In India, the hepatitis C virus genotype found most frequently in chronic infection is:
- A Genotype 3 ✓
- B Genotype 2
- C Genotype 1
- D Genotype 4
Correct answer: A. Genotype 3
Explanation
Genotype 3 is the predominant HCV genotype in India, historically linked to injection drug use in parts of the country, followed by genotype 1. This differs from global distribution, where genotype 1 predominates worldwide and genotype 4 is common in Egypt and Africa, following Indian textbook convention. Genotyping guided duration of pegylated interferon era therapy and remains relevant for interpreting rapid diagnostic assays, though pan-genotypic direct-acting antivirals now treat all genotypes.
Reference: Ananthanarayan and Paniker's Textbook of Microbiology, 12th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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