Post treatment testing

[Stovetopchicago]

About 10 years ago I was treated  (interferon/ribavarin) for Hepatitis C and tested clear. I have not had health insurance until Obamacare came about, and now it's time to get follow up testing. Unfortunately my plan does not cover the tests so I am trying to understand this before I pay for them.
The doctor suggested ( just a regular physician) suggested the HCV Reflex 2 PCR and the HCV Viral load. But I think the  HCV Reflex 2 PCR is for antibodies,which I would have even if I was still clear, correct or not?

All I need is the HCV viral load to see if it came back?

I was lucky that I had type 2 and no liver damage evident from a biopsy and a ultrasound. Thanks!

[Lynn K]

I am not entirely sure about the HCV Reflex 2 PCR test.

I only know I get tested with the HVC RNA by PCR to check with for virus presence and viral load.

Yes you are correct that if the doctor intends to test for the the antibody would be a waste of time. Once you have ever been infected with hep c you will test positive for the antibodies to hep c for the rest of your life.

The antibody is to screen for possible infection or exposure and the viral load test is to confirm current infection.

[Stovetopchicago]

Thanks Lynn. I actually can't find any online references to that specific test name. Maybe the receptionist who told me the name of the test got it wrong. I got the original treatment at a big city hospital, but now I live in a small town and I got the feeling my issues were not common.  Best of luck with your journey.

Anybody know this test? HCV Reflex 2(to?) PCR

[Karen3717]

The test you are inquiring about will determine if you are positive for HCV (eg, the antibody).  If the test comes back positive (which it will because as Lynn said, you will always have it), then the testing will "reflex" to a quantitative viral load.  PCR means polymerase chain reaction which is the testing methodology.  Really all you need is the HCV PCR quantitative test.  Hope this was helpful & also hope your test is 0 viral load!

[Stovetopchicago]

Thanks Karen. Just to be clear, because I'm not familiar with the nomenclature.

So the  the HCV reflex to PCR is the same as the HCV PCR quantitative test?And that will tell me that,yes, I have antibodies and the   specific viral load if it is in my body?

Or is what they called the "HCV viral load" the one I should take. Or both?

Obviously I'll talk to the doctor about this, but I want to have a little knowledge since of course these test cost $100's of dollars out of pocket.

[Karen3717]

Hi there stovetop.  Really all you are needing is the viral load.  There are some laboratories that combine the qualitative (yes/no) with the quantitative ( the viral load number) test.  I'm well aware of how expensive these tests are.  The test we are talking about is roughly $800.  I know because it was applied to my deductible when I had it done in February.  I am a practice manager for a physician and even having it done at the doctors price was $125. Honestly, I would try to negotiate that price with the lab before you have it done, or if possible, go to a clinic where they offer testing at reasonable prices (eg, sliding scale...means/income adjusted).  Have a great day!

[Sam1224]

If you search "liver panel tests" or HEP C RNA tests you will find them for less than $100 I believe. Research it a bit. I think they are the real deal.