This is the gold-standard test for monitoring your Hepatitis C cure. The HCV Viral Load (Quantitative PCR) test is an essential tool after you've been diagnosed. It precisely measures the exact number of Hepatitis C virus particles (RNA) in your blood. Your doctor will use this test before treatment to set a baseline and during and after treatment to confirm the medication is successfully eliminating the virus. A "non-detected" viral load is the goal—it means you are cured. This simple blood test is the definitive, quantitative proof that your treatment is working.