Viral hepatitis

Viral hepatitis constitutes the most common entity seen in hepatology pract ice. Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for patients with chronic hepat itis. Both lamivudine and interferon are established therapies against chro nic hepatitis B, with other treatments not equally effective. Adefovir dipi voxil is a promising new treatment for lamivudine-resistant hepatitis B mut ants. Lamivudine and hepatitis B immunoglobulin are effective in preventing recurrence of hepatitis B after transplantation. The combination of interf eron and ribavirin has been shown to be effective for treatment of hepatiti s C. Studies support the antiviral, antifibrotic, and antineoplastic effect of interferon therapy. Recurrence of hepatitis C after transplantation has been associated with more rapid progression to cirrhosis, Other major adva nces in the field of viral hepatitis during the past year are highlighted. Curr Opin Gastroenterol 2001, 17:262-267 (C) 2001 Lippincott Williams & Wil kins, Inc.