From the Guidelines
Hepatitis Definition
Hepatitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the liver, which can be caused by various factors such as viral infections, alcohol use, toxins, and certain medications [ 1 ].
Types and Transmission
There are several types of hepatitis, including hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E, each with different modes of transmission and treatment approaches [ 1 ]. Hepatitis B and C are notable for their potential to cause chronic infection, leading to severe liver disease, including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma [ 1 ].
Symptoms and Treatment
Symptoms of hepatitis may include fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, and yellowing of the skin and eyes [ 1 ]. Treatment for hepatitis depends on the underlying cause and may involve antiviral medications such as entecavir, tenofovir, or sofosbuvir, as well as supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent complications [ 1 ]. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to monitor liver function and provide intensive care.
Prevention
It is essential to practice preventive measures, such as getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, using protective barriers during sexual activity, avoiding sharing of needles or personal care items, and maintaining good hygiene to reduce the risk of transmission [ 1 ]. If you suspect you have been exposed to hepatitis or are experiencing symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.
From the FDA Drug Label
What are Entecavir Tablets Entecavir tablets are a prescription medicine used to treat chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) in adults who have active liver disease.
Your hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection may get worse if you stop taking entecavir tablets.
Hepatitis is not directly defined in the provided drug label. However, it is mentioned that entecavir tablets are used to treat chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) in adults who have active liver disease. The label does mention that hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection may get worse if the treatment is stopped, but it does not provide a direct definition of hepatitis. 2
From the Research
Definition of Hepatitis
- Hepatitis is defined as inflammation of the liver, which can be acute or chronic 3, 4.
- It is commonly caused by infection with the hepatotropic viruses, including hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E 3, 5, 4, 6.
Causes and Types of Hepatitis
- The five hepatitis viruses (A, B, C, D, and E) are the most common causes of viral hepatitis 3, 5, 4, 6.
- Hepatitis B and C are the most notorious for causing liver cirrhosis, with a significant number of people worldwide having chronic infections 3.
- Hepatitis A and E rarely cause chronic hepatitis, while hepatitis D can cause chronic infection, especially in people co-infected with hepatitis B 4, 7.
Clinical Presentation and Diagnosis
- The clinical presentation of hepatitis can vary from asymptomatic to acute liver failure, with symptoms including malaise, nausea, anorexia, and jaundice 3, 5.
- Diagnosis is typically made using serological tests, such as IgM anti-HAV for hepatitis A, and HBsAg for hepatitis B 5.
- Viral nucleic acid amplification tests and liver function tests, such as aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase, can also be used to diagnose and monitor hepatitis 3, 5.
Treatment and Prevention
- Treatment for hepatitis typically involves antiviral therapy, with the goal of preventing chronic infection and reducing the risk of liver complications 3, 5, 6.
- Vaccinations are available for hepatitis A and B, and can help prevent infection 3, 5.
- Lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding alcohol and hepatotoxic agents, can also help prevent liver damage and reduce the risk of chronic hepatitis 5.