Elevated IgM in Autoimmune Hepatitis?

I was diagnosed with Autoimmune Hepatitis in 2001.  I am doing very well on treatment (currently on 50mg Imuran) and my labs (liver function, etc) have been normal since 2003.  Even my ANA, which was positive, is now negative.  Recently, however, my IgM is elevated.  Is this likely due to the autoimmune disease?  Is this seen in AIH?  

[Kevin Pho, MD]

IgM is a single marker of autoimmune hepatitis, but by itself it is not diagnostic of the disease or its recurrence.

Other liver conditions that can raise the IgM is primary biliary cirrhosis or primary sclerosing cholangitis.  Further evaluation can be done to exclude these conditions.

If there continues to be concern about the disease, a liver biopsy would give a more definitive diagnosis.  

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patients education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com