Hepatitis B Directory
Hepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus, which is passed through infected blood and bodily fluids. Chronic hepatitis B infection often has no symptoms but can lead to liver damage and failure. The virus can be passed by sharing needles, razors, or toothbrushes; having sex without a condom; or getting tattoos. A mother who has the virus can pass it to her baby during delivery. A blood test is used to diagnose hepatitis B; a liver biopsy may be necessary to check for liver damage. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about how hepatitis B is contracted, its symptoms, how to treat it, and much more.
Medical Reference
-
The Basics of Hepatitis
WebMD experts explain the basics of hepatitis.
-
Understanding Hepatitis B
Find out more about the cause, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of hepatitis B.
-
Hepatitis A (HAV) - What is Hep A? Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
WebMD looks at the symptoms and treatments for the hepatitis A virus.
-
Treatment of Hepatitis
Find out if you're at risk of hepatitis and learn how it is diagnosed and treated from the experts at WebMD.
Features
-
Viral Hepatitis: Eight Ways to Protect Your Family
Hepatitis A and B can lead to liver damage and sometimes death. But you can protect yourself and your family with these eight steps.
-
Viral Hepatitis: 8 Self-Defense Tips for Travelers
The risk of contracting viral hepatitis is higher for many Americans who travel abroad -- especially to regions where hepatitis is prevalent and sanitation is poor. Here are 8 tips to protect travelers.
-
Between Friends: Living Donors
It's a trend that's changing transplant medicine. More and more people are willing to donate a kidney or part of a liver - while they're still alive.
Slideshows & Images
-
Picture of Gianetti-Crosti Syndrome
Gianetti-Crosti syndrome. Monomorphous papules coalescing into plaques on the cheeks of a child.
-
A Visual Guide to Hepatitis
Hepatitis A, B, and C spread in very different ways, causing mild to serious effects on the liver. Pictures show hepatitis symptoms, how to avoid the disease, vaccines, and treatments.
-
Slideshow: Hepatitis: What Puts You at Risk
This WebMD slideshow shows you the risk factors for contracting hepatitis and how to avoid them.