Risk Factors Involved in Hepatitis D Infection and its Management: A Review

Abstract

Hepatitis D is a wide spread viral infection caused by HDV (Hepatitis D virus) and considerable community health concern in endemic area worldwide. Hepatitis D infection can be acute and chronic and it rapidly develops to chronic illness including cirrhosis, hepatic malignancy and hepatic failure. The Hepatitis D infection is spread worldwide, the high prevalent regions are including South America, Asia, Eastern Europe and Middle East. Countries such as Pakistan, Afghanistan, Turkey, India and Mongolia. Various risk factors lead to its spread such as chronic Hepatitis B, lacking HBV vaccination, occupational needle sticks, ongoing hemodialysis therapy, unsterilized dental interventions, use of intravenous drug, human migration, low socioeconomic and demographic factors, host-related factors and lack of routine screening further increase infection susceptibility. Successful management of Hepatitis D requires precise diagnosis, immediate medical care and suitable preventive measures. Diagnosis of HDV occur through chemiluminescence immunoassay and real time polymerase chain reaction. Therapeutic option includes use of antiviral, (Pegylated interferon alfa, nucleos(t)ide and Bulevirtide). It can be preventing by following effective infection control procedure, using sterile medical instrument, safe injection practice and avoiding infected blood contact.