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Hepatitis viruses: changing patterns of human disease
1Hepatitis Viruses Section, National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892.
Summary
Viral hepatitis encompasses multiple viruses, including hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Evolving human ecology impacts viral hepatitis incidence, leading to varied disease outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Viral hepatitis has ancient origins, with initial understanding limited to two agents.
- Recent decades have seen the discovery of three additional hepatitis viruses (HCV, HDV, HEV).
- Evidence suggests the existence of further hepatitis viruses beyond the currently recognized five.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical understanding of viral hepatitis.
- To highlight the discovery of new hepatitis viruses.
- To discuss the epidemiological characteristics and societal impact of these viruses.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of viral hepatitis research.
- Analysis of historical and recent discoveries of hepatitis viruses.
- Examination of epidemiological data and societal impacts.
Main Results:
- Five distinct hepatitis viruses (HAV, HBV, HCV, HDV, HEV) are now recognized, each from a different viral family.
- Each virus exhibits a unique epidemiological profile.
- Changes in human ecology have significantly influenced the incidence and patterns of viral hepatitis.
Conclusions:
- The landscape of viral hepatitis has expanded significantly with new discoveries.
- Understanding the unique epidemiology of each virus is crucial.
- Human ecological changes play a critical role in shaping the burden of viral hepatitis.