Hepatitis Types and Characteristics

Flashcards covering transmission routes, clinical signs and symptoms, treatment options, vaccines, and carrier states for various forms of hepatitis based on lecture notes.

Four F's

The transmission factors associated with Hepatitis A: food, finger, feces, or fluids.

Hepatitis A

A viral hepatitis transmitted via the fecal-oral route, contaminated foods, or the Four F's. It self-heals in about 8 weeks, has a vaccine, and has no carrier state.

Hepatitis A Post-Exposure Prophylaxis

Administration of IgM within 2 weeks of exposure.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis transmitted through contact with infected blood and body fluids (semen, vaginal fluids, saliva), contaminated needles, syringes, blood products, tattoos, and piercings. It has a carrier state and an available vaccine.

Heptovir

Lamivudine; medication used to treat more severe cases of Hepatitis B.

Hepsera

Adefovir; medication used to treat more severe cases of Hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B Post-Exposure Prophylaxis

Administration of Hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) within 24 hours of exposure.

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis transmitted via contact with bodily fluids, most commonly through IV drug use, as well as sexual transmission, needle stick injuries, tattoos, dialysis, and piercing needles. It has a carrier state and no vaccine available.

Pegasys

A long-acting interferon (peginterferon) used to treat acute Hepatitis C, or combined with ribavirin for chronic cases.

Hepatitis D

Hepatitis transmitted via bodily fluids and blood (same as Hep B). Treated with supportive therapy and is self-limiting. It has a carrier state and no vaccine available.

Hepatitis E

Hepatitis transmitted via the fecal-oral route or contamination from animal products (meat, milk, milk products). It has a carrier state and no vaccine available in the US (though available in China and Pakistan).

Fulminant Hepatitis

Severe hepatitis resulting from viral hepatitis (A, B, C, D, or E) or drug-induced liver injury. Late signs include confusion, bleeding, and swelling in legs. Features a carrier state.

Toxic Hepatitis

Hepatitis caused by drugs, alcohol, or toxins such as chloroform and mushrooms. Managed with supportive care and toxin removal; has no carrier state and no vaccine.

Autoimmune Hepatitis

Cell-mediated liver inflammation presenting with pain, N&V, and jaundice. Treated with Prednisone; has a non-carrier state and no vaccine.

Chronic Hepatitis

Long-term hepatitis often resulting from HBV, HCV, or HDV, characterized by malaise, fatigue, and hepatomegaly with occasional jaundice.

Prodromal Phase (Hepatitis)

The early symptom stage characterized by flu-like symptoms, N&V, RUQ pain, chills, and fever.

Icteric Phase (Hepatitis)

The clinical phase of viral hepatitis marked by jaundice, pruritis, clay-colored stools, and dark urine.