The risk factors for infectious or non-infectious hepatitis are to be first determined based on the history of the patient. A physical examination is necessary to determine hepatitis. Gentle pressure on the abdomen could reveal an enlarged liver, tenderness, or pain, which will be noted by the physician. Also, the color (yellow) of the skin and eyes would be checked for jaundice.

To test the efficiency of the liver, blood samples are taken to conduct a liver function test. An abnormal result would be the first indication of a problem. When the liver enzyme level is high, it may indicate a damaged or stressed liver or a nonfunctional liver.

In the case of abnormal liver function test results, other blood tests will be done to find the source of the problem. It is done to check the type of virus that causes hepatitis. It could be used to check for antibodies in conditions like autoimmune hepatitis.

An abdominal ultrasound is used to take a close look at the liver and other organs in proximity. It reveals the image of the organs within the abdomen. It also reveals fluid in the abdomen, liver tumors, liver damage or enlargement, or gallbladder abnormalities.

An invasive procedure called biopsy is done where a sample of tissue from the liver is taken through the skin with the needle. It does not need surgery. The test confirms the extent of infection or inflammation that has affected the liver. Even unaffected areas can be checked with this sample.

Treatment of hepatitis
The treatment of hepatitis depends on the type of hepatitis and also whether the infection is acute or chronic.

• Hepatitis A – This type of illness is usually short term and does not require much treatment. If symptoms cause significant discomfort, bed rest may be recommended. In case of vomiting or diarrhea, hydration or nutrition is necessary. There is a vaccine available for the prevention of hepatitis A. Vaccinations for both children and adults are available, and it can be combined with the vaccine for hepatitis B.
• Hepatitis B – No specific treatment for acute hepatitis B is required. Chronic hepatitis B needs to be treated with antiviral medication, which is costly and needs to be taken for several months or years. Regular medical evaluation and monitoring are also important to determine the response of the virus to the treatment.
• Hepatitis C – Acute and chronic forms of hepatitis C are treated with antiviral medications. Those who develop cirrhosis may be considered for a liver transplant. There is no vaccine for hepatitis C as of now.
• Hepatitis D – A vaccination for hepatitis B can be used to prevent hepatitis D as it is developed only in the presence of hepatitis B. No antiviral medication exists for hepatitis D.
• Hepatitis E – There are no medications to treat hepatitis E as the infection typically resolves on its own. Adequate rest, plenty of fluid, and nutrients help in a cure.

It is extremely important to use corticosteroids in the early treatment of autoimmune hepatitis. It is effective in 80% of the patients. Other immune-suppressing drugs are also used as alternatives for treatment.