PCR RNA Negative at 12 weeks post exposure

[reallyworried1978]

So I had a possible exposure to HCV and then had the PCR RNA for HCV test done at 12 weeks post exposure, and it came back non-reactive. Is it possible that HCV was still in the incubation period and that the PCR was not able to pick up on the virus at that time. I have had some abdominal pain since. Or would the PCR RNA still be able to pick up on the virus during the incubation period. I guess long story short can I count my PCR RNA at 12 weeks post along with the negative Anti test which I also had done at the same time conclusively negative or not? Thank you.

[hrsepwrguy]

"Is there a difference between exposure and infeection?"

http://websters-online-dictionary.org/

And by the way you said possible exposure

You DO NOT have hep c, if you can't accept that answer then I suggest you seek help for your unwarranted anxiety

http://www.medhelp.org/forums/Anxiety/show/71

[reallyworried1978]

Is there a difference between exposure and infeection?

[hrsepwrguy]

"can I count my PCR RNA at 12 weeks post along with the negative Anti test which I also had done at the same time conclusively negative or not?"

Yes, congrats you DON"T have HCV

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How soon after exposure to HCV can HCV RNA be detected by PCR?

HCV RNA appears in blood and can be detected as early as 2–3 weeks after infection.

http://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/HCV/HCVfaq.htm#c5