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Autoimmune Hepatitis
Autoimmune hepatitis develops when the immune system attacks healthy liver cells, causing inflammation and scarring. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen offers tailored treatment combining advanced testing, comprehensive dietary guidance, and ongoing therapies to safeguard and restore liver health.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Family history of liver or other autoimmune diseases
Female gender (women are affected more often than men)
Certain viral infections or adverse reactions to medications
Signs and Symptoms
Fatigue or a general feeling of weakness
Mild fever
Pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen
Joint aches
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Dark urine and/or pale (clay-colored) stools
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Autoimmune Hepatitis?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He takes a thorough history of your epigastric pain, fatigue, and any other symptoms, and reviews personal and family risk factors for liver or autoimmune disease.
Blood Tests
He orders liver function tests (ALT, AST, bilirubin), autoimmune markers (ANA, SMA, LKM-1), and general inflammatory markers to assess liver injury and immune activity.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal ultrasound to evaluate liver size, texture, and rule out gallstones or other biliary issues.
MRI (or CT) scan to get detailed images of liver inflammation, fibrosis, and surrounding structures.
Endoscopy (for Epigastric Pain)
If your primary complaint is epigastric pain, he may recommend an upper endoscopy (EGD) to inspect the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum for ulcers, gastritis, or reflux.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
Liver biopsy to confirm autoimmune hepatitis, evaluate the degree of inflammation and scarring, and tailor the treatment plan accordingly.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for autoimmune hepatitis.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Balanced, nutrient-rich meal plans to support liver repair
Complete alcohol avoidance to prevent further liver injury
Gentle daily exercise routines to boost energy and overall well-being
2. Medications
Corticosteroids (for rapid reduction of liver inflammation)
Immunosuppressive agents (to calm the overactive immune response)
Ongoing lab monitoring to tailor dosages and ensure safety
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
FibroScan for non-invasive assessment of liver fibrosis
Liver biopsy when detailed tissue analysis is needed
Referral for liver transplant evaluation in cases of advanced damage
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is autoimmune hepatitis?
It is a condition where your immune system attacks your liver, causing swelling and damage.
Can I catch it from someone else?
No. It is not spread by germs. It is caused by your own immune system.
What are the main treatments?
Treatments include healthy habits, medicines that reduce swelling, and sometimes special procedures.
Can I live a long life with this?
Yes. With good care, many people live normal lives. It is important to treat it early.
What tests do I need?
You may need blood tests, liver scans, and sometimes a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
Does food matter?
Yes. Eating well and not drinking alcohol can help protect your liver.
When should I see a liver specialist?
If you feel tired, have yellow skin or belly pain, make an appointment soon. Early care is best.
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