Question

Which hepatitis virus is associated with the highest mortality rate during pregnancy?

• A. Hepatitis E
• B. Hepatitis A
• C. Hepatitis B
• D. Hepatitis C

Hint:

Remember: Hepatitis E is particularly dangerous in pregnant women, especially in the third trimester, due to risk of fulminant hepatic failure.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Clinical Importance in Pregnancy.
Among all hepatitis viruses, Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is known to cause severe disease in pregnant women.
The risk is especially high during the third trimester of pregnancy.
Step 2: Mortality and Complications.
HEV infection in pregnancy can rapidly progress to fulminant hepatic failure.
Maternal mortality rates may reach 20–30% in severe cases.
It is also associated with poor fetal outcomes including preterm delivery and fetal loss.
Step 3: Comparison with Other Options.
Hepatitis A generally causes a self-limiting illness with low mortality.
Hepatitis B and C are more associated with chronic liver disease rather than acute fulminant failure in pregnancy.
They do not show the same high mortality risk as Hepatitis E in pregnant women.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Therefore, Hepatitis E is associated with the highest mortality rate during pregnancy.