HEPATITIS C ANTIBODY, IGG WITH CONFIRMATION

Test Code

HCAB (OE), HCABG (LAB)

Alias/See Also

Hep C qualitative

CPT Codes
86803 (screen), 87522 (confirmation)

Includes

Antibody screen
Confirmation (if screen is positive)

Note: This test will automatically reflex to Hepatitis C RNA Quantitative by PCR (HCVAL) if positive. HCVAL cannot be performed on heparinized specimens.

Preferred Specimen

1 Gold tube (SST)

Minimum Volume

2 mL (3 mL optimal)

Other Acceptable Specimens

1 Lavender tube (EDTA)

Instructions

Centrifuge for complete separation of serum or plasma from red cells. Refrigerate until tested.

Transport Container

Gold tube

Transport Temperature

Refrigerate

Specimen Stability

2-8°C up to 14 days

Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)

Hemolyzed
Heparin tubes IF reflex PCR testing is needed

Methodology
Direct Chemiluminescence

Setup Schedule

M, T, W, Th, F, Sa, Sun

As received; STAT testing not available

Report Available

Screening test will be completed within 24 hours of receipt. If PCR testing is needed, the current production schedule is M-F.

Reference Range

Non-reactive

Clinical Significance

Hepatitis C antibody testing is helpful in differential diagnosis of acute hepatitis and evaluation of post-transfusion hepatitis. This test is used to screen for past exposure and current infections but cannot differentiate between the two. The screen is a qualitative, IgG antibody test. If positive, reflex testing by PCR will be performed as confirmation. Hepatitis C, IgM testing is not available.

Performing Laboratory
Alverno Central Lab

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.