Viral Load tests

[needhonesthelp]

Ate the Hep C viral load tests good for diagnosing?  This may not be the indication and I understand that, but if someone wants to get this test are they extremely accurate?

I read on the CDC that the VL test can be used 1-3 weeks after exposure.  Would a neg result with a neg antibody test 3 wks after exposure be conclusive that the virus isn't present?

thanks

[needhonesthelp]

yes, i was referring to the quantitative pcr or tma test that are out there.  from what the cdc says, these tests will detect the virus as early as 1-3 weeks post exposure.

i know the antibody tests take longer.  i believe it is usually 3-12 weeks post exposure for antibody tests.  sometime even 6 mos.

i'm asking if anyone knows if these tests are truly accurate after 2-3 weeks post exposure.  usually viruses replicate fairly quickly once they enter the body.  it is my understanding that these tests are highly accurate and sensitive.  can anyone provide me with some thoughts?

[frijole]

I think it may take longer than 3 weeks for the antibodies to show up.  You may have to retest in a month or so.  If exposure was pretty recently you might not have much luck with a quantitative test either (I guess that is what you are referring to when you say a VL test) because there might not be much replication yet.
frijole