Understanding Hepatitis & Treatment Of Hepatitis – ABC

Hepatitis refers to an inflammation of the liver, which can significantly impact public health globally. The condition can be caused by various infectious agents like viruses, toxins, and autoimmune diseases. Viral hepatitis is particularly concerning, as it is a major cause of liver disease and millions of infections worldwide, leading to Acute liver injury, liver failure chronic diseases, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Understanding the different types of hepatitis and their treatment options is crucial, as early intervention can prevent severe complications.

Types of Viral Hepatitis:

Hepatitis is classified into five main types: A, B, C, D, and E, each with unique transmission mechanisms and health implications.

• Hepatitis A is a highly infectious virus transmitted through the fecal-oral route, commonly via contaminated food or water. Preventive measures include safe drinking water and sanitation, with an effective vaccine available.

• Hepatitis B is transmitted through contact with infectious body fluids, commonly through sexual contact or sharing needles. hepatitis B can lead to severe liver complications, including Acute liver failure, liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. Vaccination is a key preventive measure and is recommended for all newborns and high-risk adults.

• Hepatitis C is primarily spread through blood-to-blood contact, often through contaminated needles. Most infections lead to chronic hepatitis C, which can result in liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Unlike hepatitis A and B, a vaccine for hepatitis C is not available, but there are effective treatments that can cure the infection.

• Hepatitis D, which only occurs in those infected with hepatitis B, can exacerbate liver disease and has limited treatment options.

• Hepatitis E, primarily a waterborne infection, is more common in developing countries but poses risks in areas with poor sanitation.

Symptoms of hepatitis include: fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine and pale stools, and yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice).

Diagnosis and Treatment:

Diagnosing hepatitis can involve several tests like – blood tests to detect viral proteins and liver function tests to assess the liver's health. Imaging techniques like ultrasound or MRI help visualise liver abnormalities, and in some cases, a liver biopsy is needed for further examination. 

Treatment strategies vary by hepatitis type. Acute hepatitis often requires supportive care, while chronic hepatitis B and C necessitate antiviral medications. For severe cases of chronic infection leading to liver failure, liver transplantation may be the only option. Managing complications such as cirrhosis or liver cancer requires specialised care.

Prevention and Public Health Measures:

Preventive measures are crucial in combating hepatitis. Vaccination programs, particularly for hepatitis A and B, play a vital role in reducing infection rates. Harm reduction strategies, such as safe injection practices and needle exchange programs, are essential for preventing the spread of hepatitis C among drug users. Increased public awareness and education campaigns about transmission and prevention methods are necessary to combat this global health issue.

Hepatitis is a serious public health concern that requires awareness and proactive measures. Understanding the various types of hepatitis, their transmission, symptoms, and treatment options is vital for early intervention. Ongoing research and public health initiatives are essential to enhance prevention strategies and improve outcomes for those affected by these viral infections. By promoting vaccination, harm reduction strategies, and education, the burden of hepatitis can be significantly reduced, ensuring better health for communities worldwide.

The author is HOD & Consultant – Medical Gastroenterology, Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road

Dr. Raj Vigna Venugopal

Guest Author