Molecular identification of hepatitis B virus genotypes/subgenotypes: revised classification hurdles and updated resolutions.

ABSTRACT: The clinical course of infections with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) substantially varies between individuals, as a consequence of a complex interplay between viral, host, environmental and other factors. Due to the high genetic variability of HBV, the virus can be categorized into different HBV genotypes and subgenotypes, which considerably differ with respect to geographical distribution, transmission routes, disease progression, responses to antiviral therapy or vaccination, and clinical outcome measures such as cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma. However, HBV (sub)genotyping has caused some controversies in the past due to misclassifications and incorrect interpretations of different genotyping methods. Thus, an accurate, holistic and dynamic classification system is essential. In thi

SUBMITTER: Pourkarim MR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4064061 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature