Autoimmune Hepatitis
Autoimmune hepatitis is when the immune system mistakenly attacks the liver, causing ongoing inflammation. Untreated it can scar the liver, but it usually responds well to treatment.
Causes & risk factors
- An immune system that attacks liver cells
- A genetic tendency
- Sometimes triggered by an infection or certain medicines
- More common in women
- Linked with other autoimmune conditions
Common symptoms
Tests & diagnosis
- LFT
- Autoantibody tests (ANA, SMA, LKM)
- Immunoglobulin (IgG) levels
- Liver biopsy to confirm
- Liver ultrasound
Treatment & management
- Steroids to calm the immune attack, often started at a higher dose then reduced
- Steroid-sparing immune-modifying medicines for maintenance
- Long-term treatment and monitoring to keep it in remission
- Avoid alcohol
- Bone and vaccination care while on immune-lowering medicine
When to see a doctor urgently
- Yellow eyes or skin
- Persistent tiredness with abnormal liver tests
- Tummy swelling or easy bruising
- A flare of symptoms while on treatment
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about autoimmune hepatitis. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Is autoimmune hepatitis curable?
It is usually controlled rather than cured. Most people do very well on treatment, which keeps inflammation in remission; medicine is often needed long-term.
Is autoimmune hepatitis caused by a virus?
No. Unlike viral hepatitis, it is not an infection and is not contagious. It happens because the immune system attacks the liver by mistake.
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MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.