Autoimmune Hepatitis: Recognizing The Symptoms And Diagnosis

Autoimmune hepatitis often presents symptoms similar to other types of liver inflammation, making it difficult to distinguish based on clinical signs alone. One of the most common symptoms is general fatigue, the severity of which typically correlates with the extent of liver damage. Patients may also experience loss of appetite and an aversion to fatty foods, which are early indicators of liver dysfunction.

In more severe cases, individuals may suffer from nausea, bloating, and discomfort or pain in the liver area. These symptoms suggest more advanced liver involvement. Additionally, some patients develop visible signs such as jaundice—a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes—along with dark urine resembling strong tea. These are classic signs of impaired liver function and require prompt medical evaluation.

While symptoms can provide initial clues, they are not sufficient for diagnosing autoimmune hepatitis. Laboratory tests are essential for accurate diagnosis. Patients often show elevated levels of autoantibodies such as antinuclear antibodies (ANA) or anti-liver kidney microsomal antibodies (anti-LKM). Another key indicator is an increase in immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels, which supports the diagnosis of an autoimmune disorder affecting the liver.

If the diagnosis remains uncertain, a liver biopsy may be recommended. This procedure allows doctors to examine liver tissue for characteristic changes associated with autoimmune hepatitis. The histological findings, combined with clinical and laboratory results, help confirm the diagnosis and guide the development of an effective treatment plan tailored to the patient's specific condition.