Whats the difference

hcv rna qn tma vs hcv rna qn hdna whats the diffence?

[portann]

The first is a very sensitive test by a process called TMA and terrific to have during tx to detect down to a very low level.

A less sensitive test that is widely used is by a different process called PCR and you may have had this in the past.  (The testing not so long ago was even less sensitive.)

Both are to test for your HCV RNA, that is, the amount of virus hanging around in your blood.

The second I'm not familiar with but it stands for a DNA test, an hDNA test, maybe human-specific DNA. Don't know about this one but waiting to hear from Bill about what it is, as he's the go-to guy.

Oh, TMA stands for transcription-mediated amplification. :)

Congrats again on your terrific news.

Susan

[denisef714]

Well at least I know why it took a week and a half to get the results back in Feb they were back in 5 days. so TMA sounds like a better test to have. I want my viral load boo hoo. There are still a couple of test outstanding.

[portann]

Denise,

I'm remembering now that some PCR's can also be very sensitive.  One of Labcorp's PCR tests goes down to a very low level.

So scratch what I said previously about PCR tests being less sensitive - some are, some aren't.  

The thing is you had a very sensitive test by TMA and that's terrific.

As for your pre-treatment test, I'm thinking maybe it's the less sensitive 'bDNA' test that only goes down to 615 IU/ml. That would have been OK pre-tx when sensitivity is less of an issue because people usually have a viral load above 615 IU/ml.


I don't know what hDNA is, though. Sorry I don't have more time now to go looking. I was lucky during my tx that Jmjm (who's no longer here) knew his tests inside out, so I relied on him during my tx for that kind of info.

So when are you off on the cruise and do you have a plan to keep your meds at the right temperature while you're away?

You might want to ask about transporting your meds in a new thread. Interferon is temperature-sensitive.

Best wishes,

Susan

[denisef714]

They sent me a starter kit that has an ice chest and the room all have fridges. Besides We get on Friday at about 1:30 and I take the shot at about 5 and its only a 3 day cruise. I have a dr note for the needle.It will be in my carry on. Thank you for thinking about that!

Denise