Patient Name: Jeffrey Buddell
Date of Birth: 11/18/1985
Clinical Notes: Male patient presents with fatigue, jaundice, dark urine, unintended weight loss, and poor appetite. He reports that the symptoms have been getting worse over several weeks. He states that he "thought I was just dehydrated and everything would get better, but it's getting much worse." Yesterday, he noticed several bruises on his hips and legs but does not remember any injury that would have caused the bleeding. Mr. Buddell admits to heavy alcohol intake in the past and three instances of intravenous drug use, but he has been sober for more than six months.
Current vital signs: BP 122/78, HR 88 bpm, Temperature 100.2°F
The physician suspects hepatitis and orders laboratory tests to confirm his diagnosis.

Question #1: Given Mr. Buddell's symptoms and history, which type of hepatitis is most likely? (Note, incubation periods of the different types of hepatitis.)
Question #2: Describe the pathophysiology and route of infection for the type of hepatitis you believe Mr. Buddell is exhibiting.
Question #3: What are potential complications of hepatitis that Mr. Buddell should be aware of?
Question #4: If the physician orders a complete blood count (CBC), which abnormal results would you expect?
Question #5: Should Mr. Buddell worry about passing this disease to other people? If so, what protective measures can he take?