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A Protocol for Analyzing Hepatitis C Virus Replication
Published on: June 26, 2014
Current molecular methods for the detection of hepatitis C virus in high risk group population: A systematic review
Rushna Firdaus1, Kallol Saha1, Aritra Biswas1
1Rushna Firdaus, Kallol Saha, Aritra Biswas, Provash Chandra Sadhukhan, ICMR Virus Unit, I.D and B.G Hospital Campus, GB-4 (East Wing), Beliaghata, Kolkata 700010, India.
Insights
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is rising globally. This review details serological and molecular methods for early HCV detection, focusing on improved techniques for immunocompromised individuals.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a growing global health concern.
- Unsafe practices in blood transfusions and injections contribute to HCV spread.
- Early detection is crucial, especially in immunocompromised high-risk populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of current serological and molecular methods for HCV detection.
- To highlight advancements in HCV detection technologies.
- To focus on improved detection for immunocompromised high-risk groups.
Main Methods:
- Review of established Enzyme Immunoassays (EIAs).
- Discussion of molecular virological techniques for active infection detection.
- Exploration of emerging molecular technologies for HCV RNA and antibody assessment.
Main Results:
- EIAs are common but lack sensitivity for active viremia and early stages.
- Molecular methods offer high specificity and sensitivity for detecting active HCV infection.
- Advancements improve HCV testing, particularly for high-risk populations.
Conclusions:
- Molecular techniques are essential for accurate and sensitive HCV detection.
- Improved diagnostic tools are vital for managing HCV, especially in vulnerable groups.
- Ongoing development aims to enhance early and reliable identification of HCV infection.
Abstract:
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is an emerging infection worldwide and the numbers of persons infected are increasing every year. Poor blood transfusion methods along with unsafe injection practices are potential sources for the rapid spread of infection. Early detection of HCV is the need of the hour especially in high risk group population as these individuals are severely immunocompromised. Enzyme Immunoassays are the most common detection techniques but they provide no evidence of active viremia or identification of infected individuals in the antibody-negative phase and their efficacy is limited in individuals within high risk group population. Molecular virological techniques have an important role in detecting active infection with utmost specificity and sensitivity. Technologies for assessment of HCV antibody and RNA levels have improved remarkably, as well as our understanding of how to best use these tests in patient management. This review aims to give an overview of the different serological and molecular methods employed in detecting HCV infection used nowadays. Additionally, the review gives an insight in the new molecular techniques that are being developed to improve the detection techniques particularly in High Risk Group population who are severely immunocompromised.
