Autoimmune Hepatitis

Posted By Karen on May 07, 1998 at 15:45:13:







I was just wondering about a form of hepatitis which is usually associated w/ certain connective tissue disorders.  I was dx'd w/
mild lupus and Sjogren's syndrome and have been maintaining relatively good health until recently... I have been experiencing pains right under my ribs on the right side and sometimes I get very nauseated.  My rheumatologist just ordered some bloodwork including a blood chemistry screen and a test for smooth muscle antibodies.  As I understood, this particular antibody test may indicate liver involvement.  I just wanted to know how serious autoimmune hepatitis is, and are the symptoms the same as other types of hepatitis.  I keep reading conflicting information, and
just want a professional opinion on this matter.  Thanks so much for your time.