What is autoimmune hepatitis?

Autoimmune hepatitis is a rare, severe, and chronic liver disease that arises in genetically predisposed people worldwide. It is caused by the immune system attacking healthy liver cells. It can be difficult to diagnose and is often overlooked or misdiagnosed, leading to long-term complications if left untreated.

Common symptoms of autoimmune hepatitis can include fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain, itching, nausea, and vomiting. If a person experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis.

Diagnosing autoimmune hepatitis can be difficult as the signs and symptoms are often similar to other liver diseases. A doctor may start by conducting a thorough physical examination, followed by additional testing such as blood work, imaging or biopsy.

Treatment options are usually a combination of lifestyle changes, such as reducing alcohol consumption and maintaining a healthy diet, steroids, to medications that suppress the immune system. In the worst cases, a liver transplant may be necessary for fulminant liver failure.

With proper diagnosis and management, autoimmune hepatitis can be managed successfully, and many people live long, healthy lives with this condition.

[include filepath=’/inc/bootstrap-accordion.php’]

Contact Gastroenterology Associates of Brooklyn to learn more about these liver diseases. you will always be treated with respect and compassion.