Racial differences in liver inflammation and fibrosis related to chronic hepatitis C.

Background & Aims: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is more prevalent in black compared with white Americans. However, the natural course of HCV in black patients has not been defined.

Methods: We performed a retrospective comparison of initial liver tests, HCV genotype and viral load, and liver histology findings in 87 black and 136 white American chronic hepatitis C patients who were evaluated at the University of Maryland between 1995 and 1998.

Alcoholic Hepatitis.

Alcoholic hepatitis is a common clinical problem confronting gastroenterologists and hepatologists alike. The fundamental issue regarding treatment of this disease is its recognition on the part of the physician. Chronic alcohol abuse, fever, leukocytosis, jaundice, and encephalopathy are key symptoms and signs that should prompt consideration of this diagnosis.