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Autoimmune Hepatitis
Discover expert autoimmune hepatitis care in Houston with Dr. Scott at GastroDoxs. Our tailored approach combines advanced diagnostics (blood tests, imaging, liver biopsy) and personalized treatment plans to reduce liver inflammation, prevent cirrhosis, and restore your health. Trust our team.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Family history of autoimmune diseases
Other autoimmune conditions (e.g., thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis)
Women aged 30-50 (higher prevalence)
Environmental triggers such as infections or certain medications
Genetic predisposition and immune system imbalance
Signs and Symptoms
Fatigue or general weakness
Discomfort or pain in the upper right abdomen
Joint pain or muscle aches
Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Dark-colored urine and pale stools
Fever or unexplained weight loss
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History
He asks about your symptoms, recent travel, and current or past medications that may affect your digestive health.
Physical Exam
He checks your abdomen for pain, tenderness, or other signs that may indicate gastrointestinal issues.
Lab Tests
Stool samples are collected and analyzed to rule out infections or other abnormalities.
Imaging or Scope
When needed, Dr. Scott may perform a colonoscopy or imaging study to visually assess and confirm the diagnosis of ASLC.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for autoimmune hepatitis.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eat a balanced diet - include fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
Avoid alcohol - even small amounts can worsen liver inflammation
Maintain a healthy weight - extra body weight stresses the liver
Light exercise most days - supports energy, mood, and overall health
2. Medications
Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) - to reduce liver swelling
Immune-suppressing drugs - such as azathioprine or mycophenolate
Bone support - vitamin D and calcium supplementation for long-term steroid users
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Ultrasound-guided liver biopsy - confirms inflammation and scarring with precision
Endoscopy - checks for enlarged veins (varices) if cirrhosis is suspected
Liver transplant referral - for severe or treatment-resistant cases
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is autoimmune hepatitis?
Autoimmune hepatitis occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy liver cells, causing inflammation and swelling that is not due to an infection.
Is autoimmune hepatitis contagious?
No. Autoimmune hepatitis is not caused by a virus or bacteria and cannot be transmitted from person to person.
What treatments are available for autoimmune hepatitis?
Dr. Scott's approach combines immunosuppressive medications-such as corticosteroids and azathioprine-with lifestyle and dietary changes to reduce liver inflammation and prevent damage.
Can I live a normal life with this condition?
Yes. With early diagnosis, proper medication, regular monitoring, and healthy habits, most patients maintain good energy levels and a full, active life.
How often do I need liver tests?
Initially, liver function tests and immune markers are checked every 1-3 months. Once your condition is stable, Dr. Scott may space testing to every 6-12 months.
Do I need a liver biopsy?
A biopsy is often performed to confirm the diagnosis and assess the degree of inflammation and scarring. In select cases, non-invasive imaging and blood tests may suffice.
Will I need a liver transplant?
Only a small percentage of patients with advanced cirrhosis unresponsive to medical therapy require evaluation for liver transplantation.
Can I receive care if I live outside Houston?
Yes. We offer virtual consultations and coordinate lab work and imaging at local centers to ensure you receive expert care wherever you are.
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