Hepatitis B
Definition
The term "hepatitis" refers to syndromes or diseases causing liver inflammation, including inflammation due to viruses and chronic alcohol abuse. Viruses causing hepatitis include Hepatitis A, B, C, E and the delta factor. Each virus causes a distinct syndrome, though they share some symptoms and consequences.
Most people who become infected with Hepatitis B get rid of the virus within 6 months. A short infection is known as an "acute" case of Hepatitis B.
Approximately 10% of people infected with the Hepatitis B virus develop a chronic, life-long infection. People with chronic infection may have symptoms, but many of these patients never develop symptoms. These patients are sometimes referred to as "carriers" and can spread the disease to others. Having chronic Hepatitis B increases your chance of permanent liver damage, including cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) and liver cancer.
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