Update on HCV genotype distribution among Iranian blood donors

Introduction Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a blood born virus and the major cause of liver diseases worldwide lead to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. ObjectiveTo improve blood safety and to increase knowledge about dispersal HCV strains in the country, HCV genotypes distribution was determined among Iranian blood donors.Materials and methods In this cross sectional study, 239 confirmed HCV positive blood donors who returned to blood centers of Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization (IBTO) over the country for notification and consultation from Nov. 2015 to Dec. 2016, were included and interviewed through a post donation research questionnaire about demographic characteristics, medical history and high risk behaviors. HCV genotype was determined by sequence analysis of NS5 region of HCV genome. Statistical analysiswas performed with STATA Statistics software. Results Of 239, HCV RNA was confirmed in 161 (67.4%) and in 106 out of 161 (65.8%), HCV genotype was determined. HCV genotype 3a was the most frequent (62.26%), followed by 1a (29.25) and 1b (8.49). No other genotype or mixed genotype was observed. Intravenous drug use was the most prevalent risk factors (51%). Genotype 3a was the most prevalent genotype among blood donors with intravenous drug use history (66.4%). Conclusion According to the study, the pattern of HCV genotypes distribution has been changed over the last decade. Considering the half of the subjects are intravenous drug users, HCV subtype 3a is the most frequent subtype among Iranian blood donors that reflects changes in the epidemiology of HCV infection among blood donors.

Keywords:

Hepatitis C virus , Genotype , Blood donors