Autoimmune Hepatitis

Autoimmune Hepatitis is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks liver cells, causing inflammation and damage. This can lead to scarring (cirrhosis) and liver failure if not treated. It often develops slowly and may go unnoticed until significant liver damage occurs.

Fatigue; Joint pain; Nausea or poor appetite; Pain in the upper right abdomen; Yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice); Dark urine, pale stools; Itchy skin; Menstrual irregularities; Enlarged liver or spleen; Spider-like blood vessels on the skin.

Genetic predisposition (especially HLA-DR3 or HLA-DR4 genes); Viral infections (e.g., hepatitis A, B, or C); Certain medications or toxins; Hormonal factors (more common in women); Other autoimmune diseases (like type 1 diabetes or thyroiditis); Environmental triggers.

Blood tests for liver enzymes (ALT, AST); Autoantibodies: ANA, ASMA, anti-LKM1; High IgG levels; Liver biopsy to confirm inflammation and rule out other causes; Exclusion of hepatitis viruses, alcohol damage, and medication reactions.

Steroids (usually prednisone) to reduce inflammation; Immunosuppressants like azathioprine to maintain remission; Lifelong monitoring and medication in many cases; In severe cases, a liver transplant may be needed.

Many people achieve long-term remission with treatment. Without treatment, it can lead to cirrhosis or liver failure. Early treatment greatly improves outcomes.

Affects approximately 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 50,000 people. More common in women and often diagnosed between ages 15-40.