Can the rapid test also be false positive?
A false positive result in a hepatitis C rapid test is possible.One possible explanation is that hepatitis C has already been cured. Despite the healing process, antibodies remain in the blood, which are detected by the rapid test. False positive test results can also occur in the context of other infections such as EBV.
Duration
The rapid test usually takes a few minutes to complete. Afterwards, there is a waiting period of about 20 minutes until the test result can be read. It is important to note that in case of an infection, antibodies against the virus are only present in sufficient concentration after about 10 weeks to be detected by a rapid test. Therefore, there should be at least 10 weeks between the potential infection and the performance of the test.
When should I repeat the Hepatitis C Rapid Test?
A repetition of the Hepatitis C Rapid Test makes little sense in most cases. If a first test was positive, a doctor should be consulted. This doctor can perform confirmatory tests in the laboratory. The confirmatory test detects the genetic material of the virus and differentiates between a healed and an acute infection. If the rapid test was performed before the 10 weeks after potential infection, a new test may be considered.
Costs
The cost of a hepatitis C rapid test varies widely among providers. Some tests are offered on the Internet for over 100 euros. However, if the test for hepatitis C is done by a doctor or health authority, it is usually much cheaper. The costs are usually covered by the health insurance company.
What are the alternatives?
An alternative to a hepatitis C rapid test at home should always be to have the test done by your doctor. The test at the doctor’s office or health authority is safer and more reliable. The cost of the test is usually covered by the health insurance company and the doctor can at the same time provide information about the disease and, if necessary, initiate treatment.