Hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotypes 1 and 2 are predominantly associated with waterborne epidemic transmission. Hepatitis E in pregnant women is particularly dangerous because it causes:
- A Fulminant hepatic failure with mortality up to 15–25% in the third trimester ✓
- B Chronic hepatitis in ≥50% of pregnant women
- C Vertical transmission causing congenital hepatitis E in >30% of neonates
- D Prolonged neonatal jaundice with iron overload
Correct answer: A. Fulminant hepatic failure with mortality up to 15–25% in the third trimester
Explanation
HEV genotype 1 infection in pregnant women (particularly third trimester) causes fulminant hepatic failure with case fatality rates of 15–25%, compared to < 1% in non-pregnant adults. The mechanism involves hormonal immune modulation and increased viral replication. Vertical transmission occurs but is less common. HEV does not cause chronic infection in immunocompetent individuals (genotypes 1/2).
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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