Which one of the following is a DNA Virus?

Appeared in: JIPMER Nursing Officer-2017

Explanation

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is the correct answer as it is a DNA virus.
HBV belongs to the Hepadnaviridae family of viruses, which are characterized by their hepatotropic nature and DNA-based genome.
While most human hepatitis viruses (A, C, D, E) are RNA viruses, HBV is the notable exception.
The DNA nature of HBV is central to its life cycle, including its ability to integrate into the host genome and establish chronic infections.

Option A: Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is an RNA virus, not a DNA virus.
Option C: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is an RNA virus belonging to the Flaviviridae family.
Option D: Hepatitis D virus (HDV), also known as the delta agent, is an RNA virus.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Classification of Hepatitis Viruses by Genetic Material as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the genetic makeup (DNA vs. RNA) of hepatitis viruses is crucial for nurses as it influences the virus's mechanism of replication, potential for chronic infection, and the development of antiviral therapies.
For example, as a DNA virus, HBV can integrate into the host cell's DNA, leading to a lifelong chronic infection and increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. This is different from RNA viruses like HCV.
Patient education regarding transmission and prevention is key. HBV is preventable with a highly effective vaccine, which is a cornerstone of public health strategy.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core question. The question asks to identify the 'DNA Virus' from the given options.
This is a factual recall question based on microbiology/virology classification.
Systematically review the options, which are all types of hepatitis viruses.
Recall or use your knowledge base to classify each hepatitis virus based on its genetic material (RNA or DNA).
A useful mnemonic is that most common hepatitis viruses are RNA viruses, with Hepatitis B being the major exception.
Select the option that correctly matches the 'DNA virus' classification.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Q_08QRSG3NHA34wAaDuJp-

E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 2 p. 547-549

E6 Medicine Davidson Principles Practice 24e p. 891-893

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