Viral hepatitis Flashcards
1
Q
What is viral hepatitis?
A
Viral hepatitis = hepatitis caused by infection with a virus
Main signs: fever, jaundice (dark urine, pale stools), raised AST + ALT
Other symptoms: anorexia, nausea and vomiting (lasting for a few days), abdominal pain, hepatomegaly, itching, skin rash, joint pain
2
Q
What is the aetiology of Viral hepatitis?
A
HAV
Virus replicates in hepatocytes and is secreted into the bile
HBV Variable histology (mild-severe-cirrhosis)
HCV
Chronic hepatitis -> immune inflammation, fatty changes and cirrhosis
Viruses themselves are NOT hepatotoxic - antibody and cell mediated immune response cause inflammation/necrosis
