Test Price
1,800 AEDโ Home Collection Available
Hepatitis C Viral Combo Test in UAE | 1,800 AED | DHA Licensed
Executive Summary & Core Metrics
Executive Summary: DNA Labs UAE delivers a high-precision Hepatitis C Viral Combo Test combining real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) with whole genome sequencing (WGS) to confirm active HCV infection, quantify viral load down to 15 IU/mL, and identify the complete genotype and subtype in a single integrated workflow. The test achieves 99.9% diagnostic sensitivity under ISO 9001:2015 quality management and is performed at our DHA-licensed facility in Dubai Healthcare City. Patients benefit from VIP mobile phlebotomy with temperature-controlled cold-chain transport, a secure digital report delivered via email and WhatsApp within 1โ3 working days, and a complimentary post-test consultation with our clinical team to explain findings and coordinate follow-up care with a gastroenterologist.
Test Overview & Methodology
The Hepatitis C Viral Combo Test is a molecular diagnostic assay that simultaneously detects HCV RNA, determines the exact viral load, and maps the viral genotype and subtype using two complementary technologies: real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) for precise quantification and whole genome sequencing (WGS) for comprehensive genotyping. This dual-methodology approach provides the treating physician with all the information needed to confirm active infection, monitor treatment response, and select the optimal direct-acting antiviral (DAA) regimen tailored to the specific viral genotype. The test is validated for serum and plasma specimens and adheres to CAP/CLSI guidelines for molecular infectious disease diagnostics.
| Feature | Our Test (Combo) | Closest Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Methodology | Real-Time qPCR + Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) | Standard HCV RNA PCR (no genotyping) |
| Turnaround Time | 1โ3 working days | 3โ5 working days |
| Diagnostic Sensitivity | 99.9% (ISO-validated) | ~95% |
| Genotype & Subtype Information | Comprehensive WGS-based genotyping (all 7 genotypes) | Not provided |
| Lower Limit of Quantification | 15 IU/mL | 50โ100 IU/mL |
| Price | 1,800 AED | 1,200โ1,500 AED |
Physician Insight & Safety Protocols
Dr. Ajay Singh, General Practitioner, DHA Registration ID: 36234132: โPatients often feel anxious about a hepatitis C diagnosis, but modern antiviral therapy has transformed this infection into a curable condition. The Hepatitis C Viral Combo Test gives your gastroenterologist precise viral load and genotype data to tailor a personalized treatment plan with direct-acting antivirals. While this test provides definitive molecular confirmation, it must always be interpreted alongside your complete clinical history, liver function panel, and imaging studies. No single laboratory result replaces the comprehensive judgment of your treating physician.โ
โ ๏ธ Medication Advisory
Do not stop, alter, or delay any prescribed antiviral therapy or other medication without explicit instruction from your treating physician. If you are currently receiving direct-acting antivirals (e.g., sofosbuvir, daclatasvir, velpatasvir) or any interferon-based regimen, inform the phlebotomist at the time of sample collection. The laboratory must record current therapy to correctly interpret viral load trends and genotype data. Continue all medications as directed unless otherwise advised by your doctor.
Exclusion Criteria & Emergency Red Flags
Exclusion Criteria: Patients with severe bleeding disorders (e.g., hemophilia, von Willebrand disease) or those on high-dose anticoagulant therapy (e.g., warfarin, rivaroxaban, apixaban) may require a physician-supervised venipuncture or an alternative collection approach. Please contact our clinical team before booking. Do not proceed with this test if you are experiencing acute hepatic decompensation without prior clearance from a hepatologist or emergency physician.
Seek Immediate Emergency Care If You Have: Sudden yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice), confusion or disorientation, vomiting blood (hematemesis), black or tarry stools (melena), rapid abdominal swelling with pain, or unexplained bruising. These symptoms may indicate acute liver failure or variceal hemorrhage requiring urgent medical intervention.
Patient FAQ & Clinical Guidance
1. What does the Hepatitis C Viral Combo Test detect and why is genotyping important?
The test detects HCV RNA to confirm active infection, quantifies the viral load to guide treatment duration, and identifies the exact genotype and subtype (genotypes 1โ7) through whole genome sequencing. Genotyping is essential because different genotypes respond to different direct-acting antiviral regimens. For example, genotype 1 is the most common in the UAE and requires a specific combination therapy, while genotypes 2 and 3 may be treated with alternative protocols. Knowing the genotype eliminates guesswork and improves cure rates above 95%.
2. How should I prepare for the blood draw and what sample is needed?
A 12-hour fasting period is recommended before sample collection to reduce lipemia interference. You may drink plain water during the fast. The laboratory requires 6 mL of serum (two SST tubes) or 6 mL of plasma (two lavender-top EDTA tubes). Please inform the phlebotomist about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, especially anticoagulants or antiviral drugs. No other special preparation is necessary. Our mobile phlebotomy team will confirm all details when scheduling your appointment between 8 AM and 11 PM daily.
3. When will I receive my results and how are they delivered?
Samples collected on Tuesday before 11 AM are resulted by Thursday; samples collected on Friday before 11 AM are resulted by Monday. All reports are delivered via encrypted email and a secure WhatsApp message. Each report includes the quantitative viral load in IU/mL, the genotype and subtype, and a clinical interpretation note. A member of our clinical team will call you within 24 hours of report delivery to explain the findings and coordinate a referral to a gastroenterologist if needed. Hard copies are available on request at our Dubai Healthcare City facility.
4. Can I use this test to monitor treatment response during antiviral therapy?
Yes. The qPCR component provides accurate viral load quantification that can be used to monitor on-treatment response (e.g., at week 4 and week 12 of DAA therapy) and to confirm sustained virologic response (SVR) 12 or 24 weeks after treatment completion. However, the genotyping component is typically performed only once before treatment initiation because the genotype does not change. Your gastroenterologist will determine the appropriate monitoring schedule based on your specific regimen and clinical response.
5. Is the Hepatitis C Viral Combo Test covered by health insurance in Dubai?
Coverage varies by insurance plan and provider. DNA Labs UAE is in-network with most major UAE health insurers, including DHA-regulated and Abu Dhabi Health Authority-approved plans. We recommend verifying your coverage before the test by contacting our insurance verification team via WhatsApp at +971 54 548 8731. We will check your policy details, confirm any copayment or deductible requirements, and process the claim directly with your insurer whenever possible. Self-pay patients receive a detailed receipt for reimbursement submission.
UAE Regulatory & Data Privacy Adherence
DNA Labs UAE operates under DHA Facility License Number 1143 and complies fully with UAE federal data protection and healthcare information security regulations. All patient data, including test requisitions, clinical results, and personal identifiers, are processed and stored in accordance with Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021 on Personal Data Protection (PDPL) and Federal Law No. 2 of 2019 Concerning the Use of Information and Communication Technology in Health Fields. The laboratory implements end-to-end encryption for digital report delivery, access-controlled laboratory information systems, and secure archival protocols that meet ISO 9001:2015 standards. Patient consent for sample collection and molecular analysis follows the requirements of Federal Decree-Law No. 4 of 2016 on Medical Liability, ensuring that every individual receives clear pre-test counseling and provides informed consent before the procedure. Our facility is subject to annual audit by the Dubai Health Authority and maintains continuous compliance with all applicable clinical laboratory standards in the UAE.
Clinical & Logistical Metadata
| Test Name | Hepatitis C Viral Combo Test (qPCR + WGS Genotyping) |
| Price (AED) | 1,800 AED |
| Turnaround Time | 1โ3 working days (samples accepted Tue/Fri before 11 AM; reports delivered Thu/Mon) |
| Sample Type / Matrix | 6 mL serum (2 SST tubes) or 6 mL plasma (2 lavender-top EDTA tubes); separate within 2 hours of collection; ship refrigerated or frozen |
| Methodology Used | Real-Time Quantitative PCR (qPCR) + Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) |
| ICD-10-CM Code | B17.1 (Acute hepatitis C) |
| LOINC Code | 20416-4 (Hepatitis C virus RNA [Log] in Serum or Plasma by NAA with probe detection) |
| DHA Facility License & Laboratory Address | DHA Facility License: 1143 | Premises 105, Floor 1, Building 33, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, UAE | DNA Labs UAE |
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All reports reviewed by DHA-Certified physicians