|
Other name |
Serum hepatitis. |
|
Cause |
Virus - Hepatitis B virus (HBV). |
|
Distribution |
Worldwide. |
|
Incubation |
2 - 3 months. |
|
Transmission |
- Sexual - Higher risk with anal intercourse.
- Mother to child infection.
- Blood contact - For example, in
people who receive contaminated blood transfusion and in drug
abusers who use contaminated needles and syringes.
|
|
Symptoms |
- Dark urine.
- Jaundice (yellow eyes and skin).
- Enlarged liver.
- Nausea, fever and loss of appetite.
- No symptoms.
|
|
Diagnosis |
- Hepatitis B blood tests.
- Liver function tests.
|
|
Treatment |
- Hepatitis B is usually self-limiting.
- Bed rest and proper nutrition.
- Avoid alcohol.
|
|
Complications |
- Approximately 1% of individuals
develop severe liver damage which may be fatal.
- About 19% of individuals fail to
clear the virus completely and become Hepatitis B carriers. Hepatitis
carriers have a higher risk of developing liver cancer
and may also transmit infection to others.
|
|
Comments |
Vaccination is now available against
Hepatitis B. |
