Which sequence best describes the progression of hepatitis B signs from early to late?

• A. Jaundice followed by malaise
• B. Nonspecific malaise and nausea early, then jaundice and clay-colored stools later
• C. Immediate jaundice at exposure
• D. Cough and fever later

Answer: (B)

Hepatitis B typically starts with nonspecific systemic symptoms, such as malaise, fatigue, nausea, and loss of appetite, as the body responds to the infection and liver inflammation begins. As the disease advances and bilirubin builds up from impaired liver function and bile flow, jaundice appears. The bile that normally colors stools is reduced in the intestine, causing clay-colored stools. This progression—early nonspecific malaise and nausea, followed by jaundice with pale stools—is the pattern you’d expect. Immediate jaundice at exposure is unlikely, and respiratory symptoms like cough and fever aren’t the hallmark progression of hepatitis B.