What should you know about hepatitis C Ab?

A reactive antibody result means antibodies to hepatitis C were detected. This can reflect a current infection or an infection that the body cleared; antibodies can remain after the virus is no longer present. A non-reactive result means antibodies were not detected, although very recent exposure may require clinical review and repeat testing. The antibody result is therefore a screening step, not the final answer about active virus.

If antibodies are detected, a follow-up hepatitis C RNA test can look for virus in the blood. Liver tests may help assess liver inflammation, but a liver function test does not replace the follow-up virus test. Hepatitis C may cause no symptoms, while some people notice fatigue or other general changes.

Book a GP consultation to review the exact wording of the report and arrange follow-up testing when needed. Share information about possible blood exposure, previous hepatitis C testing, medicines, pregnancy, and liver problems. Until the result is clarified, avoid sharing needles, razors, or toothbrushes, and cover bleeding skin. Do not assume a reactive antibody result means you are infectious or that a non-reactive result rules out a very recent exposure; let the follow-up plan answer those questions.

Seek prompt medical advice for yellow skin or eyes, new abdominal swelling, persistent vomiting, unusual bleeding, confusion, or severe weakness. Arrange timely assessment after a possible blood exposure, particularly if a needle injury occurred or blood contacted broken skin. Urgent help is appropriate for collapse, severe drowsiness, or trouble staying awake. Feeling well does not exclude hepatitis C, so follow-up matters even without fatigue or other symptoms.

Ask: Is my hepatitis C Ab result reactive or non-reactive? Do I need an RNA test to check for current virus? Should I have a liver function test? Could recent exposure affect the result? What precautions should I use at home, and when should testing be repeated?