Hepatitis is a condition that directly affects the liver, one of the most important organs in the human body. It is an inflammation of the liver that can be caused by various factors, including viral infections, consumption of toxic substances, or immune system disorders. Although in some cases the inflammation may disappear without leaving any sequelae, in others it can lead to severe complications such as fibrosis, cirrhosis, or even liver cancer.
Causes of hepatitis
Although hepatitis does not have a single cause, there are multiple factors that can trigger this disease:
- Hepatitis viruses: Viruses A, B, and C are the most common causes of viral hepatitis. However, other agents such as Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, and herpes simplex virus can also affect the liver.
- Toxic substances and medications: Excessive alcohol consumption, certain medications (such as high doses of acetaminophen, some antibiotics, or antiepileptic drugs), and exposure to industrial chemicals can cause liver inflammation.
- Autoimmune diseases: In some cases, the immune system mistakenly attacks liver tissue, leading to autoimmune hepatitis. This condition can progressively damage liver function if not detected and treated properly.
How is it diagnosed?
Accurate diagnosis of hepatitis is essential to prevent further damage to the liver. To do this, various laboratory tests are used, including:
- Viral tests: These allow the presence of the causative virus to be identified and the status of the infection to be determined. They include:
- Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)
- Antibodies against hepatitis A virus (anti-HAV)
- Antibodies against the hepatitis B virus (anti-HBs and anti-HBc)
- Antibodies against the hepatitis C virus (anti-HCV)
These tests help determine whether a person has or has had viral hepatitis. For example, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) shows whether someone has the active virus in their body, i.e., whether they are currently infected. Anti-HAV indicates whether the person has had hepatitis A or is protected against the disease. Antibodies against the hepatitis B virus (anti-HBs and anti-HBc) indicate whether the person has already overcome the infection, has been vaccinated, or still has the virus. Finally, anti-HCV detects whether the body has been in contact with the hepatitis C virus, although additional tests are needed to confirm whether the infection is active.
Thanks to these tests, it is possible to determine whether the infection is recent, whether it is a chronic case, or whether the person had previous contact with the virus.
- Liver function tests:
In addition to the tests mentioned above, the following measurements also assess overall liver function and detect signs of damage:
- ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase): Enzymes that increase when there is cell damage in the liver.
- ALP (alkaline phosphatase) and GGT (gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase): Useful for detecting disorders in the bile ducts or damage caused by alcohol or drugs.
- Total and fractionated bilirubin: These help identify problems with bilirubin elimination, which can manifest in symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
Why is early detection key?
One of the most worrying characteristics of hepatitis is that, in most cases, it does not produce obvious symptoms. It is estimated that up to 95% of people with viral hepatitis are unaware of their diagnosis, which delays treatment and promotes the progression of the disease.
Regular checkups allow for early detection of hepatitis, enabling timely treatment and preventing serious consequences. The sooner liver inflammation is detected, the greater the chances of preserving liver health and improving the patient's quality of life.
Count on Laboratorio Médico Echavarría to protect your liver health! You can take our Vital Liver Function Checkup and detect possible problems early on.
