Summary
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver brought on by viral infections, autoimmune diseases, alcohol abuse, exposure to toxins, or other causes. It is most commonly associated with viral hepatitis, which occurs in several different types, but it has also been linked to forms of cancer and other serious medical conditions such as cirrhosis.
Liver-related health problems are a growing concern. As many as four million Americans could be infected with some form of hepatitis C, the most common chronic infection in the United States, without even knowing it. Cirrhosis is the seventh most common cause of death in the United States.
The Encyclopedia of Hepatitis and Other Liver Diseases is a comprehensive guide to recognizing and understanding these medical conditions. With more than 150 entries, coverage ranges from symptoms, treatments, and research to tests, social issues, and much more. Appendixes list important relevant organizations, transplantation and Internet resources, and support groups for those with liver-related issues; also included is a detailed bibliography.
Entries include:
- Alcoholic liver disease
- Autoimmune liver disorders
- Cirrhosis
- Drugs and liver disease
- Fulminant hepatitis
- Hepatitis
- Liver cancer
- Occupational liver disease
- Portal hypertension
- Sarcoidosis
- Thyroid disease
- Transplants
- Vaccines for viral hepatitis.