Synonym(s):
For detection of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) viraemia prior to sero-conversion in cases of high risk exposures. For confirmation of equivocal HCV serology results. To detect HCV viraemia in immunosuppressed individuals. For detection of HCV viraemia (which may be fluctuating) in anti-HCV antibody-positive patients or to diagnose chronic infection.
6 -10 mL of plain blood in serum separation tubes or EDTA-treated whole blood in sterile EDTA tube. Alternatively, 2 mL plasma or serum (separated from EDTA-treated or whole blood within 6 hours of collection by centrifugation at 800-1600g for 20 minutes at room temperature) in a sterile screw-capped polypropylene tube.
Refrigerate sample until transfer to laboratory. Do not freeze (except for plasma or serum). Sample must reach the laboratory within 24 hours after collection for plain blood and 48 hours for EDTA blood (preferably within 6 hours for all samples). Serum or plasma can be stored at 2 - 8°C for up to 2 days or frozen at -70°C before despatch to the laboratory.
Real-time Qualitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), Roche COBAS® AmpliPrep/COBAS® TaqMan® HCV Test (Version 2.0).
Detected, Not Detected or Inconclusive
1 - 8 days
Thursday (except public holidays)
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