| Theme | Liver and Immunity | |
|---|---|---|
| Title | Prognosis and Treatment for Autoimmune Hepatitis | |
| Publish Date | 2011/10 | |
| Author | Hiromasa Ohira | Department of Gastroenterology and Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine |
| Author | Kazumichi Abe | Department of Gastroenterology and Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine |
| Author | Atsushi Takahashi | Department of Gastroenterology and Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine |
| Author | Junko Yokokawa | Department of Gastroenterology and Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine |
| [ Summary ] | The goals of treatment for autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) include normalization of ALT and IgG, histological resolution of activity and fibrosis, and achievement of sustained remission. It is important to evaluate disease severity, resistance to corticosteroid treatment, and overlapping PBC. Management, which is dependent on individual conditions is also necessary for the treatment of AIH. Administration of corticosteroids alone or in combination with azathioprine is the basic treatment for AIH. Ninety percent of patients with AIH achieve clinical and laboratory remission within six months of the start of treatment. However, a long period is needed for histological improvement. The prognosis for AIH patients is comparatively good. However, patients with acute liver failure or liver cirrhosis have worse prognoses. Prompt treatment with corticosteroids alone or in combination with azathioprine, with consideration being given to liver transplantation, is important after diagnosis of early phase AIH. | |