Hepatitis C virus – drug resistance genotyping

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Molecular detection of drug resistance in Hepatitis C virus
Laboratory	Microbiology
Sub-section	Virology
Specimen Type	○ Plasma ○ Serum

Other Information

○ Resistance genotyping in Hepatitis C is intended for patients who have failed a prior HCV therapy containing an NS3, NS5A and/or NS5B inhibitor.
○ Patient samples with viral loads <103 IU/mL are not accepted.

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

○ Serum: serum separator tube (clotted blood)
○ Plasma: EDTA-blood tube (lavender top)

Collection Requirements

○ Decontaminate skin with 70% alcohol followed by iodine or chlorhexidine, collect at least 5 mL of blood

Sample Stability

Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery

Referral Laboratory

PHOL

Routine Turnaround Time

○ 28 days

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4518

Approval Required

YES

Sample Processing / Delivery

○ Label specimen container. Place specimens in biohazard bag and seal.

○ Specimens should be stored and transported to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory at refrigeration temperature (2-8˚C) immediately after collection

○ UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory will refer the original positive specimen to the National Microbiology Laboratory for testing upon request.