Brazilian Protocol for Sexually Transmitted Infections 2020: viral hepatitis

Rev Soc Bras Med Trop. 2021 May 17;54(suppl 1):e2020834. doi: 10.1590/0037-8682-834-2020. eCollection 2021.

Abstract

This article discusses viral hepatitis, a theme addressed by the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines to Comprehensive Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections and, more precisely, by the Clinical Protocols and Therapeutic Guidelines for Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C and Coinfections, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health. Besides the broad spectrum of health impairment, hepatitis A, B, and C viruses also present different transmission forms, whether parenteral, sexual, vertical, or fecal-oral. Among the strategies suggested for the control of viral hepatitis, in addition to behavioral measures, are expanded diagnosis, early vaccination against hepatitis A and hepatitis B viruses, and access to available therapeutic resources. Considering vertical transmission of the hepatitis B and hepatitis C viruses, screening for pregnant women with chronic hepatitis B and C is an essential perinatal health strategy, indicating with precision those who can benefit from the prophylactic interventions. Viral hepatitis A, B, and C are responsible for more than 1.34 million deaths worldwide every year, from which 66% are the result of hepatitis B, 30% of hepatitis C, and 4% of hepatitis A.

MeSH terms

  • Brazil
  • Female
  • Hepatitis B* / diagnosis
  • Hepatitis B* / prevention & control
  • Hepatitis C* / diagnosis
  • Hepatitis C* / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical / prevention & control
  • Pregnancy
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases* / diagnosis
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases* / prevention & control