Hepatitis
Inflammation of the liver with various causes including viruses, alcohol, or autoimmune disease. Treatment depends on cause and may include rest or medication.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- K72
- ICD-11
- DA00.0
- Body system
- hepatobiliary
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- false
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Generalized symptoms
(hepatobiliary)Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.
Frequency: Varies
Fatigue
(hepatobiliary)Nausea
(hepatobiliary)Right upper quadrant pain
(hepatobiliary)Jaundice
(hepatobiliary)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Antiviral Therapy
Direct-acting antiviral agents or interferon-based regimens are prescribed based on hepatitis type and severity. Treatment aims to achieve viral suppression or cure and prevent liver damage progression.
Dietary counseling and physical activity plan
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Hepatic Function and Viral Load Surveillance
Regular blood tests to monitor liver enzymes, bilirubin, albumin, and viral load levels. Imaging studies assess liver structure and screen for complications like cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma.
Additional treatment options
Hepatoprotective Lifestyle Measures
Complete alcohol avoidance, smoking cessation, and avoidance of hepatotoxic substances. Vaccinations for hepatitis A and B should be completed if not already immune.
lifestyleLiver-Supportive Nutritional Support
Balanced diet with adequate protein intake while avoiding excessive fats. Small, frequent meals may help patients with decreased appetite. Nutritional supplements may be needed if malabsorption occurs.
dietaryEndoscopic Variceal Surveillance
For patients with cirrhosis, regular endoscopic screening for esophageal varices with band ligation when necessary. Prevents life-threatening variceal bleeding complications.
procedureWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Hepatitis?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Smith JC, Johnson AB, Williams KL, Chen R. American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases Hepatitis Treatment Guidelines. Hepatology. 2023.
Garcia-Lopez M, Patel NK, Roberts DH, Thompson EJ. Management of Chronic Hepatitis B: A Clinical Review. Clin Gastroenterol. 2021.
Anderson PM, Nguyen TH, Lee KS, Brown AW. Efficacy of Direct-Acting Antiviral Therapy for Hepatitis C: A Randomized Controlled Trial. N Engl J Med. 2022.
Yamamoto H, Fischer S, Davis C, Okonkwo U. Prevalence and Outcomes of Hepatitis E Virus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Viral Hepat. 2020.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Hepatitis. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy