Current molecular methods for the detection of hepatitis C virus in high risk group population: A systematic review

Abstract

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is an emerging infection worldwide and the numbers of persons infected are increasing every year. Poor blood transfusion methods along with unsafe injection practices are potential sources for the rapid spread of infection. Early detection of HCV is the need of the hour especially in high risk group population as these individuals are severely immunocompromised. Enzyme Immunoassays are the most common detection techniques but they provide no evidence of active viremia or identification of infected individuals in the antibody-negative phase and their efficacy is limited in individuals within high risk group population. Molecular virological techniques have an important role in detecting active infection with utmost specificity and sensitivity. Technologies for assessment of HCV antibody and RNA levels have improved remarkably, as well as our understanding of how to best use these tests in patient management. This review aims to give an overview of the different serological and molecular methods employed in detecting HCV infection used nowadays. Additionally, the review gives an insight in the new molecular techniques that are being developed to improve the detection techniques particularly in High Risk Group population who are severely immunocompromised.

Utilization rates and clinical outcomes of hepatitis C positive donor hearts in the contemporary era

“…In the last decade, technologies to assess HCV Ab and RNA levels and our knowledge to use this information to treat HCV infection has improved significantly. 22 Additionally, DAAs have helped achieve >95% cure rates (defined as SVR at 12 weeks) for HCV infection. 11,13 Schlendorf et al 11 reported their single center experience of 11 adult HTs using HCV-viremic donor hearts.…”

Frequency of nucleotide sequence variations in the internal ribosome entry site region of hepatitis C virus RNA isolated from responding and non-responding patients with hepatitis C virus genotype 3 infection

“…However, other than the 5 0 UTR region, the core region is also targeted for PCR based detection of HCV, as a recent study has shown that sequence divergence of the core region is greater than the divergence of the 5 0 UTR sequence. Hence, detection based on the sequence of the core region can reliably identify subtypes as well as major genotypes [13].…”

Qualitative Versus Quantitative PCR In Establishing Response To Chronic Hepatitis C Treatment With Sofosbuvir

“…Sofosbuvir, a newer antiviral drug has altered the situation with regard to HCV cures by pegylated/ standard interferon and ribavarin which previously achieved in some 23%-90% individuals. [11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18] Nowadays, not only sofosbuvir but also other newer oral antiviral agents are associated with complete cure rates of around 99%-100% with or without interferon. [19][20][21][22][23] The ELECTRON trial has shown 100% SVR with dual interferon-free regime containing sofosbuvir and ribavirin in genotypes 2 and 3.…”