Hepatitis Treatment in Delhi, India

• Hepatitis A (HAV): HAV is primarily transmitted through contaminated food or water. It is typically an acute infection and does not lead to chronic hepatitis. Most people recover from HAV without complications.
• Hepatitis B (HBV): HBV is transmitted through contact with infected blood, semen, or other body fluids. It can be acute or chronic.
• Hepatitis C (HCV): HCV is mainly transmitted through contact with infected blood, commonly through sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia. Like HBV, it can also be acute or chronic. Chronic HCV infection can cause severe liver damage over time.
• Hepatitis D (HDV): HDV is a unique virus that only affects individuals who are already infected with HBV. HDV is transmitted through contact with infected blood or sexual contact. HDV can accelerate liver damage in individuals with chronic HBV infection.
• Hepatitis E (HEV): HEV is primarily transmitted through contaminated water or food in areas with poor sanitation. It is usually an acute infection, but pregnant women can develop severe complications.

The causes of hepatitis vary depending on the type:

• Viral hepatitis: Hepatitis is caused by different viruses and are transmitted through different routes, including contaminated food or water, sexual contact, or exposure to infected blood or body fluids.
• Autoimmune hepatitis: This occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the liver, leading to inflammation.
• Alcohol and toxins: Excessive alcohol consumption and exposure to certain chemicals or medications can cause hepatitis.
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): Obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, and metabolic syndrome can contribute to NAFLD, which can progress to hepatitis.

Risk factors for hepatitis include:

• Close contact with an infected person
• Unsafe sexual practices
• Injection drug use
• Occupational exposure to blood or body fluids
• Living in or travelling to regions with high hepatitis prevalence
• Having a weakened immune system
• Receiving blood transfusions or organ transplants before strict screening measures were in place.

The diagnosis of hepatitis involves several steps and tests to determine the type, severity, and underlying cause of liver inflammation. Here are the commonly used diagnostic methods:

Medical History and Physical Examination

The healthcare professional will review your medical history, including any symptoms you may be experiencing, recent exposures, travel history, and previous medical conditions. A physical examination may also be conducted to assess signs of liver disease, such as jaundice, abdominal pain, or an enlarged liver.

Blood Tests

• Liver Function Tests (LFTs): These tests measure the levels of various enzymes, proteins, and other substances produced by the liver. Abnormal levels can indicate liver damage or dysfunction.
• Viral Hepatitis Serology: Blood tests can detect specific antibodies and antigens associated with different types of viral hepatitis. These tests can determine if you have a current or previous hepatitis infection.
• Hepatitis Viral Load: This test measures the amount of virus present in the blood. It helps determine the severity and stage of the infection, particularly in chronic hepatitis B or C.

Imaging Tests

• Ultrasound: It uses sound waves to create images of the liver and evaluate its size, structure, and the presence of any abnormalities or complications, such as liver cirrhosis or tumours.
• CT Scan or MRI: These imaging techniques provide more detailed images of the liver and can help identify specific liver diseases or detect complications.
• Liver Biopsy: It may be performed in some cases to obtain a sample of liver tissue for further analysis. A biopsy helps determine the extent of liver damage and the presence of inflammation or fibrosis and can help identify the underlying cause of hepatitis.

Additional Tests

• Autoimmune Markers: If autoimmune hepatitis is suspected, specific blood tests may be performed to detect autoantibodies associated with this condition.
• Hepatitis D Co-Infection: Individuals with chronic hepatitis B may be tested for hepatitis D virus (HDV) co-infection using specific blood tests.

The treatment for hepatitis depends on the type and severity of the infection.

• Hepatitis A: There is no specific treatment for acute HAV infection. Most people recover on their own with supportive care, such as rest, proper nutrition, and staying hydrated. Vaccination is available for long-term prevention.
• Hepatitis B: Antiviral medications can help control chronic HBV infection and reduce the risk of complications. People with severe liver damage may require a liver transplant.
• Hepatitis C: Antiviral medications have significantly improved the treatment outcomes for chronic HCV infection. New direct-acting antiviral drugs have high cure rates and fewer side effects compared to older treatments.
• Hepatitis D: Antiviral medications may be used to suppress HDV replication, but the treatment options are limited.
• Hepatitis E: Most cases of acute HEV infection resolve on their own. Supportive care is given to manage symptoms. Pregnant women with severe HEV infection may require hospitalisation.
• For autoimmune hepatitis, treatment aims to suppress the immune response with corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive drugs.

Preventing hepatitis involves various strategies:

• Vaccination: Vaccines are available for hepatitis A and B. It is recommended to get vaccinated, especially if you are at higher risk or planning to travel to areas with high hepatitis prevalence.
• Safe practices: Practice safe sex, use clean needles for injections, and avoid sharing personal items like toothbrushes or razors that could come into contact with infected blood or body fluids.
• Proper hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly, especially before handling food or after using the bathroom. Be cautious while consuming food or water in areas with poor sanitation.
• Blood safety: Ensure that blood and blood products undergo proper screening and testing before transfusion or transplantation.
• Alcohol moderation: Limit alcohol consumption to reduce the risk of alcoholic hepatitis and other liver diseases.

Reviewed by Dr. Brajendra Prasad Singh, Associate Director, Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Endoscopy on 21-July-2023.

• Hepatitis Inflammation
• What is Hepatitis and Its Causes & Prevention?
• Are you Hepatitis Free?
• Five main strains of the Hepatitis virus – A, B, C, D and E
• Creating Awareness Of Viral Hepatitis In The Community
• Facts About Autoimmune Hepatitis
• Can Hepatitis C Be Cured by a Liver Transplant?
• The Stages Of Alcoholic Liver Disease And How it's Treated
• Causes, Symptoms & Treatment for Hepatitis B