Molecular cytogntic profiles of hepatitis C infection in patients at Sharkia Governorate, Egypt

ABSTRACT

In this study, 40 paraffin blocks liver tissues from HCV-PCR positive patients [HBV seronegative] were examined using DNA image cytometry to evaluate its role in diagnosing hepatocellular carcinoma [HCC] associated with hepatitis C virus [HCV] infection. Fluorescent in situ hybridization [FISH] technique using LSIZNF 217 chromosome 20q 13.2 probe was applied. The results showed a high percentage of S- phase fraction in cases of G2S2 and G3S3 with DNA diploidy. Only two cases of G3S3 showed DNA aneuploidy with a severe amplification of chromosome 20q 13.2. Consequently, DNA imaging cytometry is considered a good approach in differentiating dysplasia from well- differentiated HCC on the top of HCV infection. In conclusion, HCV has an acquired role in the development of HCC through the amplification of the aggressive tumor behavior oncogene LSIZNF 217 at chromosome 20q 13.2