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Hepatitis C screening (serology)

Infectious Disease

AdultsOften one-time; repeat if ongoing risk5–10 minutes

Hepatitis C screening is a blood test that can identify infection; modern treatment is curative for most people.

Guidance for your location

Location
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Recommended Age
Adults
Frequency
Often one-time; repeat if ongoing risk
Duration
5–10 minutes

Overview

Hepatitis C often causes no symptoms for years but can lead to liver scarring (cirrhosis), liver failure, or liver cancer over time. Screening usually starts with an antibody blood test; if positive, confirmatory testing checks whether infection is currently active. Today’s treatments can cure hepatitis C in most cases.

Who Should Get This Screening

  • Adults (many guidelines recommend at least one lifetime test), and repeat testing for people with ongoing risk.
  • Anyone who has ever injected drugs (even once) or shared injection equipment.
  • People with other exposures (for example, certain blood product exposures historically) or unexplained abnormal liver tests (clinician-guided).

What to Expect

A blood sample is taken. If the antibody screen is positive, a follow-up test (HCV RNA) determines whether you currently have hepatitis C.

How to Prepare

Follow these tips to prepare for your screening

  • No special preparation.

Benefits

  • Identifies infection early.
  • Curative treatment can prevent long-term liver complications.
  • Helps reduce transmission through appropriate care.

Things to Consider

  • Minor discomfort or bruising from blood draw.
  • A positive antibody test can be confusing; confirmatory testing is needed to know if infection is active.

Guideline Source: Hepatitis C screening guidance (adult one-time + risk-based repeat testing)

This information is provided for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.