Hepatitis delta virus (HDV)

Definition

Hepatitis Delta Virus (HDV) is a defective RNA virus that requires the presence of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) to replicate. HDV causes severe liver disease and can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. HDV is dependent on HBV for its replication.
2. Transmission of HDV occurs through contact with infected blood or body fluids, similar to HBV.
3. Infection with both HBV and HDV (co-infection) is more severe than infection with HBV alone.
4. HDV has a small, circular RNA genome and utilizes the host's cellular machinery for its lifecycle.
5. There is no specific antiviral treatment for HDV; management focuses on treating HBV infection.

Related terms

Viroid:

A small infectious pathogen composed solely of a short strand of circular RNA without a protein coat.

Virusoid:

A type of satellite RNA that depends on helper viruses for replication and encapsidation.

Prion:

An infectious agent composed entirely of protein material that can fold in multiple ways, leading to disease.