Sexual Health | Viral hepatitis | Hepatitis A: Natural History and Management

Hepatitis A: Natural History and Management
Session Overview
Description
This sessions describes the natural history and management of someone with hepatitis A.

Learning Objectives
By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Describe the different ways hepatitis A infection can be caught
• Identify the common symptoms associated with hepatitis A infection
• Recognise the common physical signs associated with hepatitis A infection
• Select the investigations you would need to make in order to diagnose hepatitis A
• Differentiate between the different other causes of hepatitis
• Prepare a plan to clinically manage the patient including ongoing investigations and follow-up
• Identify the key issues around contacts and their management

Prerequisites
Before commencing this session you should:

• Be familiar with the BASHH National Guidelines
• Complete Module 7/The Presentation of Infectious Hepatitis (260-0082)

Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is a ubiquitous virus worldwide that is normally spread by the faeco-oral route and causes an acute hepatitis that is generally mild.

However, there is evidence that HAV is spread through sexual contact in men who have sex with men (MSM) in certain circumstances.

This session will discuss how hepatitis A can be caught and prevented, with particular reference to sexual health and risks related to sex between MSM.

It will describe the symptoms, signs, diagnosis and treatment and, in particular, describe tests that allow us to distinguish hepatitis A from other types of hepatitis and jaundice.