Viral Hepatitis And Its Inflammatory Characteristics

Viral hepatitis is classified as a degenerative type of inflammation, characterized by widespread liver cell damage and the infiltration of inflammatory cells. This infectious disease primarily affects the liver and is caused by various hepatitis viruses. Clinically, it manifests through symptoms such as loss of appetite, nausea, upper abdominal discomfort, liver pain, and fatigue. Some patients may also experience jaundice, fever, and an enlarged liver, often accompanied by impaired liver function. In certain cases, the condition can progress to chronic hepatitis, potentially leading to cirrhosis or even liver cancer.

There are five well-established types of hepatitis viruses: A, B, C, D, and E. Each virus causes a distinct form of hepatitis after infecting the human body. Hepatitis A and E are primarily transmitted through the gastrointestinal tract via the fecal-oral route. In contrast, Hepatitis B, C, and D are mainly spread through blood contact, sexual activity, or from mother to child during birth.

Prognosis and outcomes vary significantly among the different types of viral hepatitis. Hepatitis A typically has a favorable prognosis with a mortality rate of about 0.01%. For acute Hepatitis B, between 60% and 90% of cases recover fully, while 10% to 40% may develop into chronic infection or become asymptomatic carriers. Acute Hepatitis C is more likely to become chronic, with a high percentage of patients progressing to long-term infection. When Hepatitis D occurs alongside Hepatitis B, approximately 70% of cases develop chronic disease. Hepatitis E usually presents as an acute illness but tends to be more severe than Hepatitis A, with a general mortality rate of 1% to 5%. Notably, when Hepatitis E occurs during late-term pregnancy, the mortality rate can rise significantly to between 10% and 40%.

Understanding the transmission routes and disease progression is essential for prevention and management. Vaccination and hygiene practices play a crucial role in reducing the spread of Hepatitis A and B, while screening and safe medical practices are vital in controlling bloodborne types such as B, C, and D. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly improve outcomes for patients with viral hepatitis.