Autoimmune Hepatitis

Symptoms of Autoimmune Hepatitis 🔍

Common symptoms experienced by patients include:

• Persistent itching.
• Joint pain.
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).
• Fatigue, weakness, and general exhaustion.
• A discomforting sensation under the right ribcage.

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Diagnosing Autoimmune Hepatitis 🩺

• Gastro-hepatological consultation.
• Laboratory tests:
  • Complete blood count.
  • Urinalysis.
  • Liver function tests: bilirubin (direct and total), SGOT, SGPT, ALP, PCR, LDH, GGT, fibrinogen, albumin.
  • Kidney function tests: urea (BUN), creatinine.
  • Blood iron: Serum iron levels, ferritin.
  • INR (International Normalized Ratio).
  • Blood glucose levels.
  • Electrolytes: calcium (Ca), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), chloride (Cl), sodium (Na).
  • Autoantibody tests:
    • ANA (Anti-Nuclear Antibodies): Targets the cell nucleus.
    • SMA (Smooth Muscle Antibodies): Targets smooth muscle.
    • LKM (Liver/Kidney Microsomal Antibodies): Targets microsomes in the liver and kidneys.
• Abdominal ultrasound.
• Liver biopsy: To confirm the diagnosis definitively.

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Treatment Options 💊

The goal of treatment is to manage the condition and prevent disease progression. Common approaches include:

• Corticosteroid medications: To reduce inflammation.
• Azathioprine: A medication that can improve symptoms and potentially resolve the disease in some cases.
• Long-term treatment may be required to maintain disease control.

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Is Prevention Possible? 🛡️

There are no specific preventative measures for autoimmune hepatitis. However, early diagnosis and treatment are essential for better outcomes.

1. Seek immediate medical advice from a gastro-hepatologist if you experience the symptoms listed above.
2. Early detection can help manage the condition effectively and prevent complications.

Autoimmune hepatitis, while rare, can significantly impact liver function if left untreated. Regular monitoring and adherence to prescribed treatments can help manage the condition and improve quality of life. If you notice any concerning symptoms, consult your doctor promptly.

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DISCLAIMER: The information presented on this page has been intentionally condensed and simplified to make it accessible and easier to understand for the general audience. Its purpose is solely to provide basic awareness and education on the topic discussed. It is important to note that this content is not exhaustive and does not replace or serve as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Readers are strongly advised to seek consultations with qualified healthcare professionals or specialists for accurate assessment, personalized guidance, and appropriate medical care. Relying solely on the information provided here, without professional oversight, may lead to misunderstandings or inadequate treatment.