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What to consider before being tested for hepatitis C

Before you have a test for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, your doctor should give you information about:1

  • Ways that a person can become infected with hepatitis C, including behaviors or exposures that might not have occurred very often or that occurred many years ago.
  • How the test is performed and what the test results mean.
  • What hepatitis C and chronic liver disease are.
  • The benefits of detecting hepatitis C infection early.
  • What types of medical treatment are available.
  • Possible adverse consequences of testing positive for hepatitis C infection, including disrupted personal relationships and possible discrimination, such as loss of employment, insurance, and educational opportunities.

Citations

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (1998). Recommendations for prevention and control of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and HCV-related chronic disease. MMWR, 47(RR-19): 1–39.

Author Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD
- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer W. Thomas London, MD
- Hepatology
Last Updated August 27, 2007

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: August 27, 2007
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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