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Acute Hepatitis B

Short-term clinical and laboratory findings after HBV exposure.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Acute Hepatitis B?

Acute hepatitis B is a short-term clinical picture that emerges after exposure to hepatitis B virus (HBV) via blood, sexual contact, and perinatal routes. The incubation period is 1-6 months.

Some patients pass through completely asymptomatic, while others may develop fatigue, loss of appetite, right upper quadrant pain, nausea, dark urine, and jaundice. Transaminases are usually markedly elevated.

About 90-95% of adults clear the infection spontaneously and recover without becoming chronic. In a small group, fulminant hepatitis and rarely liver failure may develop.

Symptoms

Fatigue and loss of appetite
Nausea, vomiting
Right upper quadrant pain
Jaundice and dark urine
Light-colored stools
Joint pain and rash
Rarely fulminant hepatitis

Risk Factors

Sexual contact with HBV-positive individuals
Needle sharing
Medical procedures (with inadequate sterilization)
Unvaccinated healthcare workers
Perinatal exposure
Tattoo/piercing
Travel to HBV endemic regions

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When jaundice develops
  • When persistent right upper quadrant pain and nausea occur
  • For testing after known risky contact
  • Detection of marked elevation in transaminases
  • When nausea, vomiting, and altered consciousness occur (suspicion of fulminant hepatitis)

Treatment Methods

01
Supportive care in most cases
02
Plenty of fluids, rest, avoiding alcohol
03
Avoiding hepatotoxic medications
04
Antivirals (tenofovir, entecavir) in severe/fulminant cases
05
Liver transplant evaluation in fulminant hepatitis
06
Vaccination of contacts and HBIG administration

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.