Description

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Hepatitis is a clinical condition in which the tissues of the liver become inflamed. It can be a temporary manifestation or a chronic condition lasting for six months or more. The former may resolve by itself, or may progress to chronic disease and even to acute liver failure. The chronic state may potentially lead to liver scarring, liver failure and even cancer. Viruses are primary cause of hepatitis. Other factors such as excessive alcohol consumption, certain toxins and medications, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and autoimmune diseases may also contribute to this condition. Hepatitis A, B, C, D and E are the main types of viral hepatitis. Symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes, vomiting, abdominal pain, poor appetite or diarrhea may occur in this condition. Its diagnosis is generally possible through an evaluation of presenting signs and symptoms, substance use history, sexual history, blood tests and liver biopsy. Once diagnosed, hepatitis is treated depending on the type and severity of the disease and its underlying cause. Hepatitis is largely preventable through immunization, in particular the A, B and D types. Medication, healthy lifestyle, proper diet and weight loss are important for its management. This book brings forth some of the most innovative concepts and elucidates the unexplored aspects of hepatology. Different approaches, evaluations, methodologies and advanced studies on hepatitis diagnosis and management have been included in this book. It will prove to be immensely beneficial to students and researchers in hepatology.