Hepatitis B

Definition

Hepatitis B is a viral infection caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV) that affects the liver and can lead to both acute and chronic disease. It is primarily transmitted through contact with infectious body fluids.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hepatitis B infection can be prevented through vaccination, which induces adaptive specific host defenses.
2. Chronic Hepatitis B infection increases the risk of liver cancer, making it relevant in cancer immunobiology.
3. The immune system's response to HBV includes both humoral and cell-mediated immunity.
4. Hepatitis B virus has a DNA genome, differentiating it from other hepatitis viruses like Hepatitis C which has an RNA genome.
5. Infected individuals can be asymptomatic or present symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, and abdominal pain.

Review Questions

• What are the primary modes of transmission for Hepatitis B?
• How does vaccination contribute to preventing Hepatitis B?
• What are the potential long-term complications of chronic Hepatitis B infection?

Related terms

Adaptive Immunity: A part of the immune system that adapts its response to specific pathogens through memory cells.

Liver Cancer: A malignant tumor that arises from liver cells, often associated with chronic infections like Hepatitis B.

Vaccine: A biological preparation that provides active acquired immunity to a particular infectious disease.