HBV Genotype

Hepatitis B Genotype PCR Blood Test is used to detect the presence of Hepatitis B genotypes in the blood of individuals with chronic HBV infection. This test helps to determine a patient’s hepatitis B virus genotype. This Polymerase Chain Reaction test is not commonly performed. However, this test is mainly used for research purposes.

What is Hepatitis B Infection?

Hepatitis B infection is an infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). This is one type among the other types of viral hepatitis. This infection can spread from one person to another through contact with infected blood and body fluids. Common symptoms of this infection are dark urine, fatigue, fever, abdominal discomfort, weakness, loss of appetite, yellowing of eyes, joint and muscle pain. Symptoms usually appear about one to four months after the occurrence of infection.

Normally in most of the cases, this infection does not last for a long time. Your immune system fights it off within a few months. However, if you have it for more than six months, you are called a carrier. Mostly, adults may recover from this infection fully within a short period of time. Infants and children are more likely to develop a long-lasting infection.

What is Hepatitis B Genotypes?

Hepatitis B genotypes are detected in individuals with chronic HBV infection with. Mainly, HBV is classified into genotypes A to H. The type of genotype may differ with individuals. These genotypes are generated due to the mutations in the gene of hepatitis B virus. These viral mutations are mostly associated with drug resistance and are common in individuals receiving treatment with anti-virals. The replication of HBV may also cause the formation of Hepatitis B genotypes.

Why this test is performed?

This test is performed to check the presence of Hepatitis B genotypes in individuals with chronic HBV infection. It is recommended in individuals receiving treatment for Hepatitis B infection to monitor and evaluate the treatment response. This helps to know whether the treatment is working or not. Therefore this test can be used to confirm the presence of Hepatitis B genotypes resulting from viral mutations. Thus this test helps to select patient-specific therapy.

The test results may be vary depending on gender, age, health conditions, and stage of infection.

Hepatitis B genotypes are detected in the blood sample if there are mutations in the gene of hepatitis B virus. Hence there is a need to add or replace a drug in the current treatment regimen.

If Hepatitis B genotypes are not detected it may indicate the current treatment regimen is appropriate. However, this test is recommended to perform on a regular basis or as instructed by the doctor in individuals receiving anti-viral treatment for hepatitis B infection.

The report may also give an interpretation of the drugs that are resistant to the HBV and also the drugs that are susceptible to the HBV. This information can be explained to you by your doctor, hence consult your doctor with your test reports.