Viral Hepatitis

Pathophysiology: Hepatitis refers to an inflammatory disease which is fairly common and mainly affects the liver. Viral hepatitis is classified as A, B, C, D, E and G. All types of hepatitis viruses cause similar kind of liver damage. Inflammation happens throughout whole liver and hepatocytes are destroyed by cytotoxic cytokines and natural killer cells being part of inflammatory process. Cellular necrosis takes place but liver usually able to repair itself and regain complete function if no other complications occur.

Disease Statistics: A total of 4,302 cases of AVH were sequentially enrolled in this nationwide study between 1980 and 2008. It included hepatitis A (AHA) accounted for 1,583, acute hepatitis B (AHB) for 1,197, acute hepatitis C (AHC) for 359, and other included 1,163.

Treatment: Intravenous rehydration is given as supportive care but no specific emergency treatment is recommended as such. Patients are admitted in conditions of severe complications. Evaluation for hepatic encephalopathy is done. Certain patients may benefit from pharmacologic therapy. Patients are advised to avoid prolonged or vigorous physical exertion until their symptoms improve and maintain adequate hydration.

Research: The study was presented by International Medical Center of Japan, Kohnodai Hospital, Chiba, Japan.