Inconsistent HCV Test Results after 6 Month Mark

Hi Drs....I have had some really unsual test regarding Hep C and I am suffering a lot of anxiety:
Below is the chronology.

July 5 2007 -  Possible exposure
Jan 2008 - Reactive Hep C anitbody test
Jan 2008 - Negative RNA PRC test
March 2008 - Non-reactive Hep C anitbody test
August 2008 -  Reactive Hep C anitbody test

My doctor thought my first positive antibody test was a false positive since it unlikely the RNA PRC test would come up negative at 25 weeks, the time when infection is usually chronic.

The subsequent non-reactive anitbody test at 36 weeks confirmed his false postives suspicion...
or so we thought. Now over a year later from any possible risk, i once again get a reactive antibody test.

Any ideas?  I had a Hep A and B vaccine in April 2008...could this be causing the reactive antibody test?  Could it be a lab error? False Positives?   Could I have cleared the virus?  I find it very odd I would get a neg antibody and RNA PRC test months 3 months apart if I was indeed positive for hep C.

Any thoughts are greatly appreciated!

[Douglas Dieterich, MD]

The only way to know for sure if you were exposed is the RIBA. The only way to know for sure if you are infected is the HCV RNA. I would recommend both.

[Jakied]

I have a feeling your reactive antibody test in Aug 2008 was 'weakly' reactive, meaning a

low signal, probably <2.  Ask your doctor for a confirmatory 'Riba' test.  Recombinant

immunoblat assay.  this is VERY specific for Hcv antibody.  In your case, it will probably

be neg.  A neg 'riba' means no antibody for Hcv is in your bloodstream.

You could also call 'request a test.' 1888-732-2348.