Hepatitis

Hepatitis

Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver. This may result from infectious causes (viral, bacterial, fungal, parasitic) or non-infectious causes (autoimmune, medications, alcohol, metabolic disorders). In USA, viral hepatitis is most commonly caused by Hepatitis A,B,C. Most viral hepatitides have no specific treatment. The hepatitides treated in out-patient setting are Hepatitis B and C. If untreated, they can lead to liver failure and even liver cancer.

Hepatitis A is transmitted by food and water. It is endemic in certain parts of the world. Symptoms include malaise, lack of appetite, nausea, vomiting, jaundice. Blood tests reveal elevated liver enzymes. It is the most preventable travel related illness. Hepatitis. A vaccine is available to prevent this infection. and must be taken 2 at least 2 weeks prior to travel. Call for appointment if you are traveling.

Hepatitis B (HBV) and Hepatitis C (HCV) can cause acute and chronic infection. Acute or new infection can may range from asymptomatic infection to subclinical infection. Acute HBV infection may sometimes lead to fulminant liver failure. Many cases resolve over. a period of days to months. HBV infection is considered to have progressed to chronic infection when the virus is detected in the body after 6 months and there is lack of specific antibody formation. HCV is considered to have progressed to chronic infection when virus is detected in the body after 6 months.

There is oral antiviral therapy available for HBV and HCV. There are specific treatment guidelines. Treatment is effective in controlling HBV infection and its progression. HCV is curable in most cases.

Don't delay in contacting an infectious diseases physician for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.