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Hepatitis D

Hepatitis D is a viral infection which causes inflammation of liver cells.

your quick guide to this page

what is hepatitis d?
Learn what defines hepatitis D and what its general consequences are.
fast facts
Get a quick overview of hepatitis D through statistics and bite-sized facts.
symptoms
Learn about the symptoms of hepatitis D, how to recognize them, and what to do if you experience them.
lifestyle impacts
Find out how hepatitis D impacts your lifestyle.
what can I do?
Discover management and treatment strategies for hepatitis D.
additional resources
Find useful links, education, articles, recipes and more that can help with hepatitis D.

what is hepatitis d?

Hepatitis D is an infection of the liver leading to inflammation of liver cells and damage to the liver. This impacts the liver’s ability to perform its vital functions. Inflammation can lead to hardening and scarring of the liver which can cause liver failure. Hepatitis D is referred to as a “incomplete virus” because it can only be present in those with hepatitis B. There are two types of hepatitis D:

  • Acute hepatitis D: This is a short-term infection that can be treated by the patient’s immune system alone.
  • Chronic hepatitis D: This is a long-term infection that occurs when the immune system is unable to fight the viral infection.

fast facts

  • Approximately 5% of people with hepatitis B also have hepatitis D.
  • 1 in 6 cases of cirrhosis (liver scarring) may be caused by hepatitis D.
  • Hepatitis D is most common in Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America and rarely in North America.

symptoms

Symptoms for hepatitis D are similar to other viral hepatitis infections. Symptoms usually occur within 2 months of exposure. Common symptoms for hepatitis D include:

  • Dark urine and light stools
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fever
  • Fatigue
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
  • Joint pain

lifestyle impacts

Hepatitis D is a severe infection that can lead to life altering complications such as cirrhosis,  liver failure, and potentially death. These severe complications can require patients to receive a liver transplant. Patients with this disease are required to make healthy lifestyle changes to support immune system functioning to help reduce inflammation. These include:

  • Eating a balanced diet
  • Participating in regular exercise
  • Limiting alcohol consumption
  • Avoiding smoking

what can I do?

prevention

The main prevention method for hepatitis D is to receive the hepatitis B vaccination. Additional ways to prevent contracting hepatitis D include:

  • Sterilizing needles used for tattoos and piercings
  • Practicing safe sex
  • Stop consumption of drugs
  • Avoid sharing personal hygiene items such as toothbrushes and razors.

diagnosis

The initial step to diagnosing an individual with hepatitis D is to test the patient for hepatitis B. A blood test can be used to determine if the patient has hepatitis B. If the test is positive for hepatitis B, a second blood test can be done to determine if the individual has hepatitis D.

treatment

There is no cure for chronic hepatitis D but medication can be used to prevent further progression of the disease. The main treatment for individuals with hepatitis D is a medication called pegylated interferon. Additional medications are being tested.

additional resources

Here are a few questions to ask your doctor or medical team:

  • What is the status of my liver?
  • What lifestyle modifications should I make to support my liver health?
  • What treatment options are available for hepatitis D?
  • Are there any clinical trials I can participate in for hepatitis D?