Question 1

What is autoimmune hepatitis?

Accepted Answer

Autoimmune hepatitis is a chronic inflammatory liver disease caused by immune activity directed against liver tissue [1,4].

Question 2

What symptoms can autoimmune hepatitis cause?

Accepted Answer

Symptoms may include fatigue, nausea, reduced appetite, joint pain, abdominal discomfort, itching and jaundice, although some people have no symptoms [1,2].

Question 3

How is autoimmune hepatitis diagnosed?

Accepted Answer

Diagnosis uses liver tests, immunoglobulin levels, autoantibodies, exclusion of other causes and often liver biopsy [4].

Question 4

How is autoimmune hepatitis treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment commonly uses corticosteroids with azathioprine or another immunosuppressant to achieve and maintain remission [4].

Question 5

Can autoimmune hepatitis lead to cirrhosis?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Persistent untreated inflammation can cause fibrosis, cirrhosis, portal hypertension and liver failure [1,4].

Question 6

Can acupuncture cure autoimmune hepatitis?

Accepted Answer

No. Acupuncture cannot suppress the underlying autoimmune liver inflammation or replace immunosuppressive treatment [7].

Question 7

Can acupuncture be used for fatigue or nausea?

Accepted Answer

It may sometimes be considered as adjunctive symptom support after medical assessment and with attention to bleeding and infection risks [7].

Question 8

Are Chinese herbs safe in autoimmune hepatitis?

Accepted Answer

Not automatically. Some herbs and supplements can cause liver injury or interact with immunosuppressive medicines [5].

Question 9

Should corticosteroids be stopped when liver tests improve?

Accepted Answer

No. Treatment should be changed only by the hepatology team because relapse is common and abrupt withdrawal can be dangerous [4].

Question 10

Which symptoms require emergency care?

Accepted Answer

Confusion, severe jaundice, vomiting blood, black stools, collapse, marked abdominal swelling or major bleeding require urgent assessment [1,4].

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