Question

When do you look for HCV infection in newborns and what do you test for

Answer 1

Testing for HCV infection in newborns involves two steps: antibody screening and confirmatory testing.

Step-by-step explanation:

Testing for HCV infection in newborns is typically done when there is a known risk of the mother having HCV or if the mother's HCV status is unknown. This includes mothers who have a history of intravenous drug use, received blood transfusions, or have sexual contact with HCV-infected individuals. The testing involves several steps:

1. Antibody Screening: Initially, an antibody-based test is performed to detect the presence of HCV antibodies in the baby's blood. This test is not reliable during the first 18 months of life because infants may have maternal antibodies in their blood.
2. Confirmatory Testing: If the antibody test is positive, a confirmatory test is required to confirm the infection. This test detects the presence of hepatitis C viral RNA in the blood and is more accurate.