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Analysis of hepatitis C virus isolates using molecular and serological typing methods
Acta Virologica
|June 2, 1998
Summary
This study compared hepatitis C virus (HCV) typing methods in 100 individuals. Molecular assays and the Murex serological test showed comparable results, with sequencing confirming molecular findings.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Medical Diagnostics
- Hepatology
Background:
- Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection diagnosis relies on accurate typing.
- Serological and molecular assays are used for HCV genotyping, but their comparative performance requires evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the performance of different serological and molecular assays for hepatitis C virus (HCV) typing.
- To assess the concordance between various HCV genotyping methods and the reliability of sequencing for resolving discrepancies.
Main Methods:
- 100 individuals with HCV antibodies were tested using four assays: Murex HCV serotyping 1-6, Chiron RIBA HCV Serotyping SIA, Inno-Lipa HCV II, and Sorin GEN-ETI-K.
- Positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) samples were analyzed with molecular genotyping assays.
- Sequencing of 5'-non-coding (5' NC) or E1 regions was used to confirm discordant results.
Main Results:
- 92% of samples were typable by at least one assay; 44% by all four.
- Serological and molecular tests showed high concordance (81% and 95% respectively).
- Sequencing confirmed molecular test results in cases of discrepancy, with E1 region sequences supporting Sorin test results.
Conclusions:
- Molecular HCV typing assays demonstrated similar performance.
- The Murex serological test is a viable alternative for routine diagnosis, particularly in patients not repeatedly exposed to HCV.