Hepatitis
There are also special sections on
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C
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What is hepatitis?
Hepatitis is most simply defined as an
inflammation of the human liver.
Hepatitis has various causes. It can come from
a viral infection, an attack by parasites, a transfusion of
impure blood, or unhealthy substances that are introduced into
the human body like alcohol, drugs, or toxins.
Hepatitis may or may not be a serious health
threat. However, hepatitis, in certain circumstances, can
become chronic and can even lead to liver failure and
death.
Are there different types of hepatitis?
Yes, there are several types of hepatitis, and
they're given alphabetical names.
Hepatitis A Hepatitis A
usually comes from bad food that contains the hepatitis A
virus, which causes an infection in the liver. Hepatitis A is
highly contagious, but it doesn't cause chronic liver disease.
A vaccine for hepatitis A is available.
Hepatitis B Hepatitis B used
to be called serum hepatitis. Hepatitis B is a blood-borne
viral disease caused by the hepatitis B virus (also known as
HBV). Hepatitis B can be life threatening. It can be acute or
chronic. About 10 percent of acute hepatitis B cases
progress to the chronic stage. A hepatitis B vaccine is
available.
Hepatitis C Hepatitis C is a
potentially life threatening disease. In hepatitis C, the liver
becomes inflammed and liver function is compromised. Hepatitis
C is caused by the hepatitis C virus (which is also known as
HCV). The hepatitis C virus is contagious and is found in the
blood and bodily fluids of people who have been infected.
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How is the hepatitis virus transmitted?
Hepatitis C transmission often occurs through
sexual contact or through drug injection using contaminated
needles.
It is believed that more than 4 million people
in the United States alone are currently infected with
hepatitis. 8,000 to 10,000 people in the U.S. die from
hepatitis c annually.
There is no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C.
Also see special sections on Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.
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