What it measures
Antibodies to the hepatitis C virus. They show that a person has been infected at some point, but not whether the infection is still there. A positive result is followed by an RNA or antigen test to check for current infection.
Why people test it
- Checking for hepatitis C, which often causes no symptoms for years.
- Checking after possible exposure, such as shared needles, a needlestick injury or medical care abroad.
- Routine screening for some jobs or as part of a sexual health check.
Typical range
There is no numeric range. The result is reported as positive or negative (sometimes reactive or non-reactive). The report shows how that lab reports it.
Finger-prick or vein?
A finger-prick sample is usually fine for an antibody test like this, and some providers offer a home kit. Others take blood from a vein, at a clinic or with a visiting nurse.
The NHS notes that the test is not always accurate if the infection was recent, as antibodies take time to appear.