Objective: To study the distribution of hepatitis B virus genotype in Hunan Provine and its clinical significance.
Methods: HBV genotype was determined by the restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis in 185 PCR positive patients, including 42 asymptomatic HBV carriers (ASC), 38 chronic mild or moderate hepatitis (CH), 80 fulminant hepatic failure (FHF), and 25 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients in Hunan Province.
Results: Of the 185 patients, 136 (73.5%) were genotype B, and 49 (26.5%) were genotype C. There was a statistical significance in the distribution of genotype B between FHF and ASC, and between HCC and ASC (83.7% vs. 57.1%, 76% vs. 57.1%, P < 0.01, respectively). Vertical transmission and HBeAg positivity were higher in genotype C than in genotype B (38.8% vs. 13.2%, 57.1% vs. 30.9%, respectively, P < 0.001). The ALT value was significantly higher in genotype B than in genotype C (P < 0.001).
Conclusion: Genotypes B and C exist in Hunan. Genotypes B is the major genotype in this area and associated with the development of severe liver diseases. Genotype C is associated with vertical transmission.