Hepatitis C test

What is hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is a viral infection of the liver. Many people do not notice it at first because the disease often runs its course for a long time without symptoms. Nevertheless, the virus can damage the liver and lead to long-term consequences such as liver cirrhosis or liver cancer.

How does the test work?

The hepatitis C test is a blood test (serological test).

1. A small amount of blood is taken from your vein.
2. The blood sample is sent to the specialized laboratory Dr. Risch.
3. There she is tested for antibodies against the hepatitis C virus.

When should I take the test?

• You should get tested after a possible risk situation (e.g. unprotected sexual contact, sharing syringes or contact with blood).
• For the result to be reliable, you have to wait at least 12 weeks, as the body has only then formed antibodies that are visible in the test.

What does the result mean?

• No antibodies found: There is no infection.
• Antibodies found: Initially, this only means that your body has had contact with the virus.
• Important: This alone does not mean that you are really ill.
• A confirmation test is therefore carried out to be absolutely sure.

Only if the confirmation test is also positive is the infection confirmed.

Why is early diagnosis important?

• Today, hepatitis C is very treatable - in most cases even curable.
• The earlier the disease is detected, the better the late effects on the liver can be prevented.
• Timely treatment not only protects your health, but also reduces the risk of infecting others.
• When will I receive my result?

The laboratory needs some time for the analysis.

• The result is usually available between 2 and 5 days after the blood sample is taken.
• You will then be informed directly by us about the result and the next steps if further clarification is necessary.