Liver

Hepatitis

Inflammation of the liver caused by viral infections (A, B, C, E), alcohol, or autoimmune conditions.

Overview

Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, commonly caused by viral infections (A, B, C, D, E) or alcohol/drugs. Hepatitis B and C can become chronic, leading to cirrhosis and liver cancer. Modern antivirals can cure Hepatitis C completely and suppress Hepatitis B long-term.

Causes

Hepatitis A and E viruses (fecal-oral, acute, self-limiting)
Hepatitis B virus (blood/body fluids, can become chronic)
Hepatitis C virus (blood-borne, curable with antivirals)
Alcohol
Drug-induced (paracetamol overdose, INH, anti-TB drugs)
Autoimmune hepatitis

Risk Factors

Unvaccinated against Hep B
IV drug use
Multiple sexual partners
Blood transfusion (pre-1992)
Healthcare workers
Travel to endemic areas (Hep A/E)
Heavy alcohol use

Symptoms

Jaundice

Fatigue

Loss of appetite

Nausea and vomiting

Abdominal pain

Dark urine

Pale stools

Joint pain

Fever (in acute hepatitis)

Diagnosis

Liver function tests (AST, ALT, bilirubin)
Viral markers (HBsAg, anti-HCV, IgM anti-HAV)
HBV DNA / HCV RNA viral load
FibroScan (liver stiffness/fibrosis)
Liver biopsy (if needed)
Ultrasound abdomen

Treatment Options

1Supportive care (acute hepatitis)

2Antiviral therapy (chronic Hep B — tenofovir/entecavir)

3Direct-acting antivirals (Hep C — cure in 12 weeks)

4Liver transplantation (decompensated cirrhosis)

5Vaccination (prevention)

Surgical Treatment

Hepatitis itself is managed medically, not surgically. However, the complications of chronic hepatitis — cirrhosis, liver cancer (HCC), and portal hypertension — may require surgical intervention. Liver transplantation is the definitive treatment for end-stage liver disease from chronic hepatitis.

Recovery

Acute hepatitis A/E: Self-limiting, recovery in 2-6 weeks. Chronic Hep C: Cured with 12 weeks of oral antivirals (95%+ success). Chronic Hep B: Lifelong suppression with daily oral tablet. Liver transplant recovery: 3-6 months.

Prevention

Hepatitis B vaccination (3 doses)
Safe water and food (Hep A/E)
Safe sex practices
Don't share needles
Blood donor screening
Avoid excessive alcohol

Frequently Asked Questions

Can hepatitis B be cured?

Hepatitis B cannot be completely cured (the virus DNA integrates into liver cells), but it can be effectively controlled with daily antiviral tablets. Treatment prevents cirrhosis and cancer. Hepatitis C, however, IS curable with 12 weeks of direct-acting antivirals.

Do I need liver transplant for hepatitis?

Only if hepatitis has already caused decompensated cirrhosis or liver cancer. The vast majority of hepatitis patients are managed with medications alone and never need transplant.

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Surgical Treatment

Frequently Asked Questions

Can hepatitis B be cured?

Do I need liver transplant for hepatitis?

Only if hepatitis has already caused decompensated cirrhosis or liver cancer. The vast majority of hepatitis patients are managed with medications alone and never need transplant.