PCR 2014

[Rudah55]

I had  nonAB hep in 1982, found out in 1993 that it was now hep c. Dr  found positive RIBA but negative PCR. No viral load. I have had this checked as recently as 8 years ago and the result was the same. I now have symptoms that may be autoimmune disorder. Are PCR tests more sensitive or accurate now? Do I need to peruse the Hep C diagnosis again or is it true that no viral load means you really did overcome the virus?

[pooh55811]

As Can-do said, it sounds like you do not have Chronic Hep C.

However, Hepatitis C can trigger Autoimmune Disorders. Just having the acute infection can trigger Autoimmune Disorders even if you cleared the virus and do not have Chronic Hepatitis C.

If you are having symptoms of Autoimmune Disorders, you should see a Rheumatologist at a university affiliated medical clinic. The Rheumatologist at a university affiliated medical clinic will know the most about Autoimmune Disorders as well as the various triggers. It sounds like you did clear the virus on your own, but they may want to retest you for Hep C anyway just to be sure. They will also test you for a multitude of Autoimmune Disorders to find out if you have any of them.

I would not bother with trying to have a PCP figure this out for you. They usually know next to nothing about Autoimmune Disorders (and nothing about Hep C). It is best to go straight to a Rheumatologist if you think you have an Autoimmune Disorder. It will save you a lot of time and aggravation to do so.

Wishing you the best.

[can-do-man]

Well you can always retest but I see no reason. Even way back then the test went down to <615 so that would have been enough to detect a viral load... Best to you.

Remember you will more then likely always test positive for the antibodies which will do you no harm.