Autoimmune hepatitis is a chronic liver disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy liver cells. This immune response causes inflammation, which can lead to pain, scarring, and potentially permanent liver damage if not managed.
Symptoms often develop slowly, though some people may experience a sudden flare-up. Common signs include:
The exact trigger for autoimmune hepatitis is unknown, but several factors can contribute:
If you're experiencing symptoms of autoimmune hepatitis or have been referred for further evaluation, our Jersey Village team at GastroDoxs is ready to help. Call us at 832-632-4070 or request an appointment online to discuss your diagnosis, review treatment options, and begin a personalized care plan-right here at home.
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. Please consult a healthcare provider for medical advice specific to your situation.
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Common symptoms include persistent fatigue, pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), loss of appetite, nausea, dark-colored urine, pale stools, and joint aches.
The exact cause is unknown, but risk factors include a family history of autoimmune diseases, past viral infections, long-term exposure to certain chemicals or medications, hormonal influences, and the presence of other autoimmune conditions.
The designated ICD-10 code for autoimmune hepatitis is K75.4.
Home management involves taking prescribed medications on schedule, avoiding alcohol, following a balanced diet, ensuring adequate vitamin D and calcium intake, and attending regular lab tests to monitor liver function.
Flare-ups can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Early medical intervention and adherence to treatment plans can help shorten the duration and severity of flare-ups.
Yes. In addition to standard therapies like steroids and immunosuppressants, newer targeted immune therapies are currently being studied to offer more precise control of liver inflammation.
Yes. "Autoimmune hepatic liver disease" is another term used to describe the same condition-where the immune system attacks and inflames the liver.
Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to check liver enzymes and autoantibodies, imaging studies such as ultrasound, and sometimes a liver biopsy to assess the extent of inflammation and damage.
You should consult a liver specialist if you experience unexplained fatigue, persistent abdominal discomfort, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or abnormal liver test results.
There is currently no cure for autoimmune hepatitis, but most patients can achieve remission and manage the disease effectively with long-term treatment and regular monitoring.
