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Hep C ratio

Hello all. I was recently exposed to Help C. I had a test result and the range of the results that the labs showed were 0.00-0.08 my test results showed up as 0.09... what does this mean? Negative? In- conconclusive?
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683231 tn?1467323017
Have you spoken with the doctor who ordered your Hep C antibody test? Was there a word “reactive” or “non reactive” on the result?

Even if this was a reactive result it does not mean you currently are infected with hepatitis C. A second test to confirm current infection called the HCV RNA by PCR test that looks for the presence of the actual Hepatitis C virus would be needed to confirm if you are currently infected.

You should discuss the need for any additional testing with your physician.

I will see if I can find more information about interpreting s/co ratios in hep c antibody testing. So far I haven’t had much luck.
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No the test doesn't say anything
on the antibody results which is why I was asking I see my Dr this week. Just trying to see what that means
Ok I’ll keep google searching
Found this I think you may be negative

“Results are calculated as normalized signal-to-cutoff (S/Co) ratios obtained by measuring the signal strength of sample and the signal strength of an internal cutoff. Samples with an S/Co ratio of ≥1.0 are defined by the manufacturer as positive.”

ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Thank you so much. I've been looking too and not much luck either
Ok I am sure I am fine. I am not necessarily under the signal to cut off line but not 1.0 or higher. I do have an Auto immune disease that effects my Nerves and a weakened immune system due to the therapy I need so I wonder if that can play a part in the testing
I don’t think that would be a factor. But anyway you will have more info in a couple of days. Even worst case you have hep c there are new treatments approved since 2014 that are very effective In eridicate gets the hep c virus. Most tolerate these meds well with few side effects. Treatment could be as simple as 1 pill a day for as few as 8 weeks.

I don’t think you will need treatment but just to let you know this is an option.
Thank you so much!!! You really helped me out and I agree I don't think I will be needing treatment. Seems that this results same as mine have happened to others and were negative... A million thank you for your knowledge
Ambeauty
flyinlynn has given you good info, i would just add , you say you were just recently exposed and anti- bodies can take a few weeks to show up in a blood test
If your exposure was less 4 wks. ago possibly repeat then

For most people the hep c antibody test is reasonably assured 12 weeks post exposure. For those infected with HIV it can take as long as 6 months for sufficient antibodies to develop to detectable levels due to reduced immune system response.

The HCV RNA by PCR test is more expensive so normally only performed after a positive antibody test. The HCV RNA test can detect the virus a few days after exposure.

Your doctor will be able to determine if additional testing is needed.

Hep c requires a blood to blood contact for transmission. Hep c infected blood must enter the bloodstream of an uninfected person. While sexual transmission is possible the CDC does not consider hep c to be an STD.

For long term monogamous couples the CDC doesnotsuggest the need for barrier protection. For those who have multiple partners, those who engage in rough sexual practices,or in the presence of HIV there is an increased risk.

Hep C is not easily transmitted. Most cases, but not all, are due to the sharing of IV drug needles or blood transfusion before 1990 when testing for the hepc antibody was developed and the blood supply secured.
It was through a shared needle contact of a person who was positive for Hep C but this was back in October when I was exposed... I just recently found out that she was positive for HEP C she had it at that time as well,  With that amount of time and barely testing now  it seems I am lucky and in the clear?
However what what worries me is I read when a person's immune system is weak(like mine) the antibodies can be dimenished. But I feel that everything may be ok , but will talk with my PCP and see what he suggests. Thanks everyone. I appreciate all the input
So I guess the word recently is not the appropriate word. More like I was exposed at one point
Your exposure was in October and still negative antibodies, you are good to go and don't need anymore testing, don't read into the delayed antibodies theory unless you are HIV positive which I don't believe you are
Awesome sauce !!! And No sir I am not . Thank you everyone :)
As hrsepwrguy said the weakened immune system delay in response applies so significantly weakened immune system like HIV.

Best of luck :-)
Avatar universal
I meant I was recently exposed to Help darn autocorrect... However HELP is needed for this question heehee
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I give up ...HEP
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