Viral Load and antibody test

[whyme]

Hate to admit but I somehow became exposed to hepC.  I was referred to a GI because the HCV ab portion of my hep panel was repeatedly positive, 2004 was the year.  GI doctor ordered Viral load count and I tested once every year to get a count and never had a count enough to be detectable so in 2009 I stopped testing.  In 2011 I took a std/HIV panel test, knowing full well the HepC ab would be positive but it wasn't, it was Non-Reactive.  Figured damn they took my money and did no testing at all.  So in 2012 I went back to the GI doctor to do a Viral Load count and told them to include a HepC ab test also.  doctor told me it would be a waste of money because that would always be positive, I told him no problem include it.  End of story the viral load count was undetectable and the HepC ab was again Non-Reactive.  Can anyone explain this because I get liver pain and fatigue and weakness, etc all the symptoms.

[jberlin]

Well, no one answered, so I will say the obvious - it does not add up.  I would have to assume the earlier tests were just wrong - as even if you cleared the virus you should test positive for antibodies - I was hoping a medical person would comment though.  Glad you are clear!  -jack

[whyme]

I just wanted to know what test I could do because I do have elevated ALT 56 H range is 5-55 and AST 57 H range is 8-42 and BILIRUBIN TOTAL 1.4 H range is 0.3-1.2.  I do not drink, or drug use etc... So maybe what I'm asking is what does non-reactive mean and is their any test that I can take other than hepatitis antibody test to detect the infection, disease, etc.  I was also under the impression that you needed a detectable viral load before you can find out what genotype you are.