Autoimmune liver disorders such as

• Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH)
• Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC)
• Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC)

occurs when the immune system erroneously targets liver cells.

If left untreated, these conditions can lead to severe complications, including

• Cirrhosis
• Liver cancer
• Liver failure

Understanding Autoimmune Liver Diseases

These conditions can present either as isolated diseases or as part of overlap syndromes where symptoms and markers of multiple autoimmune liver diseases are present in one individual.

AIH can affect anyone regardless of age and may progress to cirrhosis or acute liver failure without previous symptoms.

PBC predominantly affects women and explicitly targets the liver’s bile ducts, leading to progressive damage and potential cirrhosis and liver failure.

PSC is characterized by ongoing inflammation and scarring of the bile ducts, frequently linked with inflammatory bowel disease, and can escalate to serious complications like cancer and severe liver damage.

Identifying the Symptoms

The symptoms of autoimmune liver diseases can be elusive or mimic those of other conditions.

AIH can manifest as

• General malaise
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Joint discomfort

PBC may present with symptoms including

• Chronic fatigue
• Persistent itching
• Dryness of the mouth and eyes
• Elevated cholesterol level
• Bone disorders

PSC often shows through symptoms like

• Jaundice
• Itching

The subtlety and variability of symptoms usually contribute to delayed diagnoses.

Diagnostic Processes

The initial step in diagnosing these diseases typically involves comprehensive blood testing to evaluate liver function and detect inflammation.

Imaging techniques like ultrasound or MRI are often employed to examine the liver and bile ducts.

A liver biopsy might be required to definitively diagnose the condition by directly examining the extent of inflammation and scarring.

People with existing autoimmune conditions are at an increased risk and should undergo regular screenings.

Available Treatment Modalities

Treatment varies significantly based on the specific autoimmune liver disease diagnosed.

AIH is generally managed with medications aimed at suppressing the immune system to reduce its harmful activity against the liver.

In contrast, treatments for PBC focus on improving bile secretion and reducing bile acid buildup in the liver.

PSC treatment is more complex due to its association with other severe conditions and is often the focus of targeted research efforts.

In advanced stages, or when other treatments fail, liver transplantation may be considered.

Prompt treatment is essential for effective disease management and preventing irreversible liver damage.

Experiencing unexplained symptoms? It could be your liver. Contact your doctor for a comprehensive evaluation."