A VIRAL LIVER INFECTION THAT CAN BECOME CHRONIC
Hepatitis B
A viral liver infection that can be acute or chronic, with risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer in long-term cases. Effective antiviral therapy is available, and vaccination provides strong prevention.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a viral infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus, spread through contact with infected blood, sexual contact, mother-to-baby transmission during childbirth and shared needles. The infection can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Acute hepatitis B may cause tiredness, nausea, abdominal discomfort, jaundice, dark urine and pale stools, or be silent. Most adults clear the virus, but a small proportion develop chronic infection, which often has no symptoms for years but can lead to progressive liver damage, cirrhosis and liver cancer. Babies infected at birth and young children are much more likely to develop chronic hepatitis B. Diagnosis is confirmed with specific blood tests. Effective antiviral therapy is available for selected chronic patients, and regular monitoring is essential. Hepatitis B vaccination, given as part of the routine schedule, provides strong long-term protection. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides comprehensive hepatitis B care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Contact with infected blood
- Sexual contact with an infected partner
- Mother-to-baby transmission during childbirth
- Sharing needles, syringes or injection equipment
- Unsterile medical, dental or tattooing procedures
- Sharing personal items such as razors and toothbrushes
- Higher risk in healthcare workers and other exposed groups
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Specific hepatitis B blood tests (surface antigen, antibodies, viral load)
Acute hepatitis B · Chronic hepatitis B
Antiviral therapy in selected chronic patients; supportive care in acute cases
Regular liver function and viral load testing in chronic infection
Routine hepatitis B vaccination and safe practices
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad — co-managed with hepatology when needed
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Long-Term Monitoring with Antiviral Therapy When Needed
The most effective approach for chronic hepatitis B is regular monitoring, antiviral therapy when indicated by viral load, liver inflammation or fibrosis, and screening for complications. Long-term, hepatitis B vaccination is the most effective preventive measure.
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Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews exposure history, examines the patient and arranges hepatitis B blood tests, liver function tests and imaging where indicated.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan is created based on whether the infection is acute or chronic, the viral load, liver function and fibrosis assessment.
- 3
Medical Management
Supportive care for acute infection; antiviral therapy and regular monitoring for chronic infection.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Long-term follow-up with periodic blood tests and imaging to assess disease progression and detect complications early.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Supportive Care for Acute Hepatitis B
Rest, hydration, nutrition and avoidance of alcohol support recovery in acute infection.
Antiviral Therapy for Chronic Hepatitis B in Selected Patients
Long-term oral antiviral therapy effectively suppresses the virus and reduces the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer.
Regular Monitoring of Viral Load and Liver Function
Periodic blood tests track disease activity and response to therapy.
Screening for Liver Cancer
Patients with chronic hepatitis B are screened periodically with ultrasound and blood tests for early detection of liver cancer.
Hepatitis B Vaccination for Prevention
Vaccination, including in newborns, is highly effective in preventing hepatitis B and reducing the burden of chronic infection.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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