HBV genotype (A-H) distribution: Type A Northern Europe, Western Europe, USA Type B Southeast Asia Type C Far East Type D Mediterranean region, Middle East, India Type E South America, Central America, India Type G USA, France Type H Mexico, South America China Type C is predominant in the north and Type B in the south. Why test for HBV genotype? Spontaneous HBeAg serologic conversion: type B more than type C. Type B progresses more slowly than type C and is less likely to develop liver tumors; liver disease activity and cirrhosis: type C more than type B. Mixed types (B+C) are common; response to IFN: types A and B are better than types C and D; cirrhosis and liver tumors: type C is higher risk; liver failure: type F is less at risk for liver failure.