Genotyping by RT-PCR

Genotyping of Hepatitis C virus by conventional RT-PCR followed by DNA sequencing.

Serum or plasma sample. Minimum volume required for serum or plasma – 1.0 mL.

Collect blood in serum separator tubes (SST) or EDTA tubes.

Store samples frozen until shipped for testing. Ship frozen on dry ice.

Shipping of specimens shall be done by a TDG certified individual in accordance with TDG regulations. For additional information regarding classification of specimens for the purposes of shipping, consult either Part 2 Appendix 3 of the TDG Regulations or section 3.6.2 of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations as applicable.

Suspected Hepatitis C infection. Serology results must show markers to the Hepatitis C virus (anti-HCV (+)). If PCR was performed previously the result should be positive.

Completed Molecular and Immuno Diagnostics on Hepatitis requisition including sender name, address and telephone number. Patient name or identifier (referring specimen lab #), date of birth, suspected exposure, test(s) requested. Type of specimen and date collected. If possible, include the clinical history and lab results that have already been done at local or provincial laboratories.

Conventional RT-PCR amplifying fragments of the C, E1 and NS5B genes followed by sequencing.

28 calendar days.

1. Kuiken C, Simmonds P. Nomenclature and numbering of the hepatitis C virus. Methods Mol Biol. 2009;510:33-53.
2. Simmonds P. Virology of hepatitis C virus. Clin Ther. 1996;18 Suppl B:9-36.
3. Bowden DS, Berzsenyi MD. Chronic hepatitis C virus infection: genotyping and its clinical role. Future Microbiol. 2006;1:103-12.