Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver characterized by the presence of inflammatory tissues in the muscle of the organ. The name is from the Greek hepar the main being hepat, that means liver organ, and suffix -itis, this means "inflammed joints". The condition can be self-constraining or can progress to fibrosis  and cirrhosis.

Hepatitis may occur with limited or no indications, but often leads to jaundice, anorexia (weak appetite) and malaise. Hepatitis is acute when it continues less than 6 months and chronic when it persists lengthier. A group of viruses known as the liver disease virus cause most cases of hepatitis globally, but it can also be due to waste (notably alcohol, certain medications and plants), other infections and autoimmune illnesses.