Autoimmune hepatitis

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Definition Symptoms Causes Risk factors

When to seek medical advice Tests and diagnosis Complications Treatments and drugs

Definition

In autoimmune hepatitis, your body's immune system attacks your liver. Although the reason for this isn't entirely clear, some diseases, toxins and drugs may trigger autoimmune hepatitis in susceptible people, especially women.

Untreated autoimmune hepatitis can lead to scarring of the liver (cirrhosis) and eventually to liver failure. When diagnosed and treated early, however, autoimmune hepatitis often can be controlled with drugs that suppress the immune system. Yet these medications, which often must be taken long term, carry a number of risks and aren't always effective. A liver transplant may be an option when autoimmune hepatitis doesn't respond to drug treatments or in cases of advanced liver disease.

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Symptoms