Autoimmune hepatitis presenting as cirrhosis in a 6 year old child

Srimukhi Anumolu Gandhi A V T .

Abstract


Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a progressive inflammatory disorder of the liver characterized by elevated transaminases, increased levels of immunoglobulin G, positive autoantibodies and interface hepatitis on histology without any other known etiology. There are two types based on seropositivity type I is positive for anti nuclear(ANA)anti smooth muscle antibody (SMA), type II is positive for anti liver kidney microsomal antibody (anti LKM ).AIH in children is rare in India probably due to under-diagnosis.We present a case of autoimmune hepatitis type II in a 6 year old girl who presented as chronic hepatitis with cirrhosis who has responded well to steroids and azathioprine. The disease should be suspected in children with liver disease when other common causes are ruled out.

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