Viral Hepatitis

Viral hepatitis is a group of infectious diseases that cause inflammation of the liver, potentially leading to serious health complications, including liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.

The most common types of viral hepatitis are Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E, each caused by different viruses with varying modes of transmission and clinical outcomes.

Types of viral hepatitis and prevention

Hepatitis A (HAV): A short-term infection usually transmitted through contaminated food or water. Vaccination is available and highly effective in preventing infection.

Hepatitis B (HBV): A serious liver infection that can become chronic. It is transmitted through blood, sexual contact, and from mother to child during birth. A vaccine is available to prevent HBV.

Hepatitis C (HCV): Primarily spread through blood-to-blood contact, often via sharing needles. It can become chronic and lead to severe liver disease, but effective antiviral treatments can cure the infection.

Hepatitis D (HDV): A rare but severe form of hepatitis that only affects individuals already infected with HBV. Vaccination against HBV prevents HDV infection.

Hepatitis E (HEV): A self-limiting illness usually transmitted through contaminated water, with higher risk in pregnant women.

The symptoms of viral hepatitis vary depending on the type and stage of the infection. Common symptoms include:

Fatigue and weakness
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Nausea and vomiting
Loss of appetite
Abdominal pain and discomfort
Dark urine and pale stools
Fever (more common in acute hepatitis).

Diagnosing viral hepatitis involves:

Blood tests to detect viral markers and liver function abnormalities.
Imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI to assess liver condition.
Liver biopsy in some cases to evaluate liver damage severity.

The treatment of viral hepatitis depends on the type of virus:

Hepatitis A and E. Usually self-limiting and require supportive care such as hydration and rest.
Hepatitis B and D. Chronic infections are managed with antiviral medications to slow disease progression and reduce liver damage.
Hepatitis C. Highly effective antiviral treatments are available, with high cure rates.

At Karolinska University Hospital, our experienced team can provide comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.

Liver Transplant

Karolinska University Hospital runs one of the more extensive liver surgery units in the Nordics, and has a special assignment for liver transplants on behalf of the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare. Both children and adults undergo transplants with excellent results at Karolinska. Liver Transplant

Center

Transplantation Center

We aim to significantly improve the quality of life for a vast number of patients with various diseases, as well as give new life to those for whom there is no other treatment.