InfectiousICD-10: B16About 296 million people living with chronic HBV worldwide; ~880,000 in the U.S.
Hepatitis B
Also known as: Hep B, HBV Infection
Hepatitis B is a viral liver infection transmitted through blood, semen, and other body fluids. While acute infection often resolves in adults, chronic hepatitis B can develop — particularly in infants — and may lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer. Vaccination is highly effective at prevention.
Symptoms
Fatigue
Abdominal pain in the upper right quadrant
Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite
Dark urine and clay-colored stools
Jaundice
Joint pain
Fever
Many infected people are asymptomatic
Causes
- Hepatitis B virus transmitted through blood and body fluids
- Mother-to-child transmission during birth
- Sharing needles or syringes
- Unprotected sexual contact
- Needle stick injuries in healthcare settings
Risk Factors
- Born to an HBV-infected mother
- Injection drug use
- Multiple sexual partners or unprotected sex
- Healthcare workers exposed to blood
- Living with someone with chronic hepatitis B
- Travel to high-prevalence regions
Diagnosis
- HBsAg blood test
- Anti-HBc and anti-HBs antibody tests
- HBV DNA viral load
- Liver function tests (ALT, AST)
- FibroScan or liver biopsy for chronic cases
Treatment
- Acute HBV: supportive care (rest, fluids, monitoring)
- Chronic HBV: antiviral medications (tenofovir, entecavir)
- Pegylated interferon-alpha for eligible patients
- Regular monitoring of liver function and viral load
- Liver transplant evaluation for end-stage disease
Prevention
- Get vaccinated (3-dose hepatitis B vaccine series)
- Use condoms during sexual activity
- Avoid sharing needles, razors, or toothbrushes
- Screen pregnant women and vaccinate newborns of infected mothers
When to See a Doctor
- You develop symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, or abdominal pain
- You believe you have been exposed to hepatitis B
- You have chronic hepatitis B and notice worsening symptoms
- You are pregnant and unsure of your hepatitis B status
Frequently Asked Questions
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