10 Hepatitis A Symptoms
Symptom #10: Pruritus
Pruritus, or itching, may be a symptom of hepatitis A infection. Specifically, cholestatic pruritus (itching due to arrest in the flow of bile) may occur. It is most commonly caused by conditions such as obstructive choledocholithiasis, cholestasis, primary biliary cirrhosis, hepatitis infection, and primary sclerosing cholangitis. These findings suggest that products of the liver play a role in pruritus, although the specific product or mechanism is still unknown.
The theory that the deposit of bile salts into the skin are the cause of itching in cholestasis (slow bile flow) has been proven incorrect. However, there are many complex theories in its place. Furthermore, patients that experience this symptom, have reported certain relief after administration of bile-chelating agents.
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