hepatitis A

hepatitis A Inflammation of the liver caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), which is usually transmitted by food or drink that has been handled by an infected person whose hygiene is poor. Symptoms include nausea, fever, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and/or eyes), although some patients have no symptoms at all. Hepatitis A does not lead to chronic disease. Diagnosis is made by blood test. When immediate protection against hepatitis A infection is needed, immunoglobulin (gamma globulin) is used. Immunoglobulin is effective only if given within 2 weeks of exposure, and it lasts only 2 to 4 months. Immunoglobulin can be used to protect people who have contact with someone with acute viral hepatitis and by travelers who must depart for regions with poor sanitation and high hepatitis A rates before vaccines can take effect. Patients can receive immunoglobulin and hepatitis A vaccine simultaneously. Also called infectious hepatitis and epidemic jaundice. See also hepatitis A immunization.