Hepatitis A Flashcards
Etiology Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A virus RNA
Transmission of Hepatitis A
Fecal- oral route ( contaminated food or water, esp. Raw shellfish and men who have sex with men
Incubation period for Hepatitis A
2-6 weeks
Clinical features of hepatits A
- Prodromal Phase (1-2 weeks) : Fever, Malaise, Anorexia, Nausea,Vomiting, RUQ,
Tender hepatomegaly - Icteric Phase (2 weeks): Jaundice, dark urine, pale stool, pruritus
- Resolving of symptoms
Hepatitis A complications
In rare cases, hepatitis A can be severe and lead to liver failure and the need for an emergency liver transplant to survive. Hepatitis A does not lead to long-term complications, such as cirrhosis, because the infection only lasts a short time.
Treatment of hepatitis A
The disease is generally self-limiting and supportive treatment. Patient may be hospitalized if renal insufficiency suspected
Pre- exposure prophylaxis hepatitis A
Good hygiene
Active immunization in children above 12 months of age and vaccine + booster dose after 6 months.
Active immunization recommended for travelers going to HAV endemic areas, homosexual men, Patients with chronic liver disease
Diagnosis of hepatitis A1
Diagnosis
● Increased serum transaminase (aspartate aminotransferase/Alanine aminotransferase) -
● Possible increased gamma-glutamyl transferase and alkaline phosphatase -
Mixed hyperbilirubinemia
● Increased bilirubin and urobilinogen in urine
Serology
- Increased anti-HAV IgM: indicates active infection. The increase begins around 1 week after onset and peaks around 3 weeks. Can be found 3-6 months after infection
- Increased anti-HAV Ig G; Indicates pervious infection or vaccination.
PCR :
HAV RNA can be detected in stool and serum.
Liver Biopsy
Ultrasonography
Viruses causing hepatitis
Hepatitis A Virus, Hepatitis B Virus, Hepatitis C Virus, Hepatitis D Virus, Hepatitis E virus, EBV, CMV
