Definition Return to top
Delta agent is a type of virus called hepatitis D that causes symptoms only in people who have a hepatitis B infection.
Causes Return to top
Hepatitis D virus (HDV) is only found in people who carry the hepatitis B virus. HDV may make a hepatitis B infection or existing hepatitis B liver disease worse. It can cause symptoms in people with hepatitis B virus who never had symptoms.
Hepatitis D infects about 15 million people worldwide. It occurs in 5% of people with hepatitis B.
Risk factors include:
Symptoms Return to top
Hepatitis D may increase the severity of symptoms associated with all forms of hepatitis B.
Symptoms may include:
Exams and Tests Return to top
Treatment Return to top
The treatment is the same as for hepatitis B. See hepatitis B.
Persons with long-term HDV infection may receive a medicine called alpha interferon or a liver transplant.
When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of hepatitis B occur.
Prevention Return to top
Prompt recognition and treatment of hepatitis B infection can help prevent hepatitis D.
Avoid intravenous drug abuse. If you use IV drugs, avoid sharing needles.
A vaccine is available to prevent hepatitis B. It should be considered by people who are at high risk for hepatitis B infection.
References Return to top
A.D.A.M. Medical Encyclopedia [Internet]. Atlanta (GA): A.D.A.M., Inc.; ©2005. Hepatitis D; [updated 2006 July 28; cited 2009 March 27]; [about 4 p.]. Available from: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000216.htm
