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Hepatitis Types: Detailed Breakdown by Dr. Sucharitha

In a followup to our last article on hepatitis, called Hepatitis: Rapid-Fire Basics, Dr. Sucharitha breaks down each type of hepatitis in detail.

1. Hepatitis A: Transmission and Key Facts

  • It is the most common cause of viral hepatitis in children.
  • It spreads mainly via the feacal-oral route, that is, through contaminated food and water.
  • Maximal transmission of virus occurs during the incubation period and early phase of the disease.
  • Normal heat does not destroy the virus.
  • Vaccines are available against hepatitis A.

2. Hepatitis B: Risks and Transmission Details

  • This is a notorious virus, because 5 to 15 % of the cases may be associated with an HIV infection.
  • It is about a hundred times more infectious than the HIV. It’s transmitted by blood, sexual intercourse, and other bodily secretions, including saliva.
  • Its symptom can be jaundice, but that occurs only in advanced stages.
  • In an infected patient, all the body fluids contain the virus except the stool.
  • Increases chances of liver cancer and cirrhosis.
  • Vaccines are available for both infants and adults.
  • While drugs are available, hepatitis B is difficult to treat, and prevention is prudent.

3. Hepatitis C: Bloodborne Transmission and Chronicity

  • It is transmitted during blood transfusion or a needle-prick injury, common in frontline healthcare workers.
  • This infection can present as acute or chronic.
  • It is usually a chronic condition, and the most common cause of cirrhosis in India.
  • It can also lead to liver cancer.

4. Hepatitis D: Co-infection with Hepatitis B

  • It occurs as a co-infection with hepatitis B, since the virus cannot survive on its own.
  • Together with hepatitis B, it turns chronic.

5. Hepatitis E: Asymptomatic Nature and Pregnancy Risks

  • Most cases are asymptomatic, meaning, no symptoms are observed to indicate the presence of the infection.
  • Infection in a pregnant woman can lead to fulminant hepatitis, a rare syndrome of rapid massive necrosis of liver parenchyma and a decrease in liver size (in a matter of days or weeks).

6. Non-Infectious Hepatitis: Alcohol, Drugs, Autoimmune

  • Excessive alcohol intake: Excessive drinking injures the liver and can cause alcoholic hepatitis
  • Drugs: Certain drugs are injurious to the liver and can cause drug-induced hepatitis.
  • Autoimmune conditions: Some autoimmune conditions can also cause hepatitis.

Important note:

Advice not prescriptive. Consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment if experiencing symptoms.

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