Infectiology

Viral hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by various pathogens. It can cause both acute and permanent liver damage and therefore requires careful diagnosis and treatment. Diagnosis is made by blood tests.

Hepatitis can be caused by different viruses. Depending on the virus, viral hepatitis is categorised into hepatitis A, B, C, D and E. Different routes of transmission are known for each subtype. Hepatitis A is transmitted in faecal-oral manner, for example through contaminated drinking water or food such as seafood, unwashed salad or vegetables. Hepatitis B, C and D are usually transmitted through blood or sexual contact, less commonly from an infected mother to her child. Hepatitis E is mainly spread through undercooked game meat, contaminated drinking water and smear infections.

While hepatitis A and E tend to be acute and usually heal on their own, forms B and C can become chronic. However, with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, long-term damage can be largely avoided. Hepatitis C can now even be cured in over 90% of cases. It is particularly important to take the medication consistently for all forms.

Hepatitis D has a special status, as it can only occur in combination with an existing hepatitis B infection. Treatment of this clinical picture requires a great deal of attention from doctors and patients and should be carried out in specialised centres.