Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Is A PCR Qualitative Test At 50 Days Post Exposure Conclusive?
Question: Dear Doctor,
I have done Hepatitis B and C PCR both negative after possible exposure 28 days, Also I have possible exposure at 50 days when I have done this test at 28 days, My question is that this 28 day PCR will be conclusive for the possible exposure at 50 days also. or what test I have to do? will PCR Qualitative show the past exposure also? Please answer
Regards,
XXXXXXX
I have done Hepatitis B and C PCR both negative after possible exposure 28 days, Also I have possible exposure at 50 days when I have done this test at 28 days, My question is that this 28 day PCR will be conclusive for the possible exposure at 50 days also. or what test I have to do? will PCR Qualitative show the past exposure also? Please answer
Regards,
XXXXXXX
Brief Answer:
PCR detects at 28 days. 50 days go for antibody test
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thank you for query.
PCR detects presence of Viral genetic material in the blood. So usually they come positive after 1- 3 weeks of exposure. It will be positive once a patient is infected by Hepatitis B and C. So if negative after 28 days it can be considered negative and you need not worry of hepatitis B and C.
It will only confirm the presence of genetic material and does not distinguish between past and present infection, as even chronic patients also it will remain positive as long as virus is present and not cleared by body. If cleared by body it comes negative.
you can go for antibody tests for hepatitis B and C for confirmation after 50 days .
You can get back for clarification
Thank you
Dr Bharatesh
PCR detects at 28 days. 50 days go for antibody test
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thank you for query.
PCR detects presence of Viral genetic material in the blood. So usually they come positive after 1- 3 weeks of exposure. It will be positive once a patient is infected by Hepatitis B and C. So if negative after 28 days it can be considered negative and you need not worry of hepatitis B and C.
It will only confirm the presence of genetic material and does not distinguish between past and present infection, as even chronic patients also it will remain positive as long as virus is present and not cleared by body. If cleared by body it comes negative.
you can go for antibody tests for hepatitis B and C for confirmation after 50 days .
You can get back for clarification
Thank you
Dr Bharatesh
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Yogesh D
Dear Doctor,
Thanks for your reply
At 50 days the test result will be accuracy? What test I should do? please specify the test Name. if 100% accuracy needed how long I have to wait
Regards,
XXXXXXX
Thanks for your reply
At 50 days the test result will be accuracy? What test I should do? please specify the test Name. if 100% accuracy needed how long I have to wait
Regards,
XXXXXXX
Brief Answer:
6 months preferably to be conclusive
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thank you for follow up.
You can go for HBSag, anti igM and igG to HBV.
Also for Anti HCV antibodies.
Usually it is preferred 6 months to be conclusive after exposure.
Though there are no chance of becoming positive to be conclusive 6 months is essential.
You can get back for clarification
Thank you
Dr Bharatesh
6 months preferably to be conclusive
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thank you for follow up.
You can go for HBSag, anti igM and igG to HBV.
Also for Anti HCV antibodies.
Usually it is preferred 6 months to be conclusive after exposure.
Though there are no chance of becoming positive to be conclusive 6 months is essential.
You can get back for clarification
Thank you
Dr Bharatesh
Note: Consult a Sexual Diseases Specialist online for further follow up- Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vaishalee Punj
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
