Hepatitis Background
The word “Hepatitis” means an inflammation of the liver. The liver is a vital organ that processes nutrients, filters the blood, and fights infections. When the liver is inflamed or damaged, its function can be affected.
The most common types of viral hepatitis are Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C caused by:
- the hepatitis A virus
- the hepatitis B virus
- the hepatitis C virus
Heavy alcohol use, toxins, some medications, and certain medical conditions can also cause hepatitis.
Hepatitis A
In children, the most common form of hepatitis is hepatitis A (also called infectious hepatitis). This form is caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), which lives in the stools (feces or poop) of infected individuals. Although the hepatitis A virus can cause prolonged illness up to 6 months, it typically only causes short-lived illnesses and it does not cause chronic liver disease.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B (also called serum hepatitis) is a contagious liver disease that results from infection with the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). When first infected, a person can develop an "acute" infection, which can range in severity from a very mild illness with few or no symptoms to a serious condition requiring hospitalization. Acute Hepatitis B refers to the first 6 months after someone is exposed to the Hepatitis B virus. Some people are able to fight the infection and clear the virus. For others, the infection remains and leads to a "chronic", or lifelong, illness. Chronic Hepatitis B refers to the illness that occurs when the Hepatitis B virus remains in a person's body. Over time, the infection can cause serious health problems that can lead to liver cancer.
Chronic viral hepatitis is a common disease in the general population. Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection affects 350 million individuals globally. Approximately 15%-40% may develop serious complications, including cirrhosis, end-stage liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma. Every year, more than 600,000 people worldwide die from Hepatitis B-related liver disease.
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a contagious liver disease that results from infection with the Hepatitis C virus (HCV). The symptoms of the hepatitis C virus can be very similar to those of the hepatitis A and B viruses. However, infection with HCV can lead to chronic liver disease and is the leading reason for liver transplant.
Acute Hepatitis C is a short-term illness that occurs within the first 6 months after someone is exposed to the Hepatitis C virus. Approximately 75%–85% of people who become infected with the Hepatitis C virus develop "chronic," or lifelong, infection.
Chronic Hepatitis C is a long-term illness that occurs when the Hepatitis C virus remains in a person's body. Over time, it can lead to serious liver problems, including liver damage, cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer.
