Hepatitis A

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Presentation :

• Travel to Central and South America, Mexico, South Asia, and Africa poses the greatest risk of infection.

Pathophysiology :

• Acquired through ingestion of food and water contaminated with human feces

Diagnostic Testing:

Treatment :

• Vaccination recommended 2-4 weeks before traveling to countries with high or intermediate endemicity for those who are not already immune. A second dose is given 6 to 18 months after the initial injection.
  • Protective antibody titers develop within 2 to 4 weeks in almost 100% of healthy recipients after the initial dose.
  • Serum immune globulin is indicated for those who decline vaccination or are allergic to its components.
  • Immune globulin should also be considered in addition to vaccination if travel is scheduled within 2 weeks for: adults older than 40 years, immunocompromised persons, and persons with chronic liver disease and other chronic medical conditions

Prognosis:

References:

• MKSAP