Molecular diagnostic and predictive tests in the evolution of chronic hepatitis C anti-viral therapies.

Since the discovery of HCV, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has significantly contributed to the understanding of the virus life cycle and its replicative kinetics during anti-viral therapy. Parallel to the progression of dual and triple combination treatment, real-time PCR molecular tests have constantly improved in their ability to monitor viral load and drive personalized management schedules. The current sensitivity, accuracy and dynamic range of the available assays fulfil the requirement of "companion diagnostics" and support the development of new directly acting antiviral (DAA)-based regimens.