In-depth Overview: Types, Transmission, and Prevention of Hepatitis

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, often caused by viral infections, toxic agents, or drugs. Its symptoms include jaundice, abdominal pain, liver enlargement, fatigue, and sometimes fever. Hepatitis can range from mild to acute, and in severe cases, it can lead to liver cancer. There are various types of hepatitis, including A, B, C, D, E, F, and G, which are caused by different viruses.

Hepatitis A (HAV): HAV is an RNA non-enveloped virus that is usually transmitted through contact with feces from infected individuals. It causes mild, short-term, and less virulent disease.

Hepatitis B (HBV): Common symptoms of HBV include fever, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, jaundice, dark urine, and pale stools. The incubation period for hepatitis B is 10-12 weeks. Most chronic carriers do not show symptoms and can only be detected through antibody testing. However, some may develop chronic active hepatitis, which can progress to cirrhosis of the liver and even death. HBV is a DNA virus and can be transmitted through blood, sexual contact, and from mother to newborn. Prevention methods include vaccination and the use of hyperimmune globulin.

Hepatitis C (HCV): Humans are the reservoir for HCV, which is an enveloped virion containing single-stranded RNA. It is mainly transmitted through blood, often through needle use in injections. Sexual and mother-to-child transmission are less common but can occur. Alpha interferon, alone or in combination with ribavirin, is the preferred treatment for chronic hepatitis C. However, there is no vaccine available, and hyperimmune globulins are not effective.

Hepatitis D (HDV): Also known as delta hepatitis, HDV is caused by a defective RNA virus that requires HBV to replicate. It can only infect individuals who are already infected with HBV. HDV can result in more severe liver disease than HBV alone.

Hepatitis E (HEV): HEV is caused by a virus transmitted through feces of an infected person. Recent studies have shown that pigs could be a source of HEV infection, as reported by Halbur and colleagues in 2001.

Hepatitis F and G: These types of hepatitis are caused by unidentified viruses and are not well understood.

Vaccines are available for HBV and HAV, but there is currently no vaccine for HCV. Treatment options vary depending on the type and severity of hepatitis, and it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management.