Hepatitis autoinmune en pediatría, una revisión del Grupo de Trabajo de la Sociedad Latinoamericana de Gastroenterología, Hepatología y Nutrición Pediátrica (LASPGHAN) / Autoimmune hepatitis in pediatrics, a review by the Working Group of the Latin American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition

La hepatitis autoinmunitaria es una enfermedad inflamatoria crónica del hígado caracterizada por una interacción compleja entre factores genéticos, respuesta inmunitaria a antígenos presentes en los hepatocitos y alteraciones de la regulación inmunitaria. Presenta una distribución global, con predominio en individuos de sexo femenino. Se clasifica en dos grupos, según el tipo de autoanticuerpos séricos detectados. La forma de presentación más frecuente es la hepatitis aguda (40 %), con síntomas inespecíficos, elevación de aminotransferasas e hipergammaglobulinemia. El tratamiento estándar consiste en la administración de fármacos inmunosupresores. Es una patología compleja, a veces difícil de diagnosticar. Si no se trata de manera adecuada, la mortalidad puede alcanzar el 75 % a los 5 años de evolución.

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the liver characterized by a complex interaction among genetic factors, immune response to antigens present in hepatocytes, and immune regulation alterations. Its distribution is global and there is a female predominance. AIH is divided into 2 groups, depending on the type of serum autoantibodies detected. The most common presentation is acute hepatitis (40%), with nonspecific symptoms, high aminotransferase levels, and hypergammaglobulinemia. Standard treatment consists of the administration of immunosuppressive drugs. It is a complex condition, often difficult to diagnose. If not managed adequately, the 5-year mortality rate may reach 75%.

Analysis of clinical features and prognosis of acute severe autoimmune hepatitis / 中华肝脏病杂志

Objective: To analyze the clinical features and prognosis of acute severe autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). Methods: A retrospective analysis of the clinical data of patients with acute severe AIH admitted to our hospital from 2008 to 2019 was divided into acute AIH (A-AIH) and chronic acute AIH (AC-AIH) according to the presence or absence of liver diseases. Patients' general condition, liver biochemistry, immunology, histological features of liver, hormonal therapies prognosis and related factors were analyzed. Results: A total of 41 cases [39 females, age (54.24 ± 10.55) years] were collected. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and total bilirubin (TBil) were significantly increased, and the international normalized ratio (INR) was > 1.5. Acute lobular inflammation was the feature of acute and severe AIH in the histology of liver. The serum IgG level was (28.36 ± 8.35) g / L. The positive rate of antinuclear antibody (ANA) and anti-smooth muscle antibody (ASMA) was 82.9%, and 17.1%, respectively. Over 70% of acute severe AIHs were AC-AIH. The duration of onset of AC-AIH was > 8 weeks, while most A-AIHs < 8 weeks, and the differences between the two groups were statistically significant (P = 0.001). The mortality rate within 30 days after hormonal treatment was 19.5%. There were statistically significant differences in TBil, Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score and leukocyte count between the death and survival group. Conclusion: The mortality rate in acute severe AIH is high, and most of them have the basis of chronic liver disease. Serum IgG level, autoantibodies and acute lobular inflammation are important factors for diagnosis. The prognosis of hormonal therapy is related to the patients' condition and course of disease.

Hepatopatías autoinmunes. Hallazgos clínicos y de laboratorio en pacientes de un hospital de referencia nacional / Autoimmune liver diseases. Clinical and laboratory findings in patients in a national reference hospital

Introducción. Las enfermedades autoinmunes del hígado son un grupo de patologías caracterizadas por una respuesta autoinmune contra los hepatocitos y/o el epitelio biliar. Sus manifestaciones clínicas son variadas, con alteraciones en las pruebas de función hepática y presencia de autoanticuerpos. Metodología. Estudio observacional descriptivo con 101 pacientes atendidos en el Hospital Universitario de La Samaritana de Bogotá D.C., entre enero a diciembre de 2019, con los diagnósticos de hepatitis autoinmune, colangitis biliar primaria, colangitis esclerosante primaria y síndrome de sobreposición. Se evaluaron los parámetros clínicos y de laboratorio, con el fin de caracterizar su frecuencia en estas patologías, debido a la importancia de un diagnóstico precoz. Resultados. Se encontraron 54 casos de hepatitis autoinmune, 19 casos de colangitis biliar primaria, 4 casos de colangitis esclerosante primaria y 24 casos de síndrome de sobreposición. El 81% fueron mujeres y la edad promedio fue de 55 años. El 39% de los pacientes tenían cirrosis. En general, los resultados se ajustaron a lo descrito internacionalmente, como es el predominio en mujeres y la comorbilidad autoinmune. Conclusión. Los hallazgos indican que cualquier alteración del perfil bioquímico hepático debe ser considerado, y se debe descartar la presencia de hepatopatías autoinmunes para diagnosticarlas de manera precoz, evitando que lleguen a cirrosis y sus complicaciones, con la necesidad de un trasplante hepático como única alternativa terapéutica.

Introduction. Autoimmune liver diseases are a group of pathologies characterized by an autoimmune response against hepatocytes and/or the biliary epithelium. Their clinical manifestations are varied, with alterations in liver function tests and the presence of autoantibodies. Methodology. Descriptive study with 101 patients who attended at the Hospital Universitario de La Samaritana in Bogota D.C., between January and December 2019, with the diagnoses of autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis and overlap syndrome. Clinical and laboratory parameters were evaluated in order to characterize their frequency in these pathologies, due to the importance of an early diagnosis. Results. There were 54 cases of autoimmune hepatitis, 19 cases of primary biliary cholangitis, 4 cases of primary sclerosing cholangitis, and 24 cases of overlap syndrome. Of all patients, 81% were women, the average age was 55 years, and 39% had cirrhosis. In general, the findings were consistent with what has been described worldwide, such as a higher prevalence in women and autoimmune comorbidity. Conclusion. The findings indicate that any alteration in the liver biochemical profile should be considered to rule out an autoimmune liver disease for an early diagnosis, avoiding the possibility of cirrhosis and its complications, with the need for a liver transplant as the only therapeutic alternative.

Avaliação de pacientes com hepatite autoimune atendidos em ambulatório de referência do sul do Brasil / Evaluation of patients with autoimmune hepatitis in a specialized outpatient clinic in southern brazil

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic liver disease, characterized by necroinflammation and autoimmune etiology. Studies evaluating the characteristics of patients with AIH are scarce in Brazil. OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to evaluate the profile of patients with AIH in a specialized center in Southern Brazil and to verify factors related to treatment response. METHODS: this was a retrospective cohort study, which analyzed demographic, epidemiological, clinical, laboratory, and histologic data. Patients with AIH diagnosed according to the criteria of the International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group (IAIHG) were included. In liver biopsies, the degree of fibrosis, histological activity, presence of hepatocyte rosettes, plasma cell infiltrates, and confluent necrosis were evaluated. In the statistical analysis, the significance level was 5%. RESULTS: Forty adults patients diagnosed with AIH were included. The evaluated population predominantly consisted of women (75.0%) and the average age at diagnosis was 44.2 years. The association with extrahepatic autoimmune diseases occurred in 20.0% of cases. Clinically, 35.0% of patients presented with acute onset hepatitis, 37.5% with cirrhosis, and 27.5% with other forms of presentation. The most common clinical manifestation was jaundice (47.5%). Thirty-five patients were treated, and of these, 97.1% used prednisone combined with azathioprine. The average treatment time was 2.7 years. Response to treatment was complete or partial in 30 (85.7%) and absent in 5 (14.3%) patients. There was no statistically significant difference when evaluating response to treatment in relation to forms of presentation, histological findings, and the presence of autoantibodies. Regarding fibrosis, regression was observed in 18.75% of the cases. CONCLUSION: Most patients with AIH were young at presentation and of female sex. The association with extrahepatic autoimmune diseases and cirrhosis at presentation was seen in a considerable proportion of patients. Treatment was effective, but there were no clinical, histological or serological parameters capable of predicting treatment response.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: A hepatite autoimune (HAI) é uma doença hepática crônica, de caráter necroinflamatório e etiologia autoimune. Os estudos que avaliam as características de pacientes com HAI são escassos no Brasil. OBJETIVO: Nosso objetivo foi avaliar o perfil dos pacientes com HAI atendidos em um centro de referência do sul do Brasil e verificar fatores relacionados à resposta ao tratamento. MÉTODOS: Este foi um estudo de coorte retrospectivo, que analisou dados demográficos, epidemiológicos e clínicos. Nas biópsias hepáticas, foram avaliados o grau de fibrose, a atividade histológica, a presença de rosetas, de infiltrado plasmocitário e de necrose confluente. Na análise estatística, o nível de significância foi de 5%. RESULTADOS: Foram incluídos 40 pacientes adultos com diagnóstico de HAI. Houve predomínio do sexo feminino (75,0%), e a média de idade no diagnóstico foi de 44,2 anos. A associação com doenças autoimunes extra-hepáticas ocorreu em 20,0% dos casos. Clinicamente, 35,0% dos pacientes se apresentaram sob forma de hepatite aguda, 37,5% com cirrose e 27,5% com outras formas de apresentação. A manifestação clínica mais comum na apresentação foi a icterícia (47,5%). Trinta e cinco pacientes foram tratados, sendo que destes, 97,1% utilizaram prednisona associada com azatioprina. A média do tempo de tratamento foi 2,7 anos. A resposta ao tratamento foi completa ou parcial em 30 (85,7%) e ausente em 5 (14,3%) pacientes. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa quando avaliada a resposta ao tratamento em relação à forma de apresentação, aos achados histológicos e à presença de autoanticorpos. Em relação à fibrose, foi observada regressão em 18,75% dos casos. CONCLUSÃO: A maioria dos pacientes era jovem no momento do diagnóstico e do sexo feminino. A associação com doenças autoimunes extra-hepáticas e com cirrose na apresentação foi vista em uma parcela considerável dos casos. O tratamento foi eficaz, mas não houve parâmetros clínicos, histológicos ou sorológicos capazes de prever a resposta ao tratamento.

Clinical and laboratory data in pediatric autoimmune hepatitis: study from referral center in Iran / Datos clínicos y de laboratorio en hepatitis autoinmune pediátrica: estudio del centro de referencia en Irán

ABSTARCT Background : Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is an auto-inflammatory liver disease of children and adults, affecting patients of any age, sex, race or ethnicity, with more prevalence in females. Objective : The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical manifestation, laboratory findings, and outcome of children with autoimmune hepatitis. Materials and methods : We evaluated 86 patients treated and followed with final diagnosis of AIH between years 2010 to 2018. Physical findings (including jaundice, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly and encephalopathy), liver enzymes, liver histology and autoantibodies (including ANA, Anti LKM-1 and ASMA) were extracted from medical files. Then the patients were followed for their final outcome (including response to medical treatment or successful treatment withdrawal, liver transplantation or death). Results : Among 86 patients with AIH with mean age 9.10±4.36 years old, 66.27% were females. Jaundice (75.6%) and hepatomegaly (46.5%) were the most frequent physical findings, followed by splenomegaly (32.6%) and encephalopathy (17.4%). Aminotransferases including AST and ALT were elevated at least 3 times more than upper limit of normal in most of the patients (61.6% and 55.81%, respectively). Autoantibodies were available in 53 of 86 patients, 24.5% had AIH-1, 3.8% had AIH-II and 67.9% were seronegative. Medical treatment including prednisolone and azathioprine was started for patients, 53 of 86 cases (61.6%) had remission and 11 of 86 (13.7%) tolerated medication withdrawal successfully. Among all cases, 26 (30.2%) patients needed liver transplantation. Mortality rate was 9 among 86 cases (10.5%). Conclusion : Jaundice and hepatomegaly was the most frequent clinical findings. Mortality rate was 10.5%.

RESUMEN Antecedentes : La hepatitis autoinmune (AIH) es una enfermedad hepática autoinflamatoria de niños y adultos, que afecta a pacientes de cualquier edad, sexo, raza u origen étnico, con mayor prevalencia en las mujeres. Objetivo : El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la manifestación clínica, los hallazgos de laboratorio y el resultado de los niños con hepatitis autoinmune. Materiales y métodos : Evaluamos 86 pacientes tratados y seguidos con el diagnóstico final de AIH entre los años 2010 a 2018. Los hallazgos físicos (incluyendo ictericia, hepatomegalia, esplenomegalia y encefalopatía), enzimas hepáticas, histología hepática y autoanticuerpos (incluidos ANA, Anti LKM-1 y ASMA) se extrajeron de las historias médicas. Luego, los pacientes fueron seguidos para su resultado final (incluida la respuesta al tratamiento médico o la retirada exitosa del tratamiento, el trasplante de hígado o la muerte). Resultados : Entre 86 pacientes con AIH con una edad media de 9,10 ± 4,36 años, el 66,27% eran mujeres. La ictericia (75,6%) y la hepatomegalia (46,5%) fueron los hallazgos físicos más frecuentes, seguidos de esplenomegalia (32,6%) y encefalopatía (17,4%). Las aminotransferasas que incluyen AST y ALT se elevaron al menos 3 veces más que el límite superior de la normalidad en la mayoría de los pacientes (61,6% y 55,81%, respectivamente). Los autoanticuerpos estaban disponibles en 53 de 86 pacientes, 24,5% tenían AIH-1, 3,8% tenían AIH-II y 67,9% eran seronegativos. Se inició tratamiento médico que incluyó prednisolona y azatioprina, 53 de 86 casos (61,6%) tuvieron remisión y 11 de 86 (13,7%) toleraron el retiro de medicamentos con éxito. Entre todos los casos, 26 (30,2%) pacientes necesitaron un trasplante de hígado. La tasa de mortalidad fue de 9 entre 86 casos (10,5%). Conclusión : la ictericia y la hepatomegalia fueron los hallazgos clínicos más frecuentes. La tasa de mortalidad fue del 10,5%.

Diagnóstico de hepatitis autoinmune / Diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis

La hepatitis autoinmune es una enfermedad inflamatoria del hígado de etiología desconocida, que se caracteriza por la presencia de autoanticuerpos y niveles altos de globulinas séricas. Afecta a ambos sexos, a todos los grupos de edad, y se ha descrito en todas las razas. Tiene una amplia variedad de presentación clínica, lo que la convierte en un reto diagnóstico para el médico. La forma de presentación más común es la hepatitis aguda; sin embargo, un porcentaje no despreciable de pacientes es asintomático y hasta el 40% de los casos tiene cirrosis al momento del diagnóstico. El diagnóstico se basa en: 1) la medición de autoanticuerpos, como los antinucleares (ANA), los antimúsculo liso (ASMA), y los antimicrosomales de hígado y riñón (anti-LKM-1); 2) la detección de niveles séricos elevados de globulinas (especialmente IgG); 3) descartar otras etiologías de hepatitis crónica; y, 4) los hallazgos histológicos, los cuales además de confirmar el diagnóstico, ayudan a establecer la severidad. Se han desarrollado escalas y puntajes diagnósticos que permiten una mejor aproximación a dicha patología sin reemplazar el juicio del médico, por lo que deben ser interpretados bajo un adecuado contexto clínico. Un diagnóstico apropiado puede permitir el inicio oportuno de tratamiento con el fin de disminuir la progresión y el desarrollo de complicaciones.

Autoimmune hepatitis is an inflammatory disease of the liver of unknown etiology. It is characterized by the presence of autoantibodies and elevated levels of serum globulins. It affects both genders, all age groups and has been described in all races. It has a wide variety of clinical manifestations, so it remains a diagnostic challenge for physicians. The most common form of manifestation is acute hepatitis, however a non-negligible percentage of patients is asymptomatic, and up to 40% of cases have cirrhosis at the time of diagnosis. The diagnosis is based on: 1) measurement of autoantibodies, such as antinuclear antibodies (ANA), anti-smooth muscle antibodies (ASMA), and liver/kidney microsomal type 1 antibodies (anti-LKM-1); 2) detection of elevated serum levels of globulins (especially IgG); 3) exclusion of other causes of chronic hepatitis; and, 4) histological findings, which also confirm the diagnosis and help determine its severity. Diagnostic scales and scores have been developed to allow a better approach to this pathology without replacing the clinical judgment, so they must be interpreted under an adequate clinical context. A proper diagnosis can allow a timely initiation of treatment in order to decrease the progression and the development of complications.

Daño hepatocelular, proteinuria y autoinmunidad: ¿enfermedad multisistémica o coincidencia de enfermedades? Caso clínico / Hepatocellular damage, proteinuria and autoimmunity: multisystemic disorder or coexistence of diseases?

We report a 19 years old male presenting with knee pain, elevated liver enzymes and proteinuria. Further investigation found positive antinuclear and anti-smooth muscle antibodies and a liver biopsy revealed the presence of an autoimmune hepatitis. Treatment with corticosteroids and azathioprine was started, resulting in normalization of liver enzymes but proteinuria persisted and a kidney biopsy disclosed a focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. The use of lisinopril resulted in a significative reduction of proteinuria and, after 30 months of follow up, he continues with azathioprine, lisinopril and a low prednisone dose without evidence of liver or kidney disease activity.

Síndrome inflamatória de reconstituição imune como causa de hepatite autoimune e insuficiência hepática aguda / Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome as a cause of autoimmune hepatitis and acute liver failure

RESUMO A insuficiência hepática aguda é uma síndrome rara com elevada mortalidade e frequentemente reconhecida de forma tardia. Os médicos intensivistas desempenham um papel fundamental na suspeição diagnóstica e no manejo das disfunções múltiplo-orgânicas características desta entidade. A síndrome inflamatória de reconstituição imune é uma entidade que se caracteriza pela piora paradoxal do quadro prévio do paciente, após o início de antirretrovirais, desencadeada contra patógenos presentes no hospedeiro ou autoantígenos. A hepatite autoimune tem sido recentemente descrita como uma destas manifestações autoimunes. Os autores relatam o primeiro caso com evolução à insuficiência hepática aguda e óbito em poucos dias após o desenvolvimento de encefalopatia, revisam os casos de hepatite autoimune descritos e tecem comentários sobre as possibilidades terapêuticas neste contexto.

ABSTRACT Acute liver failure is a rare syndrome with high mortality and is often diagnosed late. Intensivist physicians play fundamental roles in the diagnostic suspicion and the management of the multiple-organic dysfunctions characteristic of this entity. Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome is an entity that is characterized by the paradoxical worsening of the patient's previous condition, after the initiation of antiretrovirals, triggered against either pathogens present in the host or autoantigens. Autoimmune hepatitis has recently been described as one of these autoimmune manifestations. The authors report the first case with evolution to acute liver failure and death within a few days after the development of encephalopathy, review the cases of autoimmune hepatitis described and comment on the therapeutic possibilities in this context.

Acute Hepatitis E Mimicking a Flare of Disease in a Patient with Chronic Autoimmune Hepatitis

Abstract: Acute hepatitis E is becoming increasingly recognised in Europe with up to 40% of the population in Southern France being exposed to the virus, which is harboured in pigs. Patients with known liver disease may present with acute hepatitis E and present a diagnostic challenge. For example patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) who are immunosuppressed and contract hepatitis E may be at increased risk of developing chronicity due to concurrent immunosuppression. Importantly, the diagnosis may be missed with the infection misdiagnosed as an autoimmune flare, and immunosuppression increased by the attending physician, thus enhancing the risk of chronicity of infection leading to progressive liver injury in immunocompromised patients. We report a case of acute hepatitis E in a patient with AIH and discuss the features that helped us differentiating it from an autoimmune flare.

Hepatitis autoinmune refractaria: ¿cómo escoger el tratamiento de segunda línea o de rescate? / Refractory autoimmune hepatitis: how to choose second-line or rescue therapy?

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a liver disease of unknown etiology, with a breakdown in peripheral selftolerance against hepatocytes with both genetic and environmental factors involved. It is characterized by an immune mediated liver injury, with detectable autoantibodies, elevated levels of immunoglobulin G and histological criteria including, necroinflammation, lymphoplasmacytic infiltrates and hepatitis interface. It can be asymptomatic or can present as acute hepatitis or liver cirrhosis. Most patients (70-80%) respond to first line therapy (based on steroids ± azathioprine). In those patients not tolerating azatioprine, in steroid resistant, and those with repeated relapses (20-40%), a long-term second line therapy must be considered to avoid progression of liver disease. This last medications include other immunosuppressants like mycophenolate mophetil, calcineurin inhibitors (cyclosporine or tacrolimus), biologic agents (infliximab and rituximab), and other immunosuppressive agents (sirolimus, everolimus), all with good overall clinical results, but not exempt of side effects. Other difficult scenarios include fulminant AIH, end-stage AIH cirrhosis and the management of post-transplant AIH. In this article we will review the literature related to second- line therapy especially of steroid resistant AIH. Future directions in the treatment of HAI should be guided to the individual patient (personalized) and may include cell therapies, such as infusion of autologous, antigen-specific, and liver-homing regulatory T cells to restore hepatic immune tolerance

La hepatitis autoinmune (HAI) es una hepatopatía de etiología desconocida, con pérdida de la tolerancia inmune contra los hepatocitos con factores genéticos y ambientales asociados. Se caracteriza por fenómenos de daño inmunológicos, con autoanticuerpos circulantes, una concentración elevada de gammaglobulina sérica y en la biopsia de hígado actividad necroinflamatoria, infiltrados linfoplasmocitarios y daño de interfase. La HAI es una entidad que se puede presentar en forma asintomática, como hepatitis aguda o como cirrosis hepática. El 70-80% de los pacientes responden adecuadamente al tratamiento inmunosupresor de primera línea (corticoides ± azatioprina). En los pacientes que no toleran azatioprina, en los corticorresistentes o en aquellos con recaídas repetidas a pesar de terapia (20-40%), es necesario recurrir a terapias de segunda línea de largo plazo, para evitar la progresión de la hepatopatía. Estas últimas incluyen micofenolato mofetil, inhibidores calcineurínicos (ciclosporina o tacrolimus), agentes biológicos (infliximab y rituximab), y otros fármacos inmunosupresores (sirolimus, everolimus), con resultados alentadores, pero no exentos de efectos colaterales. Otros escenarios complejos incluyen: la HAI de presentación aguda grave y fulminante, la cirrosis terminal autoinmune y la HAI post-trasplante. En este trabajo se revisa la literatura en relación a terapias de segunda línea especialmente en HAI corticoide resistente. El futuro del tratamiento de la HAI va encaminado a una terapia personalizada y que podría incluir terapias celulares como la infusión de células T regulatorias, antígeno específicas y autólogas, para reestablecer los mecanismos de tolerancia inmune hepática.

Síndrome de superposición: lupus eritematoso sistémico y hepatitis autoinmune en una adolescente / An Overlap Syndrome involving systemic lupus erythematosus and autoimmune hepatitis in an adolescent girl

La superposición del lupus eritematoso sistémico y la hepatitis autoinmune se describe ocasionalmente. Aunque ambas enfermedades pueden compartir ciertos hallazgos, como poliartralgias, hipergammaglobulinemia y anticuerpo antinúcleo positivo, son consideradas dos diferentes. Se presenta a una paciente de 14 años con lupus eritematoso sistémico, que, luego de dos años, consultó por ictericia. Sin antecedentes de ingesta de drogas, alcohol o exposición a virus hepatotropos. Tenia un aumento de las enzimas hepáticas con anticuerpos antinúcleo, anti-ADN de doble cadena y LKM 1 positivos. La biopsia hepática mostró una hepatitis de interfase con infiltrado linfoplasmocitario. De esta manera, cumplia con los criterios diagnósticos tanto para lupus eritematoso sistémico como para hepatitis autoinmune. Tratada con corticoides y micofenolato mofetil, mejoró su clinica y laboratorio. Conclusión. La hepatitis autoinmune puede ocurrir en el curso del lupus eritematoso sistémico. Un diagnóstico temprano es importante para prevenir el avance de la enfermedad; es obligatoria la realización de la biopsia hepática.

Overlap of systemic lupus erythematosus and autoimmune hepatitis is a rare condition, occasionally described. Both autoimmune diseases can share common autoimmune features such as polyartralgia, hypergammaglobulinemia and positive antinuclear antibody, but they have been considered as two different entities. We report a 14 year old female patient with systemic lupus erythematosus who developed autoimmune hepatitis two years later. She had jaundice with no history of viral infections, drug intake, alcohol abuses or exposition to blood products. She was positive for antinuclear antibody, double stranded DNA antibody and LKM 1 antibody. Histological examination of the liver showed interface hepatitis with lymphoplasmacytic cell infiltration. The patient satisfied the international criteria for both systemic lupus erythematosus and Type 2 autoimmune hepatitis. Clinical symptoms and laboratory findings improved under treatment with steroids and mycophenolate mofetil. Conclusion. Autoimmune hepatitis may occur during the course of systemic lupus erythematosus and an early diagnosis is important for preventing advanced liver disease. Definitive diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis requires confirmation by means of a liver biopsy.

Diagnosis and Management of Autoimmune Hepatitis: Current Status and Future Directions

Autoimmune hepatitis is characterized by autoantibodies, hypergammaglobulinemia, and interface hepatitis on histological examination. The features lack diagnostic specificity, and other diseases that may resemble autoimmune hepatitis must be excluded. The clinical presentation may be acute, acute severe (fulminant), or asymptomatic; conventional autoantibodies may be absent; centrilobular necrosis and bile duct changes may be present; and the disease may occur after liver transplantation or with features that suggest overlapping disorders. The diagnostic criteria have been codified, and diagnostic scoring systems can support clinical judgment. Nonstandard autoantibodies, including antibodies to actin, α-actinin, soluble liver antigen, perinuclear antineutrophil antigen, asialoglycoprotein receptor, and liver cytosol type 1, are tools that can support the diagnosis, especially in patients with atypical features. Prednisone or prednisolone in combination with azathioprine is the preferred treatment, and strategies using these medications in various doses can ameliorate treatment failure, incomplete response, drug intolerance, and relapse after drug withdrawal. Budesonide, mycophenolate mofetil, and calcineurin inhibitors can be considered in selected patients as frontline or salvage therapies. Molecular (recombinant proteins and monoclonal antibodies), cellular (adoptive transfer and antigenic manipulation), and pharmacological (antioxidants, antifibrotics, and antiapoptotic agents) interventions constitute future directions in management. The evolving knowledge of the pathogenic pathways and the advances in technology promise new management algorithms.

Brazilian society of hepatology recommendations for the diagnosis and management of autoimmune diseases of the liver

ABSTRACT In order to draw evidence-based recommendations concerning the management of autoimmune diseases of the liver, the Brazilian Society of Hepatology has sponsored a single-topic meeting in October 18th, 2014 at São Paulo. An organizing committee comprised of seven investigators was previously elected by the Governing Board to organize the scientific agenda as well as to select twenty panelists to make a systematic review of the literature and to present topics related to the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune hepatitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, primary biliary cirrhosis and their overlap syndromes. After the meeting, all panelists gathered together for the discussion of the topics and the elaboration of those recommendations. The text was subsequently submitted for suggestions and approval of all members of the Brazilian Society of Hepatology through its homepage. The present paper is the final version of the reviewed manuscript organized in topics, followed by the recommendations of the Brazilian Society of Hepatology.

RESUMO Para definir as recomendações baseadas em evidências científicas sobre o diagnóstico e tratamento das doenças autoimnus do fígado, a Sociedade Brasileira de Hepatologia organizou em Outubro de 2014, encontro monotemático em São Paulo. Um Comitê organizador de sete investigadores foi selecionado pela Diretoria da Sociedade para organizar a agenda científica, assim como para selecionar vinte debatedores para fazer uma revisão sistemática e apresentar tópicos relacionados à hepatite autoimune, colangite esclerosante primária, cirrose biliar primária e suas síndromes de superposição (overlap). O texto inicial do submetidoo a apreciação e aprovação da Sociedade Brasileira de Hepatologia através de consulta a todos associados através da home page da Sociedade, O trabalho apresentado representa a versão final do trabalho original, devidamente revisado e organizado em tópicos, segundo as recomendações da Sociedade Brasileira de Hepatologia.

Hepatitis autoinmune en niños: perspectivas actuales / Autoimmune hepatitis in children. Current perspectives

La hepatitis autoinmune es una enfermedad inflamatoria crónica progresiva del hígado de etiología desconocida. Afecta predominantemente al sexo femenino en la etapa prepuberal. Se caracteriza por presentar niveles elevados de transaminasas e inmunoglobulina G, niveles bajos del factor 4a del complemento y de IgA circulantes, autoanticuerpos en suero, prevalencia del antígeno leucocitario humano B8, haplotipos DR3 y DR4, y hepatitis de interfase en la histología. El curso puede ser fluctuante, con períodos de remisión espontánea. Se describen dos tipos de acuerdo con los autoanticuerpos hallados en suero. El mecanismo de producción del daño hepático es secundario a reacciones inmunes contra antígenos hepáticos no controladas adecuadamente por las células T reguladoras. La mayoría de los pacientes responden favorablemente al tratamiento inmunosupresor. Librada a su evolución espontánea, la enfermedad progresa hacia la destrucción hepática, por lo que, en su etapa terminal, requiere un trasplante hepático.

Manejo clínico e obstétrico em gestantes portadoras de hepatite autoimune complicada pela plaquetopenia moderada ou grave / Clinical and obstetrical management of pregnant women with autoimmune hepatitis complicated by moderate or severe thrombocytopenia

OBJETIVO: O presente trabalho tem como objetivo descrever o manejo do pré-natal e do parto em pacientes portadoras de hepatite autoimune associada à plaquetopenia moderada ou grave. MÉTODOS: Este trabalho foi realizado em hospital universitário, de nível terciário. Foram analisadas, retrospectivamente, 13 gestações em dez pacientes com diagnóstico de hepatite autoimune complicadas pela plaquetopenia. Os critérios de inclusão foram: diagnóstico clínico de hepatite autoimune, plaquetopenia moderada ou grave (contagem de plaquetas < 100 x 103/mm3), idade gestacional ao nascimento acima de 22 semanas e pacientes acompanhadas por equipe especializada da instituição. As variáveis estudadas incluíram idade materna, paridade, os regimes de tratamento, contagem de plaquetas, exames para investigação da função hepática, tipo de parto, peso ao nascer e idade gestacional no momento do parto. RESULTADOS: A média da idade materna foi de 24,5 anos (DP = 5,3) e seis (50%) ocorreram em nulíparas. Durante a gravidez, a monoterapia com prednisona foi adotada em 11 (92%) casos. De acordo com o perfil de autoanticorpos, sete (58%) gestações possuíam diagnóstico de hepatite autoimune tipo I, duas (17%) do tipo II e três (25%) eram portadoras de hepatite crônica criptogênica (títulos de autoanticorpos indetectáveis). A hipertensão portal foi caracterizada em 11 (92%) gestações. A idade gestacional média no parto foi de 36,9 semanas (DP = 1,5 semana), com média de peso ao nascer de 2446g (DP = 655g), sendo oito (67%) pequenos para a idade gestacional. No momento do parto, a plaquetopenia grave foi caracterizada em quatro (33%) casos e a cesárea foi realizada em sete (58%). As complicações no parto ocorreram em três casos (25%), uma paciente apresentou atonia uterina e duas, hematoma perineal. Não houve morte materna ou perinatal. CONCLUSÃO: As complicações em pacientes plaquetopênicas com hepatite autoimune são elevadas, no entanto, com os cuidados e atenção necessários, podem ser contornáveis. A associação de duas patologias graves parece aumentar o risco de prematuridade e restrição do crescimento fetal, demandando atenção pré-natal especializada, bem como vigilância do bem-estar do concepto.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the management of prenatal care and delivery in patients bearing autoimmune hepatitis associated with moderate or severe thrombocytopenia. METHODS: This study was performed in a tertiary level university hospital. Thirteen pregnancies in ten patients diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis, complicated by thrombocytopenia, were retrospectively analyzed. The inclusion criteria were as follows: clinical diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis, moderate or severe thrombocytopenia (platelet count < 100 x 103/mm3), gestational age at birth over 22 weeks, and patient followed-up by a specialized team at the institution. The variables studied were: maternal age, parity, treatment regimen, platelet count, examinations for investigation of hepatic function, type of delivery, weight at birth, and gestational age at the time of delivery. RESULTS: The average maternal age was 24.5 years (SD = 5.3) and six (50%) occurred in nulliparous women. During pregnancy, monotherapy with prednisone was adopted in 11 cases (92%). According to the autoantibody profiles, seven pregnancies (58%) had the autoimmune hepatitis type I diagnosis, two pregnancies had type II (17%), and three pregnancies (25%) had cryptogenic chronic hepatitis (undetectable titers of autoantibodies). Portal hypertension was featured in 11 pregnancies (92%). The average gestational age at delivery was 36.9 weeks (SD = 1.5 weeks), with an average weight at birth of 2,446 g (SD = 655 g). Eight infants (67%) were small for gestational age. At the time of delivery, severe thrombocytopenia was featured in four cases (33%) and cesarean surgery was performed in seven cases (58%). Complications at delivery occurred in three cases (25%), one patient presented uterine atony, and two patients presented perineal bruising. There was no perinatal or maternal death. CONCLUSION: The complications of thrombocytopenic patients with autoimmune hepatitis are elevated; nevertheless, with appropriate attention and care, they can be resolved. The association between two severe pathologies appears to increase the risk of prematurity and fetal growth restriction, demanding specialized prenatal care, as well as surveillance of newborn well-being.

Evolución y respuesta al tratamiento de los pacientes pediátricos diagnósticados con hepatitis autoinmune / Prognosis and Treatment Response in pediatric patients with Autoimmune Hepatitis

Introducción: La Hepatitis Autoinmune (HAI) es una hepatopatía inflamatoria crónica y progresiva, de etiología desconocida, con presencia de autoanticuerpos circulantes e hipergammaglobulinemia. La mayoría de los pacientes responden adecuadamente al tratamiento inmunosupresor, pero si no se instaura se produce destrucción progresiva del parénquima hepático evolucionando a cirrosis e insuficiencia hepática. La interrupción temprana de la terapia puede causar recaídas y aumentar el riesgo de progresión a cirrosis.Objetivo: evaluar la evolución y la respuesta al tratamiento de los pacientes pediátricos con HAI. Materiales y métodos: estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo y transversal de 51 pacientes atendidos en el servicio de Gastroenterología Pediátrica del Hospital JM de los Ríos, de abril de 1996 a septiembre de 2010. De 51 pacientes con diagnóstico de HAI se incluyeron 48 pacientes con más de un año de tratamiento para evaluar evolución y respuesta.Resultados: 79, % de los pacientes presentaron remisión a los 20,4 ± 13,8 meses, 25 % tuvo recaídas. 10/48 (20,8 %) mostraron respuesta incompleta y 38,5 % de ellos no tuvo adherencia al tratamiento (p=0,001). 33/48 (68,8 %) presentaron complicaciones, siendo las más frecuentes: 64,6 % hipertensión portal, 27,2 % osteosporosis/osteopenia y 18,8 % evolucionaron a cirrosis hepática.3 (8,5 %) pacientes presentaron remisión con biopsia hepática normal, luego de aproximadamente 7 años, por lo que se les suspendió el tratamiento, manteniéndose la remisión durante 3,5 años de seguimiento. Dos pacientes requirieron trasplante hepático.Conclusiones: La mayoría de los pacientes respondieron adecuadamente al tratamiento inmunosupresor. La cuarta parte sufrió recaídas. La respuesta incompleta se relacionó significativamente con la falta de adherencia al tratamiento.

Introduction: Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a progressive, chronic disease of unknown etiology, characterized for the presence of circulating autoantibodies and hyper gammaglobulinemia. Most patients respond to immunosuppressive treatment, otherwise, liver parenchimal is progressively destroyed leading to cirrhosis and liver failure. Early withdrawal of therapy might cause relapses and increased risk to cirrhosis.Objective: To assess HAI outcome and treatment response in pediatric patients.Methods: By a retrospective and descriptive analysis we evaluated 51 patients who attended the Pediatric Gastroenterology Department at the “J.M de Los Rios” Children Hospital from April 1996 to September 2010. 48 of these 51 patients have been on immunosuppressive treatment for more than one year.Results: 79.2 % of patients experienced remission at 20.4 ± 13.8 months, 25 % relapsed. 10/48 (20.8 %) showed incomplete response and 38.5 % had no adherence to treatment (p = 0.001). 33/48 (68.8 %) had complications, being the most frequent portal hypertension 64.6 %, following by osteoporosis and osteopenia 27,2 %, and 18.8 % developed cirrhosis.3 (8.5 %) patients had remission with normal liver biopsy after approximately 7 years, so treatment was discontinued, maintaining remission for 3.5 years. Two patients required liver transplantation.Conclusions: Most patients responded well to immunosuppressive therapy. 25 % suffered relapses. The incomplete response was significantly associated to non-adherence to treatment.

Hepatite aguda: como avaliar? / Acute hepatitis: how to evaluate?

Hepatite aguda define lesão hepática com inflamação do fígado com padrão histológico bem definido. Esses pacientes apresentam sintomas inespecíficos, como mal-estar, náuseas, vômitos e anorexia, com ou sem icterícia. Na maioria dos pacientes com elevação predominante de transaminases uma história clínica cuidadosa e um pequeno número de exames laboratoriais podem identificar a etiologia e definir tratamento específico subsequente, incluindo especialmente a investigação de hepatites virais, hepatotoxicidade induzida por drogas, hepatite autoimune e hepatite aguda alcoólica.

The acute hepatitis defines liver injury with inflammation of the liver histological pattern well defined. Such patients present with nonspecific symptoms such as malaise, nausea, vomiting, and anorexia, with or without jaundice. In most patients with the amino-transferase-predominant picture, careful history and examination and a small number of laboratory tests can identify the etiology and define subsequent management including in particular the investigation of viral hepatitis, drug-induced hepatoxicity, autoimmune hepatitis and acute alcoholic liver disease.