Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver and may be acute or chronic in nature. Common causes include viral infections, excessive alcohol exposure, fatty liver disease, autoimmune conditions, and metabolic disorders. When inflammation persists over time, it can lead to chronic liver disease with progressive damage to liver tissue.

In early stages, hepatitis may cause minimal or no symptoms. As disease progresses, patients may experience fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal discomfort, and jaundice. Advanced chronic liver disease can result in fibrosis, cirrhosis, portal hypertension, and increased risk of liver cancer.

Diagnosis involves comprehensive liver evaluation, including blood tests, imaging studies, and liver biopsy when indicated. Identifying the cause and assessing disease severity are critical for guiding management and preventing progression.

Management focuses on addressing the underlying cause, reducing ongoing liver injury, and monitoring for complications. Lifestyle modification, nutritional optimization, and long-term surveillance are essential components of care. Early detection and structured follow-up significantly improve outcomes and help preserve liver function.