Hepatitis D, once called the 'delta agent' is an issue for people with hepatitis B. HDV only infects people who already have hepatitis B and exacerbates the condition.

Transmission

Either people are infected with both at the same time or contract hepatitis D after having already got hepatitis B. It is often diagnosed when someone with chronic HBV suddenly becomes significantly worse or the acute infection of HBV is particularly severe. It has similar routes of transmission to hepatitis A and is endemic around the Mediterranean.

Tests

Exposure is usually confirmed by an antibody test.

Treatment

Treatment is normally bed rest and taking plenty of fluids until the symptoms have passed. The treatments for hepatitis B are used with people who have both viruses.

Is there a vaccine?

No. Although there is no vaccine specific for HDV but successful vaccination against hepatitis B prevents infection with HDV.