Recent advances in the hepatitides.

Five major types of viral hepatitis have been described. The recent detection of the delta, C, and E agents has made possible the description of the clinical spectra of the disease. The recent recommendation on the universal immunization against hepatitis B has been a major step towards prevention of HBV infection. Recent studies have shown that interferon alfa-2a and alfa-2b may be useful in those with chronic hepatitis B and C. Future investigations are needed so that treatment and prevention of the other viral entities, especially in those who are immunocompromised, may be instituted. Liver transplantation offers hope in a subset of patients with end-stage liver disease.