[Current diagnosis of viral hepatitis]

Abstract

The structure and genetic organization of the hepatitis viruses A-E are well characterized. HAV and HEV cause acute and sometimes fulminant hepatitis. By contrast, HBV, HCV and HDV infections frequently progress to chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The specific detection of the hepatitis viruses A-E is based on serological and molecular analyses. In clinical practice, it is possible in most cases to identify the viral infection by a single serological screening test. In particular clinical situations, the diagnostic workup requires additional serological or molecular analyses. Given the different diagnostic tests, it is possible today to specifically identify the etiologic agent in most patients with acute or chronic viral hepatitis.