[Prophylaxis and therapy of acute viral hepatitis. 10 questions and answers]

The authors set out to answer the following ten questions regarding acute viral hepatitis: 1. Are serologic tests a prerequisite for prophylaxis and treatment of acute viral hepatitis? 2. What serologic markers are available? 3. What hygienic measures are of use in avoiding contact infections? 4. What general therapeutic measures can be recommended? 5. Does a pharmacotherapy for acute viral hepatitis actually exist? 6. What is the position regarding passive immunization in hepatitis A? 7. What is the position regarding passive immunization in hepatitis B? 8. Are vaccines available for active immunization? 9. Who should undergo active immunization? 10. What has been the most important advance of recent years in the field of prophylaxis and treatment of acute viral hepatitis?