HCV RNA (qualitative)
Liver Pathology Overview / Directory
Purpose of the test
Detection of HCV RNA by nucleic acid tests may provide evidence for current infection. Using nucleic acid tests, it is possible to detect HCV viremia prior to immunological sero-conversion. Since nucleic acid tests are able to detect HCV RNA directly, (ie. independent of the immunological status of the patient) a nucleic acid-based test is valuable in detecting HCV RNA in immunocompromised patients.
Reference Range
Negative, Positive
Sample Requirements
500 ul serum/plasma or 7 ml Clotted/EDTA blood
Storage and Transport
Store whole blood at 2 25°C for no longer than 6 hours. Separate serum or plasma from whole blood within 6 hours of collection. Serum or plasma specimens may be stored at 2 8°C for up to 72 hours or frozen at 70°C or colder.
Whole blood must be transported at 2 25°C and processed within 6 hours collection. Serum/plasma may be transported at 2 8°C or frozen at 70°C.
Samples sent by post or by courier must be appropriately labelled and packaged in leak-proof plastic containers in accordance with Post Office regulations. Frozen sera must be similarly packaged and shipped in dry ice. All costs must be met by the sender.
Turnaround Time
3 -5 working days
2 - 3 days for urgent samples
Factors affecting results or interpretation
(i) Heparin (anticoagulant) inhibits PCR amplification.
(ii) Reliable results are dependent on adequate specimen collection, transport and storage.
(iii) Failure to separate whole blood within 6 hours collection.
(iv) Failure to label specimen with patient name, date of birth and precise identifier
(v) Failure to fill in a consultation-request form, in particular clinical information and doctor to be notified of findings
Price
Price available on application - please contact adrian.turner@kch.nhs.uk. Discounts could be available for significant workloads.
Contacts
Dr. Dazhuang Shang, Principal Clinical Scientist/Service Manager T 020 3299 3732 or x2239
References
http://referrals.kch.nhs.uk/directory/liver/liver-pathology/hepatitis-testing-hts/
