Hepatitis means an inflammation of the liver, but it also refers to a group of viral infections that affect the liver. There are several types of viral hepatitis, but the most common are A, B, and C. Viral hepatitis is spread through contact with infected blood, bodily fluids, or feces, though it may also result from alcohol and drug use or from other diseases. Acute hepatitis refers to the initial infection and can be mild or severe; chronic hepatitis refers to a serious condition in which the infection lasts six months or longer. Currently, vaccines are available for the prevention of hepatitis A and B viruses. This second edition of Hepatitis delves into the history, causes, and current treatments for this disease, giving valuable information to student researchers.
Foreword by David Heymann, World Health Organization
Chapters include:
The Phases of Hepatitis
Symptoms of Hepatitis
Inflammation and Immune Response
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis C