Question about Hepatitis C test results

My husband had Hepatitis testing done due to a high ALT (56, 79 and then 112 over the last several months).  The HCV test came back as weakly positive.  Then the RIBA test came back as indetermined.  All of the bandpatterns were negative except the c33c which was 2+.  We now must wait several weeks to see a gastro doctor.  My husband would not have been considered high risk for this virus, however his father died 11 years ago from HCV.  His father contracted it through a blood transfusion in the 1970's.  It was not found until 1990's and his liver was already damaged. What is the liklihood that my husband could have received the virus from his father?  We are sick with worry.  What do these test results mean?  Is it most likely that he is positive? We thought the RIBA test was going to at least let us know an answer.  Now we must worry and wonder for several more weeks.  Is there still a chance that it could be a false positive?  Thank you for your help.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

If there was blood exposure to the father's blood, than the risk would be high.  Otherwise, it would be less likely.  

An ELISA test can be done instead of the RIBA test.  This is more commonly done, and has a better sensitivity, as the RIBA test is normally used for confirmatory use.  

If hepatitis C is confirmed, the next step would be a liver biopsy to help determine the severity.  

I would do the ELISA test if the results are inconclusive.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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