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Updated: Jun 26, 2026
06:28
Immunofluorescence to Monitor the Cellular Uptake of Human Lactoferrin and its Associated Antiviral Activity Against the Hepatitis C Virus
Published on: October 1, 2015
Hepatitis A virus in stool during clinical relapse.
Annals of Internal Medicine
|February 1, 1987
Summary
Hepatitis A virus (HAV) can cause disease relapse in some patients. This study found active HAV in stools during relapse, confirming it as the cause.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection typically resolves, but relapses can occur.
- Understanding the mechanisms behind HAV relapse is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of hepatitis A virus in clinical relapse of acute hepatitis A.
- To detect the presence and activity of HAV during relapse episodes.
Main Methods:
- Studied 7 patients experiencing hepatitis A relapse.
- Analyzed serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels and IgM antibody titers.
- Detected hepatitis A virus in stool samples using immune electron microscopy, radioimmunoassay, and molecular hybridization.
Main Results:
- Relapse patients showed significantly elevated ALT levels during relapse compared to convalescence.
- Hepatitis A virus was detected in stool samples during the relapse phase.
- IgM antibody levels decreased over time in some patients.
- Stool samples were negative for HAV 6-12 months post-onset.
Conclusions:
- The presence of hepatitis A virus in stool during relapse strongly suggests HAV is the causative agent.
- Clinical relapse of hepatitis A is associated with active viral shedding.
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