Thursday, July 9, 2009

Can anyone help re Hepatitis C 2 Cell Test?

I didn't quite catch it all when told, something along the lines of WEPM positive - on the test request - what does this mean?

Can anyone help re Hepatitis C 2 Cell Test?
You need to write it down if you can't remember.


the tests for HCV are a screening test called EIA or ELISA basically this is an antibody test which shows exposure but cannot distinguish between you were exposed and cured or you still have it. The confirmatory test is called PCR or RNA. This means you have it now. There is an older test called RIBA which is not used much any more. Ask for the PCR or RNA test. If positive, you have it. Risk factors are IV drugs, snorting drugs such as cocaine, tatoos, body piercing, blood transfusions.
Reply:First of all, the doctors post above me is an idiot. You didn't ask what the transmission modes were but I find it funny he is basically blaming you for even being tested.


DOC- not everyone who has hcv knows how they got it. Even you can't possibly know all the ways one can get it. There are many factors at play given hcv transmission. many get it in unsuspecting ways, like sharing a toothbrush-YOU should know this. Me? I got it when I was 8 years old, so explain that! Bet you can't! ANYWAY-Doc, do you not understand that most infected with HCV can't remember what they had for lunch the previous day? How rude. Grow up and get some desktop (let alone bedside) manners!!!!





Now, on to the real question at hand:


You will have to be more specific as I believe you are confused. It may be that he has diagnosed you at being a genotype 2b. Which means they know the genetic sequence of HCV that is infecting you.





Things you can do to help you remember: keep a little spiral notebook in your pocket or purse. When you have a question write it down. I often wrote questions down on the examination table protection sheet while waiting for my wonderful, caring, non-judging doctor to visit with me.


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