Overview of Hepatitis (A,B,C)
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, most commonly caused by a viral infection. There are five main hepatitis viruses, referred to as A, B, C, D and E. Hepatitis A is an acute disease, while hepatitis B and C viruses have a chronic course and are likely to result in complications such as hepatic (liver) cancer and cirrhosis.1
Hepatitis A and E are typically caused by ingestion of contaminated food or water. Hepatitis B, C and D usually occur as a result of parenteral contact with infected body fluids (such as from blood transfusions). Hepatitis B is also transmitted by sexual contact.
Clinical presentation of hepatitis varies from individual to individual and with the etiology of infection. Some patients may remain entirely asymptomatic, whereas others may present with rapid onset of fulminant hepatic failure. There is no specific treatment for acute infection. The management of chronic cases is discussed on individual topics.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A occurs sporadically and in epidemics worldwide, with a tendency for cyclic recurrences. This disease is caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), and is closely associated with inadequate sanitation and poor personal
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Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a serious and common infectious disease of the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It is transmitted through activities involving contact with blood or blood-fluids such as unprotected sex with an
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Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is caused by infection with the hepatitis C virus (HCV), which infects liver cells and can cause severe inflammation of the liver with long-term complications. Among those exposed to HCV, about 40% may recover
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Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: December 27,2008