HBV

Definition

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is a DNA virus that primarily infects the liver, causing both acute and chronic infections. It is transmitted through contact with infectious body fluids, leading to inflammation and potential damage to the liver.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. HBV can cause both acute and chronic hepatitis, with chronic infection potentially leading to cirrhosis or liver cancer.
2. Transmission routes include perinatal transmission, sexual contact, and exposure to infected blood or body fluids.
3. The HBV vaccine is highly effective in preventing infection and is part of routine immunization schedules in many countries.
4. HBV has a long incubation period ranging from 30 to 180 days, often making early detection challenging.
5. In some cases, HBV infection can be asymptomatic, but it can still lead to severe liver complications over time.

Review Questions

• What are the primary modes of transmission for HBV?
• How does chronic HBV infection affect the liver?
• Why is vaccination important in controlling HBV infections?

Related terms

Hepatitis A Virus (HAV): A virus that causes acute liver infection, usually transmitted through ingestion of contaminated food or water.

Cirrhosis:

A late stage of scarring (fibrosis) of the liver caused by many forms of liver diseases and conditions such as hepatitis and chronic alcoholism.

Jaundice:

A yellowing of the skin and eyes due to high levels of bilirubin in the blood, often associated with liver dysfunction.