Reactive Hepatitis: Understanding, Diagnosis and Treatment
Reactive hepatitis, also known as satellite hepatitis or concomitant hepatitis, is a form of hepatitis that develops in the presence of another liver disease. It gets its name because it develops “reactively” to another liver disease.
Like other forms of hepatitis, reactive hepatitis is an inflammatory disease of the liver that can be caused by various factors such as viruses, toxins, drugs and other factors. However, unlike other forms, reactive hepatitis develops when there is already another liver disease, such as hepatitis B or C.
Symptoms of reactive hepatitis may vary depending on the liver disease that causes it. Common symptoms may include yellowing of the skin and eyes, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and loss of appetite. However, some people may have no symptoms at all.
Diagnosis of reactive hepatitis includes a blood test to check for antibodies to hepatitis viruses, as well as a liver biopsy to determine the degree of inflammation and damage to the liver. An ultrasound may also be done to determine the size of the liver and possible tumors.
Treatment of reactive hepatitis depends on what liver disease caused its development. In most cases, treatment will be aimed at treating the underlying disease that caused the development of reactive hepatitis. In some cases, medications may be needed to reduce inflammation and liver damage.
In general, prevention of reactive hepatitis involves taking precautions to protect the liver from various risk factors such as alcohol consumption, drug use, protection from liver-related infections, etc.
In conclusion, reactive hepatitis is a form of hepatitis that develops in response to another liver disease. Diagnosis and treatment of reactive hepatitis should be aimed at treating the underlying disease that caused its development. Prevention of reactive hepatitis includes taking precautions to protect the liver from various risk factors. If you suspect reactive hepatitis, contact your doctor for advice and treatment.