Hepatitis C Virus Genotyping

Why the Test is Needed?
To screen for and diagnose a hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, to guide therapy and to monitor the treatment of an HCV infection.

Also Known As: HCV Genotype, HCV-G

Description: Genotyping is the process of determining differences in the genetic make-up (genotype) of an individual by examining the individual's DNA sequence using biological assays and comparing it to another individual's sequence or a reference sequence.
The Hepatitis-C virus has six (1 to 6) major genotypes of which genotypes 1 to 3 are prevalent worldwide; genotype 4 in Middle East and Africa however genotype 5 and 6 are predominant in South Africa and Southeast Asia respectively.
Determining the genotype is crucial for the treatment because the treatment is highly dependent on the genotype of the virus.
Smartcycler II Real Time PCR, with linear detection range of 300 to 2.0 X 109 copies/ml, amplifies the HCV genome with high specificity and sensitivity to reveal the genotype of the virus. The results of the PCR therefore facilitate the treatment procedure.

Reasons for Referral:
When patient have risk factors for HCV infection or when patient may have been exposed to the hepatitis C virus, such as through contact with infected blood, or have symptoms associated with liver disease or when patient are being treated for HBV or hepatitis C (HCV).

Sample Requirement:
Plasma (Draw 3ml of blood K3EDTA tube. Mixed gently with anticoagulant. Tube should be kept for 20-30 minutes at room temperature. Centrifuge the tube 4,000 rpm for 5 minutes. Separate the plasma with sterilized tips in a Micro-centrifuge tube)

Test Preparation
No test preparation is needed.

Test Done by
RTPCR (Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction)