Treatment:

Prednisone or other corticosteroid medications help reduce the inflammation. Azathioprine and mercaptopurine are drugs used to treat other autoimmune disorders. They have been shown to help patients with autoimmune hepatitis, as well.

Some patients may receive a liver transplant.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome varies. Corticosteroid therapy may slow the disease progression. However, autoimmune hepatitis may worsen to cirrhosis and require a liver transplant.

Complications:

• Cirrhosis
• Complications related to steroids and other medications
• Hepatocellular carcinoma
• Liver cell failure

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you notice symptoms of autoimmune hepatitis.