Hepatitis D

June 10, 2008 - 7:30am

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Hepatitis D

Adapted from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention by ]]>EBSCO Publishing Editorial Staff]]>

What is hepatitis D?

Hepatitis D is a virus (HDV) causes inflammation of the liver. It infects people who have hepatitis B (HBV).

How is it spread?

HDV is transmitted through contact with:

HDV-infected blood
Needles contaminated with HDV-infected blood
Sexual contact with an HDV-infected person

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of HDV may occur within two to eight weeks of contact with the virus. The symptoms of HDV infection are the same as the symptoms of HBV infection and include:

Mild flu-like symptoms
Light-colored stools
Dark-colored urine
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
Fever
Fatigue

Some people with HDV have no symptoms.

How is HDV infection treated?

HDV is treated with interferon. Success varies from person to person.

Who is at risk for being infected with HDV?

People at risk for HDV infection include:

Injection drug users
Those who have anal, oral, or vaginal sex with a HDV-infected person

How can HDV be prevented?

HDV infection can be prevented by:

Having a vaccine to prevent HBV infection
Using a condom during sex

Source:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.