What is Hepatitis D?
Hepatitis D (HDV) is an inflammatory liver disease caused by the Hepatitis D virus (HDV). It can result in both acute and chronic hepatitis.
The Hepatitis D virus can only infect individuals who are already infected with the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). Approximately 5% of people with chronic Hepatitis B have a co-infection with Hepatitis D, significantly increasing the risk of chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
HDV Depends on HBV
~5% co-infection
Of people with chronic Hepatitis B
Higher risk of
Chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer
12 million people
An estimated 12 million people worldwide are living with Hepatitis D
Hepatitis B and D Co-infection
Being infected with both viruses makes liver disease considerably more serious.
Co-infection with Hepatitis B and Hepatitis D increases the severity of liver disease by 2–3 times.
Co-infection raises the risk of liver cancer by 3–6 times.
Among people infected with both Hepatitis B and D:
Approximately 1 in 6 may develop liver cirrhosis.
Approximately 1 in 5 may develop liver cancer.
Around 30% of people with Hepatitis D infection may develop liver cirrhosis within five years.
Regions with Higher Hepatitis D Infection
Hepatitis D infection is more common in:
Mongolia
The Republic of Moldova
Parts of West and Central Africa
The exact prevalence of Hepatitis D in Bangladesh is currently unknown.
How Does Hepatitis D Spread?
Transmission
Like Hepatitis B, the virus is transmitted through infected blood, blood products, and other body fluids.
People at higher risk include:
- Those who share needles
- Indigenous populations in high-prevalence regions
- Patients receiving long-term haemodialysis
Mother-to-Child
Mother-to-child transmission of Hepatitis D is considered uncommon.
Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment
Hepatitis B Vaccination
Hepatitis B vaccination is the most effective way to prevent Hepatitis D, as HDV cannot survive without HBV.
HDV-RNA Testing
Hepatitis D is diagnosed through HDV-RNA testing, which confirms active viral infection.
Pegylated Interferon Alfa
The standard treatment for Hepatitis D includes Pegylated Interferon Alfa, prescribed under the supervision of a liver specialist.
A Steady Global Decline
Protecting people from Hepatitis B also protects them from Hepatitis D.
1980
Introduction of the Hepatitis B vaccine.
Worldwide
Implementation of successful vaccination programmes.
Today
The global prevalence of Hepatitis D has steadily declined.
Since the introduction of the Hepatitis B vaccine in 1980 and the implementation of successful vaccination programmes worldwide, the global prevalence of Hepatitis D has steadily declined.