Autoimmune Hepatitis

Unlike other forms of hepatitis, such as viral and toxic, autoimmune hepatitis occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy liver cells. As a result, the liver becomes inflamed and hepatitis develops. In severe cases or if left untreated, the condition can lead to scarring of the liver, a condition known as cirrhosis, and ultimately to liver failure.

Research has shown that genetic factors may increase some people's risk of developing autoimmune hepatitis. While people of any age can develop autoimmune hepatitis, women between the ages of 20 to 40 are most commonly affected.

Experts at UCSF Medical Center treat patients with all forms of hepatitis. If the condition progresses, resulting in severe liver damage or liver failure, a liver transplant may be necessary. The UCSF Liver Transplant Program, which integrates the efforts of gastroenterologists and surgeons, performs over 100 transplants each year, making it one of the leading programs in the U.S. Survival statistics are among the very best in the country.

For information or to make an appointment, please call:
Liver Clinic at (415) 353-2318

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated August 29, 2007