What Is Hepatitis?
​
Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, most commonly caused by viral infection, though it can also be caused by alcohol, medications, autoimmune conditions, or metabolic disease. The two most clinically significant forms of viral hepatitis in the United States are hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV).
​
Hepatitis B
​​
​Hepatitis B is transmitted through blood, sexual contact, and from mother to child during birth. Most adults who acquire HBV clear the infection on their own, but approximately 5–10% develop chronic hepatitis B — a lifelong infection that can cause cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer). Chronic HBV requires regular monitoring and in many cases antiviral treatment.
​
Hepatitis C
​
​Hepatitis C is transmitted primarily through blood-to-blood contact (shared needles, blood transfusions before 1992). Approximately 75–85% of people who contract HCV develop chronic infection. The good news: hepatitis C is now curable in over 95% of cases with short courses of direct-acting antiviral medications. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends HCV screening for all adults aged 18–79.​
​
Symptoms of Chronic Hepatitis
​
Chronic hepatitis B and C are often silent — most patients have no symptoms until liver disease is advanced. This is why routine screening and monitoring are essential. When symptoms occur, they may include fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), abdominal discomfort, and dark urine.
​
Treatment and Monitoring
​
Our gastroenterologists manage hepatitis B with antiviral therapy and regular monitoring of viral load, liver function, and liver cancer surveillance. For hepatitis C, we prescribe direct-acting antiviral regimens and confirm cure with a sustained virologic response (SVR) test 12 weeks after treatment completion. Patients with advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis require ongoing liver cancer surveillance with imaging.​
​
Book a Hepatitis Consultation in NJ — Call (908) 851-2770 or Schedule Online