1. Clinical and Laboratory Characteristics of Viral Hepatitis in Pregnancy —

CLINICAL AND LABORATORY CHARACTERISTICS OF VIRAL HEPATITIS IN PREGNANCY
Zhannur Toksonbaeva
S. Tentishev Asian Medical Institute, lecturer
Meerim Almazbekova
S. Tentishev Asian Medical Institute, lecturer

Abstract
Relevance of the problem: Viral hepatitis during pregnancy is a significant medical and social issue. Pregnancy can exacerbate the course of viral infections and increase the risk of serious complications, including liver failure, preterm birth,
intrauterine fetal death, and vertical transmission. The most dangerous in acute form
are hepatitis A and E, especially in the third trimester, while chronic hepatitis B, C, and
D are associated with liver damage in the mother and neonatal infection. The problem
is compounded by insufficient screening coverage and limited access to therapy and
vaccination in many regions.

Aim of the review: To summarize current data on the epidemiology, clinical
features, maternal and fetal risks, and modern strategies for preventing vertical
transmission of viral hepatitis during pregnancy.

Methods: A review of publications from the last 10 years in international
databases (PubMed, WHO, CDC) was conducted. Articles on hepatotropic viruses in
pregnant women, their effects on pregnancy outcomes, and recommendations for
management and prevention were included.

The result of the study: HAV and HEV cause severe acute disease, particularly
in the third trimester. HBV is the main factor in vertical transmission, which can be
prevented with antiviral therapy and newborn vaccination. HCV and HDV carry a
lower risk but increase with coinfections and high viral load.

The conclusion: Effective management of viral hepatitis in pregnancy requires
a comprehensive approach including timely diagnosis, viral load monitoring, safe
antiviral therapy, and prevention of mother-to-child transmission. Expanding access to
screening and treatment, especially in resource-limited settings, is essential to reduce
the global burden of the disease.

Keywords: viral hepatitis, vertical transmission, gestation, liver failure,
hepatotropic viruses, cholestasis.