Viral Hepatitis and Thrombosis: A Narrative Review

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a multicausal disease. Among minor risk factors, acute infections in general are associated with a transient increased risk of VTE. However, acute hepatitis is usually not reported as a potential risk factor for VTE. Recent studies suggest a possible role of viral hepatitis in the development of VTE and, in particular, of portal vein thrombosis. In this narrative review, we will discuss the possible pathogenetic roles of cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, and hepatitis A, B, and C viruses in VTE occurrence, and clinical evidence supporting this hypothesis. The hemostatic state in chronic liver disease and the role of coagulation in liver fibrosis will also be discussed.