Hepatitis C Viral RNA Quantitative, Real‑Time PCR with Reflex to Genotype, LiPA
Use
Quantifies hepatitis C viral RNA in serum or plasma to assess viral load and, if viral RNA levels are ≥300 IU/mL, reflexes to genotype determination to inform treatment selection and management of HCV infection.
Special Instructions
Reflex design: quantitative PCR performed first; if result ≥300 IU/mL, reflex to genotype by LiPA (test code 37811) is triggered. Setup and analytic time: Monday–Saturday; report available in 2–4 days.
Limitations
Genotyping is only performed when viral load is ≥300 IU/mL; samples with lower levels may not reflex, potentially delaying genotype information. Reflex pathway may incur additional charges. Quantitative PCR may detect but not quantify low-level viremia (<LOQ).
Methodology
PCR‑based (qPCR)
Biomarkers
Result Turnaround Time
2-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
3–6 mL blood
Minimum Volume
1.5 mL serum or plasma
Container
Lavender (EDTA) tube or red‑top tube
Collection Instructions
Separate serum or plasma from cells within 24 hours of collection.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 72 Hours |
| Refrigerated | 14 Days |
| Frozen | 42 Days |