Hepatitis C genotype prevalence in south Louisiana: deviation from expected frequency and implications for treatment policy.
OBJECTIVE
To compare prevalence rates of hepatitis C genotypes in a southern Louisiana patient cohort to nationally accepted prevalence rates and to examine the possible impact on treatment cost effectiveness.


METHODS
Systematic chart review of a community-based metropolitan gastroenterology practice.


RESULTS
Hepatitis C genotype prevalence rates in the southeastern Louisiana cohort differed dramatically from nationally accepted figures, with only 12% prevalence of genotypes 2 and 3 infections combined.


CONCLUSIONS
Regional variations in hepatitis C genotype prevalence in the United States should be fully explored, so that more accurate assessments of expected treatment outcomes and of costs can be promulgated.
Leo
Ronald A
RA
Gastroenterology, Baton Rouge General Health System, USA.
D005260:Female; D005828:Genetics, Population; D005838:Genotype; D006526:Hepatitis C / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000235:genetics*; D006801:Humans; D008145:Louisiana / Q000453:epidemiology; D008297:Male; D015233:Models, Statistical; D015995:Prevalence; D012189:Retrospective Studies