Distribution of hepatitis B virus genotypes in Hainan, China

ABSTRACT

Objective: To analyze the distribution of hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotypes in Hainan island, which is one of the most endemic areas of HBV infection in China. Methods: A total of 52 patients with chronic HBV infection were enrolled. HBV genotypes were determined by nested polymerase chain reaction using genotype-specific primer pairs. Results: All patients were positive for nested polymerase chain reaction and the genotype B was detected in all patient serum samples. Moreover, 23 of 52 patients (44.2%) have been detected with genotype B and C coinfection. Conclusions: HBV genotype B is mostly prevalent in Hainan island. Intriguingly, co-infection of genotype B and C was frequently detected in Hainan island, but it may need to be further verified by HBV full genome sequencing analysis.