Which symptom can be associated with severe hepatitis cases?

Severe hepatitis can lead to significant liver dysfunction, which can directly affect the central nervous system. One of the symptoms that can arise from this condition is stupor or coma. This is primarily due to the accumulation of toxins in the bloodstream, a condition known as hepatic encephalopathy. When the liver is severely compromised, it is less able to filter out these harmful substances, leading to alterations in mental status, which can range from confusion to deep stupor and even coma.

The other symptoms listed, while they may be associated with various medical issues, do not specifically correlate with the critical progression of severe hepatitis. Weight gain is usually not associated with hepatitis but rather with fluid retention in certain conditions. A persistent cough typically relates to respiratory issues rather than liver diseases. High fever may occur with infections but is not a hallmark sign of severe hepatitis, which often presents without significant fever. Thus, stupor or coma distinctly aligns with the critical consequences of severe hepatitis.