Hepatitis C Virus:- Part 3 – Anti- HCV (ELISA)
Sample
- This test is done on the serum of the patient.
- How to get good serum: Take 3 to 5 ml of blood in the disposable syringe or in vacutainer. Keep the syringe for 15 to 30 minutes at 37 C and then centrifuge for 2 to 4 minutes to get the clear serum.
Significance
- This test is used for the diagnosis of hepatitis C virus.
- This method is more specific than the screening method.
- THE Hepatitis C virus has more chronicity (30 to 65%) than the hepatitis B virus.
Pathology
- The incubation period is 2 to 52 months with an average period of 7 to 8 weeks.
- Onset is insidious.
- Chronicity is 50 to 80%.
- Transmission is the parenteral route.
- Now 50% of the cases mode of transmission is not clear.
Diagnosis
- Multiple antigens EIAs, as well as strip immunoassay, detect specific HCV antibodies.
Warning for Pakistan Population
This Viral disease is just like an epidemic and spreading with a much higher rate than HIV infection in Pakistan. This needs public education and awareness.
Please for more details see hepatic C markers