Assessment Of Awareness And Knowledge Regarding Hepatitis B Among First Year Medical Students Of Nishter Medical University Multan

Abstract

Hepatitis B is an infectious inflammatory illness of the liver caused by Hepatitis B virus. Originally known as serum hepatitis, the causative virus is the hepadnovirus which interferes with hepatocytes functions by replicating in them. Transmitted by blood, body fluids or peri-natally, factors such as transfusions, dialysis, acupuncture, tattooing and working in health care settings predisposed to infection. General ill-health, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, body aches, mild fever, dark urine and jaundice are its symptoms. An elevated serum ALT and PCR tests are used for diagnosis and special anti-viral therapy is used for its treatment.