Donor Screen Tests - Please Help

[ScwB]

Hello, about a month ago I donated blood (3rd time). Now a couple days ago I received a letter saying that Hepititis C screening showed a possibility of having HepC. Here is part of the letter:

"When we tested your donation, the first (screening) test for hepititis C showed a reaction. The second (confirmatory) test for hepitits C was indeterminate, meaning that the result was not clear-cut. A third Nucleic Acid Test (NAT) for hepititis C was negative. These results mean that you are likely not infected with hepititis C. However, it is possible that you have been infected with hepititis C in the past, and the virus is no longer present in your blood. Because a positive reaction was found on one of the tests, we recommend that you consult your doctor for further testing."

What I want to know is, given this information, what are the chances of me currently being infected or even having it in the past? I was pretty baffled when I read this, as I have no clear whatsoever about how I could have contracted the disease. I have talked to my doctor (who himself was wondering how I received it) and will be getting further blood tests done soon; however, I'd still like some input from other people. If anyone can help me with this, it would be greatly appreciated.

[jonihs]

15 to 20% of people exposed to Hepatitis C clear automatically. You might be in that group which would explain the tests. The first was an antibodie test, which will always show positive if you had the virus. The second 2 were for the virus itself, which suggests that you had it and cleared. If I were you, I would get tested again, but I wouldn't be overly worried about the results. Joni

[giddyup]

Try searching for a site called "Janice and friends"while your waiting for resposes here.Many questions can be answered there.

[eztagger]

I know just how you feel. I too gave blood last month but I wasn't nearly as fortunate as you. The previous two commenters gave you information that is right on. My blood center letter stated the following:

anti-HCV (A test for the antibodies) = positive
NAT HCV (A test for the virus) = positive
RIBA 3.0 (A confirming test for the virus) = positive

I have since had an RNA by PCR and my virul load is 935,000. I have an appointment with a specialist in February and will probably have a biopsy.

Please do not concern yourself right now with HOW you contracted the virus, if you indeed have the antibodies. Main thing is to ensure you are virus free. Worrying about the how will drive you nuts; believe me, I know.

[eztagger]

Here is the url to Janice and Friends:

http://www.janis7hepc.com/

I've found amazing support from the folks in chat there.