Hepatitis B

What is Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver and is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It can range from a mild, short-term illness (acute hepatitis B) to a serious, lifelong condition (chronic hepatitis B). Chronic hepatitis B can lead to liver damage, cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer.

Transmission of Hepatitis B

• Blood-to-blood contact: HBV can be transmitted through contact with infected blood.
• Sexual contact: The virus can spread through unprotected sex with an infected person.
• Mother to child: HBV can be passed from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth.
• Sharing needles: People who share needles or syringes for drug use are at higher risk.
• Needle stick injuries: Healthcare workers may contract HBV through accidental needle sticks.

Symptoms of Hepatitis B

Many people with hepatitis B do not show symptoms, especially in the early stages. If symptoms do appear, they can include:

• Fatigue
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dark urine
• Joint and muscle pain
• Abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right side
• Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes

Acute vs. Chronic Hepatitis B

• Acute Hepatitis B:
  • Short-term infection that lasts less than six months.
  • The immune system can often clear the virus on its own.
• Chronic Hepatitis B:
  • Long-term infection that lasts six months or longer.
  • Can lead to serious liver damage and increase the risk of liver cancer.
  • More likely to develop in infants and young children infected with HBV.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Unprotected sex: With someone infected with HBV.
• Sharing needles: Common among people who use injectable drugs.
• Being born to an infected mother
• Living with an infected person
• Traveling to areas where hepatitis B is prevalent.

Diagnosis

• Blood tests: To detect the presence of HBV and determine if the infection is acute or chronic.
• Liver function tests: To assess liver damage or inflammation.
• HBV DNA test: Measures the amount of virus in the blood.
• Liver biopsy: In some cases, a sample of liver tissue may be taken to assess the extent of liver damage.

Treatment Options

• Acute Hepatitis B:
  • Usually does not require specific treatment as it often resolves on its own.
  • Supportive care: Rest, hydration, and monitoring of liver function.
• Chronic Hepatitis B:
  • Antiviral medications: Such as entecavir, tenofovir, or lamivudine to reduce viral load and prevent liver damage.
  • Regular monitoring: To check liver function and disease progression.
  • Interferon therapy: In some cases, interferon-alpha may be used to boost the immune response.
  • Liver transplant: For severe cases of liver damage or failure.

Prevention Strategies

• Hepatitis B vaccination: The most effective way to prevent HBV infection.
• Safe sex practices: Use of condoms to reduce the risk of transmission.
• Avoid sharing needles: Important for people who use injectable drugs.
• Screening blood products: Ensures that donated blood is free of HBV.
• Hygienic practices: Proper sterilization of medical and dental equipment.

Complications of Hepatitis B

• Cirrhosis: Long-term liver damage can lead to scarring of the liver tissue.
• Liver cancer: Increased risk in individuals with chronic hepatitis B.
• Liver failure: Severe liver damage may result in the inability of the liver to function properly.
• Kidney problems: Chronic hepatitis B can sometimes affect the kidneys.
• Vascular problems: In some cases, HBV infection can contribute to vascular inflammation.