Chronic viral hepatitis can be caused by hepatitis B or hepatitis C virus infections lasting longer than 6 months. It often presents with non-specific symptoms but can lead to serious complications affecting the liver and other organs. Treatment aims to suppress viral replication through medications like PEG-interferon or oral antivirals in order to prevent progression to cirrhosis or liver cancer. Chronic hepatitis requires long-term management as patients may experience ongoing liver inflammation and disease progression over their lifetime.