Hepatitis refers to an inflammatory condition of the liver. It is commonly caused by viral infections. Other causes include drugs, alcohol, toxins and autoimmune hepatitis

Viral Hepatitis- 5 types – A, B, C, D and E

Hepatitis A – Acute, short term disease caused by hepatitis A virus. It is commonly caused by consuming food or water contaminated by feces from a person infected with Hepatitis A

Hepatitis B – Chronic disease transmitted through contact with infections body fluids such as blood, vaginal secretions, semen containing hepatitis B virus. IV drug use, having sex with infected partner can increase risk Hepatitis C- Chronic hepatitis caused by hepatitis C virus, transmitted through direct contact with infected body fluids, IV drug use, sexual contact. It is most common blood borne viral infection

Hepatitis D – Chronic hepatitis also called delta hepatitis caused by hepatitis D virus. HDV is contacted through direct contact with infected blood. It only occurs in conjunction with Hepatitis B infection. It can’t multiple without the presence to Hepatitis B

Hepatitis E – Acute hepatitis which is waterborne caused by Hepatitis E virus. Transmitted through contaminated water
Symptoms: Fatigue, flu- like symptoms, fever, dark urine, pale stools, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, jaundice
Tests: Liver function tests, viral markers, auto antibodies, ultrasound abdomen, liver biopsy (rarely)

Treatment:

Hepatitis A & E: No specific treatment only supportive treatment- oral fluids, rest
Hepatitis B, C, D – Antiviral
Autoimmune Hepatitis: Steroids, Immunosuppressant’s
Alcoholic Hepatitis: Avoid alcohol, vitamin supplements
Drug induces Hepatitis: Avoid drugs causing hepatitis
Vaccinations: Available to prevent, viral hepatitis

Dr. Sailaza V Ganta
Qualification : MBBS, DNB General Medicine, MRCP UK
Specialty : Consultant Physician