HAV

Definition

HAV, or Hepatitis A Virus, is a highly contagious virus that causes liver inflammation and affects the gastrointestinal tract. It is primarily transmitted through ingestion of contaminated food or water.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. HAV is typically spread via the fecal-oral route.
2. Symptoms of HAV infection include jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, and nausea.
3. A vaccine is available for HAV and provides long-term protection.
4. HAV does not cause chronic liver disease but can result in acute liver failure in severe cases.
5. Diagnosis of HAV is confirmed through blood tests detecting anti-HAV antibodies.

Review Questions

Related terms

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV): A virus that also infects the liver but can lead to chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis.

Jaundice:

Yellowing of the skin and eyes often seen in liver infections such as those caused by HAV.

Fecal-oral route: A transmission pathway where infectious agents are passed from feces to mouth, commonly implicated in HAV spread.