Diversity of Hepatitis B genotypes in Nepal and updated Phylogenetic Tree: a Pilot Survey in 2012

Abstract

Introduction: Hepatitis B virus is a current global health problem. HBV genotypes influence the treatment and long term outcome of HBV infected patients. Moreover, HBV genotypes differ in various region of the world. Such data was reported haphazardly but yet to be comprehensive for Nepal. This study attempted to find out the diverse hepatitis B genotypes in Nepal. Methods: A convenient serum sample of 58 HBsAg positive patients from different parts of the country mainly from Nepalgunj, Palpa and Kathmandu were screened for hepatitis B genotype. Sequencing was done and Phylogenetic tree was created. Results: Among 58 samples, 23 were genotype D, 17were genotype A and B wereC/D recombinant. Phylogenetic trees were created by distance-matrix and neighbor-joining analyses after bootstrapping to 1000 replicates. Discussion: HBV genotypes A and D are the most common genotype in Nepal. Horizontal transmission is common in these genotypes. C/D recombinant genotype may be transmitted from Tibetan people living in Kathmandu. Prophylactic major controlling, horizontal and cross border transmission could be effective. Conclusions: Three major genotypes of HBV in Nepal were found to be A, C and D. Despite being a low prevalence area, Nepal has a diversity of hepatitis B genotypes. Keywords: genotypes; HBV; nepal.