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Autoimmune Hepatitis

Chronic inflammatory liver disease in which the immune system attacks liver cells.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department. Book Appointment →

What is Autoimmune Hepatitis?

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic inflammatory liver disease that develops when the immune system mistakenly targets the liver parenchyma. It can be seen at any age; however, two peaks are observed: 10-30 years and 40-60 years. The female-to-male patient ratio is 3-4 times higher.

Type 1 AIH (most common): characterized by ANA and ASMA positivity. Type 2 AIH: defined by anti-LKM1 positivity, more frequently seen in childhood. Both types show marked elevation of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST).

The international AIH scoring system is used for diagnosis; liver biopsy supports the diagnosis. If untreated, it progresses to cirrhosis and liver failure. Remission can be achieved in the vast majority of patients with corticosteroid-based immunosuppression.

Symptoms

Fatigue, weakness and general malaise
Right upper abdominal pain or discomfort
Jaundice and dark urine
Nausea, decreased appetite and weight loss
Joint pain (arthralgia)
Skin rash and acne (especially in type 1)
Sudden onset with acute hepatitis presentation (in some cases)

Risk Factors

Female sex
Genetic predisposition (HLA-DR3 and HLA-DR4 haplotypes)
Other autoimmune diseases (thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis, celiac)
Exposure to certain drugs and toxins (may be a trigger)
Viral hepatitis infections (may play a triggering role)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If unexplained fatigue and elevated liver enzymes are present together
  • If jaundice, dark urine or pale stool develop
  • If there are liver findings together with autoimmune disease history
  • If viral causes have been excluded in acute hepatitis presentation

Treatment Methods

01
Prednisolone: high dose for remission induction, then slow tapering
02
Azathioprine: added to steroid maintenance therapy, allows steroid dose reduction
03
Mycophenolate mofetil: alternative in cases intolerant to azathioprine
04
Treatment response evaluation: ALT normalization and biochemical remission
05
Long-term follow-up and relapse management
06
Liver transplantation evaluation if cirrhosis develops

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.