Hepatitis
" Liver swelling
Introduction:
Hepatitis is an inflammatory liver disease caused by viral infection or exposure to toxic substances. It affects the function of the liver, which is necessary for digestion, detoxification and metabolism
Types & Causes of Hepatitis:
Viral Hepatitis:
Hepatitis A - Contaminated food/water
Hepatitis B - Blood/unsafe intercourse spread .
Hepatitis C - From blood, it causes cirrhosis.
Hepatitis D -It only happens to Hepatitis B patients and is severe.
Hepatitis E - Pregnancy risk due to Contaminated water
Non-Viral Hepatitis:
1. Alcoholic Hepatitis - By consuming too much alcohol.
2. Autoimmune Hepatitis - When the immune system becomes the enemy.
3. Drug-Induced Hepatitis - Paracetamol overdose, antibiotics.
Symptoms:
Jaundice - Skin and eyes turn yellow
Fatigue | weakness | Nausea | vomiting | Don't feel hungry.
pain near the liver | Dark urine | Pale stool.
Cirrhosis.
Ascites - Swelling in legs & abdomen.
Diagnosis:
Function Tests (LFTs) - ALT, AST, Bilirubin)
Serological Tests - Virus antibodies and antigens detection.
PCR Test - Viral RNA, DNA detect (B, C me useful).
Liver Biopsy -In Severe cases check liver damage.
Ultrasound / Fibro Scan.
Treatment:
Hepatitis A & E - Self-limiting, requires rest, hydration.
Hepatitis B & D - Antiviral medications (Tenofovir, Entecavir).
Hepatitis C - Sofosbuvir, Ribavirin, Interferon.
Severe Cases - Liver transplant.
