[Clinical outcomes of superinfections with primary hepatotropic viruses in patients with chronic hepatitis B or C].

Chronic hepatitis B and C are among most important problems in contemporary hepatology. Natural history of the disease can be changed as a result of superinfection with other primary hepatotropic viruses. Clinical consequences of such events are uncommon subjects of clinical reports. Acute viral hepatitis occurring in HBV- or HCV-infected patients can result in severe exacerbation of liver disease, including acute liver failure; sometimes progression of liver disease toward liver cirrhosis is observed; HBV and/or HCV clearance is also possible. Because of potentially severe outcomes of superinfections, prevention of such events based on vaccinations and education about the risk related with additional infections should be implemented in the management of patients with chronic viral hepatitis B and C.