Trends in HCV RNA Testing Among HCV Antibody-Positive Persons in Care, 2003-2010

Background. A test for hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA is essential to identify persons with active, or current, HCV infection. We assessed trends in HCV RNA testing following a positive HCV antibody result among persons in 4 large healthcare organizations. Methods. Data collected from adults with >= 2 clinical encounters during 2003-2010 were analyzed to determine the frequency of, interval between, and factors associated with having an RNA test after a first positive HCV antibody test. Results. From 2003-2010, 5860 persons had a positive antibody test, of whom 3570 (60.9%) had a follow-up RNA test. During this period, the annual frequency of persons with an eventual RNA test did not change significantly; however, the fraction of persons who had the follow-up RNA test within 6 months improved significantly, from 45% in 2003 to 57% in 2010 (P < .001, for trend). Persons born during 1945-1965, men, and those with annual income <$30 000 (by census geocode) were less likely to have had a follow-up RNA test done within 6 months of a positive antibody test. Conclusions. Less than two-thirds of persons with a positive HCV antibody test had a follow-up RNA test. Rapid ascertainment of HCV infection status with reflex testing to RNA is critical to identify persons eligible for treatment.