Viral Hepatitis

severe disease caused by a virus

Hepatitis (plural hepatitides) implies injury to liver characterised by presence of inflammatory cells in the liver tissue. Etymologically from  ancient Greek hepar (ηπαρ) or hepato- (ηπατο-) meaning 'liver' and suffix -itis denoting 'inflammation' (c.1727). The condition can be self limiting, healing on its own or can progress to scarring of liver. Acute hepatitis is when it lasts less than 6 months and chronic hepatitis is when it persists longer. A group of viruses known as the hepatitis viruses cause most liver damages worldwide. Hepatitis can also be due to toxins (notably alcohol), other infections or from autoimmune process. It may run a subclinical course when the affected person may not feel ill. The patient becomes unwell and symptomatic when the disease impairs liver functions that include among other things, screening of harmful substances, regulation of blood composition and production of bile to help digestion.
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Viral hepatitis n. Any of various forms of hepatitis caused by a virus. viral hepatitis, n an inflammatory condition of the liver, caused by the [more]Viral hepatitis - Community and Resources

Noun
1. hepatitis caused by a virus
(hypernym) hepatitis
(hyponym) hepatitis A, infectious hepatitis

Liver inflammation caused by viruses. Specific hepatitis viruses have been labeled A, B, C, D, E, F, and G. While other viruses can also cause hepatitis, their primary target is not the liver.