Should we test hepatitis C virus genotype and viraemia level in patients with chronic hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is a major health problem and at present, interferon-alpha is the only therapy of proven use. Two viral factors, namely HCV genotype and viraemia levels, have been studied extensively for their possible role in the clinical management of patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection. This review attempts to summarize our current understanding of these two viral factors and provide recommendations as to how these two parameters should be used by general practitioners, practising gastroenterologists/hepatologists, and investigators in 1997.