If a Hepatitis C screening shows "HCV RNA detected" along with "HCV antibody reactive," what is the diagnosis?

The presence of "HCV RNA detected" along with "HCV antibody reactive" indicates an active Hepatitis C infection. Specifically, the detection of HCV RNA signifies that the virus is currently replicating in the body, which is indicative of either acute or chronic Hepatitis C.

While chronic Hepatitis C refers to a long-term infection that can lead to liver complications over time, the combination of reactive antibodies and detectable HCV RNA typically points to an acute phase of the infection if it has occurred within the past six months. In acute Hepatitis C, the patient may present with symptoms, or they might be asymptomatic, but the virus is actively present.

Thus, this scenario aligns with a diagnosis of acute Hepatitis C given the immediate presence of viral RNA. Chronic Hepatitis C would be diagnosed through additional factors, such as abnormal liver enzyme levels or the duration of infection. In summary, assessing the presence of both HCV RNA and antibodies at this stage supports the diagnosis of acute Hepatitis C, emphasizing the importance of viral replication indicators in accurately diagnosing the infection status.