Eurofins Biomnis code

RIBHN

Synonyms

• Hepatitis C confirmation
• Immunoblot - HCV

Specialty

Infectious

Clinical significance

HCV belongs to the family of Flaviviridae and is parenterally transmitted. In France, at least 600,000 people are believed to be infected. The acute phase of the resultant hepatitis is often asymptomatic or atypical but chronic infection becomes established in over 50% of cases. Of these, one in five will develop cirrhosis which can lead to hepatocellular carcinoma.HCV represent a global public health problem. Diagnosis depends on serological analysis. A positive screen result should be confirmed using a different technique (a different, commercially available ELISA). Immunoblotting (RIBA) is of little practical relevance. Viral activity can be monitored most simply by measuring aminotransferase activity with, if necessary PCR assay of viral RNA in the serum. This is the most sensitive technique which is ideal for monitoring the efficacy of treatment (i.e. the disappearance of viral RNA). Quantitative measurement of the viral load using the PCR assay or the **b-DNA technique** can be helpful in deciding whether or not to undertake treatment and for monitoring its efficacy. Determining the genotype of the particular virus can be useful for predicting efficacy and for deciding which drugs and what dose to prescribe: it is well established that the chance of success is lower with genotype 1b.

Preanalytics

• 1 mL :
• serum
•   Reftrigerated

• A tube specifically for this analysis : No

Methodology

Immunoblot

Turnaround time

10 days