## Hepatitis B: A Comprehensive Guide
### Introduction
Hepatitis B is a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It can range from a mild, acute illness to a chronic condition that can lead to serious complications, including liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
### Symptoms
In the acute phase, Hepatitis B can cause:
– Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
– Fatigue
– Nausea and vomiting
– Abdominal pain
– Dark urine
– Pale stools
In the chronic phase, there may be no symptoms or only mild symptoms, such as fatigue.
### Diagnosis
Hepatitis B is diagnosed through blood tests that detect:
– Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)
– Hepatitis B core antigen (HBcAg)
– Hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)
Other tests, such as liver function tests and abdominal ultrasound, may also be performed to assess liver damage.
### Prevention
Hepatitis B is preventable with the **hepatitis B vaccine**. The vaccine is safe and effective, and it is recommended for all infants, children, and adults who are not immune to the virus.
### Treatment
Treatment for Hepatitis B depends on the stage of the infection and the severity of the liver damage. Options include:
– **Antiviral medications**: Entecavir and tenofovir are commonly used to suppress viral replication and prevent further liver damage.
– **Interferon therapy**: Interferon is a protein that helps the immune system fight the virus.
– **Liver transplant**: In severe cases, a liver transplant may be necessary to replace the damaged liver.
### Complications
Chronic Hepatitis B infection can lead to:
– **Liver cirrhosis**: Scarring and hardening of the liver
– **Liver failure**: Loss of liver function
– **Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)**: A type of liver cancer
### Body Parts Involved
**Liver:** Hepatitis B primarily affects the liver, causing inflammation and damage.
**Blood:** The virus is transmitted through contact with infected blood.
**Bile ducts:** The virus can also infect the bile ducts, causing inflammation and bile flow problems.
