The ABCs of hepatitis.

There are potentially seven hepatitis viruses in existence. Because hepatitis C and G do not fully explain the previous syndrome of non-A, non-B hepatitis, it is likely that at least one additional blood-borne hepatitis virus has yet to be identified. The consequences of the chronic hepatitis syndrome in the United States and around the world will be significant in coming decades. More patients with end-stage liver disease, portal hypertension, and hepatocellular carcinoma may be expected. The implication for surgeons is that there will be more patients with hepatitis. More importantly, the risk of hepatitis as an occupational infection will be with the current generation of surgeons for the rest of their careers. Effective hepatitis B vaccination and application of uniform practices for avoiding blood exposure and percutaneous injury become the hallmark in preventing the occupational transmission of these viruses.