Hepatitis D

Hepatitis D is a liver infection caused by hepatitis D virus (HDV), which can infect only people who also have hepatitis B virus (HBV). It can occur as a simultaneous infection with HBV or as a later infection in someone with chronic HBV.

Hepatitis D virus: A small RNA virus that uses hepatitis B surface antigen to assemble infectious particles. Its dependence on HBV surface antigen explains why HDV cannot establish infection alone.
Hepatitis D antibody test: A blood test that detects antibodies produced in response to hepatitis D virus. It can identify prior or current HDV exposure in people with HBV.
Hepatitis B and D coinfection: Simultaneous infection of one person with hepatitis B virus and hepatitis D virus. It is generally more likely than superinfection to resolve without chronic HDV.
Cirrhosis: Advanced liver scarring that disrupts the organ’s structure and function. Chronic hepatitis D can accelerate the development of cirrhosis.
Mario Rizzetto: An Italian physician who identified the delta antigen associated with hepatitis D in the 1970s. His discovery revealed a previously unrecognized agent in some hepatitis B infections.
Hepatitis B virus: A DNA virus that infects liver cells and can cause acute or chronic hepatitis. HBV supplies the surface antigen HDV needs to spread between liver cells and people.
Hepatitis D RNA test: A molecular blood test that detects and measures hepatitis D viral RNA. It confirms active viral replication after an antibody test indicates exposure.
Hepatitis B superinfection: HDV infection acquired by a person already carrying chronic hepatitis B virus. It more often becomes chronic and accelerates severe liver disease than simultaneous coinfection.
Hepatocellular carcinoma: The most common primary cancer arising from liver cells. Long-term HDV, usually alongside HBV, increases the risk of this liver cancer.
Delta antigen: The hepatitis D virus protein that forms its nucleocapsid with viral RNA. Its detection in liver tissue led to recognition of the agent now called HDV.

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Hepatitis ACompared with: Its dependence on hepatitis B highlights a different viral relationship from HAV infection.