Autoimmune hepatitis occurs when the immune system attacks the liver cells, causing inflammation and damage. It is unclear what causes autoimmune hepatitis, but it may be triggered by genetics, environmental factors, or infections. If left untreated, autoimmune hepatitis can cause serious complications, such as cirrhosis, liver failure, or cancer of the liver.
The symptoms of autoimmune hepatitis may vary from person to person, and some people may have no symptoms at all. However, some common signs and symptoms of autoimmune hepatitis include:
Fatigue
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Abdominal pain or discomfort
Dark urine
Pale stools
Itching
Joint pain
Loss of appetite
Nausea or vomiting
Weight loss
Spider veins (small blood vessels that appear on the skin)
Enlarged liver or spleen
Ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdomen)
Edema (swelling of the legs or feet)
Bleeding or bruising easily
Confusion or mental changes
To diagnose autoimmune hepatitis, the doctor will ask about the medical history, perform a physical examination, and order some tests. The tests may include:
Blood tests: To check the levels of liver enzymes, antibodies, and other markers of liver function and inflammation.
Liver biopsy: To take a small sample of liver tissue and examine it under a microscope for signs of damage and scarring.
Imaging tests: To visualize the liver and rule out other causes of liver disease, such as hepatitis viruses, alcohol, or drugs.
The main goal of treatment for autoimmune hepatitis is to suppress the immune system and reduce the inflammation and damage to the liver. The treatment may include:
In most cases, corticosteroids, such as prednisone, and immunosuppressants, such as azathioprine or mycophenolate, are used to suppress the immune system and prevent further liver damage. A doctor must closely monitor these medications for side effects, such as weight gain, bone loss, infection, or diabetes.
A liver transplant is a procedure in which a damaged liver is replaced with a healthy one from a donor. This is typically the last resort when medications fail to control the disease, or if the liver is severely damaged. In order to prevent rejection of a new liver, immunosuppressant drugs must be taken for life after a liver transplant.
There is no known way to prevent autoimmune hepatitis, but some steps may help reduce the risk of complications or worsening of the disease. These include:
Avoiding alcohol and other substances that may harm the liver, such as certain medications, herbal supplements, or illegal drugs.
Getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, which can cause additional liver damage if contracted.
Eating a balanced diet and maintaining a healthy weight, which can improve liver function and overall health.
Regularly monitoring the liver function and following the doctor’s advice on medication dosage and frequency.
Seeking medical attention promptly if any signs or symptoms of autoimmune hepatitis or liver failure occur.
