DISEASE SCANNER
Global Incurable Diseases Tracker
Autoimmune Hepatitis
A chronic liver disease in which the immune system attacks the liver, causing inflammation and potentially leading to cirrhosis and liver failure. Can occur at any age, more common in women. Often associated with other autoimmune conditions.
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19
Symptoms
Treatment Options
Risk Factors
Diagnostic Methods
- 1Liver function tests (elevated AST/ALT)
- 2Autoantibodies (ANA, SMA, anti-LKM1)
- 3IgG levels (elevated)
- 4Liver biopsy (interface hepatitis)
- 5Exclusion of viral hepatitis
- 6Scoring systems (IAIHG)
Prognosis
Good with treatment; 10-year survival >90%. 80-90% achieve remission with standard therapy. Without treatment, 40% mortality at 6 months in severe cases. Cirrhosis develops in 10-20% despite treatment.
Prevention
- No primary prevention
- Avoid hepatotoxic drugs
- Alcohol moderation
- Vaccination (hepatitis A and B)
- Regular monitoring
Research Status
Corticosteroids (prednisone) plus azathioprine induce remission in 80-90%. Lifelong immunosuppression usually required. Liver transplantation for fulminant failure or end-stage disease.
Affected Countries
Sources
- https://www.liverfoundation.org/for-patients/about-the-liver/diseases-of-the-liver/autoimmune-hepatitis
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459362
- https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
- https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.