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'''Hepatitis''' is a medical condition primarily associated with [[gastroenterology]] that involves the [[inflammation]] of the [[liver]]. The specific symptoms, prognosis, and recommended treatments are contingent on the underlying cause.
{{Infobox medical condition
 
| name            = Hepatitis
== Recognizable Symptoms and Signs == <!--T:3-->
| image          = [[File:Alcoholic_hepatitis.jpg|250px]]
Hepatitis often manifests through symptoms like exhaustion, general discomfort or [[malaise]], joint pain, abdominal distress, and vomiting, typically two to three times daily during the initial five days. Other signs include a lack of appetite, dark urine, [[fever]], an enlarged liver or [[hepatomegaly]], and [[jaundice]] (icterus). Chronic forms of hepatitis may exhibit few or none of these symptoms until advanced stages where persistent inflammation has replaced liver cells with [[connective tissue]], leading to [[cirrhosis]]. Certain [[liver function tests]] can help in the diagnosis of hepatitis.
| caption        = Micrograph of alcoholic hepatitis showing ballooning degeneration, Mallory bodies, and neutrophils. Liver biopsy. H&E stain.
 
| field          = [[Gastroenterology]]
== Different Forms of Hepatitis == <!--T:4-->
| symptoms        = [[Jaundice]], [[fatigue]], [[abdominal pain]], [[nausea]], [[vomiting]], [[anorexia (symptom)|loss of appetite]]
| complications  = [[Cirrhosis]], [[liver cancer]], [[liver failure]]
| onset          = Sudden or gradual
| duration        = Acute or chronic
| causes          = [[Viral hepatitis]], [[alcoholic hepatitis]], [[non-alcoholic steatohepatitis]]
| risks          = [[Alcohol consumption]], [[intravenous drug use]], [[unprotected sex]], [[obesity]]
| diagnosis      = [[Liver function tests]], [[serology]], [[liver biopsy]]
| treatment      = Depends on cause; may include [[antiviral drugs]], [[corticosteroids]], [[lifestyle changes]]
| medication      = [[Antivirals]], [[corticosteroids]]
| prognosis      = Varies; can be self-limiting or lead to chronic liver disease
| frequency      = Common
}}
'''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 ===
The majority of acute hepatitis cases are attributable to various viral infections, including:
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 A]]
* '''[[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.
# [[Hepatitis B]]
[[File:HBV.png|left|thumb|Structure of the Hepatitis B virus.]]
# [[Hepatitis C]]
* '''[[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.
# [[Hepatitis D|D-agent]] (requires the presence of the Hepatitis B virus for propagation)
[[File:HCV_structure.png|left|thumb|Structure of the Hepatitis C virus.]]
# [[Hepatitis E]]
* '''[[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 F]] (considered discredited)
* '''[[Hepatitis E]]''': Caused by the hepatitis E virus (HEV), it is typically spread via the fecal-oral route, often through contaminated water.
# [[Hepatitis G]]
=== Alcoholic Hepatitis ===
Additionally, other viruses such as [[cytomegalovirus]], [[Epstein-Barr virus]], and [[yellow fever]] can also lead to hepatitis.
Alcoholic hepatitis is inflammation of the liver caused by excessive alcohol consumption. It can lead to cirrhosis and liver failure.
:''Refer to the individual articles for more comprehensive information''.
=== Autoimmune Hepatitis ===
:''Also see [[infectious canine hepatitis]]''.
Autoimmune hepatitis is a chronic disease in which the body's immune system attacks the liver, causing inflammation and liver damage.
====Hepatitis A==== <!--T:5-->
== Symptoms ==
[[Hepatitis A]], also known as infectious jaundice, is an [[enterovirus]] transmitted through the [[orofecal]] route, often through contaminated food. It results in an acute form of hepatitis and does not progress to a chronic stage. The immune system of the affected individual produces [[antibodies]] against Hepatitis A, providing immunity against future infections. Those with Hepatitis A are usually recommended to rest, maintain hydration, and abstain from alcohol. A [[vaccine]] is available that provides lifelong protection from Hepatitis A. The virus can spread through personal contact, consumption of raw seafood, or drinking contaminated water. Hepatitis A is predominantly found in developing countries, and is more common in southern Europe compared to northern and western Europe. The virus is transmitted fecal-orally, often through the consumption of contaminated water or food. Strict personal hygiene and avoidance of raw and unpeeled foods can help prevent an infection. Infected individuals begin to excrete the Hepatitis A virus in their feces two weeks after the onset of the first symptoms. The incubation period between infection and the onset of the disease can range from 15 to 45 days.
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)
====Hepatitis B==== <!--T:6-->
* Fatigue
[[Hepatitis B]] can cause both acute and chronic hepatitis in patients who are unable to eliminate the virus. It can be transmitted through [[blood]] (rarely through [[blood transfusion]]), tattoos (both amateur and professional), sexually or through contact with blood or bodily fluids, or vertically (from mother to her unborn child). However, in about half of the cases, the source of infection cannot be identified. Blood contact can occur through the sharing of [[syringe]]s in [[intravenous drug]] use, use of common shaving accessories like razor blades, or touching wounds on infected persons. [[Needle-exchange programme]]s have been introduced in many countries as a preventive measure. In the [[United States]], 95% of patients clear their infection and develop used to determine the likelihood of autoimmune hepatitis; this system has been devised by the International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group.
* Abdominal pain
 
* Loss of appetite
=== Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) === <!--T:25-->
* Nausea and vomiting
Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, also known as NASH, is a type of liver disease that is characterized by fat accumulation in the liver (hepatic steatosis) along with liver inflammation. It resembles alcoholic liver disease but occurs in people who drink little or no alcohol. The cause of NASH is still not entirely clear, but it is associated with conditions such as obesity, insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and high levels of fats in the blood. It's often a silent disease with few or no symptoms, but when symptoms do occur, they can include fatigue, weight loss, and abdominal pain. Over time, NASH can progress to cirrhosis and liver failure.
* Dark urine
 
* Pale stool
=== Other Forms of Hepatitis === <!--T:26-->
[[File:Jaundice_eye.jpg|left|thumb|Jaundice is a common symptom of hepatitis.]]
Other forms of hepatitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including certain types of medications, exposure to certain toxins, and certain medical conditions. For instance, some types of medications, including over-the-counter pain relievers and prescription medications, can cause drug-induced hepatitis. Certain industrial toxins, such as yellow phosphorus, and natural toxins, like those found in poisonous mushrooms, can also cause hepatitis. Moreover, certain medical conditions, such as celiac disease, can cause hepatitis in some people.
== 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 == <!--T:27-->
== Treatment ==
The treatment of hepatitis is largely determined by the type and stage of the disease. Acute hepatitis may require only supportive treatment, while chronic types of hepatitis may require antiviral medications. In all types of hepatitis, lifestyle modifications, including avoiding alcohol and maintaining a healthy weight, can help to manage the disease. In the most severe cases, a liver transplant may be necessary.
Treatment depends on the type of hepatitis:
 
* '''Hepatitis A''': Usually resolves on its own; supportive care is provided.
== Prevention == <!--T:28-->
* '''Hepatitis B''': Antiviral medications may be used to treat chronic hepatitis B.
Prevention strategies for hepatitis include practicing good hygiene, safe sex, and avoiding sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes. Vaccinations are available for hepatitis A and B. For those traveling to areas where hepatitis is prevalent, taking precautions with food and water is advised. For hepatitis types caused by alcohol or drugs, abstinence or responsible use is the best prevention strategy.
* '''Hepatitis C''': Direct-acting antiviral medications can cure most cases of hepatitis C.
 
* '''Alcoholic Hepatitis''': Abstinence from alcohol and supportive care are crucial.
== Outlook == <!--T:29-->
* '''Autoimmune Hepatitis''': Immunosuppressive drugs are used to reduce liver inflammation.
The outlook for people with hepatitis varies depending on the type and stage of the disease. Some people with acute hepatitis recover completely with no lasting liver damage. However, chronic hepatitis can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer, which can be life-threatening. Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is important for managing the disease and monitoring for any complications.
== Prevention ==
 
Preventive measures include vaccination (for hepatitis A and B), safe sex practices, avoiding sharing needles, and ensuring safe blood transfusions.
== See Also == <!--T:30-->
== Complications ==
Chronic hepatitis can lead to serious complications such as:
* [[Cirrhosis]]
* [[Liver cancer]]
* Liver failure
[[File:Stages_of_Liver_disease_NIDDK_NIH.gif|left|thumb|Stages of liver disease progression.]]
== See also ==
* [[Liver disease]]
* [[Liver disease]]
* [[Cirrhosis]]
* [[Liver cancer]]
* [[Liver cancer]]
* [[Cirrhosis]]
* [[Jaundice]]
* [[Viral hepatitis]]
[[Category:Hepatology]]
 
[[Category:Inflammations]]
== External Links == <!--T:32-->
[[Category:Viral diseases]]
 
* [http://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/ CDC - Viral Hepatitis]
* [http://www.who.int/topics/hepatitis/en/ WHO - Hepatitis]
== Further Reading == <!--T:33-->
 
* Sjogren MH, et al. (2002). ''Hepatitis C Infection in Patients With Primary Sjogren's Syndrome''. Am. J. Gastroenterol. 97(3): 579–84.
* Liaw YF, et al. (2000). ''Hepatitis B Virus Replication in Patients With Fulminant Hepatitis (Acute Liver Failure): A Western Pacific Region Multicentre Study''. Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. 15(12): 1352–1355.
* Di Bisceglie, AM (2009). ''Natural History of Hepatitis C: Its Impact on Clinical Management''. Hepatology. 41(4): 875–879.
* Anstee, QM, et al. (2011). ''From NASH to HCC: current concepts and future challenges''. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. 16(7): 411–428.
* Manns, MP, et al. (2010). ''Diagnosis and Management of Autoimmune Hepatitis''. Hepatology. 51(6): 2193–2213.
{{stub}}
{{Gastroenterology}}
{{health}}
[[Category:Gastroenterology]]
[[Category:Hepatitis| ]]

Latest revision as of 04:10, 7 April 2025

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
W8MD's medical weight loss NYC, sleep center NYC
Philadelphia medical weight loss and Philadelphia sleep clinics

Hepatitis
File:Alcoholic hepatitis.jpg
Synonyms N/A
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite
Complications Cirrhosis, liver cancer, liver failure
Onset Sudden or gradual
Duration Acute or chronic
Types N/A
Causes Viral hepatitis, alcoholic hepatitis, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis
Risks Alcohol consumption, intravenous drug use, unprotected sex, obesity
Diagnosis Liver function tests, serology, liver biopsy
Differential diagnosis N/A
Prevention N/A
Treatment Depends on cause; may include antiviral drugs, corticosteroids, lifestyle changes
Medication Antivirals, corticosteroids
Prognosis Varies; can be self-limiting or lead to chronic liver disease
Frequency Common
Deaths N/A


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[edit]

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

Viral Hepatitis[edit]

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.
File:HBV.png
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.
File:HCV structure.png
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[edit]

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

Autoimmune Hepatitis[edit]

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

Symptoms[edit]

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
File:Jaundice eye.jpg
Jaundice is a common symptom of hepatitis.

Diagnosis[edit]

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[edit]

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[edit]

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

Complications[edit]

Chronic hepatitis can lead to serious complications such as:

File:Stages of Liver disease NIDDK NIH.gif
Stages of liver disease progression.

See also[edit]

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