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Abstract
Background: Genotype distribution of chronic hepatitis C in Sweden has shown a predominance of genotype non‐1. With recent improvements in therapy, genotypes 2 and 3 infections can, according to consensus, be treated without histological assessment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the genotype distribution, histological stage and grade, and the percentage of patients fulfilling the histological treatment criteria. Method: A total of 323 patients with chronic hepatitis C were tested for genotype, histological findings and the percentage fulfilling the histological treatment criteria as stated by Swedish consensus; i.e. having fibrosis stage II or more, or fibrosis stage I with inflammation grade II or more. Results: The patients had a mean age of 45 years (range 16–71 years) and 62% were males. Genotypes were determined in 79% of patients and genotype 2b or 3a was found to predominate, comprising 56%. Former intravenous drug use was found to be the predominant mode of acquisition, noted in 60%. The mean disease duration was 21 years (range 3–40) after which time 14% of patients had developed cirrhosis (stage IV). In the total material, 77% fulfilled the histological treatment criteria, 76% and 86%, respectively, among genotype 1 and genotype non‐1 (2b and 3a) patients. Conclusions: Genotype non‐1 (2b or 3a) predominated among Swedish patients, 14% of whom developed cirrhosis after a mean follow‐up time of 21 years. Furthermore, an absolute majority fulfilled the histological criteria used to judge patients' eligibility for antiviral therapy, supporting the recent Swedish consensus decision to treat genotypes 2 and 3 infected patients without a previous biopsy.