HEPATITIS-B IN THE CLINICAL-PRACTICE

Background: The article describes the clinical picture of hepatitis B and the most recent findings concerning its etiopathogenesis, diagnostics, therapy and prevention. Survey and conclusions: The illness is caused by the DNA virus from the group of Hepadna viruses. Its antigen HBsAg is composed of three types of protein, each of which causes the formation of specific antibodies. Hepatitis B occurs as a result of damage caused by immune mechanisms. Sensitized/sensibilized cytotoxic T cells recognize the antigen on the surface of infected hepatocytes and destroy them. Morphological changes in the liver depend on the course (acute, chronic) and intensity of the illness. The course of the hepatitis B infection is divided into five phases: incubation, prodromal stadium, icteric phase, reconvalescence and chronic illness. The diagnosis is made on the basis of the clinical examination and laboratory and serological tests. In differential diagnosis all the virus forms of hepatitis, leptospirosis, malaria, the effect of chemicals, toxines, drugs, alcohol and ischemia are taken into account. The therapy is symptomatic. Spreading of the illness is prevented by taking strict hygienic measures while with the patient and with passive and active immunization.