Description
Hepatitis C Viral RNA, Genotype, LiPA test is used to confirm the hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection following an initial positive HCV screen. The reflex to genotype helps in prognosis and treatment selection. This test should only be ordered if the initial HCV screen results are positive. Determination of hepatitis C genotype is often required to select the most appropriate direct acting agent(s) (DAA) for the treatment of hepatitis C. Some DAA`s are only effective for the treatment of hepatitis C genotype 1, whereas others may be used for additional genotypes. Refer to the package inserts of the relevant DAA`s for guidance.
Hepatitis C is an infection caused by a virus that attacks the liver and leads to inflammation and liver damage. Most people who have HCV show no symptoms. They usually don’t know they have HCV until they get a routine checkup and liver damage is shown. You are at a higher risk for HCV if you have injected or inhaled illegal drugs, have HIV, have been exposed to infected blood as a healthcare worker, have received a piercing or tattoo using an unsterile needle, and received a blood transfusion or organ transplant before 1992, we recommended to perform this test.
