Hepatitis

Hepatitis

Alcoholic hepatitis can lead to liver inflammation.

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver tissue. It can be self-limiting or can progress to fibrosis (scarring), cirrhosis, or liver cancer. Hepatitis is most commonly caused by a viral infection, but there are other possible causes of hepatitis. These include autoimmune hepatitis and hepatitis that occurs as a secondary result of medications, drugs, toxins, and alcohol.

Types of Hepatitis

Hepatitis can be classified into several types based on its cause:

Viral Hepatitis

Viral hepatitis is the most common form and includes:

• Hepatitis A: Caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), it is usually spread by consuming food or water contaminated by feces from an infected person.
• Hepatitis B: Caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), it is spread by exposure to infectious body fluids, such as blood, vaginal secretions, or semen.

Structure of the Hepatitis B virus.

• Hepatitis C: Caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), it is primarily spread through blood-to-blood contact associated with intravenous drug use, poorly sterilized medical equipment, and transfusions.

Structure of the Hepatitis C virus.

• Hepatitis D: Also known as "delta hepatitis," it is caused by the hepatitis D virus (HDV) and only occurs in those infected with hepatitis B.
• Hepatitis E: Caused by the hepatitis E virus (HEV), it is typically spread via the fecal-oral route, often through contaminated water.

Alcoholic Hepatitis

Alcoholic hepatitis is inflammation of the liver caused by excessive alcohol consumption. It can lead to cirrhosis and liver failure.

Autoimmune Hepatitis

Autoimmune hepatitis is a chronic disease in which the body's immune system attacks the liver, causing inflammation and liver damage.

Symptoms

The symptoms of hepatitis can vary depending on the type and severity of the disease. Common symptoms include:

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Fatigue
• Abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dark urine
• Pale stool

Jaundice is a common symptom of hepatitis.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of hepatitis involves a combination of blood tests, imaging studies, and sometimes liver biopsy. Blood tests can detect the presence of hepatitis viruses, liver enzymes, and antibodies.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the type of hepatitis:

• Hepatitis A: Usually resolves on its own; supportive care is provided.
• Hepatitis B: Antiviral medications may be used to treat chronic hepatitis B.
• Hepatitis C: Direct-acting antiviral medications can cure most cases of hepatitis C.
• Alcoholic Hepatitis: Abstinence from alcohol and supportive care are crucial.
• Autoimmune Hepatitis: Immunosuppressive drugs are used to reduce liver inflammation.

Prevention

Preventive measures include vaccination (for hepatitis A and B), safe sex practices, avoiding sharing needles, and ensuring safe blood transfusions.

Complications

Chronic hepatitis can lead to serious complications such as:

• Cirrhosis
• Liver cancer
• Liver failure

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Stages of liver disease progression.

Related Pages

• Liver disease
• Cirrhosis
• Liver cancer
• Jaundice