Hepatitus D

 

One of several types of viral hepatitis, hepatitis D is a disease of the liver caused by an infection with the hepatitis D virus. Symptoms of hepatitis D can include nausea, diarrhea, and joint pain. In order for a person to develop hepatitis D, he or she must already have an active hepatitis B infection. Among the people who are at risk of developing hepatitis D are intravenous drug users, people with hemophilia, and those who have sex with an infected person.

 

A few of the tests that a healthcare provider may use to diagnose hepatitis D include a physical exam, tests to look for high levels of liver enzymes, and tests that look for antibodies the body has made against the hepatitis D virus. Treatment options for hepatitis D can include supportive care or (in some cases) liver transplantation.