This forum is for questions and support regarding STD issues such as:
Chlamydia, Crabs (pubic lice scabies),
Gonorrhea, Hepatitis (viral),
Herpes, HPV, Molluscum Contagiosum, PID, Rectal Infections, Syphilis, Trichomonas, Warts,
Yeast Infection
For questions and support for HPV/genital warts, please visit our
HPV Community. For questions and support for Herpes, please visit our
Herpes Community.
Please note, this forum does not cover AIDS/HIV issues. Please visit our HIV Prevention Community for information and support.
http://www.ebiocare.com/communities/hepatitis/faqc.html
Q: How long after exposure to HCV does it take to test positive with PCR?
A: It is possible to find HCV within 1 to 2 weeks after being infected with the virus.
Q: Can you have a "false positive" anti-HCV test result?
A: Yes. A false positive test means the test looks as if it is positive, but it is really negative. This happens more often in persons who have a low risk for the disease for which they are being tested. For example, false positive anti-HCV tests happen more often in persons such as blood donors who are at low risk for hepatitis C. Therefore, it is important to confirm a positive anti-HCV test with a supplemental test as most false positive anti-HCV tests are reported as negative on supplemental testing.
Q: Can you have a "false negative" anti-HCV test result?
A: Yes. Persons with early infection may not as yet have developed antibody levels high enough that the test can measure. In addition, some persons may lack the (immune) response necessary for the test to work well. In these persons, research-based tests such as PCR (generic polymerase chain reaction) may be considered.
I hope that helps.
-AdviceSeeker06