HEPTIMAX or the other PCR tests

I'm was wondering if anyone has demanded the Heptimax test for viral load. I'm 47 YR male Geno/3a with starting viral load at 2,960,000.
12th week it was undetectible less than 200 IU/ML with the regular PCR RNA test from ARUP labs in Salt lake City.

Can any one coment on personal experience. with these tests.
The Heptimax or the Regular PCR. What should I insist on the next check!

Method

The HEPTIMAX

[Revenire]

You're <200 now so I suppose the Heptimax would give you additional peace of mind?

[raheem]

I asked my Dr. about the Heptimax test and he said he is limited to ordering tests used by the hospital in which he works (Cobas Amplicor HCV Monitor test). The lower limit of detection with this type of quanTitative test is 600 IU/ml. The lower limit of this type of quaLitative test is 60 IU/ml.  Fortunatly, I tested <600 at 12 and 24 weeks and <60 at 24 weeks.

[MajNeni]

My doctor had been ordering Quest tests, but using one down to 50 IU (at 12 and 24 weeks).  I requested the Heptimax and convinced him to use it on me; since then, he uses it on everyone.  Around here, I have to have it drawn at the hospital lab.  Results come back extraordinarily slowly somehow... see if you can have the doc put on the order to mail you results  directly.  Maj Neni

[MichaelT]

The test you had done is quite sensitive. Insisting on the Heptimax or UltraQual/UltraQuant (Quest) is appropriate at the end of treatment. Afterwards, the test you were given has ample sensitivity for 6 month/12 month check.

In otherwords, you are in GREAT SHAPE, my friend. I encourage you to be very happy, pleased, and content with your test results.


-Michael

[DownThisRoad]

Be very happy with your results, you are winning !!

Good move...mofosr.

[bunkywoo]

I demanded the Heptimax test when I finished tx just for that extra peace of mind. I too was a 3a and will be getting my 1 year post-tx test in March. I got Heptimax at the 6-month post-tx point and was undetectable. My doc was just giving me the regular PCR test that measures down to 50 and really hadn't heard of Heptimax until I faxed him an article that was posted on this site. It's your life and you should make some of your own decisions when you have these options.

Good luck and feel good.

Laurie

[honey1616]

hahahaha I love it!! What creative thinking!  That sounds like something I would do before tx...after starting tx haha I need someone standing there nudging me TELLING me what to do!

[LvdByGod]

hey laurie, how the heck are you? it's been awhile sence i seen you around. do you stop by periodically? i wonder if the others do too.  i finally started tx. you may remember i'm 3a like you were.  i always looked for you to see how you were doing. you paved the way for me a fellow 3a and now your clear. thank you for those days and thanks for letting us know how you are. did everything grow back like it was suppose to and return to normal post tx?  

i am now on month 5. getting there. it is so good to see you on board, reminds me of the very old days.  i hardly see anyone from last year anymore. it must be nice to be able to move on...

GOD BLESS, AND CONGRATS ON STILL BEING CLEAR!!!!                  

THAT IS SOOOOO.............GOOD TO HEAR!!!!! sandi :o)

[Lucy452]

I just found out I have Hep C.  I am genotype 1a.  I'm trying to read my Heptimax HCV RNA test resuls for the viral load but I don't understand the results.  Does anyone know how to read the test results?
Thank you,

Lucy

[jmjm530]

Most of us are not doctors here, but many are quite familiar with Heptimax. Feel free to post the results exactly as they are written on your lab report and we'll do our best. Of course, double-check with your doctor who is supposed to explain these things anyway.

-- Jim