Hepatitis D, also known as delta hepatitis, is a viral infection that causes liver inflammation. It is caused by the hepatitis D virus (HDV), which is a small, enveloped RNA virus that belongs to the hepatitis virus family. HDV is unique in that it requires the presence of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) to replicate and produce infection. Therefore, HDV infection can only occur in individuals who are already infected with HBV or who are at risk of becoming infected with HBV. HDV is transmitted through contact with infected blood or body fluids, such as through injection drug use, sexual contact, or during childbirth. It is also possible to contract HDV through transfusions of infected blood or blood products, although this is rare in developed countries due to screening of donated blood for hepatitis viruses. The incubation period for HDV is typically 2-6 weeks, and the most common symptom is jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. HDV can be prevented through vaccination for hepatitis B and can be treated with antiviral medications.
1. What is the primary mode of transmission of the hepatitis D virus?
A) Unsafe injection drug use B) Sexual contact C) Consumption of contaminated food or water D) Contact with infected blood or body fluids
2. What is the primary symptom of hepatitis D infection?
A) Fever B) Jaundice C) Rash D) Diarrhea
3. Can the hepatitis D virus be transmitted from mother to child during childbirth?
A) Yes B) No
4. Can the hepatitis D virus be transmitted through casual contact, such as shaking hands or sharing food?
A) Yes B) No
5. What is the incubation period for the hepatitis D virus?
A) 1-3 days B) 2-6 weeks C) 1-3 months D) 3-6 months
6. Can the hepatitis D virus be transmitted through transfusions of infected blood or blood products?
A) Yes B) No
7. Can the hepatitis D virus be prevented through vaccination?
A) Yes B) No
8. Is hepatitis D more severe than hepatitis B?
A) Yes B) No
9. How is the hepatitis D virus diagnosed?
A) Through a physical examination B) Through a blood test C) Through a urine test D) Through a stool test
10. Can the hepatitis D virus be treated with antiviral medications?
A) Yes B) No
Answer Key
- D
- B
- A
- B
- B
- A
- B
- Yes
- B
- A
