Hepatitis C RNA PCR (Qualitative)

This "real-time" reverse transcrition PCR assay provides confirmation of the presence or absence of ongoing viral replication/ viraemia in Hepatitis C antibody (HCVAb) positive individuals.

It also has a role in defining the likely infective status of patients who test ‘Indeterminate’ for HCVAb, or where the antibody response may be impaired (the immunocompromised or immunosupressed) or not yet developed (acute infection prior to seroconversion eg. post ‘needlestick’).  

The Medicare Schedule provides benefits for a maximum of one test in a 12 month period for the above clinical situations. However a maximum of 4 tests/year is allowed where the assay is being used to monitor response to antiviral therapy for chronic HCV hepatitis. Provision of adequate clinical information at the time of test request should avoid any potential misunderstandings on eligibility for rebate testing.