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Hepatitis C : Questions

Hello,

Thank you for reading my message.

My PCP did my annual physical last week, and my Hepatitis C AB test result came as positive. I am waiting for the results for the HCV RNA PCR. I cannot recall if this test was ever done before.

I have never done drugs or used needles in my life. I cannot think of a single activity that I have done in my life where there was a blood-to-blood transfer between me and someone else. I live alone and do not indulge in any sexual activity. I am male, 45, 5 ft 8, 135 lbs, work out twice per week with dumbbells and eat a plant-based diet.

The only way I can think of having contracted Hep C is when I get my blood drawn for my doctor visits (every 6 months or so) at a hospital lab due to improper use of the needles by the nurse, which seems unlikely as I always see them open a new syringe before drawing my blood.

Medications:
Spironolactone: 50 mg for my retinal condition
Cabergoline 0.5 mg for elevated prolactin
Letrozole for elevated estrogen
Vitamin D supplement.

Questions:
1) Given the above background, I am trying to figure out how my Hep C Antibody came as positive. Any responses would be helpful.

2) How long does it take to get results for the HCV RNA PCR test?

Thank you

  1. Thank you for sharing your story. You've been through a lot and I sure remember what a shock it was when I was diagnosed with Hep C. I'll just say that I didn't spend a lot of time trying to figure out how I got it. I had blood transfusions in the past and had worked in a hospital setting as a lab tech. But I quickly moved on to finding out how to cure. I'm glad your doctor is helping you with that.
    The additional tests shouldn't take very long to come back. If they have to be sent out to a larger lab, it's usually less than a week. I hope your get your answer soon.
    Regarding your workouts and diet - Wow! You're in great shape. In a best case scenario, you will be able to begin treatment immediately and be able to move into a Hep C free future.
    Great talking with you. Karen Hoyt, Community Team Member

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