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Source: Deming P. Viral hepatitis. In: DiPiro JT, Talbert RL, Yee GC, Matzke GR, Wells BG, Posey LM, eds. Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach. 10th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill; 2017. http://accesspharmacy.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?bookid=1861§ionid=132516044. Accessed April 10, 2017.
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Virion attaches to hepatocyte cell surface receptors and replicates.
HBV is not pathogenic to cells.
Immune response to virus cytotoxic to hepatocytes.
Destruction of heptocytes releases alanine transaminase (ALT), thus increasing levels.
Liver attempts to regenerate in environment of persistent inflammation, resulting in cirrhosis.
HCC develops after years of inflammatory processes provoked by ongoing HBV infection.
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PREVENTION AND SCREENING
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