Validation of a point-of-care rapid diagnostic test for hepatitis C for use in resource-limited settings

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Treatment of HCV with direct-acting antivirals has enabled the discussion of HCV eradication worldwide. Envisioning this aim requires implementation of mass screening in resource-limited areas, usually constrained by testing costs. METHODS: We validated a low-cost, rapid diagnosis test (RDT) for HCV in three different continents in 141 individuals. RESULTS: The HCV RDT showed 100% specificity and sensitivity across different samples regardless of genotype or viral load (in samples with such information, 90%). CONCLUSIONS: The HCV test validated in this study can allow for HCV screening in areas of need when properly used.