Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B

Introduction

Hepatitis B is a liver disease caused by hepatitis B virus (HBV). The hepatitis B virus was first identified hepatitis. It is a disease that affects 300 million people worldwide and is estimated to be responsible for between 250,000 and 500,000 deaths per year. The prevalence of infection with hepatitis B virus varies significantly in different parts of the world. The highest rates of infection found in Southeast Asia, China and South Africa (Lai, 2007). Most people who get hepatitis B recover without consequences. This form of infection, which lasts less than 6 months, known as acute hepatitis B. By contrast, when the infection lasts for more than 6 months, known as hepatitis B infection. About 5% of adults who acquire the infection develop the chronic form. The likelihood of developing chronic hepatitis B depends on the age and immune status (defense) of the subject, as seen in the table. The clinical manifestations of infection with hepatitis B are varied, and it is important to stress that this infection can often give no symptoms for many years which does not necessarily mean that the infection is controlled. The damage produced by hepatitis B virus in the liver is variable and depends on the repair capacity of the liver and the body's ability to control the infection. The most important consequences of this infection in the long run are the development of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (Alter, 2003).

In recent times there have been a number of new options for treating the disease. On the other hand, has a highly effective and safe vaccine to prevent infection.

Symptoms of hepatitis B

Acute Hepatitis B The symptoms of acute hepatitis B occur after 1 to 4 months of acquiring the virus. Many people may not have any symptoms. Symptoms include: Fatigue Decreased appetite (anorexia) Nausea Jaundice or yellowing of the skin Pain in the upper right abdomen Painful or swollen joints These symptoms usually disappear within 3 months. A very low proportion of persons with acute hepatitis B (0.1 to 0.5%) developed a more severe form of illness characterized by liver failure (fulminant hepatitis). Chronic Hepatitis B Hepatitis B infection is often asymptomatic or only manifested by nonspecific symptoms such as tiredness or decreased appetite. Exacerbations occur occasionally inflammatory activity of the liver that can lead to exacerbation of symptoms. To the extent that the infection causes more damage in the liver, can manifest symptoms of liver cirrhosis (Redd, 2007). 10 to 20% of patients may have extra-hepatic manifestations of the disease, most often vasculitis and glomerulonephritis.

Routes of transmission of hepatitis B The hepatitis B virus is transmitted through contact with blood or body fluids. The routes of transmission include:

Sex: Probably the most common form of infection in Chile. Transmission can be through both heterosexual and homosexual relationships. Blood transfusions: Today is a form of non-existent due to transmission tests routinely performed on blood that is used for transfusions.

Perinatal transmission: This involves the transmission of hepatitis ...