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Hepatitis – B

Introduction:

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver, caused by the Hepatitis B Virus (HBV). It can lead to both acute and chronic liver disease, including liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer).


Causes and Transmission:

  • Causative Agent: Hepatitis B Virus (HBV).

  • Mode of Transmission:

    1. Blood-to-blood contact: Contaminated needles, blood transfusions.

    2. Sexual contact: Unprotected intercourse with an infected person.

    3. Mother-to-child transmission: During childbirth (vertical transmission).

    4. Occupational exposure: Healthcare workers handling infected blood.

    5. Sharing personal items: Razors, toothbrushes contaminated with infected blood.


Stages of Infection:

  1. Acute Hepatitis B:

    • Short-term infection, lasting less than 6 months.

    • Most adults recover fully.

  2. Chronic Hepatitis B:

    • Long-term infection lasting more than 6 months.

    • Can lead to liver damage, cirrhosis, or liver cancer.


Symptoms:

  • Acute Infection:

    • Jaundice: Yellowing of skin and eyes.

    • Dark urine

    • Fatigue

    • Nausea and vomiting

    • Loss of appetite

    • Abdominal pain

  • Chronic Infection:

    • Often asymptomatic for years.

    • Symptoms develop when liver damage has progressed (cirrhosis):

      • Persistent jaundice

      • Swelling of the abdomen (ascites)

      • Easy bruising or bleeding


Diagnosis:

  1. Blood Tests:

    • HBsAg (Hepatitis B surface antigen): Indicates active infection.

    • Anti-HBs: Indicates immunity (post-infection or vaccination).

    • Anti-HBc: Indicates past or ongoing infection.

  2. Liver Function Tests (LFTs): Measure liver enzyme levels.

  3. HBV DNA Test: Detects the amount of virus in the blood.


Treatment:

  • Acute Hepatitis B:

    • Supportive care: Rest, fluids, and nutritious diet.

    • No specific antiviral treatment.

  • Chronic Hepatitis B:

    • Antiviral medications:

      • Tenofovir, Entecavir (reduce viral load).

    • Interferon-alpha: Boosts the immune system.

    • Liver transplant: In cases of severe liver damage or failure.


Prevention:

  1. Vaccination:

    • The Hepatitis B vaccine is highly effective and safe.

    • Recommended for newborns, healthcare workers, and high-risk individuals.

  2. Safe practices:

    • Use of sterile needles.

    • Practicing safe sex.

  3. Screening of blood products: Ensures HBV-free transfusions.

  4. Mother-to-child prevention: Vaccination of newborns immediately after birth.


Global Impact:

  • Epidemiology:

    • Approximately 296 million people are living with chronic HBV infection globally.

    • Prevalent in regions like sub-Saharan Africa and East Asia.

  • Challenges:

    • Lack of access to vaccines in low-income countries.

    • Stigma associated with chronic hepatitis infections.


Conclusion:

Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection that can be prevented through vaccination and safe practices. Early detection and treatment of chronic cases are essential to prevent liver complications. Public awareness and vaccination programs play a crucial role in controlling the global spread of HBV

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