Vertical transmission of Hep C and further testing

[LuluMom1980]

Hello I been with Hep C for about 10 yrs, had a baby knowing the low risk of him having Hep C transmitted Vertically or during around birth.
Baby still shows signs of maternal antibodies at 10 months (signal cut off ratio 3.7) and Pediatrician requested RIBA which came back Negative. Regardless he wants to do a PCR in a month. My question is : Is this necessary with RIBA came back negative? Isn't better to wait he looses maternal antibodies at 24 months?
Just wondering since i hate taking blood from a  baby esp since otherwise healthy.
Thank you,

Lucia

[sunshines76]

Chances are pretty low. Now that my 3 months post-tx PCR showed UND, I had my 3 y/o twins tested again and last week the results came in confirming that they are HCV-free. It gave me such a peace of mind to know they haven't contracted Hep C from me since birth. No more testing :)

[Diamando6]

dEAR Lulu,

I dont think it is necessery to do a test to a baby. I have a 16 years old son, and personaly think that I carry a virus longer then that, and my son is negative (thanks God). So are other peoples children, as long as I know. I never heard that anybodys child got infected from a parent. Maybe is possible, but realy chances are extremely low! Wish you all the best, and dont panic, your baby is almost 100% negative!

[LuluMom1980]

THANKS FOR YOUR HELP AND INFO!

I asked Pediatrician to do the  PCR after 1 yr and he came back negative, so I am very, very relief!And happy.

Yes you gave me courage to ask questions and sometimes even question a bit doctors, I feel sometimes they get too antsy and always depict the worst case scenario (dislike) way too often. Is like they are afraid you will sue them if not give all the bad news in advance...
Anyways Happy New Year to all!

[sunshines76]

Lucia,
Here is a link to a nice brochure you probably would like to take a look at. It partially answers your question. I wonder - why did your pediatrician decided to test so early?

http://www.health.qld.gov.au/sexhealth/documents/hepc_baby_n_me.pdf

[nygirl7]

Well just try to think if the PCR comes back negative how incredibly free and peaceful you are going to feel :)

I wouldn't want to do it either but when it all turns out for the best you are going to be very happy you did.  Plus the baby isn't going to remember so maybe it's best if you just leave the room because it's going to torture you much more than your child ;)