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Hepatitis C  (Expert Forum)
 | 
Some confirmation about a dumb mistake!
Answered by
Douglas Dieterich, MD - Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology
The Mount Sinai Medical Center New York - NY
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Questions posted in the Hepatitis C Forum are answered by medical professionals from The Mount Sinai Medical Center.

Some confirmation about a dumb mistake!

by kindaworried24, Jul 26, 2008 01:52PM
Hello Dr. D.

I would like to thank you ahead of time for your kind work.

I will keep this as short as possible. About 6 months ago I made a terrible mistake and tried cocaine for the first and LAST time! I was unaware of the possible risk factors of Hepatitis C with Cocaine use. My risk is that I shared a dollar bill with a few individuals that I didn't know. After I learned of the risk factors I decided to make up for my irresponsible behavior and get tested. Can you tell me if my tests are conclusive or if I should test further?

Testing History:

3 months after risk: Hepatitis C and HIV antibody testing both came back Negative!

19 weeks after risk: HCV RNA PCR QUALITATIVE came back "Not Detected"........Also HIV antibody was negative.

24 weeks after risk: HCV Quantasure Plus (Serial) <10 Iu/mL.
                             HCV log 10: Unable to calculate result since non-numeric result obtained for component test.

Also at 24 weeks HIV antibody test was negative.

I am sure you are thinking that this may be too many tests. But I am in a relationship with someone and I wanted to make sure I was safe. Also, I had requested PCR testing because I wanted to make sure I was ok, and I heard PCR testing was accurate.

My problem lies with my doctor who does not know much about Hepatitis C. So could you tell me if my testing is conclusive? Should I test again?

Thank you for your help Dr. D.

by Douglas Dieterich, MD, Jul 28, 2008 06:16AM
To: kindaworried
You are definitely in the clear! Lots of tests to be sure and all negative so continue your relationship and dont give this another thought, unless someone offers you cocaine again! Stay safe and well! DTD
Member Comments (4)

by frank304, Jul 27, 2008 11:50PM
all you needed was an antibody test..

by frank304, Jul 28, 2008 01:44PM
and money!

by kindaworried24, Aug 04, 2008 02:42PM
To: Dr. D.
Thank you for the help Dr. Dieterich!

I just wanted to ask you, you said that I am ok and to forget about Hepatitis C. Would you say the HIV tests are conclusively negative as well?

Thanks Again!
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