Hepatitis D virus infection.

J E Poss

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PubMed · 2671823

Hepatitis D virus infection.

J E Poss

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Abstract

The hepatitis D virus (HDV) was first detected in Italy in 1977 and is the etiologic agent of type D hepatitis. A defective RNA virus, HDV depends completely on the hepatitis B virus for its expression and replication. HDV infection can cause a severe form of hepatitis with high mortality rates. In the United States, hepatitis D most commonly affects intravenous drug abusers and hemophiliacs. Diagnosis is based on interpretation of the body's immune response to the hepatitis D antigen. At present, there is no specific treatment for type D hepatitis. Prophylaxis against HDV infection depends entirely on the prevention of hepatitis B. Patients found to have hepatitis D virus infection should be referred to a gastroenterologist for management.

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Hepatitis B Hepatitis D Hepatitis Delta Virus Humans Journal Article Review

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J E Poss. 1989. Hepatitis D virus infection.. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2671823/

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