Hepatitis C PCR blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Hepatitis C is a virus that infects the liver. It is spread mainly through blood, for example by sharing needles or other drug equipment, unsterile tattooing or medical procedures, and less commonly through sex or from mother to baby. Many people have no symptoms for years, but long-term infection can damage the liver.

Most hepatitis C screening starts with an antibody test, which shows whether you have ever been exposed. The antibody can stay positive for life, even after the virus has cleared. This PCR test looks for hepatitis C RNA, the virus itself, and so shows whether infection is active now. Testing is confidential and non-judgemental.

The price includes your sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a review of your result with an Omnia practitioner, and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• You have had a positive hepatitis C antibody result and need to know whether infection is current.
• You have had a possible exposure in the last few weeks and want to test early.
• You have been treated for hepatitis C and want to confirm the virus has cleared.
• You have ever injected drugs, shared equipment or had tattoos or medical treatment in settings with poor infection control.
• You have abnormal liver results with no clear explanation.

Understanding your result

Your report shows whether hepatitis C RNA was detected. A positive result means the virus is present, and the next step is referral for specialist assessment. Modern antiviral tablets cure hepatitis C in most people, and treatment is available on the NHS. A negative result means no virus was found at the time of the test.

PCR can detect the virus earlier than the antibody test, usually from around two weeks after exposure, but testing is more reliable after a longer window period, and your practitioner may suggest repeating the test or adding an antibody test after three months. Such a finding is something to talk over, not a diagnosis.

Preparing for your test

No fasting is needed and you can take your usual medicines. If you are testing after a specific exposure, tell us the date when you book so we can advise on the most useful timing. If you have been treated for hepatitis C, the test to confirm cure is usually done at least 12 weeks after finishing treatment.

If you want broader screening, our STI and blood-borne virus tests include the hepatitis C antibody, HIV and hepatitis B, and liver function tests show how the liver is coping. For the bigger picture, our hub sets out every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is a hepatitis C PCR test in Chiswick?

The Hepatitis C PCR test costs £199 at our Chiswick clinic. This includes your blood sample, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a confidential practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.

What is the difference between the antibody and PCR tests?

The antibody test shows whether you have ever been exposed. The PCR test shows whether the virus is in your blood now.

How soon after exposure can I test?

PCR can often detect hepatitis C from around two weeks after exposure. Because early results are less certain, a repeat or antibody test at three months is often advised.

Can hepatitis C be cured?

Yes. Current antiviral treatments cure most people. If your result is positive, your GP can refer you to an NHS hepatitis service.