Genotypes of the hepatitis B virus within the area of Terni, Italy: our experience

Background and aims: The presence of hepatitis B varies depending on the different areas of the world; 10 genotypes of hepatitis B virus (HBV) (A to J) have been identified, and they differ from one another in the nucleotide sequence and geographical location. The various genotypes are associated with a different evolution of the disease and with distinct responses to treatment.
Materials and Methods: From January 2010 to March 2014 we assessed the genotype of the HBV virus on 35 specimens with HBVDNA>1000 IU/mL. The HBV genotype has been determined through sequencing.
Results: The 35 specimens belonged to individuals with a mean and median age of 42.8 and 40 years respectively: 17 of them were Italian and 18 from other countries. In total there were 19 males: 12 Italians and 7 foreigners. Females were 16: 5 Italians and 11 foreigners. The subjects with HBV-DNA≥10⁶ IU/mL were prevailing, followed by subjects with HBV-DNA between 1000 IU/mL and 10.000 IU/mL. Out of 35 patients analysed by genotype, we found 20 genotypes D and 15 non-D genotypes.
Conclusions: The analyses carried out on results suggest that Italy, land of immigration, has become a multi-ethnic country with people coming from high and medium endemic disease areas in terms of HBV. Most patients show D genotype, however the migratory flows lead to the introduction of patients with non-D HBV genotypes in the native population as highlighted in Terni.