How to Treat Autoimmune Hepatitis

The immune system is supposed to protect us from invaders such as bacteria, viruses and any other harmful organism. In autoimmune hepatitis the immune system damages the liver. This disease causes severe inflammation that can cause the liver to harden and scar and eventually progress to liver failure if left untreated. Possible theories for this liver disease may be that there is a genetic factor involved or perhaps a viral infection within the liver. Either of which can cause the immune system’s abnormal response. There are two types of this liver disease. Type I autoimmune hepatitis occurs more frequently in women. Type II autoimmune hepatitis most often occurs in young girls younger than 15. One of the key symptoms of any liver disease is extreme fatigue that leaves the person feeling tired all the time. In addition, the liver may enlarge causing the abdomen to look bloated. There can also be severe itching and skin rashes. Jaundice is also noted when the liver is unable to process bile, a digestive enzyme, from the liver properly. The presence of bile in the urine may cause it to be a darkish color and will give stools a pale appearance. Loss of appetite and nausea are also common symptoms. Read on to learn more about how physicians treat autoimmune hepatitis.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Corticosteroids
• Immunosuppressant
• Cyclosporine

1. A diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis can be tested by performing blood tests. Certain enzymes will be elevated. Type I and Type II autoimmune hepatitis can be differentiated by testing for specific antibodies. A liver biopsy will remove a small sample of liver tissue that can show the medical team the extent of the damage.
2. There is a greater chance of a positive outcome if this liver disease to be diagnosed early. There are ways to slow the progression of autoimmune hepatitis and perhaps a chance to heal some of the damage done.
3. Prednisone is the corticosteroid of choice when it comes to inflammation. The individual will be placed on a high dose at first. Gradually, the dosage will be decreased and tapered off.
4. Other medications that are needed are immunosuppressants, such as azathioprine. This suppresses the immune system but some patients can not tolerate it. If azathioprine is given, it will help to reduce the dose of steroids.
5. Cyclosporine can also be an option if other immunosuppressants have failed to control the immune system. This medication can help to prevent the immune system from attacking the liver. It also prevents the body from creating Lymphocytes which the body needs to create antibodies. It may take some time before there is a change in symptoms as it takes a few weeks to see benefits from this drug.

Tips & Warnings

• Autoimmune immune disease can be more severe after treatment has ceased. Report any and all new symptoms to your physician.
• With successful treatment, life expectancy appears to be the same as the general population.
• In severe cases, a liver transplant may be required.