Hepatitis D is a disease caused by the hepatitis D virus (HDV). This virus can only replicate and spread in the presence of the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It is one of the types of hepatitis that carries many dangerous complications, leading to impaired liver function and chronic liver damage.

HDV infection can accelerate liver disease progression, potentially resulting in cirrhosis and liver cancer if not detected and treated promptly. The hepatitis D virus is transmitted when the blood or bodily fluids of an infected person enter another person's body. Common transmission routes include unsafe sexual contact, sharing needles or skin-piercing tools, and contact with open wounds carrying the pathogen. The virus can also be transmitted from mother to child, although the rate is lower compared to hepatitis B alone.

Hepatitis D is not transmitted through daily activities such as hugging, shaking hands, sharing meals, or using common household items. Therefore, you do not need to isolate yourself from your family members.

Doctor Huyen Van consults a patient. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

The symptoms of hepatitis D are non-specific, making them easy to overlook. Patients may experience symptoms 3-7 weeks after viral infection. Common manifestations include fever, abdominal pain, nausea, loss of appetite, dark urine, pale stools, and prolonged fatigue. In severe stages, patients may develop jaundice, yellow eyes, bloating, edema, subcutaneous hemorrhage, or liver failure complications.

Hepatitis D is categorized into acute and chronic forms. Acute hepatitis D typically occurs when a person is co-infected with HBV and HDV simultaneously. Some cases may recover spontaneously within 6 months. However, patients still face a high risk of fulminant hepatitis, a severe and life-threatening form of liver damage.

Chronic hepatitis D is common in individuals already suffering from chronic hepatitis B. When superinfected with HDV, the disease can easily progress to cirrhosis and liver failure, increasing mortality rates compared to hepatitis B alone. Individuals experiencing these symptoms should consult a specialist for an accurate diagnosis and early treatment. Adults should practice safe sex, wear gloves when handling bodily fluids or blood, and avoid sharing needles or personal items such as toothbrushes and nail clippers.

Doctor Nguyen Thanh Huyen Van

Department of Gastroenterology

Endoscopy and Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Surgery Center

Tam Anh General Hospital TP HCM