What is expected from the pathologist in the diagnosis of viral hepatitis?

The clinician expects from the pathologist a clinically relevant diagnosis on the basis of liver biopsy interpretation. Today, a liver biopsy, as invasive procedure, is only justified when a significant benefit for the patient can be expected particularly with respect to the clinical management. Consequently, liver biopsy is usually not required in uncomplicated acute viral hepatitis. It is, however, an important diagnostic tool in chronic hepatitis and in transplanted liver to confirm the clinical diagnosis and to assess stage and grade of necroinflammation, treatment efficiency, and concurrent diseases. The diagnosis of liver disease is based on teamwork between clinician and pathologist. Evaluation of the biopsy in the clinical context requires clinical information and appropriate size and handling of the biopsy specimen. Aim of this review is the discussion of morphologic features of acute and chronic viral hepatitis with regard to their clinical relevance.