del Campo JA, et al. - Researchers performed an evaluation of a massive sequencing platform for the analysis of genotypes and subtypes of hepatitis C and therapy optimization. In this work, some treatment failures could be explained with detection of mixed infection. Precise ascertainment of viral genotypes and subtypes allowed optimal patient management and enhanced effectiveness of DAAs (direct-acting antiviral agents) antiviral therapy.

Methods

• Researchers analyzed 84 HCV patients.
• A comparison was performed of routine genotyping methodology used for hepatitis C virus in their center (VERSANT HCV Assay, LiPA), with deep sequencing platform (454/GS-Junior and Illumina MiSeq).

Results

• In HCV patient, mean viral load was 6.89E6 ± 7.02E5.
• Following distribution of viral genotypes analyzed by LiPA was observed: genotype 1a (22/84;26%); genotype 1b (46/84;55%); genotype 1 (1/84;1%); genotype 3 (2/84;2.5%); genotype 3a (5/84;6%); genotype 4a/c/d (5/84;6%).
• Distribution was as follows, when analyzed by deep-sequencing samples: genotype 1a (23/84;27%); genotype 1b (47/84;56%); genotype 3a (7/84;8%); genotype 4d (4/84;5%); genotype 4f (2/84;2.5%).
• Infection with more than one subtype was noticed in 6 out of 84 (7%) patients.
• Among those, DAA-based triple therapy failed in 33% (2/6).