What is Viral Hepatitis? | Division of Viral Hepatitis | CDC

What is Viral Hepatitis? | Division of Viral Hepatitis | CDC

What is Viral Hepatitis?

08/21/2020 03:22 PM EDT

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Related MedlinePlus Pages: Hepatitis

What is Viral Hepatitis?

Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver. The liver is a vital organ that processes nutrients, filters the blood, and fights infections. When the liver is inflamed or damaged, its function can be affected. Heavy alcohol use, toxins, some medications, and certain medical conditions can cause hepatitis. However, hepatitis is often caused by a virus. In the United States, the most common types of viral hepatitis are hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.