Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver, which can be caused by infectious viruses or noninfectious agents. This inflammation can damage the liver and affect its function
. There are five main types of viral hepatitis, caused by different viruses named hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. These types differ in how they spread, severity, geographic distribution, and prevention methods. Hepatitis B and C are the most common causes of chronic liver disease, including liver cirrhosis and liver cancer, affecting hundreds of millions worldwide
. Hepatitis can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Acute hepatitis may resolve on its own, while chronic hepatitis can lead to progressive liver damage and serious complications
. Besides viral causes, hepatitis can also result from heavy alcohol use (alcoholic hepatitis), certain toxins or medications (toxic hepatitis), and autoimmune diseases where the immune system attacks the liver (autoimmune hepatitis)
. Transmission varies by type:
- Hepatitis A and E usually spread through contaminated food or water.
- Hepatitis B, C, and D spread through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids, including via needle sharing, unprotected sex, or from mother to child during childbirth
Symptoms of hepatitis may include fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes), abdominal pain, dark urine, and light-colored stools, though some people may have no symptoms
. Vaccines are available for hepatitis A and B, which can prevent infection. There are no vaccines for hepatitis C, D, or E. Treatment depends on the type and severity, focusing on managing symptoms and preventing liver damage
. In summary, hepatitis is a liver inflammation caused by various viral and nonviral factors, with significant health impacts ranging from mild illness to chronic liver disease and cancer
