Acute Hepatitis (as cause of Polyarthralgias)

Acute Hep A and B can cause symmetric small-joint arthralgias

Consider work-up if other typical symptoms:
  • Fevers
  • Nausea, vomiting, anorexia, malaise
  • RUQ abdominal pain / tenderness
  • Jaundice
Diagnosis:  Elevated transaminases (LFTs: ALT / AST)
  • If elevated, order:
    • Anti-HepA IgM antibody
    • Anti-HepB core IgM antibody

See our posting “Hepatitis, Acute”