**Core Concept:** Human B-cell lymphotropic virus (HBLV), also known as hepatitis G virus (HGV), is a virus that primarily infects B cells and is associated with liver diseases. HBLV is distinct from hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV).
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** HBLV belongs to the Flaviviridae family, which is a group of positive-strand RNA viruses. The correct answer is D, **Flaviviridae**. This family includes viruses like dengue, West Nile, and Japanese encephalitis viruses. In this case, HBLV is classified under the Flaviviridae family due to its genetic similarities and shared characteristics with other flaviviruses.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. Retroviridae: This family includes lentiviruses, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which infects CD4+ T cells, not B cells like HBLV.
B. Hepadnaviridae: This family includes hepatitis B virus (HBV), which again infects hepatocytes, not B cells.
C. Picornaviridae: This family includes viruses like rhinovirus (cold virus) and poliovirus, which are not associated with liver diseases like HBLV.
**Clinical Pearl:** Hepatitis G virus (HGV) is often confused with hepatitis C virus (HCV) due to their similar clinical presentations. However, the presence of HGV RNA in serum does not necessarily indicate active infection, as it can persistently infect humans without causing overt liver disease. This highlights the importance of considering other factors in diagnosing and managing viral hepatitis.
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
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