Webster's New World Medical Dictionary

hepatitis, infectious
An infectious form of hep-
atitis, such as hepatitis A.
hepatitis, non-A, non-B
The old name for hep-
atitis C, before the causative virus was identified.
hepatitis, viral
Liver inflammation caused by a
virus. Specific hepatitis viruses have been labeled A,
B, C, D, and E. Some other viruses, such as the
Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegalovirus, can also
cause hepatitis, but the liver is not their primary 
target.
hepatitis A
Inflammation of the liver caused by
the hepatitis A virus (HAV), which is usually trans-
mitted by food or drink that has been handled by an
infected person whose hygiene is poor. Symptoms
include nausea, fever, and jaundice (yellowing of the
skin and/or eyes), although some patients have no
symptoms at all. Hepatitis A does not lead to chronic
disease. Diagnosis is made by blood test. When
immediate protection against hepatitis A infection is
needed, immunoglobulin (gamma globulin) is used.
Immunoglobulin is effective only if given within 2
weeks of exposure, and it lasts only 2 to 4 months.
Immunoglobulin can be used to protect people who
have contact with someone with acute viral hepatitis
and by travelers who must depart for regions with
poor sanitation and high hepatitis A rates before vac-
cines can take effect. Patients can receive
immunoglobulin and hepatitis A vaccine simultane-
ously. Also called infectious hepatitis and epidemic
jaundice. See also 
hepatitis A immunization.
hepatitis A immunization
A vaccine that may
be considered for individuals in high-risk settings
for contracting the hepatitis A virus. Two hepatitis A
hemorrhage
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vaccines (brand names: Havrix and Vaqta) are com-
mercially available in the US. Both are highly effec-
tive and provide protection even after one dose. Two
doses are recommended for adults, and three doses
are recommended for children under 18 years of
age to provide prolonged protection.
hepatitis B
Inflammation of the liver due to the
hepatitis B virus (HBV), which can be transmitted
through blood products, needle sticks, body pierc-
ing and tattooing with unsterilized instruments, the
dialysis process, sexual and even less intimate close
contact, and childbirth. Symptoms include fatigue,
jaundice, nausea, vomiting, dark urine, and light
stools. Diagnosis is made by blood test. Treatment
includes administration of antiviral drugs and/or
hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG). Chronic hep-
atitis B may be treated with interferon. HBV infec-
tion can be prevented with the hepatitis B vaccine
and through avoidance of activities that could lead
to getting the virus. Also known as serum hepatitis.
See also 
hepatitis B immunization.