Frequency distribution of hepatitis C virus genotypes in different geographical regions of Pakistan and their possible routes of transmission.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Information regarding hepatitis C virus genotypes and subtypes circulating in Pakistan and various risk factors for their transmission are not known well. The specific objective of this study was to find out the frequency of various HCV genotypes present in well-characterized Pakistani HCV isolates and their possible routes of transmission.

Methods

A total of 3351 serum samples were tested by type-specific genotyping assay. Out of 3351 HCV RNA positive patients, 2039 were males and 1312 were females. As regard as genotyped samples, 2165 belonged to Punjab region, 823 belonged to N.W.F.P., 239 to Sindh and 124 patients were from Balochistan.

Results

Out of the total 3351 tested serum samples, type-specific PCR fragments were observed in 3150 (94.00%) serum s

SUBMITTER: Idrees M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2409346 | biostudies-literature | 2008 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature