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Hepatitis C is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver and is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). This infection can range from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a serious, lifelong condition. The virus is transmitted through contact with infected blood, most commonly through sharing needles or other equipment used to inject drugs. Healthcare workers who experience needlestick injuries, people who received blood transfusions before widespread screening began in 1992, and individuals who have gotten tattoos or piercings with unsterilized equipment are also at risk. While less common, sexual transmission and transmission from mother to baby during childbirth can occur.

Laboratory testing plays a crucial role in diagnosing hepatitis C infection. The initial screening test is typically an antibody test that detects antibodies to the hepatitis C virus in the blood. A positive antibody test indicates that a person has been exposed to the virus at some point, but it does not distinguish between current and past infection. If the antibody test is positive, a follow-up test called an HCV RNA test is performed to determine if the virus is currently present in the bloodstream. This molecular test detects the genetic material of the virus and confirms an active infection. Additional tests may include genotype testing to identify the specific strain of the virus, which helps guide treatment decisions, and liver function tests to assess the extent of liver damage.

Many people with hepatitis C do not experience symptoms, especially in the early stages of infection. When symptoms do occur, they may include fatigue, fever, nausea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, dark urine, gray-colored stools, joint pain, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). Acute hepatitis C refers to the first six months after infection, during which some people clear the virus on their own. However, most people develop chronic hepatitis C, which can lead to serious liver problems over time, including cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer.

Regular monitoring through laboratory tests is essential for people diagnosed with chronic hepatitis C. These tests help healthcare providers track liver function, viral load, and the progression of liver disease. Treatment for hepatitis C has advanced significantly in recent years, with highly effective antiviral medications now available that can cure the infection in most cases. Early detection through laboratory testing and appropriate treatment can prevent serious complications and improve long-term health outcomes. People at risk for hepatitis C should discuss screening options with their healthcare provider, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends at least one-time testing for all adults and routine testing for those with ongoing risk factors.