hepatitis D
Quick Summary
Hepatitis D is an inflammation of the liver caused by the hepatitis D virus (HDV). This virus is unique because it can only replicate and cause infection when the hepatitis B virus (HBV) is also present in the body.123
There are two main scenarios for Hepatitis D infection:
* Simultaneous infection: If a person is infected with both HBV and HDV at the same time, the acute phase of Hepatitis D tends to be more severe, but there's a lower risk of developing a chronic infection.1
* Superinfection: If HDV infects someone who already has a chronic HBV infection, it is more likely to lead to a serious chronic infection, potentially causing significant liver damage and failure.12
Symptoms of viral hepatitis, including Hepatitis D, can include fatigue, fever, nausea, loss of appetite, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). The only treatment for HDV infection is interferon alpha. Preventing Hepatitis B infection is also the way to prevent Hepatitis D infection.12
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