Hepatitis

Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver. Lots of things can cause the liver to become inflamed. Often, a virus is responsible. In the United States, the hepatitis A, B, and C viruses are the most common types of hepatitis.

Hepatitis A typically resolves on its own, but both hepatitis B and C can lead to chronic inflammation, cirrhosis, liver cancer, and even liver failure when left untreated. The hepatitis D and hepatitis E viruses can cause symptoms too, but these types are rare.

Other causes of hepatitis include medications, alcohol, and certain chemicals, as well as other types of viruses. Some people develop autoimmune hepatitis, which occurs when the body’s immune system attacks the liver.

NYU Langone doctors provide vaccination and preventive strategies to protect people from viral hepatitis, screening for those at risk of infection, and treatment for those diagnosed with a hepatitis infection. Our experts recognize that hepatitis can have a significant impact on quality of life and that no two experiences of living with the disease are alike.

Most forms of viral hepatitis are treatable, even in people who develop cirrhosis, which is liver scarring. Our doctors have treatments to keep the damage from worsening. For those who have highly advanced liver disease or damage, our team at the NYU Langone Transplant Institute offers liver transplant surgery and other specialized services. Doctors at NYU Langone are also continually engaged in research to evaluate more-effective treatments.

Specialists at Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital at NYU Langone diagnose and manage autoimmune hepatitis in children.