Hepatitis B virus genotypes in korea: An endemic area of hepatitis B virus infection

Objectives: It has been reported that distribution of hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotypes shows geographic difference and are associated with clinical outcomes of HBV infection, including response to antiviral therapy and progression of chronic liver diseases. In this study, we analyzed the distribution of HBV genotypes according to the various clinical outcomes of chronic HBV infection in Korea, which is one of the most endemic areas of HBV infection. Methods: A total of 200 patients with chronic HBV infection were enrolled. Clinical diagnoses of the 200 patients with chronic liver diseases were as follows: hepatitis B e antigen ( HBeAg)-positive healthy carrier (defined as HBeAg+, anti- HBe-, HBV DNA(+) by hybridization, normal transaminase; n = 40); inactive HBsAg carrier ( n = 40); chronic hepatitis B ( n = 40); liver cirrhosis ( n = 40); hepatocellular carcinoma ( n = 40). HBV genotypes were determined by nested polymerase chain reaction using genotype-specific primers. Results: All patients except 2 ( inactive HBsAg carriers) were positive for nested PCR and they have genotype C regardless of clinical outcomes. Conclusions: HBV genotype was genotype C regardless of various clinical outcomes of chronic HBV infection in Korea. Considering that HBV genotypes have clinical relevance, distribution of HBV genotype in each area should be monitored when management for chronic HBV infection is planned. Copyright (C) 2005 S. Karger AG, Basel.