Hepatitis
Hepatitis A, B, C, D and E
What is hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is an inflammation of the liver caused by viruses. The hepatitis A virus occurs worldwide. Hepatitis A is less common in countries with a high level of hygiene. Some of those infected in Germany have been infected abroad.
What is hepatitis B and D?
Different viruses are capable of causing liver inflammation. They have been discovered over the last few decades and categorised alphabetically from A to E.
What is hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C is an inflammation of the liver caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). A new infection ("acute hepatitis C") rarely leads to symptoms and can heal itself in around 20-50% of those affected in the first six months. In most cases, however, the acute infection becomes chronic (50-80%) and then remains in the body permanently. The course of chronic hepatitis C varies depending on the person and their life situation.
What is hepatitis E?
Hepatitis E is an inflammation of the liver caused by the hepatitis E virus.