What body parts are affected by hepatitis?

The liver is the primary organ affected by hepatitis. The liver is responsible for several essential functions, including filtering toxins from the blood, producing bile to help digest fats, and storing energy. When the liver is inflamed or damaged by hepatitis, it can disrupt these functions and lead to a range of symptoms.

In addition to the liver, hepatitis can also affect other organs and body parts, including:

Spleen: The spleen is an organ located in the upper left abdomen that helps filter blood and remove old or damaged red blood cells. Hepatitis can cause the spleen to become enlarged and inflamed.

Kidneys: Hepatitis can lead to kidney inflammation and damage, known as hepatitis-associated nephritis. This condition can lead to kidney failure if left untreated.

Pancreas: Hepatitis can cause the pancreas to become inflamed, leading to pancreatitis. Pancreatitis can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Brain: Hepatitis can rarely affect the brain, leading to a condition called hepatic encephalopathy. This condition can cause confusion, drowsiness, and seizures.

Skin: Hepatitis can cause a variety of skin problems, including jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), itching, and rashes.

Joints: Hepatitis can cause joint pain and swelling.

Heart: Hepatitis can rarely cause heart problems, such as myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) and pericarditis (inflammation of the sac around the heart).