HCV-Genotyping by sequencing
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It analyzes a portion of the HCV RNA genome to determine the viral strain
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🧬 What is HCV Genotyping by Sequencing?
HCV Genotyping by Sequencing is a molecular diagnostic test used to determine the genotype (and sometimes subtype) of the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) present in a patient’s blood.
- It uses nucleotide sequencing (often Sanger or Next-Generation Sequencing) to analyze specific regions of the HCV RNA genome.
- The result helps tailor antiviral treatment, since different genotypes respond differently to therapy.
There are 6 major genotypes (GT1–GT6) of HCV, with multiple subtypes (e.g., 1a, 1b).
In India, Genotype 3 and Genotype 1 are most common.
❓ Why is the Test Done?
To:
- Determine the specific HCV genotype for optimal treatment planning
- Predict response to antiviral drugs
- Decide duration and type of Direct Acting Antiviral (DAA) therapy
- Guide retreatment decisions in patients with relapse or resistance
- Improve clinical outcome predictions for chronic HCV infection
🧪 How It Works
- Blood sample is collected.
- HCV RNA is extracted from plasma/serum.
- Specific genomic regions (e.g., NS5B, Core/E1) are amplified.
- Sequencing is performed, and results are compared to reference databases to identify genotype.
📊 Interpretation of Results
Genotype | Clinical Relevance |
|---|---|
Genotype 1 (1a, 1b) | Most common worldwide; requires longer treatment in some cases |
Genotype 2 & 3 | Common in Asia (Genotype 3 in India); more prone to liver damage |
Genotype 4, 5, 6 | Less common; seen in specific geographic areas |
Mixed Genotypes | May affect treatment response; needs close follow-up |
⚠️ Identifying resistance-associated mutations (RAVs) is possible with advanced sequencing.
🧠 Associated Organs & Conditions
Organ/System | Conditions |
|---|---|
Liver | - Chronic Hepatitis C |
Systemic | - Extrahepatic HCV manifestations: vasculitis, cryoglobulinemia |
🔄 Related / Follow-Up Tests
- HCV RNA PCR (Quantitative) – To assess viral load
- Liver Function Tests (ALT, AST, bilirubin)
- FibroScan / Liver biopsy – To assess fibrosis
- Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) – For HCC surveillance
- Drug resistance profiling (in some labs)
✅ Fasting Required?
Test | Fasting Requirement |
|---|---|
HCV Genotyping by Sequencing | ❌ No fasting required – Sample can be collected anytime |
📝 Summary Table
Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
What | Sequencing-based test to determine Hepatitis C virus genotype |
Why | To guide treatment selection and duration of antiviral therapy |
Typical Genotypes (India) | GT1, GT3 |
Clinical Use | Personalize therapy, assess treatment response, identify relapse risk |
Follow-up Tests | HCV RNA PCR, LFTs, FibroScan, AFP |
Associated Conditions | Chronic Hepatitis C, cirrhosis, HCC |
Fasting Required | ❌ No |
How our test process works!
