What type of hepatitis can be classified as either acute or chronic?

Hepatitis C is classified as either acute or chronic due to the nature of the virus and the infection it causes. Acute hepatitis C refers to the initial phase of the infection, which can occur within the first six months after exposure to the virus. During this time, some individuals may experience symptoms such as fatigue, jaundice, and abdominal pain, while others may remain asymptomatic.

If the infection lasts longer than six months, it progresses to the chronic phase. Chronic hepatitis C can lead to long-term health issues, including liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and an increased risk of liver cancer. This chronic aspect is a significant characteristic of hepatitis C, distinguishing it from other types of hepatitis, such as hepatitis A and hepatitis B, which have different patterns of infection and persistence in the body.

While hepatitis B can also lead to chronic infection, it is more complex and often presents in both acute and chronic forms with particular risk factors involved, while hepatitis C is specifically recognized for its capability to lead to chronic infection after the acute phase. Thus, hepatitis C uniquely embodies both acute and chronic classifications in a way that aligns with the question asked.