Hepatitis D

Hepatitis D: causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

Hepatitis D, also known as delta hepatitis, is a severe liver infection caused by the delta virus. The delta virus has a defect and cannot reproduce independently in the human body; it requires the participation of the hepatitis B virus. That is why infection with hepatitis D occurs only in people already infected with hepatitis B. The combination of hepatitis B and D causes a so-called superinfection, which can lead to to serious and even fatal consequences.

Causes of hepatitis D infection

The main way hepatitis D is transmitted is through contact with blood or other fluids containing the virus. The most common transmission methods are:

1. Donor blood transfusion. In this regard, before each blood transfusion to a recipient, donor blood must be checked for the presence of hepatitis B and D viruses.
2. Using the same needle by different people.
3. Sexual contact with an infected partner. Although hepatitis D is transmitted less frequently than hepatitis B and C.
4. From mother to child during pregnancy and childbirth.
5. Using non-sterile instruments for tattooing, ear piercing, or acupuncture.

Hepatitis D symptoms

Symptoms of hepatitis D can be short-lived and mild or severe and long-lasting. These may include:

1. fatigue;
2. nausea and vomiting;
3. loss of appetite;
4. jaundice (yellowishness of the skin and eyes);
5. pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen;
6. dark urine;
7. light cal.

For some people, hepatitis D may not cause symptoms at all. However, some people may develop chronic hepatitis D, which can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Diagnosis of hepatitis D

To diagnose hepatitis D, you need to undergo blood tests for the presence of antibodies to the hepatitis D virus and hepatitis D virus antigen. In addition, biochemical blood tests are performed to determine the levels of liver enzymes such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST).

Hepatitis D treatment

Treatment of hepatitis D should be carried out in a hospital and requires a comprehensive approach. The main drug for the treatment of hepatitis D is the immune drug Interferon and its analogues, such as Peginterferon. These drugs help the body fight the virus and inhibit its reproduction. However, treatment for hepatitis D can be complex and lengthy, and does not always produce positive results.

In addition, it is important to treat any associated liver diseases such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. Treatment may include drugs to reduce portal vein pressure, liver transplantation, and other methods.

Prevention of hepatitis D

Prevention of hepatitis D includes the following measures:

1. Hepatitis B vaccine: Because hepatitis D is transmitted only to people already infected with hepatitis B, the hepatitis B vaccine can protect against infection by both viruses.
2. Use of sterile instruments. Only sterile instruments should be used when performing medical procedures such as injections, ear piercings and tattoos.
3. Avoiding contact with other people's blood. It is necessary to avoid sharing the same needle with different people, and also avoid contact with blood or other liquids containing the virus.
4. Avoiding risky sexual contacts. Avoid risky sex or use a condom to protect against hepatitis D infection.