OPSC OAS 2019 PrelimsScience & TechnologyQuestion 3
Solved previous year question from the OPSC OAS/OCS 2019 Preliminary Examination (General Studies), with the official answer key and a detailed explanation.
Question
Hepatitis is a:
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Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: (C) Bacterial disease or (D) Viral disease (OPSC accepted more than one option)
- While Hepatitis is most commonly and classically caused by viruses (Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E), it can also be caused by bacterial infections. Certain bacteria such as Leptospira (causing Leptospirosis), Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and Salmonella typhi can cause hepatitis as a secondary manifestation — this is referred to as bacterial hepatitis.
- Therefore, hepatitis as a condition — meaning inflammation of the liver — is not exclusively viral in origin. It can result from bacterial infections, viral infections, autoimmune conditions, alcohol, and toxic substances.
