Whatever the cause, hepatitis results in inflammation of the liver.

Alcohol abuse damages liver cells. Medications can cause reactions that inflame the liver. Acetaminophen taken in high doses can severely damage the liver. A weak immune system, such as is found in people with AIDS, can put you at higher risk for hepatitis, as well as many other infections.

However, some acute forms can develop into chronic forms.

Researchers have identified A, B, C, D, and E viruses that cause hepatitis. Vaccines are available to prevent hepatitis A and B, but not for the C, D, and E forms.

Not everyone has symptoms, however.

Often called infectious hepatitis, this form can easily be spread from one person to another.

Hepatitis C is contracted via blood transfusions, contaminated medical devices, body piercing, intravenous drug use, or, rarely, through sexual contact with an infected person.

Vaccines can help prevent hepatitis A and B. International travelers can benefit from the hepatitis A vaccine before going abroad.

Elevated liver enzymes can be an indication of an acute hepatitis infection, but other factors, such as alcohol use or certain medications, can also cause the liver enzymes to go up. The doctor will use medical history, physical exams, laboratory tests, X-rays, and even a liver biopsy to confirm a viral hepatitis diagnosis.