Confirm active infection first
Hepatitis C may remain unnoticed for years. An antibody test shows previous exposure, but a positive result does not by itself prove ongoing infection. HCV RNA testing is used to confirm active infection, and antibodies can remain positive after cure.
Treatment and confirmation of response
Modern direct-acting antiviral medicines cure most patients. The regimen depends on liver disease, previous treatment, other conditions and medicine interactions. Viral testing at the recommended time after treatment documents response; a clinician may refer to SVR12, meaning sustained response assessed 12 weeks after completion.
What may continue after cure?
Cure does not remove established cirrhosis or protect against reinfection. People with cirrhosis generally continue appropriate surveillance and complication monitoring. Avoid shared needles and blood-contaminated equipment, and discuss hepatitis A and B vaccination when relevant.
Prepare for your treatment discussion
Bring the actual antibody and RNA reports, liver and kidney tests, imaging and a complete medicine and supplement list. Include previous antiviral prescriptions if you have been treated before. Ask how the course will be monitored, what to do if a dose is missed and exactly when response testing is due; follow your prescribed regimen rather than advice intended for someone else.
Severe jaundice, bleeding, rapidly increasing swelling or confusion requires urgent assessment. General information cannot determine the correct antiviral medicine or duration for an individual patient.
Further reading: WHO hepatitis C information. Liver care · Cirrhosis follow-up · Request an appointment