Autoimmune Hepatitis
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Overview
Plain-Language Overview
Autoimmune Hepatitis is a condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the liver, causing inflammation. This inflammation can lead to symptoms like fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and abdominal discomfort. Over time, if untreated, it can cause serious liver damage including scarring and liver failure. The disease primarily affects the liver's ability to function properly, impacting digestion and toxin removal. It is a chronic condition that often requires ongoing medical care to manage.
Clinical Definition
Autoimmune Hepatitis is a chronic inflammatory liver disease characterized by immune-mediated destruction of hepatocytes. It is caused by a loss of immune tolerance leading to autoantibody production and lymphoplasmacytic infiltration of the liver parenchyma. The disease often presents with elevated aminotransferases, hypergammaglobulinemia (especially increased IgG), and characteristic autoantibodies such as ANA, SMA, or anti-LKM1. It predominantly affects young to middle-aged women and can progress to cirrhosis and liver failure if untreated. The pathogenesis involves a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, environmental triggers, and immune dysregulation. Histologically, interface hepatitis with plasma cell-rich infiltrates is a hallmark finding.