Testing Results and Questions

[23MMD]

Good evening, I have been monitoring these forums for the past few days and I have found many useful resources. On October 9 I shared a straw with 3 other people while doing cocaine and have since been freaked out about contracting Hep C. I know I'm not the first to ask this, nor will I be the last. I spoke with my physician about the incident and he suggested that it's possible but unlikely to transmit via this way. At the beginning of January, I started to feel flu like symptoms (fatigue, nasuea, and abdominal pain.) I have been monitoring my stool and urine color and nothing seems to be out of the ordinary. I have no symptoms of jaundice either.  I got an antibody test on Jan 10 (3 months) which came back negative. Is it likely that symptoms related to Hep C would develop without any antibodies showing? Should I consider getting antoher test, possibly RNA? I have read several studies that suggest a speedy response to an acute infection is key to acheiving an SVR. I have another test scheduled in 3 months (6 months after possible exposure), but I am afraid this could be later than necessary. Anyone have any suggestions?

[James10500]

I'm very happy to hear this !  Congratulations !  I'm sure it's a great relief to you.  

Thanks for the update.

[23MMD]

I agree 100%. I appreciate everyone's input and help. This past four months provided high anxiety that I never want to revisit. Hopefully this site can help others from making the same mistake.

[SteveOC]

Not trying to preach but a lot of us get here through recreational/illicit drug use thus maybe it's time to examine more closely the choices you make regarding drug use in any capacity for your longterm healths sake ....

[23MMD]

Just wanted to provide an update. I know this site was a huge help to me when I was going through every possible scenario in my head, so I figure this post may help others as well. I was tested again today (4 Months) and came back clear of any antibodies. I know 6 months is the absolute cutoff, but this test has really cleared a lot of my concerns. Thanks for the info Trinity and James.

[James10500]

From the CDC website.

Is cocaine use associated with HCV transmission?
There are very limited epidemiologic data to suggest an additional risk from non-injection (snorted or smoked) cocaine use, but this risk is difficult to differentiate from associated injection drug use and sex with HCV-infected partners.


http://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/HCV/HCVfaq.htm#section2

[23MMD]

Thank you very much for your guidance. The only thing preventing me from getting the PCR test is the cost. It costs $250.00 through Labcorp. Do you think it is more prudent to wait another month and get another antibody test at $75?

I have read about the normal window time for antibodies to develop and HCVadvocate suggests most people would develop them by 2-3 months. I'm young and in pretty good health so I would think my immune response would be quick. Judging by your profile you seem pretty well informed so any advice is really appreciated.

[Trinity4]

I would consider a 3 month negative antibody test conclusive.  However, get the PCR if you have lingering concerns.  Your doctor is correct, the incidence of exposure that way is very low.

Trinity