Anti-HCV Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA)

Detection of antibodies to the Hepatitis C virus by enzyme immunoassay (EIA).

Serum or plasma sample. Minimum volume required for serum or plasma – 0.5 mL.

Collect blood in serum separator tubes (SST) or EDTA tubes.

Store samples refrigerated or frozen until shipped for testing. Ship frozen samples on dry ice, and refrigerated samples on wet ice

Shipping of specimens shall be done by a TDG certified individual in accordance with TDG regulations. For additional information regarding classification of specimens for the purposes of shipping, consult either Part 2 Appendix 3 of the TDG Regulations or section 3.6.2 of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations as applicable.

Suspected Hepatitis C infection.

Completed Molecular and Immuno Diagnostics on Hepatitis requisition form including sender name, address and telephone number. Patient name or identifier (referring specimen lab #), date of birth, suspected exposure, test(s) requested. Type of specimen and date collected. If possible, include the clinical history and lab results that have already been done at local or provincial laboratories.

Third generation microplate EIA or automated assays. The presence of anti-HCV indicates current or past HCV infection. Note that anti-HCV may be negative in immunocompromised patients.

15 calendardays.

1. Bonanni P, Icardi GC, Raffo AM, Ferrari Bravo M, Roccatagliata A, Crovari P.  Analytical and laboratory evaluation of a new fully-automated third generation enzyme immunoassay for the detection of antibodies to the hepatitis C virus. J Virol Methods. 1996 Dec;62(2):113-22.
2. Pawlotsky JM. Use and interpretation of virological tests for hepatitis C. Hepatology. 2002 Nov;36(5 Suppl 1):S65-73.