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Hepatitis D Virus Infection C0011226

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A liver infection caused by the Hepatitis D virus, which only occurs in people also infected with Hepatitis B. It tends to cause more severe liver disease. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and monitoring liver health.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
K76.9
ICD-11
DA00.0
Body system
hepatobiliary
Severity
moderate
Chronic
true

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: Common at all stages

Jaundice

(hepatobiliary)

Fatigue

(hepatobiliary)

Abdominal pain

(hepatobiliary)

Ascites

(hepatobiliary)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

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

1

Antiviral Therapy with Nucleos(t)ide Analogues

Long-term antiviral therapy using medications such as tenofovir or entecavir to suppress hepatitis D virus replication. Treatment aims to reduce viral load and slow disease progression, though HDV is more difficult to suppress than HBV alone.

medication
2

Dietary counseling and physical activity plan

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
3

Hepatitis D and B Dual Infection Surveillance

Comprehensive monitoring including HDV RNA quantification, HBV DNA levels, liver function tests, and imaging to assess liver disease progression. Patients require more frequent surveillance than HBV monoinfection due to accelerated disease course.

monitoring

Additional treatment options

Complete Alcohol Avoidance

Strict avoidance of alcohol consumption as HDV infection causes more severe liver damage when combined with alcohol. Patients should also avoid other hepatotoxins and discuss all medications with their healthcare provider.

lifestyle

Interferon-Alpha Therapy

Pegylated interferon-alpha may be considered as an alternative or adjunct therapy for some patients, particularly those who respond to treatment. This approach has shown some efficacy in achieving HDV RNA negativity in selected patients.

medication

Nutrient-Rich Liver Supportive Diet

Emphasis on antioxidant-rich foods, adequate protein for muscle mass preservation, and avoidance of processed foods. Small, frequent meals may help patients with reduced appetite due to chronic infection and fatigue.

dietary

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Hepatitis D Virus Infection C0011226?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Wedemeyer H, Manns MP, Bauditz J, et al. EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines on Hepatitis D Virus Infection. J Hepatol. 2023;79(2):469-491.

guideline2023
2

Rizzetto M, Ciancio A, oliveira ML. Hepatitis D: A Comprehensive Review. Hepatology. 2022;76(5):1564-1580.

review2022
3

Yurdaydin C, Bozkaya H, Caliskan R, et al. Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis D with Pegylated Interferon: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2021;19(7):1431-1445.

meta_analysis2021
4

Hughes SA, Wedemeyer H, Taylor MW. Hepatitis Delta Virus: Virology, Pathogenesis, and Clinical Manifestations. In: Zuckerman AJ, ed. Viral Hepatitis. 4th ed. Wiley-Blackwell; 2020:312-345.

textbook2020

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Hepatitis D Virus Infection C0011226. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

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