It is often associated with other autoimmune disorders: especially in rheumatology, some conditions can coexist. Steroid therapy (cortisone) represents the first line of treatment
I am 50 years old and have high transaminase values. I was recently diagnosed with type 2 autoimmune hepatitis. Having pain all over my body, I did tests for rheumatic diseases which came back negative. Could the pains stem from hepatitis? Do you need therapy or a biopsy?
He answers Roberta D’AmbrosioHead of Gastroenterology Outpatient Clinics, Maggiore Policlinico Hospital, Milan (GO TO THE FORUM)
Autoimmune hepatitis predominantly affects women and requires regular specialist follow-up. It is often associated with other autoimmune disorders (joint diseases, hypothyroidism, celiac disease and many others), but especially in rheumatology some conditions can coexist with this type of liver disease without being related to them. The rheumatologist specialist able to make differential diagnosis. Liver biopsy is not fundamental, especially if the clinical picture is indolent, there is a suspicion of mild disease and / or immediate pharmacological treatment is not considered indicated. In the latter cases recommended regular monitoring of blood tests, to highlight any reactivations of hepatitis, which are associated with progression of liver damage and may require therapy. Autoimmune hepatitis characterized by activity and retirement phases; the histological examination is most useful when performed on the occasion of a significant alteration of the examinations. Steroid therapy (cortisone) represents the first line of treatment: potential long-term side effects require careful consideration by the specialist.
October 9, 2022 (change October 9, 2022 | 18:05)
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