[Viral hepatitis: from A to G viruses]

Area of Science:

• Virology and Hepatology: Focuses on viral hepatitis research, including epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostics, and treatment.
• Infectious Diseases: Addresses the study of viral infections affecting the liver, encompassing acute and chronic forms.
• Public Health: Examines the impact of viral hepatitis on populations, including vaccination programs and disease prevention.

Context:

• Significant progress in understanding viral hepatitis over the past decade.
• Identification of Hepatitis C and E viruses resolved the mystery of non-A, non-B hepatitis.
• Ongoing research seeks to identify viruses responsible for non-A to non-E hepatitis, with Hepatitis G recently reported.

Purpose:

• To review recent advances in the study of acute and chronic viral hepatitis.
• To discuss epidemiological and clinical aspects, including unusual presentations of HAV, HBV, and HCV infections.
• To highlight developments in diagnostic techniques and treatment strategies for viral hepatitis.

Summary:

• Viral hepatitis research has identified new viruses (G virus) and clarified non-A, non-B forms. Unusual clinical presentations and silent chronicity (especially in HCV) are noted.
• Diagnostic tools, including PCR, have improved, with viral load quantification recommended before treatment. Hepatitis A and E confer permanent immunity.
• Chronic hepatitis B and C affect 10% and 80% of cases, respectively. Interferon alfa is the primary treatment for chronic viral hepatitis B, D, and C, with ongoing studies on combinations and optimized regimens.

Impact:

• Hepatitis A and B vaccines are established in childhood immunization, while HCV vaccine development is hindered by viral mutancy.
• Early treatment of acute HCV infection with Interferon alfa is recommended to prevent chronicity.
• Continued research is crucial for identifying new hepatitis viruses and developing effective therapies for chronic infections.