Autoimmune Hepatitis: Basic Disease Information - iMedix

Autoimmune Hepatitis | Pathogenesis, Signs & Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment

The exact cause of Autoimmune Hepatitis is unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder, where the immune system mistakenly targets the liver. Genetics and environmental factors may play a role in its development. The disease can progress slowly over many years or can have a more rapid onset.

Symptoms of Autoimmune Hepatitis can vary, but they often include fatigue, abdominal discomfort, jaundice, itching, joint pain, and nausea. In some cases, there may be no symptoms at all and the disease is detected during routine blood tests.

Diagnosing Autoimmune Hepatitis involves a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, and various tests including blood tests, liver function tests, antibody testing, and liver biopsy. These tests help to rule out other liver diseases and determine the severity of liver inflammation.

Treatment for Autoimmune Hepatitis aims to reduce liver inflammation, prevent further liver damage, and manage symptoms. This typically involves the use of immunosuppressive medications, such as corticosteroids, to suppress the immune system and reduce the autoimmune response. Regular monitoring and check-ups are necessary to evaluate treatment effectiveness and liver function.

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While there is no cure for Autoimmune Hepatitis, timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help manage the condition effectively and prevent complications. With proper medical management, many people with Autoimmune Hepatitis can lead normal and healthy lives.

Autoimmune Hepatitis

• Abdominal discomfort/pain
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Joint pain
• Fever
• Dark-colored urine
• Pale-colored stools
• Enlarged liver
• Itchy skin
• Weight loss

Autoimmune Hepatitis

• Cause:
• The exact cause of autoimmune hepatitis is unknown.
• It is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors.
• Genetic predisposition may play a role in certain individuals.
• Environmental triggers, such as certain infections or drugs, may initiate an abnormal immune response.
• An autoimmune reaction occurs where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy liver cells.

Diagnosis methods for Autoimmune Hepatitis:

1. Medical History

A doctor will first review your medical history, including any symptoms you may have noticed and any previous medical conditions you’ve had.

2. Physical Examination

A physical examination will be performed to assess any signs of liver damage or enlargement, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) or an enlarged liver.

3. Blood Tests

Several blood tests can help diagnose Autoimmune Hepatitis, including:

• Liver function tests
• Antinuclear antibody (ANA) test
• Smooth muscle antibody (SMA) test
• Liver Kidney Microsomal antibody (LKM) test
• IgG antibody test

4. Liver Biopsy

A liver biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis. This involves obtaining a small sample of liver tissue for examination under a microscope to look for signs of inflammation and liver damage.

5. Serology Testing

In some cases, additional serology testing may be done to rule out other liver diseases, such as viral hepatitis.