Hepatitis B is caused by a
Hepatitis B is caused by a
Select an option to attempt
Correct Answer: Option B
Explanation
Hepatitis B is caused by Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), a partially double-stranded DNA virus belonging to the family Hepadnaviridae (genus Orthohepadnavirus). The HBV genome (~3.2 kb) is a relaxed circular, partially dsDNA that replicates via an RNA intermediate (pregenomic RNA) through reverse transcription — making HBV unique among animal DNA viruses. Transmission occurs via blood/blood products, sexual contact, and vertical (mother-to-child) transmission. The virus infects hepatocytes causing acute and chronic hepatitis, and chronic infection is a major risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). A highly effective recombinant protein subunit vaccine (HBsAg) is available.