HCV Genotyping Proficiency Program

A comprehensive hepatitis C virus (HCV) program that tests genotyping proficiency is designed to provide laboratories worldwide with a new quality assurance tool for HCV molecular diagnostic testing. The program was introduced at the Global Odyssey 2002 International Proficiency Testing Conference in Atlanta (GA, USA).

The HCV genotype has been found to be an independent predictor of sustained virologic response to therapy. Patients infected with HCV genotypes 2 or 3 are more apt to respond to interferon plus ribarvirin therapy than those infected with other genotypes. In these patients, the treatment time can be reduced by half, minimizing side effects. Thus, the genotyping testing provides doctors with a new tool for managing HCV patients and can help build confidence in the information received from molecular testing laboratories. The program was developed by AcroMetrix Corp. (Benicia, CA, USA). In 2001, the company introduced a similar HIV Resistance Proficiency Program.

Beginning in April 2002, the HCV Genotyping Proficiency Program will challenge participating laboratories with three unknown genotype samples, followed by two additional challenges later, for a total of nine unknown genotype samples covering genotypes one through six being tested. All AcroMetrix Proficiency Programs utilize a secure, proprietary Internet reporting system called LabQC for data entry and results verification. LabQC provides instant test results and has the ability to print reports, archive results, and summarize each challenge.





Related Links:
LabQC
AcroMetrix