Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. Symptoms may include jaundice, fatigue, skin rash, fevers, chills, and abdominal pain. Many different types of viruses (A through E), numerous medications, as well as alcohol can cause hepatitis. In the case of chronic hepatitis C, the patient usually does not have significant symptoms, and the diagnosis is often made on a blood test from a routine physical examination. When chronic hepatitis is not treated, cirrhosis (permanent scarring of the liver) may develop.

Hepatologists at Crozer-Chester Medical Center offer state-of-the-art methods of diagnosis and treatment for hepatitis and liver abnormalities. Sophisticated scanning methods such as ultrasound, CT scan and MRI allow the doctor to accurately visualize the architecture of the liver, its size, and any intrinsic mass lesions. Liver biopsies can be performed through the skin, or with the aid of ultrasound or an endoscope. Treatment for chronic hepatitis C includes specific counseling about the risks, benefits, and duration of therapy. The genotype of the hepatitis C is determined for each patient to assess the probability of response to treatment.

When cirrhosis is present, specialists at Crozer assess the risks for complications, and institute preventive medications when needed. A comprehensive pre-liver transplantation evaluation process is provided for qualified patients. Crozer-Chester Medical Center works closely with regional liver transplantation centers to expedite the listing for transplant.