Hepatitis virus
Hepatitis Delta (also known as Delta Hepatitis) is a type of viral hepatitis caused by the Hepatitis Delta Virus (HDV). It is a unique type of viral infection as it can only occur in conjunction with Hepatitis B infection.
Etiology[edit | edit source]
Hepatitis Delta is caused by the Hepatitis Delta Virus, a small RNA virus. This virus is unique in that it requires the presence of the Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) to replicate. The HDV uses the envelope proteins of the HBV to form new viral particles.
Epidemiology[edit | edit source]
Hepatitis Delta is a global health problem, with an estimated 15-20 million people infected worldwide. It is most prevalent in regions where Hepatitis B is endemic, such as Sub-Saharan Africa, the Amazon Basin, and parts of Asia and Eastern Europe.
Clinical Manifestations[edit | edit source]
The clinical manifestations of Hepatitis Delta can range from mild to severe. Symptoms may include jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, it can lead to cirrhosis of the liver and liver failure.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of Hepatitis Delta is made through blood tests that detect the presence of HDV antibodies and HDV RNA. It is important to also test for Hepatitis B, as co-infection is necessary for HDV replication.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for Hepatitis Delta involves the use of antiviral medications to suppress the replication of the virus. Currently, the only approved treatment is interferon alpha, although research is ongoing to find more effective treatments.
Prevention[edit | edit source]
Prevention of Hepatitis Delta is primarily achieved through vaccination against Hepatitis B. As HDV requires HBV to replicate, preventing Hepatitis B also prevents Hepatitis Delta.
See Also[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
