Hepatitis G virus. A new hepatotropic virus

ABSTRACT

A new hepatitis virus has recently been discovered and designated hepatitis G virus [HGV]. It is an RNA virus that belongs to the Flaviviridae family. Preliminary data indicate that this virus is transmitted parenterally and is common amongst intravenous drug users and patients who had received multiple blood transfusions. Coinfection with hepatitis C and B is not uncommon. HGV is associated with acute and chronic non-ABCDE hepatitis. Currently the diagnosis is based on the detection of HGV-RNA in the serum of infected patients by polymerase chain reaction. More data are needed regarding the epidemiology, clinical significance, prevention and treatment of this virus