Is autoimmune hepatitis hereditary?

(Mr. Phu Huu, residing in Buu Hoa ward, Bien Hoa city)

Doctor replied:

Hello!

The exact cause of autoimmune hepatitis is currently unknown. However, genetic and environmental factors are believed to contribute to the onset of the disease.

The disease often occurs in people with a genetic predisposition to other autoimmune diseases, and certain environmental factors such as infections or exposure to certain medications can trigger the development of the disease.

Autoimmune hepatitis may not have obvious symptoms in its early stages, making diagnosis difficult. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include: persistent fatigue, pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen, yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), dark urine, joint pain, and skin rash.

Early recognition of symptoms and necessary testing is important for timely diagnosis and treatment, preventing serious complications.

The disease is currently divided into two main types:

• Type 1: Most common, can occur at any age and is often associated with other autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or ulcerative colitis.

• Type 2: Rarer, usually affects children and adolescents, progresses more rapidly and can lead to cirrhosis in a short time if left untreated.

Friendly!

Dr. Nguyen Phuong Nam,

Department of Gastroenterology, Dong Nai General Hospital

Source: https://baodongnai.com.vn/alo--bac-si-oi/202504/benh-viem-gan-tu-mien-co-di-truyen-khong-f8f4762/