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This virus is transmitted
by parenteral route( i.e. by agency of blood & body fluids).
Hepatitis caused by it can range from a mild one to a fatal one.
How is it diagnosed?--
The viral antigens circulate in the blood.
These are HBsAg (Hepatitis B surface antigen),
HBeAg ( Hepatitis B e antigen ).
HBsAg indicates infection with the virus.
HBeAg indicates the severity of the infection.
Presence of HBeAg indicates active replication of the virus in the body.
This is suggestive of high infectivity & active disease.
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What are the symptoms of this
condition?--
The earliest symptoms are nausea , vomiting & fatigue.
There is marked distaste to cigarettes & coffee.
One may also have generalised body ache, joint pain, headache, sore
throat.
A low grade fever may also be present.
This is followed by dark urine & clay colored stools. Ultimately jaundice
develops.
Often there is right upper quadrant ( of the abdomen) pain & discomfort.
After a variable period starts the recovery phase during which the general
condition gradually improves.
What is acute fulminant hepatitis?--
This is the severest form of viral hepatitis. There is severe damage
to the liver. There is hepatic failure with involvement of the brain.
It may prove fatal.
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What is chronic viral hepatitis?
- Persistence of the biochemical abnormalities & the symptoms for more
than 6 months is called as chronic viral hepatitis.
What is the treatment of viral
hepatitis?--
For acute viral hepatitis the treatment is largely supportive.
For chronic viral hepatitis alpha interferon has shown good results. However
the results are only 50% in most trials. Newer anti viral drugs are being
tried.
Is Hepatitis B preventable?--
Yes. It is preventable. Vaccines are now
available which can prevent Hepatitis B.
The course is as follows-- 1st dose ; 2nd after
1 month ; 3rd dose after 6 months.
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