Hepatitis Overview and Types

Hepatitis Overview

• Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver
• It can be caused by various factors, including viruses, autoimmune disorders, and toxins.
• Viral hepatitis is a significant category, including A, B, C, D, and E.

Types of Viral Hepatitis

• Hepatitis A (HAV):

  • Acute, self-limiting infection
  • Transmitted via the fecal-oral route
  • Commonly causes jaundice
  • Usually resolves without lasting liver damage
  • Vaccine available

• Hepatitis B (HBV):

  • Highly infectious, enveloped virus
  • Transmitted by perinatal, percutaneous, and sexual contact.
  • Can lead to chronic infections and potentially, cirrhosis or liver cancer.
  • Blood tests can detect HBV antigens.
  • Vaccine available

• Hepatitis C (HCV):

  • Enveloped ssRNA virus
  • Primarily transmitted via blood-to-blood contact (e.g., contaminated needles).
  • Frequently leads to chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer
  • No vaccine available

• Hepatitis D (HDV):

  • Defective virus, requiring HBV to replicate
  • Transmitted through blood-borne and percutaneous contact
  • Significantly worsens HBV infection.

• Hepatitis E (HEV):

  • Transmitted via the fecal-oral route.
  • Primarily an acute infection.
  • Pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals are at risk.
  • Uncommon in North America.

Pathogenesis

• Hepatocytes (liver cells) might be damaged due to direct viral action or immune responses.
• Acute hepatitis can result in hepatocyte destruction, necrosis, and resolution through regeneration
• Chronic hepatitis demonstrates persistent damage, leading to inflammation, fibrosis, and cirrhosis, potentially culminating in liver failure.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis relies on blood tests, measuring serum hepatitis markers (liver enzymes, etc.) and sometimes liver biopsy.

Management and Prevention

• Treatment often involves supportive care; antiviral therapies for chronic hepatitis may be available
• Liver transplant might be necessary in severe cases
• Prevention includes vaccination and education on preventive measures (e.g., safe injection practices).