More Common in Women
While the cause of autoimmune hepatitis is unclear, the condition is known to occur more often in women and to run in families. It is more commonly found in people with other autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disease or inflammatory bowel disease.
Seek Care If You Have Autoimmune Hepatitis Symptoms
Some people with autoimmune hepatitis do not have any symptoms. Others may have joint pain, skin rashes, nausea, poor appetite, and fatigue. If you have these symptoms and your liver tests are abnormal, it’s important to seek medical care with a hepatologist as soon as possible. Liver specialists at Duke will diagnose your condition and start treatment promptly. This will minimize your symptoms and keep your liver as healthy as possible. Most people with autoimmune hepatitis do well and never need a liver transplant.
Why Early Diagnosis and Expert Treatment Are Important
Left untreated, inflammation caused by autoimmune hepatitis can result in permanent scarring of your liver, called cirrhosis. Liver cancer, liver failure, and other serious complications may also occur. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent these problems.
Treatment for Complications
If autoimmune hepatitis leads to cirrhosis and other health problems, our hepatologist will work with other specialists to recommend the most effective treatment for your condition.
