Hepatitis refers to an inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis B is a specific type of hepatitis caused by the hepatitis B virus, which is usually transmitted by blood products, or sexually. Hepatitis B can cause an acute infection or a chronic (persistent) one.
Risk Factors
Homosexual behavior
Intravenous drug abuse
Medical professionals
Hemodialysis workers
Infants of mothers with hepatitis B
Symptoms
First phase (lasts 2-3 weeks):
Fatigue
Not "feeling well"
Loss of appetite
Nasal discharge
Sore throat
Skin rashes
Joint pain
Fever or chills
Nausea/vomiting
Abdominal pain
Diarrhea or constipation
Second (Icteric) phase (occurs 5-10 days after first phase):
Chronic active hepatitis: positive HBsAg, Anti HBc IgG (& low levels IgM), HbeAg
Liver biopsy to diagnose chronic forms
Similar Conditions
Mononucleosis
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis C
Cytomegalovirus
Q fever
Drug-induced liver disease
Secondary syphilis
Cholecystitis
Alcoholic hepatitis
Autoimmune hepatitis
Complications
Infection with delta agent. This is a secondary agent on top of the infection with hepatitis B. It can make the infection much more severe. Diagnosis is made by checking for anti-HDV in the blood.
Hepatocellular (liver) cancer-patients who have been infected with hepatitis B are at much higher risk of developing liver cancer
Liver cirrhosis
Treatment
Acute hepatitis:
Avoid Tylenol and alcoholic beverages. Bed rest as needed. No medical treatment.
Chronic active hepatitis:
Alpha-Interferon
Lamivudine
Prevention
Hepatitis B vaccine:
Hepatitis B vaccine now exists and is routinely given during childhood immunizations. It is also given to high-risk adults, e.g., medical professionals.
Hepatitis B immune globulin immunization for pregnant mothers
Universal blood precautions
Condoms may reduce or eliminate the chances of contracting hepatitis B from sexual relations.
