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Abstract Details
Genotypes and viral variants in chronic hepatitis B: A review of epidemiology and clinical relevance
Croagh CM1, Desmond PV1, Bell SJ1. World J Hepatol. 2015 Mar 27;7(3):289-303. doi: 10.4254/wjh.v7.i3.289.
Author information
1Catherine MN Croagh, Paul V Desmond, Sally J Bell, Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy, Victoria 3065, Australia.
Abstract
The Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) has a worldwide distribution and is endemic in many populations. It is constantly evolving and 10 genotypic strains have been identified with varying prevalences in different geographic regions. Numerous stable mutations in the core gene and in the surface gene of the HBV have also been identified in untreated HBV populations. The genotypes and viral variants have been associated with certain clinical features of HBV related liver disease and Hepatocellular carcinoma. For example Genotype C is associated with later hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) seroconversion, and more advanced liver disease. Genotype A is associated with a greater risk of progression to chronicity in adult acquired HBV infections. Genotype D is particularly associated with the precore mutation and HBeAg negative chronic hepatitis B (CHB). The genotypes prevalent in parts of West Africa, Central and South America, E, F and H respectively, are less well studied. Viral variants especially the Basal Core Promotor mutation is associated with increased risk of fibrosis and cancer of the liver. Although not currently part of routine clinical care, evaluation of genotype and viral variants may provide useful adjunctive information in predicting risk about liver related morbidity in patients with CHB.
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