Reference Interval:
By report
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| Interpretive Data: |
Isolates of hepatitis C virus are grouped into six major genotypes. These genotypes are subtyped according to sequence characteristics and are designated as 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4, 5a, and 6a.
Reports suggest that patient prognosis and disease course may be genotype dependent. For example, hepatitis C virus type 1 and type 4 infections may be associated with more severe disease and decreased responsiveness to therapy. In addition, types 2 and 3 may be treated with shorter durations of therapy.
HCV RNA is assayed using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to amplify a specific portion of the 5' untranslated region (5' UTR) of the hepatitis C virus. The amplified nucleic acid is sequenced bidirectionally using dye-terminator chemistry (ABI). Results are based on comparison with a database derived from GenBank sequences and published information.
Refer to Statement B under Testing Information at http://www.aruplab.com.
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| Note: |
This test may be unsuccessful if the HCV RNA viral load is less than log 2.8 or 600 IU/mL.
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| CPT Code(s): |
87902
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Cross References: |
HCV, Subtype (Hepatitis C Virus Genotyping) |
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