1.03 CME

Hepatitis: Know the Facts

Pembicara: Dr. Uday Sanglodkar

Senior Consultant of Hepatology and Liver Transplant Global Hospital, Mumbai

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Keterangan

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, often caused by viral infections, toxins, or autoimmune diseases. The most common types are Hepatitis A, B, and C, each with different modes of transmission and severity. Hepatitis A is typically spread through contaminated food or water, while Hepatitis B and C are usually transmitted through blood or bodily fluids. Symptoms can include jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, and nausea. Chronic Hepatitis B and C can lead to serious complications such as liver cirrhosis or liver cancer. Vaccines are available for Hepatitis A and B, but there is no vaccine for Hepatitis C. Early detection and treatment are crucial for managing and preventing severe liver damage.

Ringkasan

  • Hepatitis B and C are hepatotropic viruses causing chronic liver injury, potentially leading to cirrhosis and cancer. Hepatitis B is a DNA virus, while hepatitis C is an RNA virus. India has a significant prevalence of both, with certain regions showing higher rates, especially for hepatitis C due to IV drug abuse. These viruses pose a threat to healthcare workers through needle stick injuries and direct contact.
  • Transmission modes include mother-to-child (vertical), direct blood-to-blood contact (horizontal), and sexual transmission. Vertical transmission is more common for hepatitis B, especially before the widespread vaccination programs. Horizontal transmission occurs via infected needles, tattoos, unsafe healthcare practices, and sharing hygiene items. Breastfeeding does not transmit these viruses.
  • Hepatitis B damages the liver through an immune-mediated response. The virus infects liver cells, triggering an immune response that damages and kills the infected cells. The severity depends on the effectiveness of the immune response; strong immunity can clear the virus but may also cause severe hepatitis. Most HBV infections in infants lead to a chronic inactive carrier state.
  • Clinical presentations of HBV infection vary from asymptomatic chronic carriers to chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver cancer, and acute liver failure. Diagnosis involves detailed history, physical examination, and blood tests, including HBV DNA quantification, hepatitis C and HIV testing, ultrasound, alpha-fetoprotein, and fibroscan. Treatment for HBV is focused on management, with medications to control the virus but no complete cure.
  • Hepatitis B vaccination is crucial for prevention, especially for healthcare workers. Post-exposure management includes testing the source for hepatitis B, C, and HIV, and assessing the healthcare worker's vaccination status. If unvaccinated or with low antibody levels, immunoglobulin and vaccination are recommended.
  • Hepatitis C, unlike B, is curable with antiviral therapy. Progression to chronic liver disease is common if untreated. Clinical presentation is similar to hepatitis B. Diagnosis involves HCV RNA quantification. Treatment, regardless of cirrhosis status, aims to eliminate the virus using pan-genotypic drugs like sofosbuvir and velpatasvir.
  • Prevention for both viruses relies on universal precautions, barrier protection, and safe handling of sharp instruments. In the event of exposure, prompt action including testing, treatment, and close monitoring are essential. While hepatitis B needs frequent surveillance and screening, hepatitis C can be fully cured if detected and treated early.

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