**Question:** About hepatitis B, false statement is:

A. Hepatitis B is always a self-limiting infection
B. Hepatitis B is caused by a single virus
C. Hepatitis B is exclusively transmitted through blood transfusion
D. Hepatitis B is always a fatal disease

**Core Concept:** Hepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and can lead to chronic infection, liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** Hepatitis B is a viral infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). The correct answer, **D. Hepatitis B is always a fatal disease**, is incorrect because many individuals with acute hepatitis B can recover fully without any long-term complications. However, chronic infection is a significant concern, as it can lead to liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**

A. **Hepatitis B is always a self-limiting infection:** False. While some cases of acute hepatitis B may resolve without complications, chronic infection is a significant concern.

B. **Hepatitis B is caused by a single virus:** False. Hepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), which is a DNA virus belonging to the Hepadnaviridae family.

C. **Hepatitis B is exclusively transmitted through blood transfusion:** False. Hepatitis B can be transmitted through various modes of transmission, including blood, sexual contact, mother-to-child transmission, and needle sharing among drug users.

**Clinical Pearl:** It is essential for healthcare professionals to educate patients and the public about the various modes of transmission of hepatitis B to prevent infection and promote public health. Understanding the natural history of hepatitis B is crucial for managing patients and providing appropriate screening guidelines for high-risk groups, such as blood donors, pregnant women, and patients with chronic liver disease.