WebMD
Font Size
A
A
A

Hepatitis D (delta) virus infection

Infection with the hepatitis D virus (HDV), or delta agent, occurs only in people who are already infected with the hepatitis B virus (HBV).

  • HDV infection may make HBV infection more severe.
  • In people who have long-term (chronic) HBV infection, hepatitis D virus infection can make liver disease worse, or it can cause a person who did not have symptoms before to develop liver problems more rapidly.
  • Some people who have hepatitis D also have severe hepatitis B.
  • Vaccination against hepatitis B will prevent hepatitis D virus infection.
  • Hepatitis D virus infection is rare in the United States.
Author Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD
- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer W. Thomas London, MD
- Hepatology
Last Updated October 15, 2007

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: October 15, 2007
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
@ 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.