HCV genotype distribution in Istanbul: A detailed 7 year epidemiological overview and impact of Covid-19 pandemic.

Abstract

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a leading cause of chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma worldwide. HCV has 8 genotypes (GT) and 86 subtypes and distribution of GTs varies based on geographical regions, transmission routes and even in cultural groups. The determination of viral genotype is crucial in choosing antiviral treatment, determining the duration of therapy, and monitoring treatment respose. Since 2014, with the usage of direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) in the treatment of HCV infections, a cure rate over 95% could be possible. Epidemiological data are important to combat a chronic HCV infections. Due to its geographical location, Turkey is like a bridge connecting Asia and Europe. Istanbul is the biggest and most crowded city of Turkey and has received immigration from many different countries, especially from Syria, in recent years and immigration still goes on. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has had devastating effects in our country. In this study, we determined the HCV genotypes in Health Sciences University Ümraniye Training and Research Hospital, in Istanbul between 2016 and 2022. Of the 322 patients analyzed during this 7-year period, HCV GT1b was the most prevalent GT in 65.2%, followed by GT3 in 15.5%, GT1a in 10.6%. Our data serve as a great mirror for HCV epidemiology in Turkey and contribute to global data.