Hepatitis C virus – genotyping

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Molecular detection of Hepatitis C virus genotypes (1,2,3,4,5,6) and subtypes (1a, 1b)
Laboratory	Microbiology
Sub-section	Serology
Specimen Type	○ Plasma ○ Serum

Other Information

○ HCV specimens must have a detectable viral load of at least 125 IU/mL for HCV genotyping to be performed. HCV genotype 5 is relatively uncommon in Canada, however it may be missed in specimens with a viral load of <500 IU/mL.
○ All specimens submitted for HCV viral load without a previous HCV genotype that meets requirements will be automatically tested for HCV genotype.
○ HCV genotyping will be automatically repeated for patients with suspected HCV reinfection as long as the viral load meets the testing requirements.

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

○ Up to 10 days from receipt at PHO laboratory

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4517

Approval Required

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

○ The specimen will be referred to the Public Health Ontario Laboratory for testing upon request. Indeterminate specimens will be sent to NML for further testing.