Our understanding of viral hepatitis becomes greater with time. The ubiquitous hepatitis A virus could soon become obsolete with advances in the development of new vaccines. Hepatitis B is well characterized by its serologic markers and the potential role of the polymerase chain reaction. Its presentation and prognosis can be influenced by the development of cirrhosis, concurrent immunocompromised states, and age. The transmission, diagnosis, and long-term prognosis of chronic hepatitis C is becoming less cryptic and more defined with the help of more sensitive and specific testing methods and continued patient follow-up. Close associations to hepatitis C are being established with many other disease states. Hepatitis D and its relationship to hepatitis B are defined. Finally, an overview of the developing characterization of hepatitis E is also presented.
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