HEPATITIS D (DELTA) VIRUS – HDV (Micro made easy pp 187)

• General:. Hep D virus can only replicate with help from HBV. Notice the letters D within the B. Fig 24-11 explains the structure. The Hep D DNA is surrounded by HBsAg + HBV envelope (that’s why it needs HBV). This virus is also transmitted parenterally + body fluids. HBV + HDV = Big Bad Dude.
• Clinical features: Infection occurs in 2 ways: 1) co-infection, 2) superinfection.

• Co-infection: This is when both HBV + HDV make their way into the body together. This causes acute hepatitis, and once anti HBsAg is made  patient is immune to both viruses.

• Superinfection: This is when patient is already suffering from chronic hepatitis (e.g.: carrier patients), and HDV infects them. This type is more severe and usually progresses to: fulminant hepatitis, cirrhosis. Has a 5-15% mortality rate.
  

• Serological markers: anti-HDV (IgM / IgG) antibodies are produced but they are only present for short periods.
• Treatment/Prevention: Prevention: same as for Hep B, Treatment: not available. Managing HBV is the only way.

Category: Microbiology Notes