Viral Hepatitis

Author(s):
Tyler E. Warkentien, MD, FACP Infectious Disease Department

Walter Reed National Military Medical Center
Bethesda, MD

Karen Cromwell, RN, MSM, CIC Deputy Chief, Infection Prevention and Control Service

Walter Reed National Military Medical Center

Original Publication:
October 2, 2014

Abstract

The purpose of this chapter is to review the epidemiology, description, pathogenesis, clinical features, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of viral Hepatitis A–E. Viral Hepatitis A and E are non-bloodborne, fecal-oral transmitted viruses with no chronic state. Viral Hepatitis B–D are bloodborne viruses with chronic carrier states. Serological markers have been developed for Hepatitis A–E. Vaccinations are very effective for Hepatitis A and B but not for the other viruses. Postexposure passive prophylaxis with immunoglobulin is effective in both Hepatitis A and B but not in Hepatitis C–E. Standard bloodborne infectious disease precautions should be used in active Hepatitis B–D.