Journal of Hepatology and Gastrointestinal disorders
Open Access

Abstract

Distribution of Hepatitis C Genotypes and Viral Load Pattern Among Hepatitis C Positive Patients of Different Age-Group of Nepal

Gaurab Pandey*, Manisha Gyawali, Nanu Shree Dhungana, Raksha Paudel and Sunita Dahal

The Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) has a wide geographical and genotype variation within a population all over the world. This research was conducted to identify the genotype distribution of Hepatitis C Virus and its association to the viral load in blood samples. Our goals are to manage the financial burden, promote optimal outcomes, and aid in the personalization of antiviral therapy for Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) treatment. Very few researches have been conducted in Nepal in order to figure out the distribution of various Hepatitis C Virus genotypes in last 25 years. We took up this study to find out the prevalence of various genotypes and subtypes of Hepatitis C Virus and its association to viral load in the patients with chronic Hepatitis C infection in Nepal. Along with the viral load, the HCV genotypes were divided into its seven genotypes and subtypes. By comparing the obtained amplification results, the genotypes were determined. Out of the 100 patients, genotype 3a was accounted for the highest number of cases and found in 53 (53%) patients. Genotype 1a and 1b were found in 23 (23%) and 18 (18%) patients respectively. For the first time, genotype 5a and mixed were identified in Nepalese patients. Genotype 5a was found in 3 (3%) patients. Genotype 6 was found in only 1 (1%) patient. Infection of mixed genotype was discovered in 2 patients. In addition, patients with genotype 3a frequently had higher HCV viral loads compared to those with genotypes 1a and 1b

Published Date: 2022-07-26; Received Date: 2022-06-23