Genotype Distribution of Hepatitis C Virus in Hatay Province of Turkey

Objectives: The treatment duration and response of chronic hepatitis C (CHC) are closely related to the genotypes of hepatitis C virus (HCV). This study aimed to determine the genotype distributions among CHC patients in the Hatay province of Turkey. Materials and Methods: In this study, demographic data of 589 patients who received a therapy for CHC at the infectious diseases and gastroenterology clinics between June 2016 and May 2019 were retrieved from the hospital information system and medical charts of the patients and were retrospectively reviewed. Results: The most common HCV genotype in our study was genotype 1b (66.9%), followed by genotype 2 (10.5%), genotype la (7.3%), genotype 4 (7.1%), genotype 3 (7%), and mixed genotype (1.2%). Six of the mixed genotypes were identified as 1b+4, while one was 1a+3. There was a statistically significant difference between females and males with regards to the HCV genotypes (p<0.001). Patients with genotype 1b tended to be older, while patients with genotypes 3 and 4 tended to be younger. Conclusion: Genotype 1 b is the most common HCV genotype in Hatay province, and it is followed by genotypes 2, la, 4 and 3. Compared to the studies conducted in previous years in Turkey, our study identified a lower rate for genotype I b, along with an increase in the distribution rates of the other genotypes. Monitoring the changes in HCV genotype distribution is of vital importance to develop effective strategies in the treatment of HCV.