6 Questions
Which of the following is a common mode of transmission for hepatitis B?
Mother-to-child transmission during birth
What is the primary way to prevent hepatitis B infection?
Receiving the hepatitis B vaccine
What is the purpose of the HBsAg test in diagnosing hepatitis B?
To detect the presence of the virus
What is the typical course of treatment for acute hepatitis B?
No treatment is required, it resolves on its own
Which of the following is a risk group for whom the hepatitis B vaccine is recommended?
Healthcare workers
What is the purpose of booster shots in the hepatitis B vaccine series?
To maintain immunity over time
Study Notes
Hepatitis B
Vaccination
- Hepatitis B vaccine is the most effective way to prevent infection
- Recommended for all newborns, and for individuals at high risk (healthcare workers, people with chronic liver disease, etc.)
- Vaccine is given in a series of 2-4 doses, depending on age and risk group
- Booster shots may be necessary to maintain immunity
Transmission
- Hepatitis B is primarily spread through:
- Blood and bodily fluids (sex, sharing needles, etc.)
- Mother-to-child transmission during birth
- Contaminated medical equipment
- Can also be spread through:
- Tattooing and piercing with unsterilized equipment
- Sharing personal care items (razors, toothbrushes, etc.)
- Casual contact (hugging, kissing, etc.) is not a common mode of transmission
Diagnosis
- Blood tests are used to diagnose hepatitis B:
- HBsAg (hepatitis B surface antigen) test: detects presence of the virus
- Anti-HBs (hepatitis B surface antibody) test: detects immunity
- Liver function tests (LFTs) and liver biopsy may also be performed
Treatment
- Acute hepatitis B usually resolves on its own
- Chronic hepatitis B requires antiviral medication to manage the infection and prevent liver damage
- Treatment options include:
- Nucleos(t)ide analogues (e.g. lamivudine, adefovir)
- Interferon therapy (for some patients)
- Liver transplantation may be necessary for advanced liver disease
Symptoms
- Symptoms may not appear until 2-6 months after infection
- Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Dark urine and pale stools
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Some people may not exhibit symptoms at all
Learn about the prevention, transmission, diagnosis, treatment, and symptoms of Hepatitis B. Understand the causes, risk groups, and management of the infection. Test your knowledge of this liver disease.
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