HBV genotypes: Epidemiology and implications regarding natural history
Journal
Current Hepatitis Reports
Journal Volume
5
Journal Issue
1
Pages
5-13
Date Issued
2006
Author(s)
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a global health problem and eight different genotypes (A to H) have been identified. The epidemiology of HBV genotypes and their implications for the natural history of HBV infection have become increasingly recognized. Genotypes A and D are common in Europe, whereas genotypes B and C are prevalent in Asia. In Asian countries, genotype B is shown to be associated with spontaneous hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) seroconversion at a younger age, less active liver disease, slower progression to cirrhosis, and less frequent development of hepatocellular carcinoma than genotype C. In Western countries, genotype D is shown to have a lower positivity of HBeAg, less chance of sustained remission after seroconversion, and a less favorable prognosis than genotype A. Thus, clinical differences do exist among HIV genotypes, and further research is needed on the molecular mechanisms underlying the clinical phenotypes of different HBV genotypes. Copyright ? 2006 by Current Science Inc.
SDGs
Other Subjects
hepatitis B vaccine; hepatitis B(e) antigen; acute hepatitis; Asia; chronic hepatitis; disease course; Europe; genetic association; genotype; hepatitis B; Hepatitis B virus; human; liver cell carcinoma; liver cirrhosis; prevalence; remission; review; serology
Type
review