Prevalence of hepatitis C virus isolate genotypes from chronically infected Lebanese patients: a hospital-based study

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Virology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a global health concern.
• Understanding HCV genotype prevalence is crucial for effective treatment and public health strategies.
• Lebanon has a diverse population with varying risk factors for HCV infection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the distribution of HCV genotypes among infected patients in Lebanon.
• To compare HCV genotype patterns between hemodialysis and non-dialysis patients.
• To identify potential differences in genotype prevalence based on patient risk groups.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 77 Lebanese patients with confirmed HCV infection was studied.
• HCV genotyping was performed using nested PCR of the HCV core region.
• DNA enzyme-immunoassay with specific probes was employed for type and subtype identification.

Main Results:

• Single HCV genotypes were found in 67.5% of patients; types 1, 2, 3, and 4 were detected at 19.5%, 32.5%, 5.1%, and 10.4% respectively.
• Mixed genotype infections occurred in 32.5% of cases.
• Genotype 2 predominated in hemodialysis patients (80%), while subtype 1b was more frequent in non-dialysis patients (34.4%). Genotypes 5 and 6 were not detected.

Conclusions:

• This study reveals significant diversity in HCV genotypes within the Lebanese population.
• HCV genotype distribution differs notably between hemodialysis and non-dialysis patient groups.
• Findings underscore the importance of considering risk factors when analyzing HCV genotype epidemiology.