HBV endemicity in Mexico is associated with HBV genotypes H and G

Hepatitis B virus(HBV)genotypes have distinct genetic and geographic diversity and may be associated with specific clinical characteristics,progression,severity of disease and antiviral response.Herein,we provide an updated overview of the endemicity of HBV genotypes H and G in Mexico.HBV genotype H is predominant among the Mexican population,but not in Central America.Its geographic distribution is related to a typical endemicity among the Mexicans which is characterized by a low hepatitis B surface antigen seroprevalence,apparently due to a rapid resolution of the infection,low viral loads and a high prevalence of occult B infection.During chronic infections,genotype H is detected in mixtures with other HBV genotypes and associated with other co-morbidities,such as obesity,alcoholism and co-infection with hepatitis C virus or human immunodeficiency virus.Hepatocellular carcinoma prevalence is low.Thus,antiviral therapy may differ significantly from the standard guidelines established worldwide.The high prevalence of HBV genotype G in the Americas,especially among the Mexican population,raises new questions regarding its geographic origin that will require further investigation.