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HCV Real Time PCR

HCV Real Time PCR is a laboratory test that is used to detect the presence of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) in a person's blood. PCR stands for Polymerase Chain Reaction, which is a technique used to amplify and detect specific DNA or RNA sequences. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a bloodborne virus that infects the liver and can lead to liver damage, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. The virus is primarily spread through contact with infected blood, such as through sharing of needles or other injection drug use equipment, or through transfusion of contaminated blood or blood products prior to the implementation of screening measures in the 1990s. In some cases, HCV infection can cause acute hepatitis, which may lead to jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, and other symptoms. However, many people with HCV infection do not have any symptoms until the disease has progressed to advanced stages. Chronic hepatitis C infection can be asymptomatic for many years and may only be detected through routine blood tests. Prevention measures for HCV infection include avoiding injection drug use, using condoms during sex, avoiding sharing personal hygiene items such as razors or toothbrushes, and screening of donated blood and blood products.

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