Distribution pattern of HCV genotypes & its association with viral load

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Virology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major global cause of chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
• Accurate HCV genotyping and viral load assessment are crucial for effective treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the distribution of HCV genotypes in chronic hepatitis patients.
• To investigate the association between HCV genotypes, viral load, and biochemical profiles.

Main Methods:

• HCV genotyping was performed using restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) and core region sequencing.
• Viral load was quantified using Taqman real-time PCR in 71 HCV RNA-positive patients.

Main Results:

• HCV genotype 3 was most prevalent (63%), followed by genotype 1 (31%) and genotype 2 (5.6%).
• Genotype 1 exhibited significantly higher viral loads compared to genotypes 3 and 2 (P<0.001).
• Parenteral transmission was the most common route, accounting for 68% of cases.

Conclusions:

• HCV genotypes 3 and 1 constitute approximately 95% of infections in Delhi and surrounding regions.
• Atypical subtypes 3i and 3f were identified.
• Genotype 1 is associated with increased liver disease severity, as indicated by higher viral loads.