Hepatitis A primarily infects which organ?

Hepatitis A primarily affects the liver, which is the organ responsible for processing toxins, metabolizing drugs, and producing bile for digestion. The virus is transmitted through the fecal-oral route, often through contaminated food or water, leading to inflammation of the liver. Symptoms of Hepatitis A may include jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite, reflecting liver dysfunction.

Understanding that the virus specifically targets the liver is essential for recognizing how Hepatitis A can disrupt liver function and lead to acute liver disease. As the liver is integral to many metabolic processes, the impact of Hepatitis A emphasizes the importance of liver health and the need for vaccination and hygiene practices to prevent transmission. Thus, while the kidney, heart, and spleen have their own functions and roles in the body, they are not primarily affected by Hepatitis A.