Molecular Characterization of Hepatitis B Virus Circulating in Asymptomatic and Symptomatic Carriers in Côte d’Ivoire from 2010 to 2013

Background: Africa and Asia remain the continent most affected by viral hepatitis B with more than1 million deaths per year. These deaths are due to complications such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Several studies have shown that the rate of progression of hepatitis B to cirrhosis and liver cancer is related to the virus genotypes. Previous analyses of hepatitis B virus genome have revealed 10 genotypes (A-J) with distinct geographical distribution worldwide. Some studies have shown that the genotype E is predominant in West Africa. In Côte d'Ivoire, few data exist on the genotypes circulating. The presence of genotypes A, B, C and E has been proven but not their involvement in the development of liver complications.

Aim of Study: To determine the hepatitis B virus genotypes circulating in asymptomatic and symptomatic carriers and to establish correlation between genotypes and clinical outcome in Côte d’Ivoire.

Place and Duration of Study: Patients were recruited in different hospitals in Côte d’Ivoire and study was conducted in the National Reference Center for Viral Hepatitis of the Institute Pasteur from April 2010 to February 2013.

Methodology: The study examined samples from 754 subjects using serological and molecular techniques. PCR and multiplex-nested PCR, using type-specific primers, were carried out to determine genotypes of hepatitis B virus in the study samples.

Results: Hundred thirty nine were HBsAg-positive. Out of the 139, 49% were asymptomatic and 51% were symptomatic. Among the HBsAg-positive, the average age was 41years with 38.85% having HBV DNA in their blood samples. Sixty-four point eight percent of the latter were typeable with 97.1% as genotype E and 2.9% as genotype B. Conclusion: This study revealed a predominance of genotype E of HBV and revealed that genotype E was associated (P=0.03) with clinical Outcome.