Prevention of hepatitis B.
Hepatitis B is now the most commonly reported hepatitis in the United States and the physician's greatest infectious occupational hazard. Although dermatologists are at increased risk for contracting and transmitting hepatitis B virus, surveys continue to indicate that a substantial number do little to decrease this risk. We have summarized the recent developments regarding the transmission, diagnosis, and clinical presentation and course of hepatitis B virus infection, and have offered specific preventive measures to assist the dermatologist in keeping hepatitis B out of his medical practice. By employing these measures, dermatologists can do their part in contributing to the future eradication of this disease.
Bastien
M R
MR
Department of Dermatology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta 30912-2900.
Smith
J G
JG
D003880:Dermatology / Q000379:methods*; D004598:Electrosurgery / Q000379:methods; D004866:Equipment Contamination / Q000517:prevention & control; D006509:Hepatitis B / Q000150:complications / Q000276:immunology / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000635:transmission; D003699:Hepatitis D / Q000382:microbiology / Q000635:transmission; D006801:Humans; D011481:Protective Clothing; D013997:Time Factors; D014481:United States