Viral hepatitis B and C virus (HBV and HCV) are responsible for the most of chronic liver disease worldwide and are transmitted by parenteral route, sexual and vertical transmission. One important measure to reduce the burden of these infections is the diagnosis of acute and chronic cases of HBV and HCV. In order to provide an effective diagnosis and monitoring of antiviral treatment, it is important to choose sensitive, rapid, inexpensive, and robust analytical methods. Primary diagnosis of HBV and HCV infection is made by using serological tests for detecting antigens and antibodies against these viruses. In order to confirm primary diagnosis, to quantify viral load, to determine genotypes and resistance mutants for antiviral treatment, qualitative and quantitative molecular tests are used. In this manuscript, we review the current serological and molecular methods for the diagnosis of hepatitis B and C.

Hepatitis C is a major public health problem and the main indication for liver transplantation in Brazil. Thus, the identification of patients and the provision of appropriate treatment are essential for the control and reduction of this infection. Lipid metabolism, so poorly studied in this liver disease, is involved and may contribute to the therapeutic results. Similarly, the polymorphism of interleukin 28B is already recognized as predictive factor for sensitivity to interferon therapy in the treatment of hepatitis C. Thus, the interaction between lipid metabolism and polymorphism of interleukin 28B may allow individualization of the therapeutic regimen. This study evaluated LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) and IL 28 B genotypes in patients with hepatitis C and the correlation between these variables. Fiftythree patients were enrolled and the highest prevalence in our sample was of CT genotype followed by TT and CC. The LDL-cholesterol was 121 (± 46) mg/dl for the polymorphism C/C; 104 (± 24) mg/dl for the polymorphism C/T and 93 (± 33) mg/dl for T/T polymorphism. There was no statistical significance between the groups (p=0.38). The conclusion is that although the study did not find statistically significant, larger trials with population samples can demonstrate association and clarify the role of lipid metabolism in hepatitis C with greater relevance.