Improved detection of HCV Infection in hemodialysis patients using a new HCV RNA qualitative assay: experience of a transplant center.

Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is frequently a silent infection in hemodialysis (HD) patients with a prevalence of 8-10%. Improving HCV detection in this population prior to transplantation is critical both for infection control and optimal patient care.

Objectives: To assess the current HCV testing practice of the National Institute for Transplantation (PCR testing of enzyme immunoassay (EIA) positive HD patients) by evaluating a subset of EIA positive and EIA negative samples with the VERSANT HCV RNA Qualitative Assay based on transcription mediated amplification (HCV Qual (TMA)) (sensitivity < or = 9.