hepatitis C Virus.
There is no reference range for this test as it does not measure specific amounts of any particular substance.
Why book an Anti HCV test?
Anti HCV test is a primary screening tool for Hepatitis C Virus in the body. The early detection of the virus may prevent many associated conditions and improve quality of life. One must undergo an anti HCV test if any of the following holds true:
- If your mother is or was a Hepatitis C Virus carrier or sufferer.
- You have received blood from a Hepatitis C Virus blood donor.
- You had sexual contact or intercourse with an HCV positive individual.
- Received coagulant therapy before the 1980s.
- You were exposed to the Hepatitis C Virus in the last 6 months.
- You may or may not have symptoms of liver disease but still are a carrier of the virus.
- Someone is a known case of HIV.
- You are a health worker with possible exposure to Hepatitis positive patients.
- Before any major surgery.
- During pregnancy.
All these ensure and possibly rule out the chances of having Hepatitis once you get an anti HCV test done.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends testing of all individuals exposed to the virus or when a potential threat for infection exists.
Anti HCV test at home – how does it work?
The anti HCV test is just like any other blood test. A lab technician visits your home when you book your tests through the MFine app. The lab technician first cleans the arm and then inserts a syringe into a vein. The required amount of blood is then taken into a vial. The lab technician then removes the needle and places cotton wool or a bandage over the prick.
Are there any risks involved with Anti HCV?
The needle prick may induce bleeding, soreness and discomfort for a while after the procedure is complete. One may even feel light-headed and all these symptoms usually subside on their own and rarely require special attention.
What can affect the results of Anti HCV tests?
When done in an early stage of exposure or infection, results may be false-negative and may prompt one to avoid consultation with a doctor. This may be harmful and is not advisable. The possibility of an infection or any associated condition must be ruled out completely.
Past infection with the Hepatitis C Virus or exposure not amounting to significant infection or symptoms may not be detected through an anti HCV test. A mild infection with or without symptoms may also be reported as negative for the virus.
Why Book an Anti-HCV Test?
- In simple terms, Hepatitis C Virus commonly known as HCV is a virus that causes inflammation in the liver. Anti HCV test is a primary screening that plays a key role in determining the underlying issue. The early detection of the virus may prevent many associated conditions and improve quality of life. There are several reasons why one should book an anti HCV test. These include-
- If you have a family history (especially your mother) who suffered from Hepatitis C Virus.
- If you’ve received blood from a Hepatitis C Virus blood donor.
- If your partner is HCV positive.
- If you’ve suffered from the Hepatitis C Virus in the last 6 months
- Apart from these, in case you’re experiencing apparent symptoms, it is suggested to book an anti HCV test at the earliest.
For further assistance
Book Anti HCV Test Near Me in Kolkata | MFine
Book Anti HCV Test Near Me in Kolkata | MFine
What is the Anti HCV Test Measure?
What Preparation is Needed for the Anti HCV Test?
What happens to your Test Sample?
What do Abnormal Results Indicate?
- An abnormal result demonstrates that you have tested positive which means the presence of infection from the Hepatitis C Virus causing liver failure, liver cirrhosis, cancer, or any other related conditions around the liver. To confirm the disorder, you will be advised to get an RNA test done.
- On the other hand, if your test results come out to be negative, it indicates the absence of the Hepatitis C Virus in the body.
- Individuals who experience symptoms like jaundice, Dark-colored urine, Weight loss, and so on are most likely to test positive for the anti HCV test. Do not self-medicate without taking a specialist clinical opinion.
Related Blogs
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I avail at-home sample collection in Kolkata?
Yes, you can easily avail of sample collection for various tests at home through MFine. Within a single click, you can book a slot for a test without going anywhere. Your test results will be available for download within 48 hours.
What is the cost of the Anti-HCV Test in Kolkata?
The cost of the tests depends upon different laboratories and the infrastructure used by the laboratories. The charges for the test in Kolkata generally range from INR 700-1000.
I stay in Delhi. Can I book an Anti HCV test for my grandfather staying in Kolkata?
Yes, you can easily book an Anti HCV test for your relatives and old family members living in distant places with the help of MFine.
How can I reschedule my appointment for an Anti HCV test sample?
You can easily reschedule the appointment for an Anti HCV test through the MFine app or web service. The app has an option to reschedule the sample collection date and time.
Is the lab technician coming for an Anti HCV test sample collection vaccinated?
Yes. Our lab technicians are fully vaccinated. Further, they also ensure safety throughout by wearing a mask and using sanitizer and gloves during sample collection.
When is an Anti HCV test recommended?
A doctor recommends an anti HCV test to confirm the presence of antibodies to the Hepatitis C Virus. This test is also recommended if you are experiencing constant Bleeding, jaundice, Dark-colored urine, Weight loss, and so on. Higher levels of antibodies to the Hepatitis C Virus in the blood indicate a more progressive form of the disease and possible complications in the body.
Is a prescription required to book an Anti HCV test?
No, generally it is not required to take a prescription from a doctor to book an Anti HCV test. Still, it is recommended to consult a doctor before you book a test.
Does MFine provide result interpretation along with the reports?
Yes. MFine provides result interpretation along with the reports. Also, you will be able to avail a free doctor consultation after the lab test to understand your reports accurately. Our doctor will also advise and prescribe medicines if required based on the results.
Is the Anti HCV test definitive?
The anti HCV test is relatively definitive. This means that the test results can be either false or true depending on the condition the test is taken. If a person gets infected with Hepatitis C Virus and gets tested for antibodies within a few days, results may show a negative report.
What other tests are usually recommended along with the Anti HCV test?
The doctor might prescribe the RNA test along with the Anti HCV test for detailed examination.
What diseases can be detected through the Anti HCV Test?
The Anti HCV test is primarily conducted to detect the presence of Hepatitis C infection in the blood. This is a common condition that can lead to liver damage, liver cancer, scarring of the liver, and others, if not detected and treated well on time.
How can I download my Anti HCV test report?
- Login to MFine
- Go to your profile
- Click Attachment and Reports
- Click Lab Report and download the same.
Are there any discount offers running on the Anti HCV test in Kolkata?
Usually, you can avail of up to 50% discount on the Anti HCV test through MFine. However, the discount and test price may vary based on lab partner and location.