[Forgotten hepatitis: the hepatitis E]

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Virology
• Infectious Diseases

Context:

• Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) is a significant public health concern globally.
• It is enterically transmitted, causing endemicity and outbreaks in regions with inadequate sanitation.
• In developed countries, HEV presents as a zoonosis, causing sporadic cases and appearing in returning travelers.

Purpose:

• To summarize the epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of Hepatitis E.
• To highlight the particular risks associated with HEV infection, especially in pregnant women.
• To underscore the current limitations in treatment and prevention strategies for HEV.

Summary:

• Hepatitis E, caused by HEV, manifests clinically like other acute viral hepatitis, with a 1-4% risk of fulminant hepatitis.
• Pregnant women exhibit a notably high mortality rate from HEV infection.
• Diagnosis involves serological tests and PCR; chronic infections occur in immunocompromised individuals. No specific therapy or vaccine exists.

Impact:

• Understanding HEV's transmission and risk factors is crucial for public health interventions.
• The high mortality in pregnant women necessitates targeted prevention and management strategies.
• The lack of specific treatments and vaccines highlights the need for further research and development.